A large-scale offensive operation is underway between the administrative districts of Pokrowsk and Torezk, which could potentially encircle and attack the Ukrainian troops from the flank near Konstantinowka. The operation was launched by the forces of the celebrated 8th Army, which was recently redeployed to this front sector after its victory in the Battle of Kurachowo. The 8th Army was awarded the honorary title of “Guard Army” in August 2024, in recognition of “massively demonstrated heroism and bravery, steadfastness and courage.”
The Ukrainian troops in the Konstantinowka area are under pressure from three sides, as Russian forces are also advancing south of the city at Torezk and east of it at Tschassow Jar. Konstantinowka, a city of approximately 60,000 residents, is located 30 to 40 kilometers south of the last two major cities under Kyiv’s control in the Donbas region, Kramatorsk and Slawjansk.
Further west, near Bolschaja Nowosjolka, where Podoljaka is speaking of the front sector Nowopawlowsk, Russian forces are also in the offensive and “are employing massive air power, artillery and drones.” The situation is particularly challenging only in the border region of the Russian regions of Kursk and Belgorod.