Kurakhove could become “meat grinder” draining Russian resources - military analyst

He spoke about it on Espreso TV.

"The exhaustion is already underway, as the Russians are depleting their resources. Some Russian units in the Pokrovsk-Kurakhove sector have brought in additional reserves. For example, the 61st Naval Infantry Brigade, part of the 2nd Guards Combined Arms Army, has been redeployed from its usual responsibility in the Left Bank Kherson region, including Oleshky, to reinforce the Pokrovsk direction. This shows that their reserves are being used up. Kurakhove could become a 'meat grinder,' draining Russian resources, which could prevent them from mounting an offensive on Pokrovsk," Kovalenko explained.

Kovalenko also warned that it’s unlikely Kurakhove will be held in defense until the very end. 

"We need to be prepared for the possibility that at some point, our forces may have to retreat. However, something might slow the Russians down on this part of the front," he added.

"Kurakhove has a unique terrain. Right now, the Russians are trying to establish a foothold on the eastern edge of the city, but between the eastern part and the center lies Balka Dovha, a natural barrier that could slow down their advance. It’s similar to what happened in Chasiv Yar, where the canal acted as a natural obstacle, preventing the Russians from holding the right bank for a long time. So, these natural features could be used to slow the Russians down in the Kurakhove area as much as possible," he explained.

• As of November 11, the Russian army has been storming Ukrainian positions near Kurakhove in the Donetsk region from the north, south, and east. Analysts say the situation is worsening.