Illustrative photo: Russians have reduced activity in Pokrovsk (GettyImages)

The pace of the Russian advance in the Pokrovsk direction has slowed, but analysts of the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest it could increase again in the coming days.

According to geolocated videos, Russian forces recently made minor progress north of Myrnohrad, which is a minimal gain compared to previous days.

Serhiy Okishev, a representative of the 7th Rapid Response Corps of Ukraine’s Airborne Forces, noted that the occupiers are not attempting to establish positions directly in Pokrovsk, but continue to push through the city toward its northern outskirts. According to him, Ukrainian units have partially restored logistics north of Pokrovsk and were able to deliver ammunition there.

Ukraine has defended Pokrovsk for nearly two years and does not intend to give up the city. At the same time, holding positions within the city carries significant risks — including substantial losses among personnel and equipment, which is critical for a country facing a shortage of manpower.

Control over Pokrovsk could give Russian forces a path to further advancement westward — toward Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia regions.

According to analysts, a withdrawal from Pokrovsk could provide Ukrainian forces with a tactical advantage if they manage to hold positions near the city until the start of winter.

Fighting for Pokrovsk

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia seeks to capture Pokrovsk as quickly as possible to create the impression that it can establish full control over Donbas.

Earlier, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine refuted Russian propaganda claims of an alleged “encirclement of Pokrovsk.”

Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to hold positions within the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad agglomeration,though the situation remains tense. Russian units have already entered the city, but Ukrainian troops are actively fighting to drive out the occupiers. Coordination between different units remains a key task.

Meanwhile, the 7th Rapid Response Corps of the Air Assault Forces reported that Russian troops have temporarily reduced activity in Pokrovsk and are preparing a new strike on Myrnohrad.