(SLOVIANSK DISTRICT, DONETSK OBLAST) – Fighting around the village of Dronivka on the Sloviansk axis is intensifying on a daily basis, according to Ukrainian military sources, as Russian forces increase pressure in the area and prepare for possible strikes towards Sloviansk.
Ukrainian officials report that Russia is steadily building up reserves near the town of Siversk and has established deployment points in the Serebrianske forestry area. These movements are seen as part of broader preparations for renewed offensive action in northern parts of Donetsk Oblast.
At the same time, Russian units continue to use infiltration tactics, attempting to slip through gaps between Ukrainian positions held by the 81st Separate Airmobile Brigade of the 7th Corps of the Air Assault Forces. Ukrainian commanders say these small group movements are aimed at weakening defences ahead of larger assaults.
Russian troops have also been trying to cross the Siverskyi Donets River using rubber boats in areas close to Dronivka and Platonivka. Ukrainian military sources say the goal of these crossings is to conduct sabotage and assault operations behind the front line positions of the 81st brigade.
Despite the sustained pressure, Ukrainian airborne troops say coordinated defensive actions have so far prevented Russian forces from advancing. The situation remains difficult, but Ukrainian units report that they are maintaining control of key positions.
According to the Ukrainian military, soldiers from the 81st brigade recently captured a Russian serviceman. During questioning, he reportedly described one of the nearest priority objectives set by Russian command on the Sloviansk axis. The plan involves pushing towards the settlements of Zakytne and Kryva Luka.
Ukrainian officials note that these locations sit on dominant high ground. If seized, Russian forces could use them as a base for regular shelling of Sloviansk, Lyman and Mykolaivka, significantly increasing the threat to these towns and their civilian populations.
The Ukrainian military has also released video footage showing combat operations carried out by drone and strike units of the 81st Separate Airmobile Brigade in the Dronivka area.
