The value of Bakhmut is that it is/was defensible and the Russian losses topped Ukraine losses. There is talk about a 9-1 ratio, but i think a 5-1 ratio to be

The value of Bakhmut is that it is/was defensible and the Russian losses topped Ukraine losses. There is talk about a 9-1 ratio, but i think a 5-1 ratio to be more real. Ukraine seems quick to retreat when those ratios are not favorable. Ofc, this is guessing. There could be more to it, eg. Russians could advance faster if Bakhmut is conquered. Additionally, it's more useful to fend off the invaders in an already destroyed city instead of letting them advance to another ( probably inhabited and more intact) city.