Russian Forces Claim Victory Over Ukrainian Special Unit in Pokrovsk Offensive

Russian forces have claimed to have defeated a Ukrainian special forces team deployed to the embattled eastern city of Pokrovsk, as Moscow intensifies efforts to capture the remaining parts of the Donbas region. The Russian defence ministry stated that all 11 Ukrainian special operatives who arrived by Black Hawk helicopter earlier this week were killed in combat, while advancing troops continue clearing the area. However, a Ukrainian military source denied the losses, asserting that the operation in Pokrovsk was still ongoing.

Pokrovsk, often referred to as “the gateway to Donetsk,” has become a critical battleground as Russia pushes to seize the last 10% of Donbas still under Ukrainian control. Russian troops have reportedly pushed back Ukraine’s 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skala” near Hryshyne, northwest of Pokrovsk, tightening a pincer movement that threatens to cut off vital supply routes. The fighting has created a “grey zone” in and around the city — an area neither side fully controls but both fiercely contest.

The intensified offensive underscores Moscow’s aim to secure full dominance over Donetsk and Luhansk, regions it claims as part of Russia — a move Kyiv and Western nations condemn as an illegal annexation. The strategic significance of Pokrovsk also lies in its proximity to Ukraine’s only coking coal mine, essential for its steel industry, which has already been suspended due to the conflict. Clearing Pokrovsk and nearby Myrnohrad, analysts say, could take time, delaying any formal Russian victory declaration.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright