Russia’s next moves against Pokrovsk: Forbes says crucial weeks ahead
Illustrative photo: The battle for Pokrovsk could be the final stage of Russia's offensive this year (Getty Images)
Russian troops are preparing to attack Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. This operation could be the culmination of the Russian offensive in this area, Forbes reports.
According to the agency, how exactly the Russians will advance in the Donetsk region depends on whether they manage to eliminate the Ukrainian military-held outposts around Kurakhove, east of Velyka Novosilka. It is noted that the Ukrainian forces on the outcrop could threaten the supply lines of the Russians advancing on Pokrovsk in the north.
According to Forbes, up to 9 Russian regiments and brigades with a maximum strength of up to 18,000 soldiers have been amassed there. At the same time, the Russians continue to use mechanized and infantry attacks on foot. This allows them to advance slowly into the eastern and central parts of Kurakhove and south of Kurakhove. The worst-case scenario for Ukraine is for Russian troops to cut through the ledge between the two villages in the north, in which case the Ukrainian forces in the east would be cut off.
Forbes writes that if Ukrainian forces retreat, Russian troops will straighten the front line from south to north from Velyka Novosilka to Pokrovsk. In this way, the Russians will reduce the threat to their flanks during the period when they will try to besiege Pokrovsk.
However, if the Ukrainian Armed Forces hold their positions, the Russians may decide to risk their flanks and attack Pokrovsk anyway. The agency believes that how soon the siege may begin depends on many factors.
It could be affected by the winter weather and the fact that the administration of US President-elect Donald Trump may stop providing aid to Ukraine and deprive Ukrainian troops of critical weapons.
Forbes believes that the coming weeks should determine how the Russian Armed Forces will attack Pokrovsk. But the overall situation makes it clear that they will attack.
Situation at front and US military assistance
The Pokrovsk direction remains one of the most difficult areas of the front. Russian troops are located about 11 kilometers from the town, forcing local authorities to call for evacuation.
According to Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi, Russia has a significant advantage in manpower and equipment. More than 50 combat engagements take place daily, during which Russians lose up to 300 soldiers.
Experts predict that the battle for Pokrovsk may begin soon.
