Russia aims for key Slovyansk-Kramatorsk route, Ukrainian military says

This direction is considered a high priority because it is a possible route to the Slovyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration. The enemy is also trying to cross the Zherebets River east of Lyman. 

"It is important for them to get to Lyman via the Zherebets River. All the other settlements are too small to target," he said.

"There is a certain difficulty there because they have to come in frontal attacks. It will be difficult for them to approach from the flanks because of the peculiarities of the terrain."

The Russian army has been deploying more trained units to the Liman sector over the past six weeks in an effort to succeed in its offensive. Recent attacks have been carried out by well-trained groups, indicating their determination to achieve results. The Russian Army's air and artillery systems are also active in the area.

On Oct. 31, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) concluded that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is not interested in negotiating a ceasefire and remains focused on the total destruction of Ukraine.