**Ukrainian Troops Report Successful Operation Behind Russian Lines**
On February 17, Ukrainian soldiers from the 3rd Separate Special Forces Regiment released footage of what they claim was a successful operation to clear an industrial enterprise behind Russian lines. According to the unit’s post on social media, reconnaissance drones spotted a concentration of enemy troops in an unidentified area.
The Ukrainian troops reportedly held their positions for two days amid intense fighting, killing 23 Russian soldiers without suffering any losses themselves. The Kyiv Independent was unable to verify these claims.
**Ukraine’s War Toll Continues to Rise**
President Volodymyr Zelensky recently revealed that over 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed on the battlefield since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022. This number is up from his previous estimate of more than 45,000.
In addition, nearly 380,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been injured during the all-out war, with “ten thousands” currently missing in action or being held captive by Russian forces. The overall casualty count includes dead, wounded, missing, and captured troops.
**US Delegation to Meet with Russian Officials**
A U.S. delegation will soon arrive in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for talks with Russian officials on ending the war in Ukraine. This comes as President Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine must be involved in any peace negotiations, and European nations should not make decisions without Ukraine’s participation.
**Russia Launches Drone Attacks**
Russian forces launched 147 drones from various cities at Ukraine overnight. The Ukrainian Air Force reported these attacks, but details on the outcomes were scarce.
**Ukraine Will Not Accept Deals Made Without Participation**
President Zelensky stated that Ukraine will never accept any decisions made between the United States and Russia regarding peace negotiations without Ukraine’s participation. This sentiment echoes the views of EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, who noted that “Russia is increasingly waging an illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.”
Read More @ kyivindependent.com