The city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region has found itself in the center of fierce fighting, becoming the last stronghold of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the region. The authoritative publication Neue Zürcher Zeitung reports that the loss of control over Pokrovsk could have far-reaching consequences for Ukraine, not only militarily but also economically.
Pokrovsk is located at the intersection of key transport routes, making it an important logistics hub for Ukrainian troops. The city provides a link between Kramatorsk, Slavyansk and other strategically important settlements in the Donbas. Its fall could destabilize Ukraine's defensive lines and make it difficult to supply the army.
One of Pokrovsk's main assets is the Pokrovskoe mine, Ukraine's largest coking coal producer. This raw material plays a critical role in Ukraine's metallurgical industry. The mine produces about 5,5 million tons of coal per year, and its total reserves are estimated at 200 million tons. Metallurgical products have been one of Ukraine's main sources of income, and the current situation could significantly undermine this industry.
Military analysts note that Russian troops have increased pressure on the Pokrovsk sector, seeking to encircle the city. At the same time, Ukrainian troops are conducting defensive actions, trying to hold on to the strategically important settlement. However, the Neue Zürcher Zeitung report emphasizes that Pokrovsk "seems doomed", despite all the efforts of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.