Russia’s Army Advances on Ukrainian City, Faces Challenges
The Russian army’s 90th Guards Tank Division has reached within five miles of the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk. This is a strategic location that serves as a hub for logistics and transportation for Ukrainian forces.
Russian forces are trying to capture the remaining areas of Donetsk Oblast, where Pokrovsk is located. The city’s importance lies in its role as a key transportation point.
According to Ukraine’s Center for Defense Strategies (CDS), Russia will not be able to fully occupy Donetsk Oblast by the end of 2024. The CDS reports that Russian forces face significant challenges in their campaign, including resource constraints and equipment losses.
Russian advances have been made through towns like Zhovte and Novopushtynka, suggesting an encirclement strategy rather than a direct assault on Pokrovsk. The next likely targets for Russia are the towns of Novotroitske and Ukrainka, which would widen the salient and threaten Ukrainian supply lines.
The CDS reports that Russia is facing severe resource constraints. Troop density has been maintained by regrouping existing forces rather than sending in reinforcements. Monthly Russian casualties exceed recruitment numbers, and equipment stocks are depleting, forcing troops to use civilian vehicles.
In 2024, the Russian offensive in Ukraine has accelerated compared to previous years. Since September 1st of this year, they have gained over 1,100 square kilometers in southeastern Ukraine.
Ukrainian forces have withdrawn from the Canal neighborhood in Chasiv Yar as Russia intensifies its efforts to capture the town.
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