**Ukrainian Forces Near Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad Face Risk of Encirclement**
The situation on the ground in Donetsk region is becoming increasingly dire for Ukrainian forces stationed near Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad. According to reports from Censor.NET, a rapid advance by Russian forces towards Dobropillia – Rodynske has left three Ukrainian brigades in a precarious position.
A company commander from the Pokrovsk sector told Ukrainska Pravda that over the past three months, the Russian salient along the Pokrovsk-Kostiantynivka highway has extended into a “pocket” more than 10 kilometers deep. This formation of an eastern “claw” poses a significant threat to the potential encirclement of two key cities – Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad.
Fighting has been ongoing for several days at the mine near Rodynske, with Russian forces entering the urban area. The Russians have also pushed into the eastern part of Chervonyi Lyman near Rodynske and attacked a mine located between Novoeconomichne and Myrnohrad.
The military emphasized that the occupiers aim to cut the main supply route for Ukrainian forces in the Pokrovsk sector, which runs from Dobropillia through Bilytske and Rodynske to Pokrovsk. According to DeepState, the Russians are about 7 kilometers away from Pokrovsk, but according to military sources, they were recorded just 1.25 kilometers from the road on July 29.
This poses a significant risk to Ukrainian forces stationed in the area. At least three brigades could end up in a dangerous position if the situation continues to deteriorate. The defenders are holding the fields and tree lines on the southern approaches to Pokrovsk, as well as the southern and eastern salients toward Myrnohrad.
**A Dire Scenario Unfolds**
The company commander warned that if Russian forces capture the settlements of Rodynske and Bilytske, logistics would “end” at Myrnohrad, and an encirclement would form. This scenario is eerily reminiscent of the fall of Avdiivka and Vuhledar, where Ukrainian forces held out for almost a year before being encircled.
The commander emphasized that they are not talking about pulling units out of their defensive lines but rather shortening the line along the city limits, tightening up defense, and having more forces to hold the enemy. This would also mean a shorter logistics run and the ability to maneuver if the highway is cut.
**The Situation on the Ground**
In Pokrovsk, Russian forces infiltrated about a week ago, and fighting in the city continues. The situation is precarious, with Ukrainian forces pushing out Russian occupiers but facing significant challenges in holding back the enemy advance.
This development has serious implications for the entire region and highlights the ongoing struggle of Ukrainian forces to maintain control over key territories. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Ukraine’s military will be able to hold off the encirclement or if this dire scenario will become a reality.
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