The battle for Pokrovsk, a key eastern stronghold in Ukraine, has escalated dramatically as Russian forces intensify their assault, blending unconventional tactics in a bid to gain a strategic victory after 18 months of conflict. Ukrainian troops are valiantly holding their ground amid severe manpower shortages and logistic challenges, fighting to protect the symbolic city while Russia reportedly deploys around 150,000 troops for a potential takeover. Both sides are engaged in a fierce struggle, with the Ukrainian leadership denying reports of encirclement and asserting that defenders continue to resist despite heavy losses and intense bombardments. As the situation develops, Kyiv is caught between the grim realities of potential losses and the need to save its remaining forces.