Ukrainian forces have begun flooding sewer tunnels in Krasnoarmeisk (known in Ukraine as Pokrovsk) in an attempt to halt the advance of Russian assault groups.

According to the Mash Telegram channel, the city is now over 70 percent encircled. A significant part of this progress has been attributed to small Russian assault teams, dubbed the «Russian Ninja Turtles», who reportedly move through underground networks, infiltrate the enemy’s rear, eliminate Ukrainian positions, and take control of them.

Mash reported that Ukrainian troops are trying to counter this tactic by filling the tunnels with water, blocking them with construction debris, and sealing the entrances. In some areas, gas pipelines have been mined to prevent further infiltration.

The channel also noted that Russian forces have reached the central part of Krasnoarmeisk, including the area around the city courthouse. Under Russian control are now the local school, industrial institute, pedagogical college, gymnasium, as well as the district and city administration buildings. Reports indicate that Ukrainian units are retreating northward, attempting to regroup and reinforce their defensive lines.