Ukrainian Armed Forces withdraw from Lysychansk after heavy fighting

KATERYNA TYSHCHENKO — SUNDAY, 3 JULY 2022, 19:28

The Armed Forces of Ukraine have withdrawn from their occupied positions and lines in Lysychansk, Luhansk Oblast.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Quote: "After heavy fighting for Lysychansk, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been forced to withdraw from their occupied positions and lines.

Given the overwhelming advantage of the Russian occupying forces in terms of artillery, aircraft, multiple rocket launchers, ammunition and personnel, continuing the defence of the city would have led to fatal consequences. In order to preserve the lives of Ukrainian defenders, the decision was taken to withdraw."

Details: The General Staff added that they are continuing to fight.

"Unfortunately, a steely will and patriotism are not enough for success - equipment and technical resources are needed... We will return and we will definitely win!" the message says.

Background: On the morning of 3 July, it became known that the Russian occupying forces were continuing to advance and consolidate their positions near Lysychansk in Luhansk Oblast.

Sergey Shoigu, the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, reported to President Vladimir Putin that the entirety of Luhansk Oblast had been taken by Russian forces.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine,  said on Sunday that fighting on the outskirts of Lysychansk was continuing, but the Russian army had not established full control over the city.