Ukraine’s army chief, Oleksandr Syrskii, announced the ongoing effort to maintain control of Pokrovsk amid a significant Russian offensive, emphasizing a comprehensive operation to dislodge enemy forces. The city, crucial to Ukrainian supply lines, has been targeted by Russia since mid-2024 as part of its campaign in the Donetsk region. While Russia claims to have encircled Ukrainian defenders, Syrskii refuted this, stating the situation is challenging but not blocked. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy acknowledged Russian infiltration but assured efforts to eliminate them continue.
