Escalation of Battles Around Pokrovsk: Russia’s “Thousand Cuts” Tactics and Strategic Goals
Active combat operations continue in the Pokrovsk region, where Russian occupation forces are employing a complex and multifaceted tactic known as the “Thousand Cuts.” According to Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, this strategy involves attacking across a broad front with small groups, allowing the enemy to gradually advance and infiltrate Ukrainian positions by creating numerous breakthroughs.
He highlighted that Russian forces conduct around 50 assaults daily in the Pokrovsk direction, indicating a high level of activity and determination.Syrskyi explained that, given this tactic, the enemy aims to encircle the city and its suburbs — including Myrnohrad and Kostiantynivka — forming what they call “leashes,” which are designed to surround Ukrainian forces from the south and north.
The primary objective for Russia is to cut off logistical routes, complicating supply and troop movements.
Ukrainian defenders have managed to halt the Russian advance in this sector, successfully “mopping up” several settlements near Dobropillia and maintaining defense lines against further enemy efforts.Military experts and analysts warn that the situation remains tense.
Ex-chief of staff of the “Azov” regiment Bogdan Krotevich stated that Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad are on the verge of encirclement, while Kostiantynivka is in a semi-encircled state, complicating efforts to retain their strategic importance and push back Russian forces.