POSAD POKROVSKE, Ukraine — With an overcast sky offering a break from the ever-watchful eyes of Russian drones and the artillery barrages that often follow, a young Ukrainian soldier joined his squad for a bit of fresh air on the patio of what had been a cultural center.
"When it's good weather the Russians can correct their targeting with the drones," said Nesquik, a 26-year-old with the smooth face of a boy whose nickname comes from a chocolate drink. "Today, they're just shooting where they think the targets are — they have artillery to spare."
The thud of explosions rumbled somewhere in the distance.