(DONETSK REGION, UKRAINE) – Ukrainian border guards operating under the “Phoenix” unit say every movement to frontline positions has become a high risk operation, marked by constant enemy fire, difficult terrain and unpredictable threats.
The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine said the experience is illustrated by a soldier known as “Lavr”, who has featured several times in the “Go PRO Phoenix” project, alongside an unmanned aerial vehicle pilot using the call sign “Brody”.
The team advances towards positions through heavily damaged villages and shattered districts in a frontline city in the Donetsk region. Their route cuts through deserted streets, darkness and mud, with abandoned animals often the only signs of life.
They are accompanied by regular artillery fire and the persistent threat of Russian first person view drones. Despite this, the unit continues to reach its positions and carry out combat tasks.
Video footage released by the service shows the soldiers navigating hazardous terrain while monitoring for threats. At one point, a voice warns to watch the road carefully in case of enemy presence, noting that optical systems may not detect everything.
Moments later, gunfire is heard as one of the soldiers says they will engage a target. Another voice remarks on unusual sounds nearby, suggesting incoming danger.
The footage captures the harsh conditions underfoot, with one soldier joking about soon having a new boot made entirely of mud as debris and dirt are kicked up during movement.
Amid the tension, there are brief moments of laughter, but these are quickly interrupted by renewed warnings and situational updates, including references to aerial threats approaching rapidly.
At one stage, the team is ordered into a basement for cover as danger intensifies. After a pause, a voice confirms the immediate threat has passed and instructs the group to move out cautiously while continuing to listen for incoming fire.
The soldiers then resume their movement, discussing their route and identifying potential hazards, including tangled obstacles and possible enemy positions. They proceed carefully, maintaining communication as they advance.
Later in the footage, one soldier sends greetings and notes that without additional equipment, they are able to record more of their journey. The early morning setting is described as foggy, with mixed weather conditions including snow and rain.
Despite the difficult environment, the unit maintains its mission focus. The State Border Guard Service said such operations demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of Ukrainian forces working under sustained pressure along the frontline.
