Defense Forces clear about 11.5 km² in Pokrovsk over past week – CinC Syrskyi

The Russian army in the Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad sectors was forced to deploy its operational reserve, while Ukrainian forces are blocking attempts to storm the cities with small infantry groups.

According to Ukrinform, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, reported this on Facebook, following his working visit to units operating in the Pokrovsk sector.

"We are examining the defense of Pokrovsk, Myrnohrad, and the adjacent territories comprehensively. Therefore, another working trip and meeting with commanders of military control bodies, commanders of military units and subunits performing tasks in the Pokrovsk direction," Syrskyi stated.

According to him, the tasks of the Armed Forces remain unchanged – to defend Ukrainian positions, detect and destroy as many Russian personnel and equipment as possible, cut off their logistics, and effectively counter the enemy in the air.

"We are blocking attempts to storm the cities with small infantry groups. For this purpose, and also to restore lost positions, our designated units are conducting active operations," Syrskyi emphasized. According to him, over the past week, a search-and-destroy operation was carried out directly in the city of Pokrovsk across an area of about 11.5  km².

"The enemy, having suffered significant losses and encountering our effective resistance, was forced to deploy its operational reserve in the Pokrovsk–Myrnohrad sectors. The aggressor is constantly trying to change attack directions here and is using a treacherous infiltration tactic, including disguising itself as civilians or using them as cover," Syrskyi reported.

During the meeting, they discussed strengthening Ukrainian units and the coordinated use of reserves. Particular attention was paid to supporting the advance of Ukrainian assault units.

"We continue to work on maintaining existing and establishing additional logistical routes. We must ensure maximum support for our grouping and conduct timely medical evacuation of the wounded. We must not only hold positions but also preserve the lives and health of our defenders," Syrskyi summarized.

As Ukrinform reported, Ukraine's Defense Forces are holding back Russian forces in Pokrovsk to prevent further advance, with fighting underway along the entire railway line.