Russian forces have trapped units of the 12th Azov Special Forces Brigade* in a small encirclement pocket in the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR). The Ukrainian formation is now in a difficult position near Novovodyanovo, Maryevka and Petrovka, according to Alexey Ramm, deputy editor-in-chief of the Militarist project. He described the situation during an appearance on the Zvezda television channel.

Two Russian formations are advancing through the area, leaving Ukrainian troops caught between their movements. Ramm compared the operation to a pair of millstones gradually crushing the forces trapped in the middle.

Despite the pressure on the Ukrainian brigade, the analyst argued that eliminating isolated pockets should not become a priority for Russian commanders. Fighting the surrounded Azov* units could slow the broader offensive. Instead, he believes Russian troops should maintain their advance along sectors where Ukrainian defenses are already beginning to collapse.

Ramm also suggested that Ukrainian forces might attempt to withdraw from their current positions. According to his information, the 21st Public Order Brigade is already being brought into the area to help extract the trapped 12th Brigade.

Meanwhile, a considerable number of Ukrainian formations remain concentrated near Dobropolye. Ramm pointed out that many of these units specialize in drone operations, while the main Ukrainian reserves are tied down in the Liman sector.

Moving those reinforcements to Dobropolye would be difficult, the expert explained. With much of its available manpower committed elsewhere, the Ukrainian command faces significant obstacles to strengthening its positions in the area.

*Azov is designated as a terrorist organization and banned in the Russian Federation.