Ukraine's army chief outlines backup plans amid Russian buildup near Pokrovsk
Photo: Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Fighting in Pokrovsk, Ukraine, has decreased, but Russian forces have not abandoned plans to occupy the city. The Ukrainian command has contingency plans for various scenarios, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi told TSN.
He said Pokrovsk is now a fully fortified area. There are a few spots where Russian forces managed to breach engineering barriers, but the Armed Forces know exactly where these points are, so the situation is generally under control.
"Of course, there is also a Plan B and a Plan C — for all possible developments," he said.
Syrskyi confirmed that Russian forces have reduced the intensity of attacks in Pokrovsk. However, this does not mean they have stopped targeting the city for occupation. The enemy has concentrated 50,000 troops in the area, after sending 30,000 personnel there since October.
The Commander-in-Chief added that he is currently spending almost all his time in Pokrovsk. The 425th Assault Regiment has been deployed to the city and is operating very effectively. Logistics routes to the city have been restored and redirected, and the combat zone is assessed three times a day. He said there is no reason for panic.
The pace of the Russian advance in the Pokrovsk direction has indeed slowed. However, analysts suggest it could pick up again in the coming days. The Russian army may target Myrnohrad, according to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Defense forces continue to hold positions within the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad agglomeration, but the situation remains tense. Russian units have entered the city, but Ukrainian forces are actively engaging them and pushing the enemy back. Coordination between different units remains a key task.
