Ukrainian Forces Advance in Southern Ukraine, Disrupting Russian Offensive
Ukrainian Airborne Assault Troops are conducting a counteroffensive in the Oleksandrivka direction, aiming to thwart Russian plans to advance in the Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhya regions. The operation has resulted in the recapture of over 300 square kilometers of territory and the clearing of eight settlements from Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups, according to reports from the Ukrainian military.
Counteroffensive Details
Ground combat reconnaissance groups from the 132nd separate reconnaissance battalion of the 7th rapid reaction corps of the Ukrainian Airborne Assault Forces have broken through Russian defense lines in the Oleksandrivka direction. During the operation, Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed enemy fire installations, manpower, and ammunition storage sites. Charter 97 reports that the situation remains dynamic, with Russian forces attempting to hold captured positions and utilizing significant resources.
Strategic Objectives
The primary goal of the Ukrainian counteroffensive is to defeat the Russian grouping and push them beyond the administrative border of the Dnipropetrovsk region. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that Ukrainian officials have offered differing assessments of terrain control in southern Ukraine, reflecting the complex tactical situation on the frontline.
Recent Gains
As of February 23, 2026, Ukrainian forces have liberated over 400 square kilometers and eight settlements in the Oleksandrivka area, according to Ukrainian Commander in Chief Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi. Ukrainian sources also report organized withdrawals from positions near the villages of Lisivka and Sukhy Yar, near Pokrovsk and Myrnograd in the Donetsk region.
Historical Context: 80th Air Assault Brigade
The 80th Air Assault Brigade “Halychyna” is a key component of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces, tracing its origins back to a Soviet airborne regiment formed in 1955. Wikipedia details the brigade’s participation in various conflicts, including the War in Donbas and the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Ongoing Operations
The active phase of the operation is ongoing, and Ukrainian officials caution that it is premature to assess final results. Despite active assault actions by Russian troops, Ukrainian forces continue to repel attacks while simultaneously conducting offensive operations.