In the Ukraine-Russia war latest, Russia declared on Sunday that its forces had taken control of a town in Eastern Ukraine (Novohrodivka) and are gradually advancing to Pokrovsk.
Russia captures the Ukrainian town after infiltrating the front lines in an attempt to take the whole of Donbas, an area of 53,201 km² (roughly half the state of Ohio), with about one-fifth of Ukraine already lost to its grip since February 2022.
The Ukrainian town, which had a population of 14,000 before the war lies 12 km (7 miles) from Pokrovsk. Novohrodivka, being an important route for Ukrainian forces, has now been taken up by Russia.
What Does this Mean for the War?
Considering how important the town is, the fall of Novohrodivka might trigger a new set of events, as far as the war is concerned.
For starters, Russia's capture of the Ukrainian town emphasizes their offensive push in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, which form the Donbas. This region, which is rich in natural resources and heavy industry, makes it strategically valuable for the side in control.
Furthermore, Donbas is of symbolic importance since Russian-backed separatists have controlled parts of the area since 2014, following Russia's annexation of Crimea. It is noteworthy to remember that a little over a month ago, Ukraine took responsibility for sinking a Russian Submarine in Crimea.
Russia’s advance toward Pokrovsk also indicates the determination to cut off Ukrainian forces in the region. Since Pokrovsk is a major transportation hub, it is important for the movement of military supplies and reinforcements. Should Russia take Pokrovsk, it would not only disrupt Ukrainian supply lines but also hinder Kyiv's ability to defend the region effectively.
A capture of Pokrovsk would also strengthen Russia’s bargaining position in any potential peace negotiations. Control over Donbas could allow Russia to press for concessions from Ukraine, such as recognition of its territorial gains or the demilitarization of certain areas.
How is the World Following the War?
Yuri Podolyaka, an influential Ukrainian-born, pro-Russian military blogger, published maps showing Russian forces attacking beyond Novohrodivka in at least two places less than 7 km (4 miles) from Pokrovsk.
Also, the General Staff of the Ukrainian military, in a report issued on Sunday evening (8 September, 2024), gave details of fighting throughout the Pokrovsk sector, including Novohrodivka.
It said 29 attempted Russian advances had been repelled, with seven skirmishes continuing. "Our troops are taking measures to maintain designated positions," it said.
But an interview with a Ukrainian officer broadcast last week by U.S.-funded Radio Liberty said Ukrainian forces had abandoned Novohrodivka on grounds that the positions there were not favorable for defending it.
With the invasion of Novohrodivka, Russia currently controls about 80% of Donbas. Given the speed of recent Russian advances in the east, some Russian war bloggers have raised concern about the army overreaching itself.
Final Notes
The capture of Novohrodivka is a significant milestone in Russia’s push to dominate the Donbas region since the strategic town not only serves as an important route for military operations, but also brings Russian forces closer to securing Pokrovsk.
If Russia succeeds, the fall of Pokrovsk would cause a major blow to Ukraine's defense efforts in the region by limiting their access to resources. Meanwhile, international observers are closely monitoring Russia's rapid advancements, with questions arising about the sustainability of such progress.