Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared victory in Bakhmut city of Ukraine which Russia calls by its Soviet-era name of Artyomovsk.  

In a statement on Sunday, he congratulated the Wagner mercenary force and the Russian army for what he called the ‘liberation’ of Bakhmut.

Putin congratulated Wagner's assault groups, as well as all members of the units of the Russian Armed Forces who provided them with the necessary support.

Meanwhile, Ukraine said it is still fighting for control of the eastern city of Bakhmut.