KYIV, Ukraine – Heavy fighting continues near the key eastern city of Pokrovsk, as Russian forces push forward in their ongoing offensive, Ukraine’s military leadership reported Thursday. The battle for control of Pokrovsk, a crucial defensive and logistical hub in the Donetsk region, has reached a critical stage, with Russian troops advancing to within just a few kilometers of the city, according to analysts.
Ukrainian forces have repelled nearly 40 Russian attempts to breach their defenses over the past day, the General Staff of Ukraine stated. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraine’s top military commander, described the situation as “extremely intense,” noting the sheer scale of Russian assaults. “Our troops are vastly outnumbered, but their resilience remains unshaken,” Syrskyi posted on social media.
Pokrovsk, home to 60,000 people before Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, plays a vital role in Ukraine’s defensive network. Capturing the city would mark a significant milestone for Russian forces in their broader goal to seize the entire Donetsk region.
Russian advances have come at a heavy cost, however. The Institute for the Study of War reports that these gains have resulted in substantial losses of personnel and equipment, potentially limiting Russia’s ability to sustain offensive operations in the future.
The prolonged battle in Donetsk has placed immense strain on Ukrainian defenders, forcing localized retreats and triggering concerns over military leadership. Reports suggest internal disagreements among Ukraine’s commanders, with some questioning strategic decisions in the Pokrovsk sector.
Serhii Filimonov, a prominent Ukrainian officer and commander of the “Da Vinci Wolves” battalion, criticized high-ranking officers for making unrealistic demands of frontline units. Writing on Telegram, he described the situation in Pokrovsk as “disastrous” and called for greater coordination.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s defense efforts face potential challenges as U.S. military support, which has been crucial in countering Russian advances, may be scaled back under President-elect Donald Trump.
Despite the intense pressure, Ukrainian forces remain committed to defending Pokrovsk, even as the battle continues to exact a heavy toll on both sides.
