Problems of Occupation Troops’ Tactics in Pokrovsk Area: Repeating Mistakes and Potential Dangers
The situation around Pokrovsk remains tense and fraught with risks for Ukrainian defenders.
Russian forces continue employing the tactic of creating so-called ‘fire traps,’ reminiscent of scenarios seen earlier near Avdiivka, Vuhledar, and in Sudzha, Kursk region.
These ‘kettles’ are formed both on the outskirts of the city and directly within its boundaries, complicating the defense efforts of Ukrainian troops trying to avoid encirclement and preserve their positions.
The enemy’s strategy involves deliberately cutting off Ukrainian logistical routes, leading to their encirclement in confined spaces, which results in significant losses during retreats.
Sergey Sternenko, a well-known public figure and military analyst, warns that this tactic repeats history: encirclement has previously caused devastating damages and high casualties.
A map published by Sternenko shows that a ‘fire trap’ has formed in the Pokrovsk direction, stretching about 12.5 kilometers in length with a ‘throat’ width of 7.5 kilometers.
This indicates that the situation could escalate if Russian forces begin active encirclement again.
Reports indicate that Russian actions in Mirognograd are intensifying, posing new challenges for Ukrainian command.
Military expert Alex has pointed out that modern battlefield tactics differ significantly from those during World War II; today, encirclement operations often do not require fully closing flanks, as modern technology allows disabling logistical chains remotely, making this tactic even more effective.
It is believed that such methods are already being employed on the Pokrovsk front, further increasing concerns about possible severe consequences for Ukrainian forces in this conflict zone.