Russia's defense ministry says its troops have withdrawn from the key stronghold of Lyman, which is located in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk.

The ministry announced on Saturday that the troops were moved to more advantageous areas. It cited the threat that they could be encircled by Ukrainian forces as a reason.

The move comes after Ukraine said its troops are advancing to Lyman. Kyiv stated that its fighters are ramping up their counteroffensive against Russia's troops in order to retake the city.

Analysts say Russia's withdrawal suggests that the Ukrainians may have regained control of Lyman already.

They also say Russian President Vladimir Putin will now find it more difficult to achieve his goal, which is to take full control of the Donbas region.