Russian forces capture Ukrainian fortified area near Pokrovsk without fight: expert explains why

He shared this on Espreso TV.

"When we talk about attacks on Pokrovsk, we primarily mean that Russians have advanced towards this crucial defense hub, with eight roads leading to it from different directions. Currently, Russian forces are focusing on the settlements of Shevchenko and Novotroitske to the south of Pokrovsk. There are counterattacks on our part there," Zgurets noted.

According to the Defense Express CEO, there was information that between Novotroitske and Shevchenko, on the western bank of the Solona River, there was a fortified position of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, which Russians captured relatively easily.

"This is one of several defense lines around Pokrovsk. There are at least three defensive lines around Pokrovsk, and currently, Russian troops are positioned on one of them. The city of Pokrovsk itself is well-fortified. However, it is crucial to integrate fortifications with Ukrainian forces in those sections because the situation around a certain strongpoint near Shevchenko raises concerns. This is due to one of the brigades having too large a defense sector and not enough forces to hold back Russian forces. Counterattacks are ongoing on the Ukrainian side around this strongpoint area," Zgurets emphasized.

The Defense Express director also mentioned that there are reports of certain groups of sabotage and reconnaissance units appearing on the outskirts of Pokrovsk, but they are being destroyed.

"So, currently, there are combat actions on the outskirts of Pokrovsk, although in some areas the distance to Russian troops is about 3-4 kilometers," Zgurets noted.

• Russian forces keep making tactical gains south of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region, targeting weak points and attempting to maneuver for a direct assault on the city.
• Pavlo Diachenko, acting head of communications for the Donetsk Regional Police, says that Russian forces are targeting the Pokrovsk community using guided aerial bombs, artillery, and FPV drones.