Intense Fighting in Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad Amidst Russian Assaults

As of December 10, 2025, Ukrainian forces are engaged in fierce combat against approximately 170,000 Russian soldiers concentrated in the Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad regions of Donetsk Oblast. The Ukrainian Eastern Grouping of Forces reported that they repelled around 50 Russian assaults in the Pokrovsk direction within a single day. Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian troops maintain control over nearly 13 square kilometers of Pokrovsk, which is reported to be 80% under Russian control.

Ukraine’s Defense Forces repel intensified assaults and inflict heavy losses in Pokrovsk sector

The Russian military has intensified its operations, employing armored vehicles and motorized units to launch assaults from the southern outskirts of Pokrovsk. Ukrainian defenders, including the 68th Separate Rifle Brigade and various components of the Defense Forces, have been actively engaged in search-and-assault operations to eliminate Russian forces within urban areas. Over the past day, Ukrainian forces reportedly neutralized 431 Russian personnel and destroyed multiple enemy assets, including vehicles and drones.

Ukraine’s Defense Forces repel intensified assaults and inflict heavy losses in Pokrovsk sectorKyiv Independent

The situation in Myrnohrad is increasingly precarious. Reports indicate that evacuation routes have become dangerous due to constant Russian fire, effectively isolating Ukrainian troops. The last usable corridor for personnel rotation and supply has shrunk to a narrow "gray zone" between the occupied villages of Rivne and Krasnyi Lyman. Ukrainian soldiers have expressed concerns over the logistical challenges, stating that the corridor is now fraught with peril, making it difficult to bring in supplies or evacuate the wounded.

Kyiv Independent

Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi acknowledged the difficulties in logistics but denied claims that Myrnohrad was encircled. He stated that Ukrainian forces had regained control of parts of Pokrovsk since mid-November, although the situation remains fluid and challenging. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have refuted claims of Russian forces capturing the town of Siversk, asserting that fighting continues in the area.

Kyiv Independent

Critics have pointed out the dire conditions faced by Ukrainian troops in Myrnohrad, highlighting the increasing Russian presence and the risks associated with the remaining evacuation routes. A marine officer described the situation as critical, stating, "A critical accumulation of Russian forces is taking, and that’s it. They’re everywhere, and it’s impossible to stop them."

There are conflicting reports regarding the status of Myrnohrad. While some sources claim that Ukrainian troops are encircled, others, including military leadership, assert that the city is not surrounded but acknowledge the heightened difficulties in logistics and personnel rotation. This discrepancy underscores the chaotic nature of the battlefield and the challenges in obtaining accurate information.

Kyiv Independent

As the conflict continues, Ukrainian forces are expected to adapt their strategies to counter the Russian assaults while seeking to secure supply routes and maintain defensive positions in both Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad. The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing military operations likely to shape the coming days.