Southern Command has reported that Ukrainian troops have withdrawn to new, more advantageous positions in Zaporizhzhia region in response to the ongoing Russian offensive. The enemy has intensified assaults not only near Pokrovsk but also in other sectors, in particular making advances and attempting to encircle Huliaipole. Russian units are forming a ring around this settlement, although full encirclement is still far off.
Battle maps show that some territory in Zaporizhzhia has fallen under Russian control. A similar situation is unfolding in the north, where fighting continues in the Kharkiv region and Russian troops are crossing the national border. Experts note that Russia is stretching Ukrainian defenses across multiple axes, forcing them to respond to several threats at once and limiting their ability to concentrate manpower and equipment.
The Ukrainian military highlights a shortage of personnel, which is being offset by active use of FPV drones to repel attacks. Russia, however, is building up reserves through covert mobilization and deploying reservists to guard strategic objects, especially oil refineries. The Kremlin is not resorting to full-scale mobilization, fearing further strain on Russia’s economy, which is already suffering from a workforce deficit.
Military analysts believe that even if Ukraine loses certain towns, this may allow it to shorten the front line and redeploy resources to more important areas. Nevertheless, the frontline situation remains difficult, the war is protracted, and Russia's mobilization resources remain a significant risk factor.
