Russia’s forces announced they have fully taken control of Novohrodivka in eastern Ukraine, while moving toward Pokrovsk, a key railway and road hub in Donetsk.

Novohrodivka had around 14,000 residents at the start of the conflict, and its fall marks another step in Vladimir Putin’s plan to consolidate Russia’s control over the Donbass. 

Pro-Russian media reports indicate that Russia’s troops are less than seven kilometers from Pokrovsk, preparing for what could be a strategic assault. However, international agencies such as Reuters have not independently verified these movements, leaving the true scale of the Russian advance uncertain. 

As Russia intensifies its offensive in eastern Ukraine, Kyiv has launched operations into Russian territory, specifically in the Kursk region. The Ukrainian offensive, which began on August 6, aims to slow the Russian advance and divert troops north, strengthening border defenses and preventing Moscow from expanding its control in the Donbass. 

Ukraine’s response

The Ukrainian perspective differs from the Russian narrative. President Volodymyr Zelensky said the operation in Kursk is strategically intended to prevent Russia’s forces from crossing into Ukrainian territory.

Ukrainian military sources claim they have regained and control significant border areas, estimating between 900 and 1,300 square kilometers under their influence. 

The conflict has also impacted civilian and political life in the region. Local elections in Kursk and nearby border areas have been postponed indefinitely due to security concerns, while both sides continue mobilizing resources and troops along the front line. 

Every day, we work toward stronger decisions in support of our defense – particularly towards relevant decisions on long-range capabilities. This was a key topic in my discussion with our partners during the Ramstein meeting. I express my gratitude to all the countries that have… pic.twitter.com/gf6I3kcKfb

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 8, 2024

President Putin recently stated that the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk has not altered Russia’s objectives in Ukraine, and that the eastern advance will continue. Zelensky, meanwhile, reaffirms that Ukrainian resistance is focused on protecting their territory and limiting Russian expansion. 

The war between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate, with both sides reinforcing positions and launching offensives that affect regional stability and the lives of civilians trapped in combat zones. The fall of Novohrodivka and movements toward Pokrovsk underscore that the Donbass remains a critical flashpoint in the crisis. 

According to the Ukrainian project Deep State, Ukrainian forces control roughly 900 square kilometers in the Kursk region, while Kyiv estimates it at 1,300 square kilometers.