Ukrainian sources, citing a source in the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, reported that Russian units have begun assault operations near the Slavyansk thermal power plant, located roughly ten kilometers from the city of Slavyansk.
The reports also say Russian forces have intensified pressure on the Kramatorsk sector from several directions at once. There are also claims that Russian troops have entered Druzhkovka.
According to military Telegram channels, Russian units are advancing from the direction of Rai-Aleksandrovka toward Nikolayevka. They are reported to have begun attacking Ukrainian fortified positions in the southeastern part of the settlement.
Analysts believe that if the advance continues, fighting could shift into built-up urban areas. One of the key points is said to be the area around the Slavyansk Central District Hospital, whose building is reportedly being used by Ukrainian forces as a strongpoint on the route toward the city center.
Russian troops are also expected to face Ukrainian positions near the ruins of the Olimp shopping center, the Palace of Culture and School No. 2. According to the reports, Russian units remain about 2.5 kilometers from the territory of the Slavyansk thermal power plant.