- Selenky asserts extensive authority in the Kursk region.
Ukrainian troops have expanded their territory in the Russian region of Kursk, as per President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's statement. In his evening video message, Zelenskyy revealed that gains were made near Ukraine's border, but he didn't provide specifics. He also mentioned an increase in Russian prisoners of war, which could lead to future exchanges. This is the second such exchange in a short span of time, with the first happening the previous week. Ukrainian troops set foot in Russia on August 6.
Zelenskyy stated that the Kursk attack hinders Russia from intensifying its assault on the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk, forcing it to protect its own territory. Nevertheless, the pressure in Donetsk hasn't decreased yet. Military analysts reported advancements by Russian troops in the Pokrovsk area. Zelenskyy acknowledged the hardships faced by Ukrainian troops in the region.
"The situation in Donetsk is very tough," Zelenskyy said. "The enemy's main focus and greatest strength lie there. The resilience of every one of our units, our capacity to counter the occupier, is crucial now."
Inhabitants of Pokrovsk are advised to leave as Russian forces push forward. Authorities have instructed the evacuation of the city, with approximately 38,000 people remaining, including 1,900 children. The head of the Donetsk military administration, Vadym Fillaschkin, declared that all banks in Pokrovsk would close starting from Monday, with only ATMs operating.
For Russia, conquering Pokrovsk, a region of critical importance due to its railway intersection, is the upcoming goal in its ongoing attack on Ukraine. Moscow's main objective is to assume control over the entire Donetsk region. Russian troops have recently seized several settlements in eastern Ukraine.
Zelenskyy's mention of an increase in Russian prisoners of war could potentially reduce future conflicts, but the ongoing war in Donetsk continues to pose significant challenges for Ukrainian troops. The intense fighting in Donetsk and Pokrovsk, a region of strategic importance for Russia, demonstrates the continued hostilities in this war.
