For Zelensky, it’s important to hold Pokrovsk so as not to appear weak to Trump – Bild

In Ukraine, fears are growing about the encirclement of a grouping of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) near Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. However, the authorities badly need to hold it despite heavy losses.

This was reported by the German newspaper Bild, citing sources within the AFU and the intelligence services.

“At the same time, there is discussion of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s responsibility, with fresh accusations that he once again failed to ensure the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops—something that should have happened long ago,” the article says.

A Ukrainian soldier told the outlet that the situation has become extremely difficult, and it is unclear to what extent encirclement can be prevented or whether a withdrawal is even possible.

Another soldier said that some units are already almost encircled.

“The situation is extremely tough. We have lost 80% of the city. We are still fighting for 20%, but even there we are losing. The guys in Myrnohrad and farther south are in an even worse position; they are practically encircled,” the soldier said.

His words were confirmed by a Ukrainian serviceman in Myrnohrad.

“Even if we received an order to retreat, we probably wouldn’t survive it. Probably none of us would make it to Rodynske alive. It’s better to stay put and let ourselves be liberated or captured in the end,” the fighter said.

A Ukrainian diplomat who commented to the outlet drew parallels with the defense of Bakhmut.

“The situation is similar. We defend heroically, declare that Russia is in a worse position than it itself claims—and then we retreat. You always see reconnaissance units being deployed to defend the city when the battle is nearing its end,” the diplomat said.

An officer who spoke with the newspaper believes that the counteroffensives were “too modest and too late.”

“They should have done it a month ago, when the first Russians entered the city. Now it’s useless and only costs us people,” the officer said.

Supporters of Zelensky say that holding Pokrovsk despite losses is important, including to avoid losing international standing, especially with Donald Trump. Rumors are circulating in Ukraine that Zelensky is now particularly trying not to appear militarily weak to Trump so that he doesn’t distance himself from Ukraine. The loss of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad could have symbolic consequences for Washington.