Ukraine’s army has retreated from a neighborhood in Chasiv Yar, a key town in the eastern Donetsk region, following a prolonged Russian assault that has left the area in ruins. Chasiv Yar’s fall would jeopardize nearby cities and critical supply routes, advancing Russia’s goal of seizing the entire Donetsk region. Ukrainian defensive positions were destroyed, and staying posed a risk of serious casualties. Russian forces have employed scorched-earth tactics, burning buildings and devastating the town, which once had a population of 12,000. Ukrainian commander Oleh Shyriaiev expressed regret over losing territory but noted the impossibility of holding ruined positions.