Russian Forces Closing in on Pokrovsk
Russian forces have made significant advances, now just three kilometers (1.9 miles) from the outskirts of the key eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, according to Ukrainian mapping service DeepState. Ukrainian military spokesperson Nazar Voloshyn confirmed that Ukrainian positions near the city have been destroyed or captured following prolonged fighting. He also reported ongoing combat in the village of Shevchenkove, where Russian forces may have made gains, although this remains unconfirmed.
Pokrovsk Faces Gas Supply Cut
As the fighting intensifies, Ukrainian authorities warned that Pokrovsk would lose its gas supply starting Thursday due to ongoing damage to pipelines from constant Russian attacks. The local gas supply company, Donetskoblgaz, cited the “worsening situation” and noted that it is impossible to restore the gas distribution system under these conditions. Before the war, Pokrovsk had a population of around 60,000, but many have since fled. The city is strategically important, sitting on a key supply road linking military hubs, making it a vital target for Russian forces aiming to seize the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk.
Zelensky’s Visit Amid Heightened Tensions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Pokrovsk in November, meeting with troops defending the city. He praised their resilience, acknowledging the heavy toll of the ongoing Russian offensive. Zelensky described the region as a tense and challenging front, stating that the strength of Ukrainian soldiers is the only reason the east has not been fully occupied by Russian forces.
The fall of Pokrovsk would mark a significant setback for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict, especially as Russia continues to apply pressure on the eastern front lines.
Russian Response to Ukrainian Missile Attack
In another development, Russia vowed retaliation for a Ukrainian missile strike on the southwestern city of Taganrog, reportedly involving six American-made ATACMS ballistic missiles. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that air defenses intercepted some of the missiles, but falling debris still injured military personnel. Russia has warned that the use of long-range Western weaponry, including the ATACMS missiles, will not go unanswered.
Despite these setbacks, Ukraine continues to carry out targeted strikes on Russian military and energy facilities, signaling its determination to continue the fight. As tensions rise, the possibility of further escalations remains high, with Russia threatening further military measures.
