Ukraine and Wagner are engaged in fierce combat over Bakhmut's centre.

Fierce fighting is raging for control of the centre of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine, the longest-running and bloodiest battle of Moscow's invasion. Russia's Wagner mercenary group has claimed to be leading Moscow's charge for the industrial city, which has been the epicentre of fighting for months. The Ukrainian military said Wagner assault units are advancing from several directions, trying to break through the troops' defensive positions and move to the centre of the city. The city has gained important political stature, with both sides pouring significant resources into the fight. Wagner head Yevgeny Prigozhin acknowledged that his forces were experiencing determined resistance as they seek to capture the centre. He said the closer they are to the city centre, the more difficult the battles get and the more artillery there is.