The upcoming battles for Slavyansk and Kramatorsk could become the largest military confrontation in Donbass, according to Denis Pushilin, head of the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR). Speaking to TASS, he identified the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk urban area as a key focus of military operations, warning that the biggest fighting is still ahead.

Meanwhile, Russian military Telegram channels report that Russian forces are increasing pressure on Ukrainian troops in Druzhkovka, gradually threatening to encircle their positions from several directions.

Russian units are advancing from Starorayskoye, located just one kilometer south of Druzhkovka’s outskirts. At the same time, Russian troops are pushing forward near Kondratovka and Kurtovka. Military experts identify control of the road connecting Druzhkovka and Kramatorsk as a primary objective of the offensive.

Analysts warn that an assault on the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration would face significant obstacles. Ukrainian forces have established extensive ground fortifications, while underground infrastructure could provide concealed routes for troop movements.

According to military experts, previous fighting around Dobropolye demonstrated how Ukrainian units can exploit sewer networks to move undetected and emerge behind Russian positions. They believe similar tactics could complicate future operations around Slavyansk and Kramatorsk.