Ukrainian defenders thwart Russian encirclement on the eastern front using drone support
The enemy was unable to encircle Ukrainian units on the most intense section of the front thanks to timely and effective actions by the Ukrainian military, including the use of drones for delivering food, ammunition, and medicines.
Military analysts report that Russian forces suffered significant losses and failed to consolidate control over key areas.
According to the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Russian troops launched a tactical offensive around Konstantinovka-Druzhkovka, advancing north of Rusyn Yar and south of Druzhkovka.
Geolocation video evidence indicates that this offensive was limited and part of localized combat operations, which prevented the Russians from establishing a firm foothold.
Russian sources confirm that their troops did not capture the city of Konstantinovka but only entered its outskirts, while Ukrainian forces are focused on the south near the Kletbanyk reservoir, where UAVs enhance artillery and supply operations, complicating Russian assaults.
Official Kremlin reports claim Russian troops have secured positions within the city, but in reality, these are only reconnaissance groups.
Military experts note that Ukrainian groups continue to operate near Pleshivka and other strategic points, contradicting Russian Defense Ministry statements about the capture of these territories.
According to the Ukrainian General Staff, on this sector, Ukrainian forces repelled three Russian attacks in the villages of Shcherbinivka, Kletbanyk, Rusyn Yar, Sofiivka, and Pleshivka.
The situation remains tense, with Ukrainian defenders exerting efforts to halt the enemy’s advances, inflicting heavy losses, especially through drone support and tactical coordination.
Local analysts suggest that the casualties among Russian invaders are significant, with reports indicating hundreds of fallen.
The prospects for maintaining control over Ukrainian territories are still promising, but fighting continues, posing major challenges for both sides.