Russia has concentrated its largest group of personnel along Ukraine’s front lines in Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast, with approximately 111,000 troops deployed in the area. According to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, this concentration is a key part of Russia’s ongoing efforts to break through and control the region.
Syrskyi reported that despite the significant military presence, Ukrainian forces are holding their ground, with nearly 50 combat clashes recorded per day in Pokrovsk. However, Russian sabotage and assault groups were recently neutralized, and their remnants pushed back from the administrative border of Donetsk Oblast.
Russia’s efforts in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast aim not only for operational but also for “performative” reasons, as President Vladimir Putin has claimed that every step of a Russian soldier is on “Russian land.” The Kremlin’s demands include recognition of Russia’s annexation of Crimea and other territories, which Ukraine refuses to acknowledge.
Despite recent claims by Putin about being ready for peace talks, the Kremlin has not signaled its willingness to abandon its maximalist ambitions in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains committed to defending his country’s territory and sovereignty.
Source: https://kyivindependent.com/russia-has-amassed-111-000-troops-near-pokrovsk-syrskyi-says