Ukrainian special forces of the Military Intelligence Service launched an air operation in Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, one of the most intense and important sectors of the front, Defense Express reports.
The assault units entered urban areas that the Russian command had previously declared “under their full control”, according to sources within the Ukrainian forces cited by Suspilne.
The operation involved the deployment of several helicopters, suggesting a complex incursion behind or into contested lines. According to the sources, the head of Ukrainian intelligence Kirilo Budanov would be present in the area and would personally supervise the mission, which shows its importance and the degree of confidence of the military leadership of Ukraine in a possible success.
The areas where the operation is taking place are critical to Ukrainian logistics, forming key nodes supporting defensive and offensive operations in the wider Pokrovsk sector. By invading these districts, Ukrainian forces aim not only to restore control, but also to thwart Russia's attempts to consolidate its positions after gradually infiltrating around 250 soldiers into the city.
The move comes amid increased pressure from Russian forces, which have massed some 170,000 troops near Pokrovsk, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced during a press conference on Friday. Despite the overwhelming number of soldiers, military intelligence continues to demonstrate its ability to operate in high-risk conditions, maintaining the initiative even in areas considered lost, writes Defense Express.
Reports from the ground indicate heavy clashes as Ukrainian units advance into the city. The success of this operation could determine whether Ukraine retains its critical supply routes and tactical depth west of Pokrovsk.
Details of the Ukrainian special forces operation
The information about sending special forces to the besieged areas of the city of Pokrovsk was also given by Reuters, which cites two Ukrainian military sources. They were sent earlier this week as Russia claimed to have encircled Ukrainian forces defending the city.
At least 10 soldiers were seen disembarking from a helicopter in a field, according to a video seen by Reuters. The news agency could not independently confirm the location or date of the shooting.
The head of the Ukrainian army admitted on Thursday that the situation is “difficult” and that supply lines and defenses in the area must be strengthened.
DeepState, a Ukrainian open-source mapping project, estimates that at least half of the city is disputed territory, not fully controlled by either side.
“We continue to destroy the occupier. The most important thing is to stop Russian attacks wherever possible,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his daily speech.
