Ukrainian army refute Russian reports of takeover in Donetsk region
Illustrative photo: Ukrainian forces hold the line (Getty Images)
The Russians' statements claiming they captured the Pryvillia settlement in the Sloviansk direction are not true. Ukrainian troops continue to defend positions near Pokrovsk, Myrnohrad, and toward Sloviansk, according to the Operation Task Force East.
Since the start of the day, 37 enemy assaults were repelled in the area of responsibility of the Task Force East. Ukrainian defenders are maintaining an active defense in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad agglomeration.
The report states that in the Pokrovsk direction, since the beginning of the day, the Russian army has made 22 attempts to dislodge Ukrainian troops from their positions near the settlements of Nykanorivka, Rodynske, Sukhetske, Rivne, Kotlyne, Udachne, Molodetske, and toward the Novopavlivka and Filiia settlements, and that the defense forces are holding back the offensive and have already repelled 19 attacks.
Also, Ukrainian forces continue to control northern Pokrovsk, striking Russian units as they try to maneuver. The situation in Myrnohrad is similar, with northern sections of the city under Ukrainian control and ongoing search-and-strike operations.
In the Sloviansk direction, Ukrainian units are defending Zakitne and Pryvillia settlements. Russian claims of taking Pryvillia are false and are part of a disinformation effort to create the illusion of success.
"Ukrainian units are provided with the necessary support to maintain combat readiness in low temperatures. Logistical support remains difficult. Heavy drones and ground robotic systems are used for supplies," the Operational Task Force East added.
As of 4 pm on January 17, sixty-two combat engagements have already occurred on the front. Pokrovsk and Huliaipole directions remain the most active, and dozens of enemy attacks have been repelled there.
In addition, the Armed Forces of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces thwarted a Russian attempt to advance along one of the key directions. Drone operators inflicted significant losses on the Russian troops, destroying infantry, armored vehicles, and enemy robotic systems.
