**Azov Corps Takes Defensive Positions Near Pokrovsk Amid Escalating Battles**
In a bid to counter Russian forces, the 1st Azov Corps of the National Guard has established defensive positions in the Pokrovsk sector. According to an August 12 report from the unit, their troops have been in place for several days and are working to block the advance of Russian troops.
Pokrovsk, a key front-line town in Donetsk Oblast, has been one of the most fiercely contested areas in eastern Ukraine for months. The Azov Corps’ move is aimed at preventing Russian forces from gaining ground in this critical sector.
The situation along the Pokrovsk axis is described as “complex and dynamic,” with Russian troops making attempts to advance while reportedly suffering losses in personnel and equipment. The Azov units have taken measures to block these advances, but details of their success will be reported later.
**Russian Forces Gain Ground Elsewhere**
Meanwhile, Russian forces have made gains towards the Dobropillia-Kramatorsk highway in Donetsk Oblast. They reportedly pierced Ukrainian defenses and seized positions in nearby settlements, laying the groundwork for further offensive operations.
Dobropillia is approximately 94 kilometers northwest of Russian-occupied Donetsk and about 22 kilometers north of embattled Pokrovsk. This development has put additional pressure on Ukrainian brigades, which are struggling to hold their ground due to severe understrength in infantry.
**Targeting Weak Points**
It appears that Russian forces have learned to target weak points in the Ukrainian defense. Civilian evacuations from contested or occupied areas remain extremely hazardous, with Russian forces repeatedly accused of targeting non-combatants.
**Background on Azov Corps**
The 1st Azov Corps was formed earlier this year as part of a broader reform toward a new corps system. The unit takes its name from the Azov Brigade, which has its roots in the start of Russian aggression in 2014 and saw some of the heaviest battles of the war.
This article is written by Kateryna Hodunova, News Editor at the Kyiv Independent. You can read more about this topic on our website.
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