Why the fall of Pokrovsk would matter to Ukraine and Russia

Ukraine could face a significant setback if the key city of Pokrovsk falls to Russian forces, potentially advancing Putin's goal of controlling Ukraine's industrial east. Russia's slow advance towards Pokrovsk has strategic importance due to its proximity to vital infrastructure and its role in opening up avenues for further Russian incursions. The fall of Pokrovsk would not signal an immediate end to the conflict, as Ukraine still has defensive lines to fall back on, according to analysts.