#DONBAS

RBC Ukraine said the start date of the battle for Pokrovsk would depend on how long Ukraine could hold out in the area. Photo: Getty Images

Russia gains ground in Donbas, prepares for battle of Pokrovsk

Russian forces are attacking on eight fronts in the eastern Donbas region of Ukraine and are readying to encircle the strategic city of Pokrovsk, Ukrainian media report.

A Ukrainian soldier during operations in Russia's Kursk region. Photo: Taras Ibragimov/Suspilne Ukraine/JSC "UA:PBC"/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images

Putin prioritizes Donbas offensive over repelling Kursk incursion say analysts

The Kremlin is more concerned about pushing for further territorial advances in Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region that in repelling a Ukrainian incursion into Russia, analysts quoted by the AP news agency have said.

Photo Laurent Van der Stockt for Le Monde/Getty Images

Gen. Budanov expects major Russian offensive in June to try capture Donbas

“Until the inauguration of your (U.S.) president, they will try to get as much as possible of the territories of Donetsk and Luhansk,” Budanov said.