Ukrainian forces have been forced to pull back from several villages in the southern Zaporizhia region following extremely heavy attacks by Russian troops. The Ukrainian military said the situation has “significantly worsened” in areas where the fighting has been most intense.
Intense Fighting Forces Withdrawal in Zaporizhia
Officials reported that Ukrainian soldiers withdrew from five villages in Zaporizhia after Russian artillery strikes destroyed shelters and defensive positions. Around 2,000 artillery shells were reportedly fired at Ukrainian positions, making it impossible to maintain control in those areas. Despite the withdrawal, Ukrainian forces continue to hold their ground in nearby regions of Zaporizhia.
The southern Zaporizhia front has seen some of the fiercest clashes in recent weeks. Russian forces have advanced using their numerical advantage and heavy equipment, putting enormous pressure on Ukrainian troops. In particular, the Oleksandrivka and Huliapole directions experienced heavy fighting.
Ukrainian commanders highlighted that Russian troops took advantage of poor weather, including heavy fog, to infiltrate between Ukrainian positions. They noted that the assaults came at a high cost for Russian forces, with many lives lost during the attacks.
Strategic Cities Face Russian Advance
Meanwhile, Russia has also reported advances in other parts of eastern Ukraine. Video footage circulated by Russian sources showed troops moving on motorcycles, riding in damaged vehicles, and positioning themselves on military equipment as they entered Pokrovsk. The city has been described by Russian media as “the gateway to Donetsk” because of its strategic importance.
Russian forces have concentrated a large number of troops in these operations. Estimates suggest that around 150,000 soldiers are involved in the push toward Pokrovsk. The city has been under threat for more than a year, with Russian forces attempting to cut off supply routes and surround Ukrainian defenders.
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Kupiansk, located northeast of Zaporizhia and Pokrovsk, has also been a site of heavy clashes. Russian authorities claimed control of the eastern parts of Kupiansk, including an oil depot and several train stations. Ukrainian forces, however, reported ongoing resistance and emphasized that they still maintain supply lines to neighboring towns.
The conflict in these regions highlights the intense pressure Ukrainian forces face along their front lines. Military analysts note that Ukrainian positions are increasingly stretched, with fewer troops available and Russian drones providing a major tactical advantage.
Ukrainian Resilience Amid Pressure in Zaporizhia
Despite the setbacks, Ukrainian forces have continued to resist the Russian advance in Zaporizhia. Commanders emphasized that every meter of territory remains costly for Russian troops, with high casualties reported on both sides.
Ukrainian officials also highlighted that the weather has played a significant role in shaping the conflict. While fog and heavy rains allowed Russian troops to move under cover, Ukrainian forces have continued to adapt and hold positions where possible. In some areas of Zaporizhia, the battlefield situation has been described as “somewhat easier,” allowing Ukrainian soldiers to secure results and prevent further advances.
Presidential officials visiting southern Zaporizhia confirmed that the fighting remains difficult. They noted that conditions favor the attackers in certain areas, adding another layer of challenge for Ukrainian troops. However, they stressed that Ukrainian forces are still actively defending key locations and maintaining control over strategically important towns.
The situation along the Zaporizhia front illustrates the intensity and scale of the ongoing war. Both sides continue to report conflicting accounts of territory control, with each emphasizing victories while downplaying losses. Despite these challenges, Ukrainian forces remain engaged in fierce combat to protect their positions and slow the Russian advance.