Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Ukraine confirmed that their forces have withdrawn from Soledar Wednesday, as pro-Russian officials claim that Russian forces, spearheaded by the Wagner mercenary group, are advancing on the city of Bakhmut.
Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesperson for Ukraine's Eastern Military Command, told the media outlet Suspilne that Ukrainian forces were able to avoid encirclement and withdraw from the town after "they completed their main task."
"The Ukrainian Armed Forces withdrew from Soledar to save the lives of the personnel," said Cherevatyi.
Meanwhile, pro-Russian officials claim Russian forces are still advancing on the nearby city of Bakhmut.
Russian forces advance to Soledar, two Britons missing in Ukraine