Russian attacks leave Chasiv Yar in ruins as Ukraine fights to hold the line
The Donbas Special Purpose Battalion of Ukraine’s National Guard released photos on Jan. 29 showing the aftermath of relentless Russian attacks in Chasiv Yar, Donetsk Oblast.
The images reveal widespread destruction, with entire blocks reduced to ruins and charred remains of buildings.
"This is what Chasiv Yar looks like now. Once, around 13,000 people lived in this city. But after the Russians came, all that remains is emptiness," Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal Affairs wrote.
The battle for Chasiv Yar
In mid-2024, Russian forces captured a heavily damaged district on the eastern bank of the canal in Chasiv Yar. By fall, Russian infantry groups managed to cross the canal, launching attacks in the city's northern and southern sections.
At the beginning of 2025, after intense battles, Russian troops seized the Chasiv Yar Refractory Plant, according to Ukrainska Pravda. However, Ukraine’s Luhansk Operational Tactical Group later stated that Russian forces failed to establish control over the factory.
On Jan. 21, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported that Russian forces were continuing assaults on Ukrainian positions in central Chasiv Yar.
Ukraine’s 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade confirmed that Russian special forces units, including former Wagner Group mercenaries now fighting under the Akhmat Battalion, are active in the area. Additionally, fighters from Rusich, a notorious neo-Nazi paramilitary unit, have also been identified among the Russian troops.
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