Russian Troops Push Deeper into Pokrovsk Under Heavy Fog
In a dramatic twist in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, dense fog has given Russian forces a rare tactical advantage, allowing them to advance deeper into the embattled city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine.
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| Fog Turns the Tide: Russian Forces Advance Deeper Into Pokrovsk Amid Ukraine’s Struggle |
According to Ukraine’s 7th Airborne Assault Corps, limited visibility has enabled Moscow to intensify its attacks and move more troops into the destroyed urban area. Ukrainian forces fear that Russia may soon attempt to fully encircle the city.
For over a year, Pokrovsk has been a major target for the Kremlin, viewed as a key strategic point for controlling supply routes in the Donetsk region. Reports now estimate that between 300 and 500 Russian soldiers are inside the city.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the situation as “difficult,” acknowledging the increasing pressure on local troops.
Frontline Worsens Across Eastern Ukraine
Ukraine’s army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi confirmed that the situation has “significantly worsened” in nearby regions, including Zaporizhzhia, where three settlements were recently lost to Russian advances.
Despite this, the fiercest fighting remains focused around Pokrovsk. Viral videos circulating on social media show Russian soldiers driving civilian vehicles and motorbikes through fog-shrouded roads on the city’s southern outskirts — footage later verified by the BBC.
Drone pilots from Ukraine’s 68th Brigade reported that the fog has severely limited aerial reconnaissance, giving Russian troops freedom to move vehicles and infantry that would normally be destroyed by drones.
The Tactical Importance of Pokrovsk
The fall of Pokrovsk would mark one of Russia’s most significant gains in eastern Ukraine this year. The city sits at a vital crossroads connecting Ukraine’s defensive lines and supply routes.
Ukrainian analysts warn that Russia’s “infiltration tactics” — small groups disguised as locals or Ukrainian soldiers — have created chaos in urban areas, helping Moscow’s troops gain ground.
Military expert Kostyantyn Mashovets said the Russian strategy aims to disrupt Ukrainian drone operations by targeting FPV pilots and cutting off logistics.
Ukraine Tries to Counter the Encirclement
To prevent a total siege, Ukrainian troops have launched counter-assaults east of Pokrovsk, pushing back Russian units near Suvorove and Rodynske. These moves are designed to widen the defensive gap and keep vital routes open for supplies and reinforcements.
However, Russian attacks continue to threaten roads in and out of Pokrovsk. Using FPV drones, artillery, and small infiltration teams, Moscow’s forces aim to tighten the “cauldron” — a term for surrounding enemy troops from multiple sides.
Beyond Pokrovsk: Russia Expands Its Offensive
The Kremlin’s operations extend beyond Donetsk. Heavy clashes have been reported near Kupyansk in the northeast and Zaporizhzhia in the south.
While Ukrainian officials deny that Kupyansk is fully surrounded, they admit the city’s southern sector is under “intense pressure.” The fog of war, both literal and strategic, continues to blur the front lines.
Final Thought
As weather conditions change the balance of power on the battlefield, both armies are racing to adapt. For Ukraine, the question remains — can they withstand Russia’s new wave of offensives and reclaim Pokrovsk before it’s too late?
Do you think Russia’s use of weather and infiltration tactics could shift the war’s momentum? Share your view in the comments below!