Russia aims to expand ‘gray zone’ south of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast

Their overarching objective is likely to further complicate Ukrainian logistics when it comes to supplying the units defending the city.

Muzychuk added that the Russians are also trying to expand no man’s land around Pokrovsk. 

“We see enemy attempts to advance along the southern flanks of Pokrovsk, aiming to control logistical pathways and expand the gray zone,” he explained.

Russia is attacking the city using the usual tactics: relying on small infantry squads to creep forward. Over the past day, the National Guard has repelled eight enemy attacks in the Pokrovsk area, Muzychuk said.

He noted that the Russians are now using armored vehicles less frequently, relying more on cars and motorcycles.

On Jan. 10, Serhiy Dobyak, head of the Pokrovsk city administration, stated that the front line is located just a few kilometers from the town, and nearly all critical infrastructure in the city has been destroyed.