Pokrovsk: War Tactics

The battle for Pokrovsk mirrors the evolving tactics of the war in Ukraine. Initially, Russia employed a “meat grinder” approach like in Bakhmut, aiming to inflict heavy casualties. Now, they’re utilizing smaller, more dispersed groups – often three – supported by drones to infiltrate Ukrainian areas and sever supply lines. Russian troops are using unconventional vehicles like mopeds and buggies to avoid heavy fire, while Ukrainian forces respond with drones. Evacuations from the city are nearly impossible due to drone activity and Russian fire, significantly impacting casualty extraction. Russia’s slow, attrition-based approach, coupled with high casualties, is now a key factor in the conflict.