Edith Hejberg
Ukrainian forces have made progress in the northern part of Pokrovsk, retaking 16 square kilometers
Russia has amassed around 710,000 troops in preparation for a major strategic offensive against Ukraine, according to Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi. He made the announcement during the 32nd meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, underscoring the scale of the threat.
Frontline remains tense despite Russian losses
While Russia has suffered heavy losses, it has not relented in its offensive operations, Syrskyi noted. Despite constant attacks, the Russian military has so far failed to achieve any meaningful breakthroughs on the battlefield.
Ukrainian forces reclaim ground in Kupiansk
Syrskyi highlighted recent successes by the Ukrainian military, pointing to gains in Kupiansk. Nearly 90% of the city has been brought back under Ukrainian control thanks to proactive strike missions and defensive efforts.
Pokrovsk remains a fierce battleground
The Commander-in-Chief focused on the Pokrovsk direction, describing it as a long-contested area. Russian forces have been attempting to take the city for over 17 months, but Ukrainian troops continue to hold their positions and counterattack.
Counteroffensive reclaims key territory
Ukrainian forces have made progress in the northern part of Pokrovsk, retaking 16 square kilometers. They’ve also liberated another 56 square kilometers around Hryshyne, Kotlyne, and Udachne, three settlements west of the city.
Defense holds under pressure in Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad
Despite growing pressure from Russian forces, Ukrainian troops are holding the line in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad agglomeration. Syrskyi said that meetings with corps and unit commanders led to new strategies aimed at reinforcing defensive positions.
Russian breakthrough attempt near Hryshyne fails
On December 10, Russian troops launched a motorized assault near the village of Hryshyne. The offensive was quickly intercepted and repelled, with Ukrainian forces delivering precision strikes that halted the advance.
Airborne Assault Forces play a key role
Ukraine’s 7th Corps of the Airborne Assault Forces confirmed that operations to contain Russian advances continue in the Pokrovsk area. They also support logistics routes by providing critical air cover for ground movements near the front.
Ukrainian air defense intercepts enemy targets
The coordinated efforts of Ukraine’s defense units have resulted in the near-total destruction of enemy air targets attempting to strike supply routes. This air defense shield is proving crucial in maintaining supply lines to frontline units.
Reinforcements strengthen the eastern front
Fresh reinforcements recently arrived in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad zone, bolstering Ukrainian positions. Troops in the East military unit’s area of responsibility are successfully resisting enemy advances, slowing Russia’s momentum.
Russian propaganda claims denied by Ukraine
Despite Russian media claims of a complete takeover of Pokrovsk, Ukraine’s military leadership says these reports are entirely false. The Ukrainian Armed Forces remain in firm control of the city’s northern sector.
Enemy tactics include thermobaric artillery
The Russian military is now using thermobaric artillery in its attacks on Pokrovsk, a sign of escalating intensity. However, these efforts have so far failed to break Ukrainian defenses, which remain solid in the contested zones.
Ukraine holds the line amid strategic threats
As Russia ramps up troop numbers and intensifies its campaign, Ukraine continues to adapt and defend key territories. With strong coordination across units, the Defense Forces remain resilient and effective on multiple fronts.
