Russian forces are launching intense assaults near the strategic city of Pokrovsk, according to the Ukrainian military. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed this in a recent address. The Ukrainian armed forces have repelled 52 Russian assaults in the past 24 hours, with the heaviest concentration of attacks around Zhelanne and Novooleksandrivka, villages east of Pokrovsk. Pokrovsk serves as a crucial supply route for Ukrainian-held outposts and is a transport hub. The general staff of the armed forces also reported that the enemy maintains a military presence on the border with Chernihiv and Sumy regions, conducting sabotage, intelligence activities, and increasing mine and explosive barriers.
Russian forces have inflicted damage in the Kherson region, injuring eleven people, including three children, in strikes on Sunday. In a show of international support, the Japanese minister of education, culture, sports, and science has arrived in Kyiv to discuss joint projects and further cooperation. Russian authorities have issued arrest warrants for nine prisoners who escaped from a military training ground in Belgorod.
Recently, thousands gathered in Kyiv’s Independence Square to commemorate an explosion that killed over 50 Ukrainians held in the Olenivka prison barracks two years ago. Speakers at the ceremony urged the Ukrainian government to work towards freeing soldiers in a prisoner exchange. Zelenskiy highlighted the challenges in Donetsk, specifically near Pokrovsk, where the most intense enemy attacks are taking place. Despite the ongoing assaults, he expressed confidence in Ukraine’s ability to achieve its goals.
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