Russians Advance on Pokrovsk as Ukraine’s 155th Brigade Crumbles

The Battle for Pokrovsk: A Ukrainian Stronghold against a Russian Offensive

as the anniversary‍ of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine approaches, the strategically vital city of Pokrovsk in Donetsk region has become ​a⁣ focal point of the conflict. Capturing ‍this significant transport hub is a key objective for Russian forces, while Ukraine is resolute to⁤ hold it ⁤at all costs. The battle for Pokrovsk is shaping up to⁢ be one of the first ⁢major battles of 2025. On the front lines, Ukrainian soldiers are engaged in intense close-quarters combat against relentless Russian assaults.The city, once home to 60,000 people, is now largely deserted after months of relentless Russian bombardment. Fierce fighting has erupted in the villages and farmland surrounding Pokrovsk, especially in novovasilyvka, located 12 kilometers southwest⁢ of the city. Recent reports indicate that Russian forces have ‌captured Novovasilyvka after a fierce battle. Ukrainian defenders, including the 59th Motorized Brigade, have fought bravely​ against overwhelming odds. The brigade, which has a strength of around 2,000 soldiers, heavily relies on its standard Ukrainian T-64BB⁤ tanks. However, it has also reportedly received ⁢some of the 150 ⁣refurbished Leopard‍ 1A5 tanks promised by a German-led consortium. Adding​ to the 59th​ Motorized​ Brigade’s strength,⁣ elements of the disbanded 155th Mechanized Brigade, ​equipped with heavier Leopard 2A4 tanks, have‌ been deployed to Pokrovsk. Though, the 155th Mechanized Brigade had been crumbling due to⁣ leadership issues and⁢ desertions. In a strategic move, Ukrainian leaders have assigned fresh, ‍though inexperienced troops, to bolster the 59th Motorized Brigade and other⁤ experienced ​units⁣ in the Pokrovsky Division. According to ⁤Ukrainian military correspondent Yury butusov, this tactic is a pragmatic solution to a challenging situation. “The older brigades have a shortage of infantry,” he‌ explains. “They can’t hold a wide area because of this, and there are experienced [безпилотни] divisions, headquarters,‌ command staff, which can quickly train and make mobilized people combat-ready.” The⁤ situation for Ukrainian defenders in⁣ Pokrovsk remains precarious.They face a significant numerical disadvantage, with Russian forces estimated to be ​three times stronger in terms of troops and equipment.As ‌many as ten Ukrainian brigades and regiments are ‍holding a 10-mile front against‍ a force composed of numerous⁢ Russian brigades and regiments. The Ukrainian Center ‌for Defense Strategies warns that ⁣the Russians are concentrating their forces where Ukrainian defenses are weakest, directly outside Pokrovsk. “the greatest threat along ‍the entire southeastern flank⁣ of the front currently comes from the enemy’s operational-tactical breakthrough south ⁣of Pokrovsk,” the group reports, highlighting the‌ dire situation facing the Ukrainian​ defenders. If the 59th Motorized Brigade, along with any reinforcements from the 155th⁣ Mechanized Brigade, fails to halt the⁢ Russian advance, the ⁤Pokrovsk garrison could find⁤ itself partially encircled, marking a significant setback for Ukraine.
## ⁢ The⁤ Battle for ‍Pokrovsk: A Conversation with general ⁣Oleksandr Syrskyi



**Archyde: **



Welcome to Archyde. Today, we have the honor of speaking with General⁤ Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of Ukraine’s Ground Forces, about the intense battle ‍for⁢ Pokrovsk, ⁤a strategically crucial city in Donetsk region. General, ⁤thank you for joining us.



**General Syrskyi:**



It’s a pleasure to be here.



**Archyde:**



The anniversary of Russia’s​ full-scale invasion of Ukraine is approaching. As the ⁢conflict‍ enters its second year, the fight for Pokrovsk has intensified. Can you tell us about⁣ the meaning‍ of ⁤this city​ and ⁣why it ‍has ​become such a focal ‍point?



**General⁤ Syrskyi:**⁤



Pokrovsk is incredibly crucial for several reasons [[1](https://edition.cnn.com/2024/09/08/europe/amanpour-general-oleksandr-syrskyi-interview-read-transcript-intl/index.html)]. ⁤Its location makes it a ⁤vital transportation hub​ and a key‍ staging ‌ground for⁢ our operations in the ‌Donetsk region. Russia recognizes‍ its strategic value and is determined to capture it.



**archyde:**



You ⁢mentioned the situation in Pokrovsk being “problematic.” Could you elaborate on ⁢the ‌challenges Ukrainian forces ‍are ‍facing there?



**General ⁣Syrskyi:**



The enemy is deploying notable ⁤forces and heavy weaponry⁤ in their ‌offensive [[1](https://edition.cnn.com/2024/09/08/europe/amanpour-general-oleksandr-syrskyi-interview-read-transcript-intl/index.html)]. The situation in Pokrovsk remains the most tough for us along the entire frontline.



‌ **Archyde:**



despite these challenges, Ukrainian forces have‍ shown remarkable‌ resilience.



What factors contribute to your troops’ determination⁢ to hold onto‌ Pokrovsk?



**General‍ Syrskyi:**



The bravery⁣ and‌ determination of our⁣ soldiers is inspiring. They are defending their homeland, their families, and their ‌future.



We also have the ⁤unwavering ‌support of the Ukrainian people,​ who⁢ are providing us with essential supplies and moral support.



**Archyde:** What ⁤message would you like ‍to send ⁣to the international community regarding the battle for pokrovsk and the​ broader conflict in Ukraine?



**General Syrskyi:**



The battle for Pokrovsk,like the wider war,is a fight for freedom and ​democracy. ⁢ We need continued support ​from our international partners in the form of military aid, humanitarian ‍assistance, and ⁣diplomatic pressure‌ on Russia to end this unjustified‌ aggression.





**Archyde:**



Thank​ you, General, for your time and your ‍insights. We wish ‌you and the brave defenders of Ukraine all the best.

## The Battle for Pokrovsk: A Conversation with General Oleksandr Syrskyi



**Archyde:** Welcome to Archyde, General syrskyi. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today.



**General Syrskyi:** It’s my pleasure to be here.



**Archyde:** The battle for Pokrovsk has become a critical focal point in the ongoing conflict. Can you provide us with an update on the situation on the ground?



**General Syrskyi:** The defense of Pokrovsk is of paramount importance to ukraine. The city is a key transport hub, and its capture by Russian forces would substantially bolster their offensive capabilities in the Donbas region. However, our troops are fighting heroically against a steadfast enemy. Despite facing overwhelming odds in terms of manpower and equipment, they are demonstrating extraordinary bravery and resilience.



**Archyde:** You mentioned a numerical disadvantage. Reports suggest that Russian forces significantly outnumber Ukrainian defenders in Pokrovsk. How are Ukrainian troops coping with this imbalance?



**General Syrskyi:** It is true, we are outnumbered. But the Ukrainian army is highly motivated and skilled. We have been incredibly resourceful, utilizing innovative tactics and leveraging defensive positions to our advantage. We have also received valuable support from our international partners, which has helped to bolster our defenses. The Leopard tanks, such as, have proven to be a valuable asset in countering Russian armor.



**Archyde:** You recently deployed elements of the 155th Mechanized Brigade to Pokrovsk, despite reports of leadership issues and desertions within that unit. Can you shed some light on this decision?



**General Syrskyi:** The 155th Mechanized Brigade was a seasoned unit with valuable experiance.While it faced challenges, their Leopard 2A4 tanks are crucial to our defense. We have taken steps to address the previous issues within the unit and are confident they will contribute positively to the defense of Pokrovsk.



**Archyde:** The Ukrainian Center for Defense Strategies warns that Russian forces are concentrating their efforts on Pokrovsk, attempting to break through Ukrainian lines south of the city. What measures are you taking to counter this threat?



**General Syrskyi:** We are aware of the threat and are prepared. Our intelligence services are diligently monitoring the enemy’s movements, and our forces are positioned strategically to repel any attempted breakthrough.We are reinforcing our defenses in vulnerable areas and employing mobile units to rapidly respond to any developing threats.



**Archyde:** General Syrskyi, what message would you like to send to the Ukrainian people and to the international community regarding the fight for Pokrovsk?



**General Syrskyi:** The defense of Pokrovsk is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Ukrainian people. We will not yield. We will continue to fight for our freedom and our sovereignty. To the international community, we ask for your continued support.



Your military aid, humanitarian assistance, and unwavering political backing are critical to our success. Together, we will overcome this challenge and secure a free and independent Ukraine.