**Ukraine Faces Hard Fight to Save City from Russian Troops**
Russian forces are closing in on the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, located about 7 kilometers from the front line. The city is a key logistics hub and serves as a barrier against Russian advances towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and the regional capital of Dnipro.
Fierce fighting has been reported in the area, with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi stating that “the fighting is extremely fierce” and that Ukrainian forces are facing an infantry shortage. The city’s last stronghold in Donetsk Oblast, Pokrovsk has been holding back Russian forces from advancing further towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
**Residents Face Uncertainty**
Approximately 11,000 people remain in the city, down from over 60,000 before the war. Most utility companies and local businesses have stopped functioning due to constant shelling, leaving residents without gas, water, or electricity. The situation is uncertain for those living in the area.
**Russian Advances Accelerate**
Ukrainian officials are concerned about Russia’s growing advantage in manpower and equipment. Drones have become a significant factor in the Russian military‘s tactics, providing better awareness of the terrain and critical infrastructure. Additionally, Russia has been using non-standard solutions such as unarmed civilian vehicles to attack Ukrainian forces.
**High Command Criticized**
The Ukrainian military has criticized the actions of the general command, stating that unrealistic tasks are being set for units with limited resources. The criticism comes after a Telegram post by Serhii Filimonov, commander of the Da Vinci Wolves Battalion, accused General Yurii Lutsenko of heavy losses in Donetsk Oblast.
**Outcome Uncertain**
Experts believe that it will be difficult for Ukraine to defend Pokrovsk against Russian forces. Federico Borsari, a fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA), said that Ukraine cannot properly staff its combat units and conduct rotations due to a lack of personnel. Gressel also stated that he would be surprised if the city was captured by the end of this year.
The outcome remains uncertain as both sides engage in intense fighting, with Ukraine facing significant challenges in defending the city from Russian advances.