Ukrainian forces hold firm in Pokrovsk as Russia tries to break through

Russian forces have intensified offensive operations in eastern Ukraine, with the heaviest activity observed in the Pokrovsk direction, according to the Khortytsia operational-strategic group.

The group reported continued mass assaults across the eastern front, with the Russian army carrying out multiple attacks over the past day on Ukrainian Defense Forces positions near Rusyn Yar, Poltavka, Popovyi Yar, Novoekonomichne, Rodynske, Mykolaivka, Sukhy Yar, Zvirove, Myroliubivka and Lysivka. Assaults were also reported in the areas of Udachne, Molodetske, Orikhove, Novosergiyivka, Dachne, and Oleksiivka.

Despite Russia's attempts to leverage its numerical advantage, Ukrainian forces are engaged in fierce combat and continue to repel advances, military officials said.

In the Novopavlivka direction, Ukrainian troops are defending positions near Zaporizhzhya, Voskresenka, Vilne Pole, Zelenyi Hai, Maliivka and Myrne. Fighting is also ongoing near Malynivka, along the Hulyaipole axis.

Khortytsia officials noted that measures are being taken to stabilize the tactical situation and prevent further deterioration.

On July 8, Khortytsia’s press service reported that Russia was amassing troops in the Pokrovsk direction in preparation for additional attacks. Ukrainian Defense Forces were said to be successfully holding the line and containing the offensive.

Meanwhile, Sgt. Maksym Butolin of the 54th Separate Mechanized Brigade said Russian offensive capability has weakened along the portion of the Donetsk front where his unit is stationed.