Civilians told to flee Ukraine’s fortress cities as Russia bids to control Donbas

Authorities in Ukraine are issuing urgent pleas for residents to evacuate key urban centers in the eastern Donbas region as Russian forces intensify their offensive. The cities of Kramatorsk and Slovyansk, considered vital strategic points, have become the principal targets of ground assaults by the invading military. With the conflict escalating dramatically in the Donbas, civilian administrators are emphasizing the critical need for residents to depart these areas for their safety. The concentrated Russian military efforts underscore a clear objective to seize complete control over eastern Ukraine. Repeated warnings are being broadcast, urging people to leave designated “fortress cities” to avoid becoming casualties of the intensifying bombardment and ground fighting. This widespread evacuation effort is a direct response to the renewed and focused push by Russian troops aiming to consolidate their territorial gains in the region.