Ukraine war: Bakhmut gains, American allegedly killed by Wagner, F-16 fighter jets

Kyiv said on Tuesday it had captured 20 square kilometres from Russian forces around Bakhmut in recent days.

Likened to a "meat grinder", the devastated eastern city has been an epicentre of fighting for months, with both sides suffering heavy losses. 

Ukraine's army claims it is regaining ground to the north and south, diminishing Russian control over the former salt mining town - currently estimated at 90%. 

"In recent days, our troops have liberated about 20 square kilometres north and south" of Bakhmut, said Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Ganna Maliar.

Russian troops continue their attempt at "completely destroying the city with the help of artillery", he added. 

In its daily assessment, the US-based Insitute for the Study of War said Russia was reinforcing its troops in Bakhmut, despite Ukraine's "limited and localised counterattacks". 

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed on Monday that Ukraine's long-awaited counter-offensive had not begun, maintaining his army "needs more time".

This could be a red herring to trick Russian forces. 

The Russian mercenary Wagner Group claimed on Tuesday its soldiers killed a US citizen in Bakhmut. 

In a video posted online, Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin announced the death of the volunteer soldier, reportedly an ex-member of the US special forces from Idaho.  

"He came to meet us," Prigozhin said next to the body of a man he claimed was the American. He said the body would be handed over to the US authorities. 

Euronews could not verify his claim. 

At least 12 Americans have died fighting in Ukraine since the war broke out last year, despite authorities warning citizens not to travel to the country.

The mercenary head also claimed his force had seized ground in Bakhmut. 

"Today Wagner's