Because Sector ‘C’ is today’s hottest direction, we decided to focus on it. Later we will describe the situation on other directions too.
On the second day of the “truce” the terrorists, supported by the Russian servicemen, intensively shelled positions of the Ukrainian army. Since 7:00 am the enemy densely fired over the Ukrainian positions in Debaltseve. Segment of the route M03 Artemivsk — Debaltseve is controlled by the enemy. Novohryhorivka is blocked by the enemy fire, enemy also controls the area of Lozove—Kalynivka, which allows them to hold Logvynove. On the morning of February 16, a large concentration of the enemy forces was spotted. It was ready to advance towards Debaltseve. First convoy from Alchevsk side was estimated to consist of 30 units, among them 15 tracked vehicles, 4 fuel dispensers and 11 curtain-sided trucks carrying personnel. At 20:00 this convoy advanced towards frontline to attack Debaltseve and was partially destroyed while leaving Alchevsk. The details are unknown. Second convoy started advancing in the same evening, moving from Vuhlehirsk side. According to preliminary data it has circa 15 curtain-sided trucks with enemy personnel.
Russian units are attacking spatially some parts of Chornukhine and the elevations near settlements of Novogrygorivka and Nyzhnie Lozove. They try to cut still a country road that is still passable.
Unfortunately important strongholds near Debaltseve were lost. So-called ‘lifeline route’ is now under point-blank shelling by the Russian Army.
As of 9:00 am intensive shelling of VOP Balu and other strongholds was conducted by enemy SPGs. Enemy is shelling permanently. Ratio of return fire density is 1:10 to 1:15 (means one return salvo of Ukrainian artillery against 10—15 enemy salvos).
Two enemy MLRS ‘Grads’ were destroyed by return fire. A report on casualties among enemy personnel is currently missing.
Despite the ‘truce’ the enemy continues to concentrate equipment and personnel for a mass offensive. Main bases are localized near settlements of Yashchykove, Kumshatske, and the cities of Alchevsk, Bryanka, Stakhanov and Horlivka.
Also, enemy convoys continue to penetrate uncontrolled segments of the border.
Recently, the experts identified units of the 136th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade (stationed in Dagestan, city of Buynarsk, Russian Federation) near Debaltseve by their insignia on marking on the armored vehicles.
Therefore, despite the ‘truce’, the enemy continues to attack Debaltseve and is permanently trying to take control over this direction.
Original article by InformNapalm, translated by Andrii Gryganskyi, edited by Gennadiy Kornev