Ukraine Forces Cut Off Russian Forces in Donetsk Region, Retakes Key Territory

Ukrainian forces have launched operations to encircle a Russian group that broke through defensive lines near Dobropillia, north of Pokrovsk, in the Donetsk region, about a week ago, according to the Moscow Times on August 20.

Military correspondent Abishev of the BBC Russian Service reported:

“Ukrainian forces have now stopped the Russian advance, retaken settlements along the Rubezhne–Zolote-Kolodez–Vesele line, and pushed into the base of the Russian salient, creating a counter-threat to the entire breakthrough. According to multiple reports, some Russian units that advanced furthest north are already cut off from the main forces.”

Ukrainian troops are reportedly creating a counter-threat to the Russian advance. Maps from Ukrainian open-source intelligence projects and analysts suggest that some forward Russian units have become separated from their main forces. The American Institute for the Study of War also noted the potential for encirclement in the area.

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War in Ukraine

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Both sides continue to move reserves into the sector, with heavy fighting reported. Ukrainian forces are focusing on cutting off the Russian incursion at its base, aiming to limit the enemy’s area of control. Russian troops are attempting counterattacks to relieve their forward units and maintain local offensives toward surrounding villages.

Geolocated footage shows Russian forces advancing northwest of Poltavka and northeast of Vladimirovka, but Ukrainian advances remain faster in the sector. Analysts describe the frontlines as dispersed, consisting of isolated strongpoints rather than continuous defensive lines.

Previously, it was reported that Ukrainian troops from the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skala” have pushed Russian forces back from the administrative border between the Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk regions in a successful offensive operation.

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