Fierce Battle for Pokrovsk: A Crucial Eastern Ukraine Transport Hub

Intense battles are ongoing in the strategic eastern city of Pokrovsk as Russian forces attempt to take control. The city's defense has been fortified, facing a renewed push from Moscow to capture the crucial transport hub, which is key to advancing in the Donetsk region.

Ukraine is urgently reinforcing its strategic positions in Pokrovsk as approximately 200 Russian troops infiltrate the city in small groups, according to Kyiv's military on Monday.

The Ukrainian general staff reported small arms skirmishes and increased drone deployment, while Russian authorities claim their forces are advancing near the train station. Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the Ukrainian President, described the ongoing battles, stressing the need to continue combating the occupying forces despite logistical challenges.

Moscow aims to seize control of the strategic city to advance its occupation of the Donetsk region. Despite renewed efforts following a stalled ceasefire proposal by Donald Trump, Ukraine's defenders have fortified their positions, though Russia continues to pressure the northern defenses. Zelenskiy noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin expects full capture of the Donbas by mid-October.

(With inputs from agencies.)