Russians are swiftly advancing towards Pokrovsk at an increased speed.
With challenges in Kursk, Russian forces are still pushing forward in Pokrovsk, Donbass. Despite slow progress for several months in eastern Ukraine's armed forces, there are whispers of an accelerated pace near the town.
Military analysts are suggesting that Russian troops are swiftly advancing at the Pokrovsk front in eastern Ukraine. As per a report from the U.S. Institute for the Study of War (ISW), they have successfully seized control of most of Novohrodivka, situated south of Pokrovsk, within a few days.
ISW narrates that the Russian military is now focusing on combat along a railway track heading towards Pokrovsk. Specialists believe that the rapid Russian progress in Novohrodivka might have been due to a Ukrainian retreat from the area.
"The conquest of Pokrovsk in Donbass is the aim of Russia's summer offensive," stated military specialist Colonel Reisner to ntv.de. "In the heavyweight division of Donbass, 'Centr', 'Yug', and 'Vostok' groups are attacking on a front of nearly 300 kilometers. With these forces, the Russians aim to breach the second defensive line and, if feasible, achieve a breach at Pokrovsk," Reisner explained.
Kyiv orders evacuations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed plans to fortify the region following a meeting with military officials. Recent reports suggest that Russian troops have seized entire towns in the Donetsk region. Ukrainian authorities also mandated additional evacuations.
Due to the deteriorating security situation, the area for forced evacuations has been broadened. Children and their parents or caretakers are required to leave their homes, as announced by the governor of Donetsk.
A total of 27 towns in the Kostyantynivka and Selydove areas have been included in the evacuation list. Previously, evacuations had been ordered in the Pokrovsk area due to the advance of Russian troops.
The European Union has expressed concern over the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, with particular focus on the advancement of Russian forces towards Pokrovsk. In response, the European Union has promised increased humanitarian aid to affected Ukrainian regions.
Given the potential for a Russian takeover of Pokrovsk, the European Union has urged Ukraine to prioritize the protection of its civilian population, emphasizing the importance of evacuating vulnerable communities.
