Russian troops could seize full control of Pokrovsk as early as November 2025, according to a forecast by military analyst and retired Navy Captain Vasily Dandykin.

Dandykin suggested that the battle for the city, formerly known as Krasnoarmeisk, may not drag on for long. While he acknowledged that Pokrovsk would not fall in just a few days, he argued that the fighting could reach its conclusion within the month. The analyst emphasized the complexity of the operation, noting that the city is sizable and surrounded by smaller settlements — such as Mirnograd — where intense clashes are also taking place. Because of this, he stressed the need for careful and deliberate actions to conserve manpower.

He also pointed out that Ukrainian forces continue to resist along this section of the front and occasionally attempt to break through the encirclement. However, in his view, their chances of success are minimal.

Dandykin further discussed the situation near Kupyansk in the Kharkov region, where Russian units are advancing. He stated that the situation for Ukrainian troops there remains dire, as Russian forces have taken control of the eastern part of the city and heavy fighting continues. Entire Ukrainian units, he said, have been decimated in the process, with losses reportedly reaching hundreds each day.

Earlier reports indicated that the eastern part of Kupyansk had already come under full Russian control.