KYIV: Russian shelling killed one person in the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk on Sunday, as Moscow’s forces continue their relentless advance towards this critical logistics hub.
The attack occurred around 11:00 am local time (08:00 GMT) when Russian artillery struck the western part of Pokrovsk, according to the city’s military administration. The local authorities reported the casualty and confirmed that more than 20,000 residents have fled the city since August due to the ongoing conflict.
The situation in Pokrovsk has been dire in recent weeks, with Russian strikes severely impacting essential services. Water and electricity supplies have been cut off to many of the city’s remaining residents.
Pokrovsk, strategically located at the intersection of key rail and road routes, is vital for supplying Ukrainian troops and towns along the eastern frontline. The city’s significance has made it a primary target for Russian forces, who have been making incremental advances towards it for months. The local administration reports that Russian troops are now positioned within 10 kilometers (six miles) of Pokrovsk’s eastern outskirts.
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Earlier in the week, Russian strikes caused significant damage to two overpasses in the city, including one that linked Pokrovsk to the neighboring town of Myrnograd. This infrastructure damage has further isolated the city and disrupted logistical operations crucial for Ukrainian defense efforts.
Meanwhile, a Russian air strike on the northeastern city of Kharkiv ignited a fire in a multi-storey residential building. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that the strike resulted in nearly 30 wounded persons. The Ukrainian leader condemned the attack and highlighted the growing impact of the ongoing conflict on civilian populations.
