The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine in Bakhmut.

Ukraine has gained an advantage over Russia by defending Bakhmut, a strategically unimportant city, and exhausting Russian troops through months of brutal fighting. Last week, Ukraine launched surprise counterattacks, reclaiming several miles of territory around Bakhmut. Russia has dedicated the majority of its time, efforts, and resources this year to the fight in Bakhmut, resulting in significant casualties. Ukraine's recent gains appear to be having a psychological effect on Russia, with Ukrainian officials touting the gains as proof of their monthslong approach to Russia's attacks in Bakhmut.