Airstrikes first, then assault: Ukrainian special forces eliminate Russian railway operation in Pokrovsk (VIDEO)

Ukrainian Special Operations Forces have reported thwarting Russian attempts to consolidate along railway lines in Pokrovsk, thereby preventing efforts to establish new positions for an offensive. 

Currently, Russian forces control 80% of Pokrovsk and are critically surrounding Myrnohrad, its twin city. Moscow has deployed 170,000 troops in this sector. Capturing Pokrovsk is intended to strengthen the Russian position in peace negotiations and to convince the US that Ukraine should cede all of Donetsk Oblast. Railways as a strategic target

During the operation, a Russian military group attempted to occupy positions along the railway lines to facilitate further advancement. Ukrainian strikes destroyed several invaders and equipment from the air.

Subsequently, the 3rd Special Operations Forces Regiment conducted direct assault actions. Ukrainian forces eliminated two more Russian soldiers hiding in bunkers.

Despite heavy artillery fire, the Ukrainian group successfully completed its mission, denying Moscow troops the opportunity to consolidate their forces in planned positions.

Caught on video: a group of Russian troops trying to fortify positions along the railway in Pokrovsk

Aerial strikes disrupted their movement. The Ukrainians then moved in for direct action, taking out two more Russian soldiers who had hidden in bunkers
SSO pic.twitter.com/tqb3nfjGm1

— Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) December 16, 2025

Reinforcements and outlook

According to Victor Trehubov of the Joint Forces Group, the Ukrainian forces received reinforcements in the Pokrovsk sector. Russia has suffered significant losses and has already deployed its entire operational reserve, an airborne division comprising three regiments, per RBC Ukraine. 

These forces are attempting to break through Ukrainian defenses both on the flanks and in the main directions. The Ukrainian defense continues to hold northern Pokrovsk, while in the city center, Ukrainian troops block Russian advances.

Read also

• For first time in history, Sub Sea Baby drones sink $400 million Russian submarine that terrorized Ukrainian cities (VIDEO)
• Zelenskyy confirms Russia still demands all of Donbas in “peace” plan

Currently, Russian forces control 80% of Pokrovsk and are critically surrounding Myrnohrad, its twin city. Moscow has deployed 170,000 troops in this sector. Capturing Pokrovsk is intended to strengthen the Russian position in peace negotiations and to convince the US that Ukraine should cede all of Donetsk Oblast.