**Ukrainian Brigade Prepares to Defend Critical Hub**
A new Ukrainian brigade, trained in the West, is getting ready to defend a key city in eastern Ukraine against Russian forces. The Russians have about 70,000 troops and are moving towards Pokrovsk, a important transportation hub.
The Russians have already reached within four miles of Pokrovsk. They’re also setting up defenses to stop Ukrainian reinforcements from reaching the area. This is part of Russia’s push to take control of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts before possible peace talks in the US.
**Ukrainian Forces Receive Reinforcement**
The Ukrainian forces defending Pokrovsk are getting a boost with the arrival of a new brigade, equipped with German tanks and French artillery. The 155th Mechanized Brigade has just finished its training in France and Poland. Despite being outnumbered three to one, the Ukrainians are preparing to fight.
**Empty City Awaits Battle**
Pokrovsk, once home to 60,000 people, is now almost empty except for military personnel. Volunteer fighter Denys Khrystov reported an “unpleasant silence” in the city, like a calm before the storm.
**Battle Expected to Be Decisive**
The outcome of this battle could be crucial in the current phase of the war, which has already caused over a million casualties, mostly Russian. Ukrainian forces are expected to withdraw from a nearby area and consolidate their defenses.