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As Russian troops continue their advance in eastern Ukraine, German newspaper Bild has reported that Ukraine is growing increasingly concerned over the worsening situation in the Kramatorsk and Slavyansk area. According to the newspaper, a Russian success in this region could deliver one of the most serious blows to Kyiv in recent years.

Coverage Comparison

Reporting on the situation has come primarily from Russian state news agency TASS, which cited both Ukrainian statements and the German newspaper's analysis. TASS's articles present the information from two angles: one focusing on Ukrainian concerns as reported by Bild, and another centering on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's own assessment of the situation.

The first TASS article, published on August 7, focuses on Zelensky's comments following a meeting with Commander-in-Chief Mikhail Drapaty. The second, dated August 9, summarizes Bild's analysis and reiterates Zelensky's remarks.

Both reports note that in early July, Russian troops liberated the town of Konstantinovka in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), and that Russian forces are currently advancing in the direction of the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration and in the Dobropolye direction.

Key Claims

  • According to Bild, as cited by TASS, Ukraine is increasingly concerned about the worsening situation in the Kramatorsk and Slavyansk area, where Russian troops are mounting pressure.
  • Bild opined that a Russian success in this area could deliver one of Kyiv's most serious blows in recent years and that the frontline is moving closer to Ukrainian positions.
  • Zelensky, speaking after an August 7 meeting with Commander-in-Chief Mikhail Drapaty, said the Ukrainian army is facing difficulties near Slavyansk and is trying to fortify the area.
  • Zelensky wrote on Telegram that Drapaty held a briefing that particularly focused on the situation around Slavyansk and the Donbass region, and that Ukrainian forces need to better protect these areas.
  • TASS reports that in early July, Russian troops liberated the town of Konstantinovka in the DPR.
  • Russian troops are advancing towards the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration and in the Dobropolye direction, according to TASS.