Urgent Evacuations in Pokrovsk as Russian Forces Close In

In the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, parents are taking desperate measures to avoid mandatory evacuations. As Russian forces advance rapidly on this key military hub, local authorities are urging residents to flee within the next two weeks. Pokrovsk, once home to around 60,000 people, is now the center of intense military activity, making it a crucial target for Russian troops.

Parents Hide Children to Avoid Evacuations

Despite the growing dangers, many residents are reluctant to leave. Some parents have even gone so far as to hide their children from local authorities to avoid being forced to evacuate. This situation has prompted the military administration to conduct house visits, working closely with police to locate families that are evading evacuation orders. According to Yurii Tretiak, head of the military administration in Myrnohrad, the situation is worsening, with some areas facing daily attacks.

The Strategic Importance of Pokrovsk

Pokrovsk is not just any city; it is a vital hub for the Ukrainian military, offering easy access to other key military centers like Kostiantynivka. Ukrainian troops are currently using the roads connecting these cities to resupply the front lines and evacuate casualties. The city’s strategic significance makes it a primary target for Russian forces, who are advancing faster than expected.

Daily Evacuations and Rising Tensions

Each day, hundreds of people are evacuating Pokrovsk, with the national rail network adding extra carriages to accommodate the large numbers. On Thursday alone, at least 371 people were evacuated by train. Local officials have issued stark warnings, emphasizing that the situation will only get worse, urging residents to leave immediately.

Ukrainian Military Response and Reinforcements

In response to the escalating conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to reinforce the eastern region, particularly the Pokrovsk direction. In his nightly address, Zelensky assured the nation that the Ukrainian military is aware of the enemy’s movements and is taking all necessary steps to strengthen defenses.

Conclusion

The situation in Pokrovsk is dire, with the city’s future hanging in the balance as the conflict intensifies. The decision to stay or leave has become a matter of life and death for many residents. As Russian forces continue to advance, the urgency to evacuate cannot be overstated. For those still in Pokrovsk, the time to act is now.