**Russian Forces Struggle to Advance Near Velyka Novosilka**
Ukrainian forces have successfully defended their positions near the village of Kurakhove, forcing Russian troops to shift their focus to a nearby area.
The Russians had been trying to outflank Ukrainian defenses by advancing through open terrain, but this approach has proven difficult due to the exposed roads they must use. Their initial push to encircle Kurakhove was met with stiff resistance and ultimately failed.
**Ukrainian Defenses Hold Strong**
The primary Russian objective was to break through Ukrainian defenses west of a salient and advance towards the village of Kostiantynopil. However, the Ukrainians anticipated this move and fortified their defensive line in front of Kostiantynopil, blocking any potential breakthrough.
**Russian Forces Make Tactical Shift**
Recognizing the limitations of their current operational capacity, the Russian command shifted their strategy westward, targeting the village of Velyka Novosilka. They attempted to outflank Ukrainian positions by launching two distinct attack vectors: one advancing directly from Zolota Nyva towards Velyka Novosilka, and another targeting the nearby village of Rozdolne.
**Russian Forces Face Tactical Challenges**
The Russians face significant tactical disadvantages in this area. Their advances rely heavily on exposed roads and limited paved routes, making their attack plans highly predictable. Ukrainian forces can more effectively identify Russian preparations for assaults, granting them a critical advantage.
Additionally, the large distances Russian troops must traverse to concentrate forces hinder their ability to deploy large formations without detection. Ukrainian reconnaissance drones further complicate this issue, making it challenging for Russian forces to mobilize covertly.
**Battle Footage Shows Russian Losses and Tactical Retreats**
Combat footage from the Ukrainian Presidential Brigade highlights a Russian platoon-sized attack near Velyka Novosilka involving armored vehicles and tanks. Despite suffering vehicle losses, Russian soldiers dismounted and sought refuge in nearby tree lines to avoid becoming larger targets.
However, despite repeated attempts, Russian forces failed to secure their objectives in the area. The shift in Russian focus from Kurakhove to Velyka Novosilka underscores the limitations of their current operational capacity and highlights the adaptability of Ukrainian defenses.
**Ukrainian Defenses Remain Effective**
The effectiveness of Ukraine‘s defensive strategies is evident, as Russian forces are increasingly stretched thin, facing significant logistical and tactical constraints that could shape the outcome of future engagements in the region.