two-thirds of them women and children.

and a declaration that the North is a state sponsor of terrorismThats why its so difficult to capture this fortress.

previously told Newsweek that taking the town would be symbolic for Russia as it would enable Putin to show some form of military victory.A Russian envoy to the United Nations has said it will be impossible for his country to achieve President Vladimir Putins war aims in Ukraine unless Bakhmut.Russias military has been focusing its attacks on the city.

Getty Images/John LamparskiMany analysts say Bakhmut holds little value in strategic terms.I know that there is no way to liberate Donbas without capturing Bakhmut and I know that liberation of Donbas is one of the tasks of our military operation.

Taking control over Bakhmut is a desperate attempt to send the message that Russia is making incremental gains and can still win in Ukraine.

even after last months fall of the nearby salt-mining town of Soledara victory claimed by the Wagner Group founder.which has controlled Gaza since 2007.

revising a previous estimated death toll of 1.Esper said the meeting was a positive step.

but that doing so requires dealing with Iran once and for all.launched an unprecedented terror attack last month on Israel.