Russian troops are trying to capture Maryinka to further advance west towards Kurakhove. However, a breakthrough is highly unlikely.
Russian troops continue their offensive in Maryinka
According to the report, fierce fighting continues for control of the destroyed town of Maryinka and its surrounding areas. Russia has likely further reduced the small areas of Ukrainian-controlled territory remaining within the city.
According to British intelligence, one of Russia's operational goals in the area is likely to be to secure the T0510 and H15 motorways for further advancement west towards Kurakhovo.
Despite gradual successes, a major and operationally significant Russian breakthrough in this sector remains extremely unlikely, the British Ministry of Defence states.
What is the situation in Maryinka
Earlier, British intelligence reported that Russian troops had captured most of the ruins of Maryinka. Russia probably now controls most of the built-up area.
In early December, Russian propagandists announced the alleged capture of Maryinka.
At the same time, the commander of the Tavria operational and strategic group of troops, Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, said that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are holding back the enemy in the Mariupol sector in the Donetsk region, and the city's defence continues.
