Ukrainian troops hold ground against Russian forces in Bakhmut.

Ukrainian troops are continuing to fight against Russian forces in the city of Bakhmut, despite Russia's claim of victory last month. Ukrainian forces are holding strategic positions on the western fringes of the city and seeking opportunities to retake some urban parts. The ongoing battle is evolving into a new phase, with Russian forces trying but failing to oust Ukrainian fighters from the "dominant heights" overlooking Bakhmut. The pushback gives commanders in Moscow another thing to think about ahead of a much-anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive that appears to be taking shape.