What's happened
Russian troops are intensifying efforts to capture key Ukrainian towns in Donetsk, including Pokrovsk and Kupiansk. Ukrainian forces report heavy fighting and infiltration, with Russian advances threatening supply routes and strategic positions. The battle for control continues amid significant casualties and shifting front lines.
What's behind the headline?
Russian advances in eastern Ukraine are accelerating, with recent territorial gains around Pokrovsk and Kupiansk indicating a shift in the front line. Russian forces are employing advanced drone tactics, including specialist units like Rubicon, to overwhelm Ukrainian defenses. Ukrainian forces are holding with low troop numbers but face increasing risks from Russian infiltration and infrastructure control. The battle reflects Russia's strategic focus on encircling key cities and disrupting supply lines, which could lead to further territorial losses for Ukraine. The ongoing conflict demonstrates Russia's adaptation to modern warfare, but at a high cost to its regular army. The outcome hinges on Ukraine's ability to counter these tactics and maintain supply routes, but the situation remains highly volatile and likely to worsen in the short term.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Russian troops have infiltrated and control parts of Pokrovsk and Kupiansk, with estimates of around 150,000 Russian troops concentrated in the area. Sky News highlights the recent Russian advances into Pokrovsk, with troops seen moving through fog and heavy fighting ongoing. The New York Times emphasizes the destruction of Pokrovsk, now largely in ruins, and its strategic importance as a gateway to Donetsk. All sources agree that the battle is fierce, with Russian efforts focused on encircling Ukrainian forces and controlling vital supply routes, while Ukraine continues to resist with limited resources and high casualties.
How we got here
Russia has been attempting to capture the Donbas region for over a year, focusing on strategic towns like Pokrovsk, Kramatorsk, and Sloviansk. Ukraine has resisted with significant casualties, while Russia has used a combination of conventional forces and drone warfare to advance. The conflict is driven by Russia's aim to control the entire Donetsk region and weaken Ukrainian resistance.
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