Russian Troops Try to Advance Around Pokrovsk, But Town Remains Safe
Ukrainian military spokespersons say that small Russian units are trying to advance around the town of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast. However, the town itself is not currently under threat.
The Russians have been focusing on taking control of Pokrovsk, a key logistics hub in the region. They have advanced within just a few kilometers of the town, and many civilian residents have fled. The Ukrainian military has claimed that Russian forces are unable to take the town and are instead trying to infiltrate surrounding settlements.
Russian troops are trying to bypass the town by moving through nearby villages and individual houses. According to monitoring group DeepState, Russian forces are within 3 kilometers of the town and have control over several nearby settlements.
Ukrainian positions in these settlements have been destroyed by Russian fire, but Ukrainian forces are taking measures to prevent further deterioration. The situation on the ground is fluid and difficult to verify.
In recent months, Russia has made significant gains in Donetsk Oblast, including capturing the towns of Vuhledar and Kurakhove. Fighting is also ongoing in Chasiv Yar and Toretsk. Ukraine’s military faces manpower shortages, making it increasingly difficult for them to hold their ground.
The situation on the battlefield will likely play a crucial role in the year ahead, particularly with US President-elect Donald Trump calling for peace talks.