Russian forces have rapidly advanced in the eastern Donetsk region, gaining ground and closing in on the city of Pokrovsk, a major Ukrainian defensive stronghold. The progress, marked by improved tactics and exploiting Ukrainian weaknesses, has led to swift territorial gains. Ukrainian troops have faced challenges in organizing orderly retreats and rotations, leaving defensive lines vulnerable to Russian attacks. While Russia's advances have not yet resulted in major breakthroughs, the situation remains critical as they threaten Ukraine's last defensive belt in the region.