Ukrainian forces say they are holding on to their key eastern stronghold of Bakhmut against the ongoing Russian offensive. Fighting there is expected to intensify.

The British defense ministry said on Friday that Russian forces have regained some momentum in the battle for Bakhmut. It said Russia has now likely advanced into the town center, and that a key Ukrainian supply route to the west of the town is being severely threatened.

A spokesperson for Ukraine's Eastern Military Command told Reuters the situation is difficult, but that the enemy is suffering serious losses and not reaching a strategic success.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is thought to have suggested a possible withdrawal from Bakhmut.

He said in a news conference on Wednesday, "If there is a danger that we may lose personnel due to the encirclement, there will certainly be corresponding correct decisions of the general on the ground."

On the other hand, Ukraine's military intelligence service said on social media on Thursday that it is "preparing a lot of interesting things," apparently suggesting a major counteroffensive.