Ukrainian forces (AFU) have notched notable gains on the Pokrovsk and Novopavlivka sectors. The AFU carried out successful counterattacks and stabilized their lines.
Ukrainian troops achieved visible progress along the front: in the Pokrovsk sector, they have isolated elements of Russian forces, while in the Novopavlivka sector they moved to counterattacks and stabilization, according to military expert Oleksandr Kovalenko.
Kovalenko stressed that despite a Russian troop buildup of up to 130,000 personnel on the Pokrovsk axis, Moscow has not made significant advances. Instead, Ukrainian forces have created a โkill zoneโ - a corridor where resupply and withdrawal for Russian units is extremely risky.
Units attempting to attack Krasnyi Lyman and Rodynske already risk encirclement. Efforts to push through Maiak, Nikanorivka or Popov Yar are meeting counterattacking pressure. The noose is tightening: some Russian units are becoming isolated and are being contained by Ukrainian defenses.
In this area, the expert notes a key shift: Ukraineโs Defense Forces are not only holding the line but have executed successful counterattacks. Around Sosnivka, Yanvarske and Novoselivka, the front has stabilized and the Russians have been pushed back.
Kovalenko points out that although Novopavlivka was often considered the hottest sector in 2025, Russian offensive efforts there are beginning to stall. Attempts to reach the north bank of the Vovcha River and entrench near Ivanivka have not delivered meaningful gains. Stabilization here is more than holding firm - it signals Ukraine can respond to attacks and deny the Russians the initiative.
Military analysts say these advances carry strategic weight: a sector where Russia concentrated major forces has stabilized for the first time in a long period. That creates a window for Ukraine to regroup, reinforce and prepare to apply pressure where the enemy is weaker.
The expert argues that local but steady successes can shift the broader dynamics along the front: โThe Russians have spread their resources thin and canโt maintain offensive tempo. This isnโt an instant break, but a durable one.โ
