The mainstream perspective:

The mainstream perspective:
- Russia has made significant advances, threatening Ukraine's progress.
- The capture of Pokrovsk could jeopardize Ukraine's eastern front.
- Pokrovsk and nearby Myrnohrad are crucial logistics hubs and the last major cities in Donetsk region under Ukrainian control.
- Previous losses like Avdiivka have weakened Ukraine's defensive line.
- Russia's offensive has quickened, focusing on key objectives like Pokrovsk.
- Ukrainian forces have faced intense Russian assaults using brutal tactics.
- Ukraine's gains inside Russia have slowed, with questions arising about the effectiveness of the Kursk offensive.