“Today, almost 90% of buildings in Pokrovsk are destroyed. As for critical infrastructure facilities — there’s nothing left to talk about, the enemy is simply wiping the city off the face of the earth. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to get out because all the main routes are under enemy control”, - said the head of the Donetsk Oblast Military Administration, Vadym Filashkin, on October 22 during a national Ukrainian TV news marathon broadcast.
Filashkin denied information that the enemy holds positions directly in Pokrovsk.
“No, there are no enemy positions in the city. But sabotage and reconnaissance groups periodically enter. Our defense forces promptly eliminate them and do everything to prevent the enemy from gaining a foothold in the city. The situation is extremely difficult not only in Pokrovsk but also in Kostiantynivka, where more than 5,000 people remain. Between 30 and 100 residents are evacuated daily. But the enemy controls most of the access routes. Where the police or the State Emergency Service can’t reach, the military handles the evacuation — they also deliver humanitarian aid. It’s still possible to leave Kostiantynivka, but from Pokrovsk — almost not”, - he noted.
According to him, the Donetsk oblast is preparing for the heating season.
“The most difficult situation will be precisely in the front-line communities: in Kostiantynivka and another 191 settlements located near the front line, which remain without gas and electricity. We’re working with volunteers, helping people with stoves, fuel briquettes, and firewood to at least slightly ease their conditions. The situation is extremely difficult: a significant part of the region is without power, but energy workers are doing everything possible”, - he emphasized.
Numerous emergency teams have been created to work through autumn and winter.