Russian forces have shifted to a new tactic near Pokrovsk, attempting one-by-one infiltrations to evade detection, according to Ukraine’s National Guard. Ukrainian artillery units have responded with targeted strikes to block these silent advances and reduce pressure on defenders in the city.
Russians try solo infiltration tactics on Pokrovsk front
Russian troops continue active assault actions along the Pokrovsk axis and are trying to push into to the city. National Guard artillery reconnaissance officer Ihor Yaremenko said in a television appearance that Russian soldiers are now moving individually in an attempt to avoid drawing attention, according to RBС-Ukraine.
Yaremenko stated the enemy is counting on stealth to bypass Ukrainian observation, using a “one-by-one” infiltration method. However, Ukrainian Defense Forces are tracking these attempts and immediately launching fire to prevent Russian units from entering Pokrovsk, he says. This also helps ease the burden on Ukrainian troops defending the city itself.
Yaremenko says Ukrainian units are working simultaneously to expand and maintain logistics routes toward Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad. The aim is to ensure frontline infantry are fully supplied for the ongoing defense.
Artillery units remain focused on counter-battery fire, targeting Russian systems that regularly shell Ukrainian positions and drone operators. Given the intensity of Russian attacks, Ukrainian gunners are also striking enemy personnel and armored vehicles directly.
Fog and weather conditions aided Russian advances—but not for long
Ukrainian officials previously note that the Russians have previously taken advantage of fog to get into Pokrovsk. In recent weeks, Ukraine’s Air Assault Forces reported that Russia also continues using mechanized assaults and constant infantry attacks in the Pokrovsk direction. These are used in parallel with infiltration attempts.
On 27 December, National Guard head Oleksandr Pivnenko said Ukrainian forces were gathering units for counterassault operations near Pokrovsk. However, weather conditions were limiting those efforts.
As of the evening of 1 January, the General Staff reported 97 combat clashes across the front, 23 of which occurred in the Pokrovsk direction. This front remains the most intense battlefield for an extended period.
