A Ukrainian soldier fights near Pokrovsk, Photo: Pablo Miranzo / AFP

The Russian occupation forces continue to try to capture the town of Pokrovsk, but have failed to reach its borders. This was reported by the spokesman for the Khortytsia operational and strategic grouping of troops, Viktor Tregubov, on the air of a national telethon.

The tactics of the occupiers

“There are no urban battles in Pokrovsk. The Russians have not reached the city limits, but they are trying to reach it through neighbouring settlements and villages. They are acting in small groups, amassing forces and trying to bypass the city, focusing on breaking infrastructure chains,” Tregubov said.

The occupiers are actively using drones and other means of reconnaissance and strike to increase pressure in the city area.

Fortification of the city

According to the spokesperson, Pokrovsk is a fairly large and well-fortified city. Because of this, Russian troops do not dare to launch a frontal assault and choose the tactic of bypassing and isolating.

“The enemy is not counting on fighting in Pokrovsk at the moment, they are trying to avoid direct clashes and damage strategic infrastructure,” the military explained.

Other areas

Meanwhile, Russian forces are bogged down in urban fighting in other areas, including Chasovyi Yar and Kurakhove. This is holding back the enemy’s advance and creating conditions for counterattacks by the Ukrainian Defence Forces.

The situation in Pokrovsk remains under control, and Ukraine’s defenders continue to strengthen their defensive positions.