'Russian army advances': Ukrainian Lt. Gen. identifies critical frontline areas

Romanenko shared this update live on Espreso TV.

"In some areas, the situation is shifting from difficult to critical. This includes the battle zones around Selydove and west of Vuhledar, where the enemy is making advances. Because of this, conditions are forming that may allow them to push toward Kurakhove from the south. Currently, in the Kurakhove area, where Hirnyk and Kurakhivka are located, Hirnyk has been taken by the enemy, leading our Defense Forces to pull back from this pocket," Romanenko explained.

He added that intense rearguard battles are also ongoing north of Kurakhove.

"Our operational approach is intact, meaning we're seeing both tactical maneuvers in the Hirnyk-Kurakhivka area and larger-scale engagements around Kurakhove. We understand that the enemy's main goal, through Kurakhove and eventually, is capturing Pokrovsk," Romanenko emphasized.

• Serhiy Zgurets, director of the information and consulting firm Defense Express, highlighted that Russian troops are operating at the edge of their logistical limits.