Russia captures key town of Vuhledar in eastern Ukraine
Al JazeeraSEP 2024
Russia Captures Vuhledar in Donetsk
Above: A member of Ukraine's 68th Jaeger brigade fires a M240 machine gun during a night training exercise. Image copyright: Alice Martins/The Washington Post/Contributor via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The capture of Vuhledar is significant because of its proximity to important frontline areas, and because it lies on high ground that will facilitate further Russian artillery attacks. Its capture could hasten further Russian advances in the region.
Narrative B
Russia's seizure of Vuhledar follows a series of costly, failed assaults over the course of two years of war. Its fall is unlikely to have a significant impact on Ukraine's defense, as it was not a particularly important logistics location, and because Russian forces have controlled most of the main roads running into Vuhledar prior to its capture.
Metaculus Prediction
There is a 20% chance that Russia will have significantly expanded its controlled territory in Ukraine by January 1, 2026, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
