Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has designated the defense of Pokrovsk as a priority following the deployment of elite special forces to the town on the eastern front line. These forces are reportedly being utilized as regular infantry to secure supply lines for troops in the Donbas region. The deployment occurs amidst reports of Russian advances near the town and denials from Ukraine that its forces are encircled.
Special Forces Deployment
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the defense of Pokrovsk is a "priority." Elite special forces have been deployed to the town, which is situated on the eastern front line. Ukrainian army sources reportedly informed the BBC that these special forces, drawn from military intelligence and assault groups, are functioning as regular infantry. Their primary objective is to protect supply lines for Ukrainian troops holding the town in the Donbas region. Local media have reported that Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence, was in the region to oversee the operation personally.
Situation on the Front Line
Reports indicate Russian advances in areas surrounding Pokrovsk, located to the west of Donetsk. Ukraine has denied claims that its forces in the area have been surrounded. Russia has been engaged in efforts to seize Pokrovsk for over a year.
Strategic Importance of Pokrovsk
Pokrovsk is identified as a key transport and supply hub. Its capture is assessed to potentially facilitate Russian efforts to seize the remaining parts of the Donbas region. Kyiv reportedly believes that the town's capture would also aid Russia in demonstrating military success to the United States, thereby potentially influencing Western positions regarding its demands. Russia currently controls approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, which includes the Crimean peninsula, annexed in 2014. Moscow has publicly stated its demand for Kyiv to cede the entire Donbas region, including areas it currently does not control, as part of any peace agreement.
International Context and Peace Talks
US President Donald Trump has implemented sanctions against Russia's two largest oil producers and canceled plans for a summit with Russia's Vladimir Putin. President Zelensky has indicated an openness to Trump's proposal for a ceasefire that would freeze the war along the current front lines. Russia has publicly insisted that Ukrainian troops withdraw from the remainder of the Donbas region.
Official Statements
In a nightly address, President Zelensky stated: "Pokrovsk is our priority. We continue to destroy the occupier, and that is what matters most... They must be halted where they have reached - and destroyed there."
Separately, Russia claimed to have killed Ukrainian special forces who reportedly landed near Pokrovsk by helicopter.