Russia is making significant advances in its offensive in Ukraine’s East, with the key city of Pokrovsk being a major target. Capturing Pokrovsk would provide Russia with a strategic advantage in seizing the rest of the Donbas region as it is central to many rail and road lines in the area. Ukrainian troops are facing challenges as they fall back in the face of Russian forces, but are putting up a strong defense with fortified lines and extra troops sent to defend the area. Russia has shifted tactics to create a “cauldron” around Ukrainian troops between Pokrovsk and Kurakhove, threatening to encircle them. While Russia’s offensive in the Donbas has seen some success, it has been costly and incremental overall. Meanwhile, Ukraine launched a surprise invasion of the Kursk region in Russia, capturing more territory in a month than Russia has in Ukraine in the past year. Despite this, Russia continues to push forward in the Donbas, with President Putin stating that forces will not be diverted to counter the Ukrainian advance. The rapid pace of the war may slow down with the onset of fall rains, limiting movement on both sides. Overall, the situation in Ukraine remains tense as Russia closes in on key strategic objectives.
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The Threat of Russia’s Steady Advance on Ukraine’s East
