The commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces has warned Russian activity is increasing around the key frontline town of Pokrovsk, stating 'the situation is difficult'. General Oleksandr Syrskyi admitted that Russian infantry was massing in the area and noted he visited the frontline for discussions with commanders.
Despite the escalating tensions, he dismissed claims that Ukrainian troops were 'blockaded' by Russian forces as 'untrue' propaganda. Reports indicate that Russian forces are advancing toward this strategically vital town, which serves as a crucial transport and supply hub. The fall of Pokrovsk could significantly enhance Russian operations in the region.
In a statement shared via Telegram, General Syrskyi described how enemy infantry is gathering in urban areas and altering positions, with the main goal being to identify and neutralize them. He emphasized the complexity of the situation while countering reports of Ukrainian soldiers being cut off in Pokrovsk and Kupiansk.
For more than a year, Russian forces have sought to capture Pokrovsk, a strategic target that would potentially give them a pathway to Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, the two largest cities still held by Ukraine in the area. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has highlighted that Russian troops in Pokrovsk outnumber their Ukrainian counterparts significantly and pointed out that a Russian takeover of the town could serve as a narrative to sway U.S. support for Ukraine.
Recent assessments from defense intelligence firms suggest the battle for Pokrovsk has intensified, with Russian efforts to encircle Ukrainian defenders becoming more pronounced. Local monitoring groups report that Russian forces are 'gradually engulfing' the town and disrupting supply routes, raising alarms about a deteriorating crisis.
