Moscow: Russian forces continue their slow but persistent push toward Ukraine’s eastern city of Pokrovsk, aiming to seize control of the strategically significant supply hub in what is shaping up to be one of the war’s key battles as the conflict nears its three-year mark.
Ukrainian troops are striving to impede the Russian advance near the Donetsk Oblast city to prevent a potential breakthrough into the neighboring Dnipropetrovsk region. Pokrovsk, positioned at the crossroads of multiple highways linking critical cities in eastern Donetsk, also houses an essential railway station, further elevating its strategic importance.
However, Ukraine’s defensive efforts are hindered by manpower shortages and relentless Russian drone strikes targeting supply routes. Military analysts warn that if Russian forces manage to capture or bypass Pokrovsk, they could deepen their territorial gains, potentially forcing Ukrainian units to retreat. Ukrainian commanders argue that their only viable strategy is to inflict substantial losses on Russian troops, buying crucial time to maintain defensive positions.
Frontline Intensity and Tactical Shifts
Ihor, a senior battery officer in Ukraine’s 38th Brigade, told Euronews that Russian troops were continuously attempting to breach the frontline.
“Sometimes it’s less, sometimes it’s more. But their intentions are constant, it’s active combat here now,” he stated.
He firmly opposed territorial concessions, warning that past compromises had only enabled Russian forces to regroup and advance with renewed strength.
Ukrainian soldiers in Pokrovsk report that Russian forces have recently adjusted their approach, shifting from direct assaults to attacking the flanks in an effort to encircle the city. With Russian units controlling elevated terrain, Ukrainian supply lines are increasingly exposed to enemy fire.
Compounding the challenge, Ukrainian commanders acknowledge that they lack sufficient reserves to sustain their defense lines, while newly deployed infantry units are struggling to execute operations effectively.
Civilians Caught in the Crossfire
Most of Pokrovsk’s pre-war population of approximately 60,000 has been evacuated, leaving behind fewer than 2,000 residents. Maksym, a civil-military cooperation officer with the Ukrainian army, said he had assisted many civilians in fleeing but faced resistance from some, particularly the elderly.
“Unfortunately, pensioners don’t have that desire [to leave],” he told Euronews.
“Nor do those who expect the Russians to come and rebuild everything,” he added. “But as practice has shown, nothing will be fixed. There will be nothing left except ruins.”
Zelenskyy: Situation Remains Dire
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged the dire situation in Pokrovsk following a meeting with UK Foreign Minister David Lammy in Kyiv. He stated that Russia was amassing troops in the area, further complicating Ukraine’s defense.
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Meanwhile, Moscow remains intent on securing as much territory as possible, even as U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration pushes for negotiations to end the war. Trump recently froze foreign assistance to Ukraine, a move that has unsettled Kyiv officials, who are already wary of the shifting stance of their most critical ally. However, Zelenskyy reassured that military aid had not been completely halted, despite growing concerns over Ukraine’s long-term defense capabilities.
