Russia Claims Victory in Soledar, Kyiv Disputes It

After months of bloody fighting in Donbas, Russia claims a rare victory in Soledar, while Kyiv insists the battle isn't over.

The Details: Russia has announced the capture of Soledar, a small mining town north of Bakhmut. Kyiv denies the claims, while Ukrainian soldiers have told media outlets they have not formally withdrawn yet, but are fighting from the “western outskirts” of town. Analysts note the town is of little strategic significance, however many see it as a symbolic gain, especially for Wagner Group and its leader Yevgeniy Prigozhin. Prigozhin claims the battle has been fought exclusively by Wagner mercenaries, and accused the Russian Defense Ministry of “constantly trying to steal Wagner’s victory”.

For Context: The advance is Russia’s first notable one in the Donbas in months, and could help break the stalemate surrounding Bakhmut. Many downplay its significance, incuding US government officials and think tanks, however it is possible it could help Russia cut off supply lines to Bakhmut. There is speculation Soledar is significant to Wagner because of its large gypsum and salt deposits. It also serves as a major PR win for Prigozhin, who appears to be angling to become the next president of Russia.

How The Media Covered It: Sources across the spectrum covered the events similarly, highlighting Kyiv’s objections to the claim, their position on the outskirts of town, and the importance it plays for Wagner Group and Prigozhin.