If this turns out to be true then it is a lightening pace advance by the Ukrainian forces. That along side a poorly disciplined Russian army, with in field commanders that are proving inept against an enemy that appears to be gaining the momentum.

Russia confirms Izium retreat

The Russian ministry of defence has confirmed the retreat of Russian forces from Izium and Balakliya.

In a statement published by state media outlet RIA Novosti, the ministry claimed a decision had been made to “regroup the Russian troops stationed in the Balakliya and Izium regions” and “step up efforts in Donetsk” so as to “achieve the stated goals of the special military operation” and “liberate” the Donbas.

It also claimed that a number of “distraction and demonstration events” had been staged in order to conceal the “real actions of the troops” and allow the withdrawal.