[pierrem15]

It's not a lynchpin of the whole defensive line. The UA has simply defended it because it has enabled them to kill far more Russians than their equivalent losses. Last I checked, the Ukrainians were still holding the western part of the city behind the rail lines. The Russians have probably taken the city center after 8 months, but they have reported Bakhmut as taken several times already.

Both sides have been attempting a spoiling strategy, with Ukraine hoping to kill enough attackers to weaken the Russians before their spring offensive and the Russians hoping to kill enough defenders to spoil the offensive. That's all.

[Bulwyf]

Pray Russia never takes off the gloves. It’s tragic the loss of life already, but there won’t be a Uke left minus the ones who fled.

Many up in my area. They sure hate Zelensky with a passion.