Pokrovsk was dubbed a "fortress" settlement, key to Ukrainian lines in the east and connected to other cities forming the backbone of Ukraine's defense in the east. Russia kicked off a push to take Pokrovsk in the summer of 2024.

On the South Slobozhanshchyna front, Ukrainian forces repelled five Russian attacks near the settlements of Vovchansk and Kamianka. On the Kupiansk front, 15 Russian attacks occurred. Ukrainian defenders repelled Russian assaults near the settlements of Pishchane,

Ukraine's army chief said Thursday that Russian troops are intensifying its attacks on the eastern stronghold of Pokrovsk and that they are strengthening its defences to repel the attacks - but that the military's main priority is to save the lives of its soldiers.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said his forces are fighting fierce battles in the strategic eastern city of Pokrovsk as Russia masses troops in an effort to seize control of the stronghold.

President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the situation at the front and the planning of long-range operations with the Commander-in-Chief and the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

KYIV, Oct 27 (Reuters) - Ukraine is rushing to strengthen its positions in the strategic eastern transport hub of Pokrovsk as about 200 Russian troops have infiltrated the city in small groups, Kyiv's military said on Monday.

Heavy fighting rages in Ukraine's east, Kyiv's forces target Russian energy hubs and Russia's leader ups the ante.