Pokrovsk now stands at the center of one of the most intense engagements of the war. The Russian command is attempting to grind down Ukrainian defenses through overwhelming bombardment, aiming to create conditions for infiltration rather than a rapid breakthrough. This strategy relies on destroying observation posts, blinding drone operators, and collapsing defensive positions before small assault groups move in among the ruins. However, this approach also forces Russian artillery systems to operate closer to the front, exposing them to Ukrainian drones, precision munitions, and counterbattery fire. As both sides escalate the use of reconnaissance and strike drones, the battle is evolving into a test of who can locate and eliminate the enemy’s firepower first. The outcome in Pokrovsk will not only determine local control—it will shape the tempo and character of offensive operations across this entire sector of the front.
I thought thermobaric weapons were banned?
There’s a lot of things classified as war crimes going on.
Nothing is banned when there’s no effective deterrents.
I went digging and found a bunch of sources indicating that they’re not. This, for example. They’re not really incendiary or chemical weapons since the primary purpose of their detonation is to produce a large blast wave, not to burn things.
Using them in ways that are prohibited for all weapons is of course also prohibited, such as indiscriminate use against civilians.