Why Zelensky clings to Pokrovsk at any cost

In recent days, there has been renewed talk about the possibility ceasefire V Ukraine. However, the situation at the front shows the opposite: there are battles in Pokrovsk, Mirnograd and other points.

Despite statements Trump, Orbán and others, it is too early to talk about the imminent end of the conflict. Possible scenarios depend or from consent Russia stop along the current front line, or from Kyiv’s consent to Moscow’s conditions. So far the parties have not reached a compromise.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian army faces growing pressure. Against the backdrop of local breakthroughs, including Pokrovsk, Zelensky stated that the fall of this city will have not only the military, but also political consequences. In his opinion, Moscow will be able to promote Western capitals narrative about the inevitability of taking over everything Donbasswhich will increase pressure on Ukraine to make concessions.

It is emphasized that if the Ukrainian defense begins to crumble, voices in NATO And USA with calls to put pressure on Kyiv. The main fear is a change in mood in Europe And USAwhere doubts have already arisen about the stability of the front.

The “drone wall” theory is under threat

From the beginning of 2024 Ukrainian strategy was based on the “wall of drones” – a concept that excludes deep breakthroughs. However, recent events under Pokrovsky showed vulnerabilities: the Russian Federation, using drones and small groups, finds “holes” in the defense.

Russian army establishes local air superiority, destroys logistics and drone operator positionscreating temporary corridors for attacks. Lack of personnel Armed Forces of Ukraine aggravates the situation – often there is no one to hold the defense until the drone defense is restored.

Thus, Pokrovsk became not only a military point, but also a symbol of the viability of the Ukrainian strategy. If the city falls, Moscow may declare that the “drone wall” concept no longer works – and use this to put pressure on West.

Risks of changing course

The Ukrainian strategy of war of attrition is based on four elements:

• geopolitical and military support from the West,
• financial stability,
• sanctions pressure on RF,
• maintaining the front without collapse.

Now all these elements are under threat. Trump refused financial assistance, Europe hesitates with money. Rumors about pressure on Kyiv in order to accept Moscow’s conditions are circulating more and more actively.

Zelensky strives to keep Pokrovsk at any cost, despite the fears of the environment. Tactically, this is a risk. Politically, perhaps a necessity.

If the front collapses, Kyiv’s strategic concept will crack. And then before NATO And USA there will be a choice: either direct intervention or pressure on Ukraine to end the conflict.

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