On December 28, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed the town of Rodynske in the Pokrovsk district of Donetsk region had been occupied by Russian forces. However, Ukraine’s Operational Command “East” denied the claim. Fighting for the town is ongoing.
“In Rodynske, the situation is difficult; fighting for the town continues. The enemy tried to entrench along the railway north of the town, as well as in western neighborhoods. They did not succeed. Reports that the enemy fully controls the town do not correspond to reality,” the statement said.
Military analysts from Ukraine’s DeepState project said Russian forces advanced near Rodynske, but hasn’t captured it.
Ukrainian troops continue to hold the northern part of Pokrovsk. In the city center, the Defense Forces are blocking Russian advances.
“Russian troops remain active in western Pokrovsk. The goal is unchanged — to push toward the Hryshyne area. But our forces are blocking all enemy attacks. Search-and-assault operations are underway, and enemy fighters are being eliminated in urban areas,” the command added.
Ukrainian units are also holding defensive lines and targeting Russian forces on the approaches to Myrnohrad. The city’s defenses have been reinforced with additional personnel and equipment, but logistics remain difficult.
