Ukrainian forces have isolated Russian infiltration units that breached a defensive line north of Pokrovsk and are conducting mopping-up and stabilization operations. The Russian advance relied on small, fast-moving squads that sometimes used motorcycles to approach positions before dismounting to advance on foot. Many Russian units that penetrated several kilometers beyond the front line are now cut off, according to a member of Ukraine's 82nd Air Assault Brigade. Civilians in nearby Dobropillya face relentless strikes, missile and drone attacks, destroyed apartments, water shortages, injuries, displacement, and missing loved ones.
On August 16, the tail of a Russian missile smashed through all five floors of a residential building, leaving apartments gutted and neighbors staring into each other's apartments through broken floors. "My wife was sitting at the table, then it came," said Yuri. "Dust, smoke. She shouted, 'I can't see anything!' I moved here and my leg fell through [the hole]."
Some used motorcycles and rode close to Ukrainian positions then dismounted and advanced on foot, according to a member of Ukraine's 82nd Air Assault Brigade which is driving the counterattack. The soldier, who goes by the code name "Fizruk," told RFE/RL's Current Time that many Russian units that managed to penetrate several kilometers beyond the front line are now cut off.
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