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Ukraine: Moscow Tightens Grip on Pokrovsk

Published February 9, 2026, 17:15
Ukraine: Moscow Tightens Grip on Pokrovsk

Russian forces are intensifying their efforts to advance around the town of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, seeking to capture this strategically important hub. The Ukrainian military reports that its forces maintain control of the northern part of the town and are defending the nearby town of Mirnohrad. Fighting around Pokrovsk has been fierce for a year, and its capture would be a significant victory for Russia. Russia is accused of using guided bombs and exploiting Ukraine's inadequate air defense. Moscow seeks to capture the entire Donetsk region, but Ukraine refuses to cede territory. These developments are taking place in a context of increasing pressure on Ukraine to reach a peace agreement.