Russia took control of the vital town of Avdiivka in February. Since then, the invaders have advanced further west, and taken several villages. According to BBC Ukraine says its forces are “holding on”. But Russian troops are now attacking in five areas along the 1,100km front line. And the greatest test for Ukraine’s defenders is right here in the eastern Donetsk region. People in cities like Pokrovsk, Kostyantynivka and Kramatorsk are now facing a fast-approaching front line, and even occupation.
