Weather limits Russian aviation, aiding Ukrainian Forces near Pokrovsk
Illustrative photo: Estonian intelligence assessed the situation on the frontline in Ukraine (Getty Images)
Russian troops have advanced in the Pokrovsk-Kurakhove direction, while Ukrainian Armed Forces have launched counterattacks in the Kupiansk direction, Estonian intelligence reports, according to ERR.
The Pokrovsk-Kurakhove direction remains the primary focus for Russian forces. They are making progress there through infantry offensives.
Estonian intelligence noted that approximately 3,000 Russian soldiers have died in the Pokrovsk direction over the past two weeks. It is estimated that these numbers continue to grow as the Russian army approaches Pokrovsk.
At the same time, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have successfully repelled Russian attacks along the Sukhi Yaly River, south of Kurakhove. Throughout the week, Ukrainian forces have withstood repeated Russian attempts to encircle the area from both the north and the south.
The Estonian report also highlighted how unfavorable weather plays into the hands of Ukraine. Poor weather has hampered Russia's use of aviation and heavy equipment, limiting its ability to use full combat potential simultaneously.
Despite Russia’s slow progress in the Pokrovsk direction, it has not achieved the desired operational breakthrough. In response, Moscow is increasing pressure on Ukrainian troops stationed in the Kursk region.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has achieved success in the Kupiansk direction, where two Russian bridgeheads formed during attempts to cross the Oskil River were destroyed. Ukrainian forces continue to target Russian military infrastructure deep within enemy territory using both Western-supplied and domestically developed weapons.
Situation in the Pokrovsk direction
Earlier it was reported that over 70,000 Russian soldiers are concentrated in the Pokrovsk-Kurakhov direction. Despite this, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced defense reinforcement in this area.
Media outlets have suggested that Russian forces may be preparing an offensive toward Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. This operation could be the culmination of the Russian offensive in this direction.
Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, described the Pokrovsk direction as one of the most challenging directions in the ongoing confrontation with Russian forces. He noted that Russian losses in this area remain consistently high.
