Russia's Soledar axis is most likely an attempt to bypass Bakhmut from the north, because Soledar is located near Bakhmut, the capture of which is likely to remain Russia's main immediate operational task. This is reported by the British Ministry of Defense in a new summary based on intelligence.

 "Soledar is located 10 km north of Bakhmut, the capture of which is likely to continue to be the main immediate operational task of Russia. Russia's Soledar axis is most likely an attempt to bypass Bakhmut from the north and disrupt Ukrainian lines of communication," it is emphasized in summary of the Ministry of Defense of Britain. .

 The British Ministry of Defense indicates that "over the past four days, Russian and Wagner forces have launched a tactical offensive against the small Donbas town of Soledar and are likely to control most of the town."

 "Part of the fighting was over the entrances to the abandoned 200-kilometer salt mine tunnels that pass under the area. Both sides are apparently concerned that they could be used to penetrate the rear," British intelligence said.

 "Despite increased pressure on Bakhmut, Russia is unlikely to surround the city in the near future, as Ukrainian forces maintain stable deep defensive lines and control supply routes," the British MoD points out.

 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi emphasized that the battle for Donbas continues. And although the occupiers have now concentrated their greatest efforts on Soledar, the result of this difficult and long battle will be the liberation of our entire Donbas.