Russia is advancing rapidly toward the strategic Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, where tensions are rising along the 1,200-kilometre (745-mile) front line. According to Ukrainian military chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, “the strategic eastern Ukrainian city was the hottest spot” as of Friday, June 27.
Over 110,000 Russian troops have reportedly gathered in the region, signaling an intensifying push by Moscow toward its long-term military objectives in eastern Ukraine.
Why Pokrovsk Matters
For nearly a year, Russian forces have tried to capture Pokrovsk. But Ukrainian resistance has so far kept them from succeeding. The city’s strategic value makes it a top priority in Vladimir Putin’s goal of taking over Donetsk and Luhansk.
Though Pokrovsk is not a large city, it sits on a key supply road and railway. This route connects other important Ukrainian military cities like Kostiantynivka, Kramatorsk, and Sloviansk. Together, these cities form a core defence line in the Ukrainian-controlled part of Donetsk.
If Pokrovsk falls, it could seriously weaken Ukraine’s ability to defend the rest of the region.
Life in Pokrovsk Today
Before Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, around 60,000 people lived in Pokrovsk. Now, after three years of war, most of them have left. The city is nearly empty.
This year, the economic blow worsened when Ukraine shut down its last working coking coal mine located in Pokrovsk. Many workers had stayed to keep the mine running but have now also fled.
Ukrainian Resistance Forced Russia to Change Plans
According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a US-based monitoring group, Ukraine’s strong defence made Russia abandon its earlier plan of a frontal assault on Pokrovsk.
In late 2023, the ISW stated that “Ukrainian forces compelled Moscow to abandon its strategy of a frontal takeover,” showing how effectively Kyiv has held off the offensive in this area.
Russia Shifts to Encirclement Strategy
Now, Moscow has changed tactics. Instead of a head-on attack, Russian forces are trying to surround Pokrovsk from the south and northeast, according to the ISW’s latest update on June 27.
They are now using small, mobile fireteams—usually one or two soldiers—riding motorcycles, ATVs, and buggies. This new approach aims to outflank Ukrainian defenders without directly engaging in large-scale urban battles.
What’s Next for Pokrovsk
As both sides fight for control, Pokrovsk remains a critical stronghold in Ukraine’s eastern defence. The battle for the city is likely to shape the outcome of the broader struggle for Donetsk.