However, there is a cost to AFU too, as units are being repositioned to reinforce Pokrovsk. Defensive lines are not as dense east of Pokrovsk, if Russian forces are eventually able to take (or destroy) it. @clement_molin has mapped them here
Full-scale invasion and national resilience, broadcasted live.
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Pokrovsk evacuation underway as civilian trains stop
Pokrovsk is being evacuated in advance of its defense. As of today, the last civilian trains out of Pokrovsk have stopped due to the deteriorating situation there.
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Good thread explaining situation near Pokrovsk by @emilkastehelmi
This is a good thread that explains the situation near Pokrovsk from @emilkastehelmi
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Accounting of Ukrainian and Russian losses in Kursk as of 3 September
An accounting of Ukrainian and Russian losses in Kursk as of 3 September from @naalsio26
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Ukrainian officials: situation critical near Pokrovsk as Russian advance slows
Ukrainian officials note that the situation near Pokrovsk is critical. Russian forces' rate of advance increased last month, and then slowed in recent days. Other reports that Russian missile strikes and shelling on the city may increase forces approach.
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Russian priority on Donbas despite tensions
Putin stated that the priority remains the Donbas, and Russia will not be diverting its efforts. This has largely been true of the Russian force disposition near Pokrovsk, with 41st CAA units still engaged at the front of the salient, while forces are pulled from elsewhere.
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Russian forces in Kursk use multiple weapons, may shell own villages
In Kursk, Russian forces use loitering munitions, direct engagement, and artillery and FAB bombs against AFU positions. Russian commanders shelled Chechen settlements to the ground before, so it's plausible we will see them shell their own villages when they get frustrated.
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Large POW exchange between Ukraine and Russia includes conscripts
A large exchange of POWs has already occurred between Ukraine and Russia, and Russian conscripts were part of that. The Kremlin worked and will work quickly to get conscripts back due to sensitivities.
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Confusing mix of resting units and conscripts in Ukraine and Russia
These forces are a confusing mix of on-hand units, either resting and regenerating in rear areas of occupied Ukraine, and Russia. Conscripts were and still are a part of this force. Some are still pressured to sign contracts and others are just sent as is. /5
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Russian forces mix: VDV, Marines, Rosgvardia, TDF, 30-60K
What kind of Russian forces are in the area? Here I consult w/ @defence_centre
's views on this, they assess there is a mix of VDV, Marines, most military district units, border guards, SOF, DNR, Rosgvardia, and TDF forces. Force size estimates range from 30 – 60K.