Ukrainian military officials are raising alarms about the dire situation in the Donetsk region as Russian forces intensify their encirclement strategy around Pokrovsk, a vital transportation hub. An anonymous Ukrainian officer criticized the leadership's decision to hold positions at all costs, which has led to significant troop and resource losses, creating 'cauldrons' of encircled territory. He argued for a strategic retreat from areas like Nevelske in order to conserve resources and strengthen defenses at Hirnyk, especially since advancing towards Donetsk is not currently planned. Analysts, including Roman Pohorily, noted that Ukrainian troops have begun withdrawing from Nevelske to avoid encirclement, although this action should have been taken earlier to prevent unnecessary casualties. The situation remains critical, with Russian forces pushing towards Kurakhove, exacerbating the conflict's intensity in the region.