Update from Bakhmut 8 January

@MartinWaltherDD They say “everything is great” while Ukrainian government footage shows Russian invasion forces advanced more than 3 kilometers inside Soledar within 48 hours between January 5 and 7 and the Ukrainian army lost the eastern part of the city and Bakhmutske. This is … optimism.

In addition to defending their country, these soldiers calm our anxiety, when it should be the opposite.

It's crazy that with all they're dealing with there, they somehow manage to not only keep up with all the gossip and rumors but also reach out to comfort comrades and citizens. And I'm sitting here with 3-day old emails that I haven't responded to.

These guys keep the world safe. If Putin succeeds in Ukraine, dictators will run riot. Our heroes even if we're not Ukrainians.

Thank you for the update, Kiyanyn & heroes! Thanks for the translation, Dmitri! We are all paying close attention to what is happening in Bakhmut. We stand with you, believe in you, & are praying for you! ❤️❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻 You inspire us with your courage & strength! 🫶from 🇺🇸! 🫡🇺🇦💪🏻🌻

For those forces serving on the front line, thank you for your dedication to a higher purpose, of defending your homeland. It is a huge sacrifice of talent and treasure to keep your land safe and Ukrainianly free. God Bless you all.

These are the graves of Russian mercenaries in Bakhmut! Russian conscripts, stop fighting Putin’s war and go back to your homes! Don’t let this be you!

There is the difference between being online and being on the line.

Such deep deep prayers for those defending Bahmut for Ukraine. May divine intervention arise for Ukraine's victory.🇺🇦🇦🇺🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🌠💪💪

Thank you for the direct report from you heroic inspiring Ukrainian fighters. More help from several important allies is being prepared for you. Hang in there. Stay safe Slava Ukraini 👍👍👍🇺🇦