**Russia Advances Toward Pokrovsk, Ukraine Fights Back in Donetsk**
Russian troops are making progress toward the cities of Pokrovsk and Kurakhove in Donetsk Oblast. According to Estonian intelligence, Russian forces have taken control of the village of Shevchenko, which is just 2 miles west of Pokrovsk.
**Ukrainian Forces Push Back in Kharkiv**
Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops are fighting back near the city of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast. They have been repelling Russian attacks along the Sukhi Yaly River to the south of Kurakhove for a week. Russia is trying to surround the area from both north and south.
**Heavy Losses for Russia**
Estonian intelligence reports that over the past two weeks, around 3,000 Russian soldiers have been killed. This number is likely to continue rising as Russian forces approach Pokrovsk. The unfavorable weather conditions are also hampering Russian aviation and heavy equipment.
**Ukraine’s Defense Holds Strong in Other Areas**
The Ukrainian defense is under less pressure in other areas of the front. Ukrainian forces are making gains in the Kupiansk sector, where two Russian bridgeheads that emerged during the crossing of the Oskil River were destroyed.
**Increased Pressure on Ukraine from Russia**
Russia has failed to achieve a major breakthrough and is therefore increasing pressure on the Ukrainian army in Kursk Oblast. The situation is dire for Ukraine as they face decreased U.S. military aid under incoming President Donald Trump.
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