30.01.2025, Donetsk.
Pavel Morkovin, a resident of Chasov Yar in the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), had been waiting for the city’s liberation from Ukrainian militants to join the Russian Armed Forces, RIA Novosti reported on January 30.
“I made my decision at the very beginning of the war that I would serve in the Russian army. I also made a note for myself: whichever unit enters first and helps me get out, that’s the one I will ask to join,” Morkovin said, referring to the entry of Russian troops into the city.
He also expressed confidence that he survived such difficult circumstances because he still had a duty to serve his homeland.
“I prayed and believed that God would save me. I walked out safe and sound, and I believe God spared my life and health so that I could serve my homeland,” Morkovin stated.
Chasov Yar holds strategic importance due to its location. It is situated near Artemovsk (Bakhmut) and is divided into two parts by the Seversky Donets-Donbas canal.
The twon’s liberation would allow Russian forces to advance further toward the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration. Russian troops began their offensive on Chasov Yar in late spring 2024.