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Monday 23/02/2026

Zelensky Visits Troops Amid Intensified Battle for Pokrovsk

President Zelensky with Ukrainian troops near Pokrovsk
Alex CarterAlex Carter

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited troops near Pokrovsk, a key battleground in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
  • Russian forces have intensified their efforts in Pokrovsk, with reports indicating they control significant parts of the town.
  • Ukraine's military is increasing pressure on the Dobropillya front to disrupt Russian advances in the Donetsk region.
  • Ukrainian drone strikes targeted Russian industrial sites, escalating the conflict beyond Ukraine's borders.
  • Zelensky urged the US and EU for more military support and sanctions against Russia, emphasizing Ukraine's EU membership aspirations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a significant visit to troops stationed near the embattled town of Pokrovsk, a critical frontline in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The visit underscores the strategic importance of Pokrovsk, located in the Donetsk region, where fierce battles continue to unfold.

Strategic Importance of Pokrovsk

Pokrovsk has become a focal point in the conflict, with Russian forces reportedly gaining ground in the area. According to Ukrainian military sources, Russian troops have infiltrated the town, which serves as a strategic logistics hub. The capture of Pokrovsk could potentially open pathways for Russian advances into other key towns in the Donetsk region, such as Kramatorsk and Slovyansk.

Ukrainian Defense Efforts

In response, Ukraine's military is ramping up efforts on the Dobropillya front, aiming to disperse Russian forces and prevent them from concentrating their efforts solely on Pokrovsk. General Oleksandr Syrskiy, Ukraine's top military commander, highlighted the challenges faced by Ukrainian troops, who are reportedly outnumbered eight to one in some areas.

Escalation Beyond Borders

The conflict has also seen an escalation beyond Ukraine's borders, with Ukrainian drones striking industrial sites deep inside Russia. Notably, an attack on the Sterlitamak Petrochemical Plant caused significant damage, while another targeted a Lukoil refinery in the Nizhny Novgorod region. These strikes have prompted Russia to bolster security at key infrastructure sites.

Calls for International Support

During his visit, Zelensky called on the United States and European Union to increase military support and impose further sanctions on Russia. Addressing a European Union summit, he emphasized the need for long-range weapons and reiterated Ukraine's aspirations to join the EU by 2030.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The situation in Pokrovsk remains fluid, with both Ukrainian and Russian forces vying for control. Should Russia solidify its hold on the town, it could significantly alter the dynamics in the Donetsk region, potentially leading to further territorial gains. Conversely, successful Ukrainian defense efforts could stall Russian advances and maintain the current frontlines.

Internationally, increased military support from Western allies could bolster Ukraine's defensive capabilities, potentially shifting the balance in favor of Kyiv. However, the escalation of drone attacks on Russian soil may provoke a stronger military response from Moscow, further complicating the conflict.

As the conflict continues, the geopolitical implications are profound, with potential impacts on EU and NATO policies, as well as broader international relations. The unfolding events in Pokrovsk and beyond will likely shape the future trajectory of the Ukraine conflict.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Ukraine/Main Directorate of Intelligence
Additional article image
Image Source: Volodymyr Zelensky/X