Russian forces have increased the pace at which they are taking territory in eastern Ukraine, while troops of Kiev are struggling to repel the larger and more heavily armed Russian army, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
Along the 1,000 km long front line, Moscow decided to focus its attacks on towns and villages around the transport hub of Pokrovsk. If it is captured by Russian forces, it will significantly hinder Ukraine's ability to supply its troops with the necessary food.
Russia has also stepped up its pressure around the northeastern city of Kupiansk, close to the border.
Analyst from Finland-based group "Black Bird" (Black Bird), which reviews footage and satellite images from the front, told Reuters that Russian advances in Ukraine had intensified in recent months.
He calculated the following monthly territorial gains by Russia:
- in August: 403 square kilometers
- in September: 422 square kilometers
- in October: 491 square kilometers
- from November 1 to 18: 363 square kilometers
In Russia's Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces launched their offensive in August, Kiev currently controls about 500 square kilometers of territory. The largest area controlled by Ukrainian forces since their invasion of this Russian region was 1,200 square kilometers.