Ukrainian forces are holding the line in one of the most volatile sections of the front, with the northern part of Pokrovsk remaining under their control, according to Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine General Oleksandr Syrskyi. Fighting near Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad in Donetsk Oblast remains intense, with Russian troops attempting daily breakthroughs.
Russia intensifies pressure near Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad
General Syrskyi reported that the situation in the Pokrovsk axis is currently the most difficult along the frontline. According to his statement on 8 January, around 50 combat clashes are taking place in the area every day. He said Russian forces are trying to increase pressure on Ukrainian defensive lines by moving in additional reserves and carrying out continuous assaults and infiltration attempts. Despite this, Ukrainian troops are actively holding the line.
"Pokrovsk is under our control. We are stopping the enemy in Myrnohrad. We are conducting active defense," Syrskyi noted.
He emphasized that Ukrainian forces are putting in maximum effort to halt Russian movement and destroy its personnel and equipment.
Ukrainian command adjusts tactics on the ground
General Syrskyi visited the military units operating in the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad urban agglomeration and received updates directly from commanders. He said that based on these briefings, he clarified objectives for corps and brigade commanders and outlined a set of concrete measures to strengthen defensive resilience.
These steps include ensuring uninterrupted operation of critical logistics routes that directly affect ammunition supply and reinforcement for frontline troops. Syrskyi stressed that maintaining combat capability and protecting the lives of Ukrainian defenders remain the top priorities.
In his message, Syrskyi thanked the troops, noting that their efforts are inflicting massive losses on Russian forces. He added, "Thanks to you Ukrainian Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad are standing."
