Russian forces are ramping up their offensive operations, creating flanking threats for Ukrainian defenders and gradually encircling key logistical routes.
This was reported by Lieutenant General Igor Romanenko, founder of the "Close the Sky of Ukraine" Foundation, during a nationwide marathon "Unified News."
General Romanenko emphasized that the situation at the front has significantly deteriorated recently, and Russian troops are likely aiming to consolidate their positions and encircle strategically important areas. In particular, danger looms over Selidovo and Kurakhovo, where Russian occupiers are conducting operations with a gradual encirclement.
"The situation is worsening, and gradually there are virtually limited opportunities for logistical support for our defenders, and it is likely that we will have to retreat, engaging in difficult rearguard battles. This is a complex type of combat with the approach from the Ukrainian Defense Forces regarding fewer losses," the general noted.
Romanenko explained that Russian forces are employing flanking maneuvers and measures to apply pressure from the rear to limit maneuverability and weaken defensive lines.
Additionally, the situation is complicated by enemy activity to the west of Vuhledar. According to the general, Russian troops have made three offensive strikes in this direction in recent days, advancing several kilometers at two points, and are attempting to reach Kurakhovo from the south.
General Romanenko expressed concern that further developments could lead Russian forces to direct their offensive pressure towards Pokrovsk.
"So now we again see an encirclement around Kurakhovo, but the prospect of their offensive actions will be directed towards Pokrovsk," he noted.