Russian forces close in on Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, infiltration possible by year's end
Ahead of Ukraine's Independence Day, Russian troops have advanced to within 12–13 kilometers of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, with analysts warning the fortress-belt cities could see infiltration by late 2026.
On day 1641 of the Russo-Ukrainian war, which falls just before Ukraine's Independence Day, military observers report continued Russian advances toward the Donbas. According to available information, Russian forces are now positioned just 12 to 13 kilometers from two key centers in Donetsk oblast — Sloviansk and Kramatorsk.
Both cities are considered part of Ukraine's so-called "fortress belt," the country's main line of defense in the Donbas, holding significant strategic weight for the course of the war. Analysts warn that if the current trend continues, Russian forces could be capable of infiltrating both cities as early as late 2026.
The report of Russia's approach comes as Ukraine prepares to mark its Independence Day, underscoring that Moscow's army continues to press on Ukraine's eastern front lines despite the prolonged conflict.
Sloviansk and Kramatorsk have for years been regarded as among Ukraine's key defensive strongholds in the Donbas, and any further progress toward them would be seen as a significant shift along the war's front line.
