Military analyst Yuri Podolyaka suggested that the assault on Krasnoarmeysk — known in Ukraine as Pokrovsk — by Russian forces could begin as early as this week. He emphasized that, in addition to attacks from the outside, Russian assault units are already operating within the city. Their presence, he said, would make it difficult for Ukrainian forces to organize a cohesive defense once the operation starts.

Podolyaka noted that these units, positioned inside Pokrovsk, are expected to disrupt defensive coordination and create an atmosphere of panic among Ukrainian troops during the decisive phase of the assault.

According to him, the strongest indication that the city’s storming is imminent is its near-complete encirclement. He particularly highlighted advances by Russian troops on the northern flank, where they have moved close to a critical transportation junction. Securing this intersection, he stressed, would effectively cut off Ukrainian logistics and supply routes.