The Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) do not plan to leave Artemovsk (Ukrainian name Bakhmut - note "Lenta.ru"). The need to retreat from the semi-encircled city was not recognized by the head of the office of Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, Andriy Yermak, TASS reports.

“We are defending this city. We have no plans to leave,” the official said.

Earlier, on February 18, adviser to the acting head of the DPR, Yan Gagin, said that the supply of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Artemovsk was practically blocked. He noted that the settlement was in an operational encirclement, and Russian military personnel continue an active offensive.