Zelensky Assesses Frontline Troops Amid Intensifying Conflict in Pokrovsk

Wed Nov 05 2025 03:20:21 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visits soldiers near the frontline town of Pokrovsk as battles escalate with Russian forces intent on seizing the area, which has been devastated and largely depopulated.

Ukrainian President Zelensky visited troops in the Dobropillya sector, near the embattled town of Pokrovsk, where clashes with Russian forces are ongoing. Commanders report increased pressure on Ukrainian defenses, with Moscow's ambitions to capture Pokrovsk posing a significant threat to strategic supply routes in Donetsk. Zelensky emphasized resilience amid military challenges, asserting that Ukraine will maintain control over its territories despite the overwhelming Russian presence.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a visit to troops stationed near Pokrovsk, a town that has become a focal point in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This visit comes amidst claims from both sides as the battle for control intensifies.

Zelensky shared images of his meeting with military personnel in the Dobropillya sector, located approximately 20km north of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. The area has seen fierce confrontations as Russian forces attempt to capture this strategic town, which has served as an important logistical hub for Ukraine.

Ukraine's military leadership has affirmed that pressure is mounting on their defenses in the Dobropillya area. Commander Oleksandr Syrskiy noted that efforts are intensifying to disperse Russian forces, thereby complicating their ability to concentrate their efforts on Pokrovsk.

The situation remains precarious as Russian troops have reportedly infiltrated parts of Pokrovsk. According to Zelensky, there are currently around 170,000 Russian soldiers amassed on the outskirts, indicating an escalated attempt to gain control.

Control of Pokrovsk would allow Russian forces to advance further north into the Donetsk region, potentially threatening additional towns key to military logistics and operations.

Zelensky acknowledged the challenges faced by Ukrainian troops, stating that while Russia has not achieved recent successes in the area, the situation is far from easy for Ukrainian forces tasked with defending the town.

He further pointed out that a third of all frontline clashes are taking place in Pokrovsk, with half of the glide bombs being utilized by Russian forces directed at this town. Despite these difficulties, Zelensky asserted, “This is our country, this is our East, and we will certainly do our utmost to keep it Ukrainian.”

As the conflict continues, Ukraine remains vigilant amid intensified Russian attacks on its cities and infrastructure, especially as winter approaches. Recently, a drone attack on the southern port of Odesa underscored the ongoing threat, with civilian casualties reported.

With the stakes higher than ever, both military and civilian resilience is crucial as Ukraine navigates through these tumultuous times.