Ukrainian serviceman discusses expected battles for Pokrovsk and how Armed Forces preparing for defense
Illustrative photo (Getty Images)
Battles for Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region may soon begin. However, the preparation of Ukrainian soldiers is now much more advanced than before, states Ukrainian Armed Forces serviceman Yevhen Ievlev in a comment to RBC-Ukraine's YouTube channel.
"Unfortunately, everything is heading in that direction (toward battles for Pokrovsk – ed.). I sincerely hope that what I see with my own eyes, and I also hope there are things I don't see, will help hold Pokrovsk and other settlements as long as possible," said Ievlev.
According to him, Ukrainian defenders and command have done significant work on correcting past mistakes in defense.
"The preparation of defenses around Myrnohrad and Pokrovsk is far superior to what it was before," the serviceman noted.
He explained that the presidential vertical of power has largely taken over the construction of fortifications, with military administrations handling the work.
"What we had a year ago and what we have now are completely different in terms of quality. We shouldn't mix infantry shortages or surpluses with fortification efforts into one issue. Unfortunately, everyone knows there isn't enough infantry, and there’s even a certain deficit," Ievlev added.
According to him, the higher the quality and quantity of these defensive structures, the easier it will be to hold back the enemy despite the infantry shortage.
"There's a big difference between holding the enemy in a hand-dug dugout in a tree line versus in prepared defensive positions equipped with concrete, timber, and deeply entrenched lines built with proper experience and on strategic ground. So, to be honest, I have positive expectations that it will be possible to hold the enemy at the approaches to Pokrovsk, Myrnohrad, and all other cities, as well as every square meter of Ukraine," the serviceman stated.
Situation in the Pokrovsk direction
The Pokrovsk direction remains one of the most challenging sections of the front. Previously, it was reported that Russian forces are just 11 kilometers from Pokrovsk, prompting local authorities to call for evacuation.
According to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, Russian troops have an advantage in manpower and equipment. Over 50 combat clashes occur daily, with enemy losses reaching up to 300 soldiers each day.
Military experts also note that the battle for Pokrovsk could begin in the near future.
Additionally, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously stated that the Ukrainian Armed Forces would further strengthen the Pokrovsk direction.
