Russian Forces Advance in Pokrovsk Under Fog Cover, Ukrainian Military Reports
Thick fog shrouding the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk has allowed Russian troops to make further inroads into the strategically important urban area, according to statements released by Ukraine's 7th Airborne Assault Corps. The low‑visibility conditions, which began early Thursday morning, reportedly concealed the movement of infantry and armored units along the city's northern approaches, complicating Ukrainian defensive observations.
The Ukrainian military confirmed that the weather hampered aerial reconnaissance and limited the effectiveness of artillery spotting, giving Russian forces a temporary tactical advantage. Officials said that while the fog provided cover for the advance, it also posed risks for both sides, as limited visibility can lead to accidental engagements and navigation errors. The corps emphasized that Ukrainian units remain engaged in close‑quarters combat to slow the progression of the attackers and protect key infrastructure.
Pokrovsk, located near the Donetsk‑Luhansk border, has been a focal point of fighting since the escalation of hostilities in 2022. Control of the city offers access to major road and rail corridors that supply front‑line positions further west. In recent months, Ukrainian forces have repelled several attempts to capture the town, turning it into a symbol of resilience. The latest push occurs amid a broader Russian effort to consolidate gains in the Donbas region before the onset of the autumn weather season.
Ukrainian defense officials described the development as a “significant challenge” but reiterated confidence that their forces could contain the advance. Military analysts noted that the fog‑assisted maneuver underscores the importance of weather forecasting in modern warfare and may prompt both sides to adjust operational plans. The situation remains fluid, with expectations that clearer conditions later in the day could enable renewed Ukrainian counter‑offensives and international observers to assess the evolving front line more accurately.
