Defence of Donbas Town a Priority, Says Zelensky as Special Forces Deployed
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has underscored the critical importance of defending Pokrovsk, a strategic town along the eastern front line, as elite special forces are deployed to reinforce its defenses. This deployment includes special forces from military intelligence and assault units actively engaged as regular infantry to safeguard vital supply lines for troops stationed in the region.
Recent intelligence reports indicate that Russian forces are intensifying their advances around Pokrovsk, located to the west of Donetsk. Despite these significant challenges, Ukrainian officials deny claims that their forces have been encircled. Moscow is pushing for Kyiv to yield the entire Donbas region as part of any potential peace negotiations, including territories that remain out of their control. Currently, Russia occupies nearly 20% of Ukrainian land, including the Crimean peninsula, annexed in 2014.
Key points regarding the situation in Pokrovsk include:
– Strategic Importance: Pokrovsk serves as a crucial transport and supply hub. Its capture by Russian forces could significantly bolster their campaign in the Donbas region.
– Military Leadership: Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, is reported to be personally supervising operations in the area, reflecting the urgency of the situation.
– Logistical Threats: Ukrainian supply lines are under fire from advancing Russian troops, complicating the operational stability in the city.
– Current Fighting: Intense battles are occurring around the railway station and industrial zones, where ground logistics have been severely impacted.
In his nightly address, Zelensky affirmed, “Pokrovsk is our priority. We continue to destroy the occupier, and that is what matters most… They must be halted where they have reached – and destroyed there.”
Additionally, the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War reported that while Ukrainian forces have made marginal advances during counter-attacks north of Pokrovsk, the area remains a contested grey zone, reflecting the ongoing instability in the region. With increased Russian military activity around this pivotal town, the focus on its defence remains critical for Ukraine’s broader strategic objectives.
As the situation evolves, both military and diplomatic efforts will play essential roles in determining the future of Pokrovsk and the wider Donbas region.