What is interesting, Russian sources claim that Russian 'army' is making gains around Bakhmut. Though, the word 'army' can be used here rather symbolically, because the Bakhmut area is an operational zone of Wagner Group.
The Russian strategy of withdrawing while fortifying their positions, is a tactic they've used dating back to WWll.
While they continue to reorganize the large number of troops and weapons that have been pouring in the last few weeks. Waiting for the temperatures to drop below freezing and the ground hardening enough to support their main battle Tanks and other vehicles.
Then the Russian army will advance at lightening speed and annihilate the Ukrainian forces within a couple of months.