Ukrainian soldiers have left the town of Siversk in eastern Ukraine. This town was an important place for defence. The Ukrainian army announced this decision on Tuesday. They said it was to protect their soldiers. It was also to keep their army strong. Russia had more soldiers and weapons. This was a main reason for the withdrawal.
Siversk was a key part of Ukraine's defence in Donetsk. Russia's capture of Siversk is a big win for them. Russian soldiers attacked Ukrainian positions for months. They used small groups of soldiers. They also used good weather to move forward. Ukraine admitted Russia had a "big advantage." This made them decide to leave the town. They did not want to lose more soldiers.
Ukraine said they hurt many Russian soldiers before leaving. But now Russia controls Siversk. This makes people worry about other Ukrainian towns. Towns like Sloviansk and Kramatorsk are now in more danger. Siversk helped to protect these cities. It stopped Russia from moving towards them easily.
Russia had said they captured Siversk before. But Ukraine denied this then. This new withdrawal seems more serious. Ukraine's army said they still have "fire control" of the town. This means they can still attack Russian soldiers there. They want to stop Russia from moving further into Ukraine.
The fighting in Siversk shows Russia's problems. Ukraine calls Donetsk a "fortress belt." Russia has had trouble breaking through this. But taking Siversk is a big step for Russia. Russia also said they took Hrabovske village. This is near the Russian border. This shows Russia is expanding its actions.
Ukraine's reason for leaving Siversk shows war's reality. They want to "save soldiers' lives." They want to keep their army fighting. This is more important than keeping one town. Now, Ukraine must make new defence plans. The loss of Siversk might change how Ukraine defends Donetsk. This change will affect the war.