The Duran Podcast Long range missiles and Ukraine's last defense line
28 snips
Sep 27, 2025 
Alexander Mercouris, an experienced geopolitical commentator and lawyer, joins to dissect the current military landscape in Ukraine. He details the growing confidence of Russia, citing their open updates on battlefield successes. The intense fighting around Pokrovsk reveals concerning claims of encirclement for Ukrainian units. Mercouris also contrasts Western narratives of Ukrainian progress with stark realities on the ground. He warns that key regions like Slovyansk and Kramatorsk could be Ukraine's last defense lines amidst ongoing chaos.
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Russian Ministry's New Transparency
- The Russian Defense Ministry has shifted from silence to detailed battlefield disclosures, signaling growing confidence.
- This transparency suggests Moscow believes the military situation is moving in its favor.
Fierce Fighting Around Pokrovsk
- Mercouris highlights heavy fighting around Pokrovsk with Russian claims of encirclement and advances inside the town.
- He reports trapped Ukrainian units and high Ukrainian casualties in nearby villages.
Broad Russian Advances Reported
- Russia claims gains in Kupiansk, Liman-area villages, and encirclement near Seversk, indicating broad front advancement.
- Mercouris notes Ukrainian brigades are severely depleted and some units are surrounded.