Ukrainian defense forces have recently withdrawn from positions near the towns of Pokrovsk and Mėrnohrad, a decision made to avoid a potential encirclement by the Russians.

This withdrawal was necessary because the enemy controlled the area with drones and infantry groups, making it impossible to maintain positions. The 25th Air Assault Brigade and the 68th Separate Jaeger Brigade, which were defending the area, had to regroup further north. Currently, most of the city of Pokrovsk is under the control of Russian forces, which are advancing towards Mėrnohrad from multiple directions. Although Russia has claimed to have captured the city, Ukrainian forces contest these claims, asserting that the Russians have been repelled. Despite the conflict, civilians remain in Pokrovsk, a strategic city with a population of approximately 60,000 residents before the invasion.