Ukrainian defense forces block Russian advance in central Pokrovsk
Illustrative photo: Ukrainian troops hold positions on the Pokrovsk axis (Getty Images)
Ukrainian forces in the Pokrovsk area of Donetsk region are repelling Russian assaults, holding back the enemy’s advance in the city center, and conducting search-and-assault operations to eliminate groups of Russian troops, according to the Operational Command East.
As of 10:00 a.m. local time on January 2, Ukrainian troops had already repelled 43 Russian assault attempts on the Pokrovsk axis. In particular, 23 enemy attacks were stopped near the settlements of Nove Shakhove, Rodynske, Chervonyi Lyman, Pokrovsk, Kotlyne, Udachne, Molodetske, and in the direction of Novopavlivka. In the Pokrovsk area, Russian forces lost 46 soldiers killed and 12 wounded.
According to the report, Ukrainian troops destroyed 35 unmanned aerial vehicles, nine vehicles, two artillery systems, three UAV control antennas, and one ground robotic complex. In addition, Ukrainian forces damaged two vehicles, another ground robotic complex, a multiple launch rocket system, and seven enemy shelters.
Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad
In Pokrovsk itself, Ukrainian forces continue to control the northern part of the city. In the city center, Russian attempts to advance are being blocked. Ukrainian troops are also actively conducting search-and-assault operations and eliminating Russian forces attempting to concentrate in urban areas.
In Myrnohrad, despite complicated logistics, the Defense Forces continue to hold their positions and destroy Russian troops on the approaches to the city. Additional forces and equipment have been deployed to reinforce Ukrainian units, and measures are being taken to expand logistical corridors.
Drone operator losses
According to the East Group, Russian forces are suffering heavy losses while attempting to break through Ukrainian defenses, with both enemy infantry and equipment being destroyed.
Overall, within the area of responsibility of the Operational Command East, the enemy sustained the highest losses over the past day — 299 Russian troops killed or wounded. Ukrainian forces also destroyed 1,166 drones of various types and 112 units of other weapons and equipment, including two tanks.
In addition, Ukrainian troops specifically targeted Russian drone operators.
“The Defense Forces are focusing not only on eliminating enemy infantry but also UAV operators. Over the past day, 62 Russian drone crews were hit,” the command reported.
According to the National Guard of Ukraine, Russian forces continue active assault operations on the Pokrovsk axis and are attempting to advance toward the city. The Russian forces are using isolated movements, hoping that such actions will go unnoticed.
Last month, Ukraine’s Air Assault Forces reported that, in addition to infiltration tactics in Pokrovsk, Russian troops are also employing mechanized assaults and continuous infantry attacks.
