Small units of Russian ground forces have entered the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, triggering intense fighting in and around the area. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Ukrainian forces are maintaining defensive positions and inflicting losses on Russian troops.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described the situation as “difficult,” noting the presence of Russian reconnaissance and sabotage units in and around the city. He emphasized that Ukrainian forces continue to defend key positions and disrupt Russian offensive plans.
Pokrovsk, a strategic hub with critical road and rail intersections, has been repeatedly targeted by Russian forces. Currently, around 7,000 residents remain in the city out of a pre-war population of 60,000. Ukrainian reports indicate that approximately 200 Russian infantry troops have breached defensive lines and established positions within the city.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have reportedly carried out counterattacks inside Russia. In Belgorod Oblast, 16 people were injured in drone attacks near the border. In Moscow, anti-aircraft units shot down at least 34 Ukrainian drones, temporarily closing two airports. Additional drone attacks were reported in Tula and Bryansk regions, resulting in casualties.
The escalation follows a deadly Russian drone strike on a high-rise building in Kyiv on October 26, killing three and injuring at least 33 civilians, including seven children. Despite widespread evidence of civilian targeting, Moscow denies striking civilian objects.
Efforts to reach a ceasefire remain stalled. U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that he would not meet with Vladimir Putin unless a tangible agreement to end the war in Ukraine is achievable.
