Satellite images of the city besieged in the Russia-Ukraine war
A year ago, the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut was the industrial centre of the Donetsk region, surrounded by salt and gypsum mineral mines and known for its sparkling wine produced in underground caves.
Its broad tree-lined streets, lush parks and bustling centre teemed with late 19th century history have now been reduced to a burning ruin after nine months of fierce fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces.
Satellite images of the city that was once home to about 70,000 people have laid bare the level of destruction inflicted in Bakhmut. Both the Russians and Ukrainians have invested heavily into taking control of a city that has more symbolic value than strategic importance. Both sides are believed to have suffered huge losses as a result, with some estimates numbering tens of thousands of troops.
Satellite images by Maxar Technologies showing Bakhmut from above on 8 May, 2022 and 15 May, 2023 show rows of apartment buildings, schools, shops and other infrastructure across the city flattened into a smouldering wasteland.
A view of Bakhmut city, before and after the war:
Theatre and shops in the city centre:
A school and surrounding apartment buildings:
University buildings and nearby radio tower:
School No 12 and apartment buildings:
