“The liberation of Artyomovsk continues.

This city is an important defense hub for Ukrainian troops in the Donbass.

Taking it under control will allow further offensive actions deep into the defense of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, ”Shoigu said at a thematic conference call with the leadership of the Russian Armed Forces.

Earlier, adviser to the acting head of the DPR, Yan Gagin, said that Ukrainian troops were randomly retreating from Artyomovsk in small groups.