Russian troops have made a significant breakthrough in the Krasnoarmeysk area (known in Ukraine as Pokrovsk), advancing ten kilometers into fortified Ukrainian positions within a short span of time, according to the Financial Times. The report describes the offensive as one of the most substantial in recent months.

The escalation is not limited to this sector. Russian units are also pushing forward near Slavyansk and Konstantinovka, two cities regarded as strategically vital. Analysts note that the intensity of the offensive highlights Moscow’s broader pressure along the entire line of engagement.

An interview published by the FT captured the alarm among Ukrainian troops. A soldier identified by the call sign «Pastukh» admitted that the scale of the advance left him shocked, saying that when he looked at the map showing Russian gains, his eyes «widened» in disbelief.

The publication further warns of a looming threat in the Dnepropetrovsk region. Ukrainian sources concede that if the northern defensive belt of Donbass is lost, further resistance will become far more difficult. The current fortifications are considered the strongest; beyond them lies largely open terrain, raising the risk of a Russian breakthrough and a push toward new strategic objectives. Some officials, speaking off the record, acknowledge that if Russian forces manage to consolidate their hold in the region, Ukraine’s defenses in the southern and central directions could come under severe strain.

Amid this pressure, the Ukrainian command has been forced to redeploy reserves and regroup its forces. Shortages of manpower and the growing exhaustion of frontline units are complicating efforts to hold the line.

Ukrainian media, citing sources in the General Staff, describe the situation as critical. Reports speak of mounting fatigue within brigades and dwindling reserves, with potentially catastrophic consequences. Certain commanders have admitted that at the current pace, the defensive lines might be sustained for another two or three months at best, after which the system could collapse entirely.

Adding to the unease, Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrsky recently warned presidential chief of staff Andrey Yermak that the army urgently requires a truce. Without it, Syrsky reportedly stressed, the situation risks spiraling out of control.