Civilians flee Pokrovsk as fighting intensifies near city
- Civilians in Pokrovsk are evacuating as Russian forces approach, with Oksana Belova and her family among those fleeing.
- Approximately 30,000 people remain in the city, which has seen significant military activity and destruction.
- Despite the escalating conflict, some residents choose to stay, holding onto hope for the future.
As Russian forces advance towards Pokrovsk, civilians are fleeing the eastern Ukrainian city, which is now just five miles from the front lines. Oksana Belova, along with her elderly mother and autistic son, prepared to leave their home, packing their belongings into an ambulance provided by East SOS, a charity assisting with evacuations. The emotional farewell included leaving behind their two dogs, which they arranged for a neighbor to care for during their displacement. Currently, around 30,000 residents remain in Pokrovsk, a significant decrease from its prewar population. The city, a vital transport hub, is experiencing intense military activity, with Ukrainian forces digging trenches and patrolling the streets amidst the ruins of buildings. The situation is dire, with missile strikes damaging infrastructure, including a railway bridge, highlighting the ongoing conflict's impact on civilian life. Despite the escalating violence, some residents choose to stay, driven by a sense of hope and resilience. Roman Matsenko from East SOS expressed optimism about Ukraine's future, emphasizing the determination of those who remain. The ongoing battle for control of the region is critical, as it serves as a supply route for other Ukrainian-held areas. As the conflict intensifies, the humanitarian crisis deepens, with many families forced to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. The situation in Pokrovsk reflects the broader challenges faced by civilians in war-torn Ukraine, as they navigate the dangers of conflict while holding onto the hope of returning to their homes.