Ukrainian Forces Maintain Presence in Pokrovsk Amid Ongoing Conflict
Ukrainian forces continue to operate within Pokrovsk, an eastern city in Ukraine, despite recent claims by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Russian forces had taken control. The city has been a significant point of conflict, with Ukraine acknowledging territorial losses but asserting continued control over parts of the area.
On-Site Verification and Military Operations
At a Ukrainian command post located behind the front line, soldiers are reportedly coordinating strikes on Russian positions within Pokrovsk. These operations involve monitoring live drone feeds and relaying orders. Yuri, the commander of the Skala Assault Regiment, arranged for two soldiers to briefly display a Ukrainian flag from a building in the northern part of the city. This action, captured via drone feed, was intended to counter claims of the city's complete capture. Yuri stated, "The whole world should know we will not just give up our territory."
Strategic Importance and Current Status
The battle for Pokrovsk, which previously served as a logistics hub for Ukraine's military, has spanned nearly 18 months. The city has sustained significant damage. Reports from observers tracking Russian advances suggest Ukrainian forces maintain a foothold primarily in the northern sector, extending up to the railway line that bisects the city. Russian forces are reported to have advanced from the south.
Tactical Approaches and Casualties
Sasha, a battalion commander, described Russian tactics involving small teams of 2-4 soldiers infiltrating Ukrainian positions, sometimes disguised as civilians. He noted that such infiltrations are typically identified and neutralized within 15 to 20 minutes. While Russia is reported to have incurred heavy casualties, they reportedly maintain numerical superiority in troops. A Ukrainian soldier, identified by the call sign "Rabbit," stated the situation was "hard, but under control." He displayed captured Russian documents and a machine gun, affirming the intensity of the combat.
Soldier Morale and Outlook
Ukrainian forces report exhaustion but show no indications of yielding. "Rabbit" expressed opposition to any territorial concessions for peace, stating, "We are part of this land. If we give it up Russia will want more." Another soldier, "Ghost," described the situation as "tense, but not critical," dismissing reports of the city's capture as "Russian propaganda" and "fake information." He acknowledged that both sides are experiencing exhaustion.
Drone Warfare and International Perspective
The conflict in Pokrovsk is characterized by extensive drone usage. Ukrainian troops on the front line frequently take cover from Russian drones, which are reportedly more numerous and often equipped with thermal imaging for night operations. Soldiers expressed a preference for adverse weather conditions like fog, rain, or overcast skies, which hinder drone effectiveness.
"Godfather," a Latvian volunteer and deputy commander of the Skala Regiment, offered a perspective on the broader implications of the conflict. He conveyed a belief that if Ukraine were to lose, other nations might be at risk. He also critically assessed the international response, describing European actions as "a lot of talking, a lot of bureaucracy and not enough doing." He commented on former US President Donald Trump's perceived leadership but suggested that any alignment of his envoy with Russian positions could be seen as a sign of weakness.