Ukraine Thwarts Russian Plans, Prepares for Spring Offensive

Ukrainian forces have made tactical gains in the Aleksandrovsky and Gulyai-Polye areas, disrupting Russian preparations for a spring offensive. While described as “minor successes,” these actions have improved Ukraine’s tactical position and stabilized the front line, according to military commanders.

Offensive Actions in Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk Regions

Assault units entered the Gulyai-Polye direction at the end of 2025 as a preparatory move, with the 1st separate assault regiment advancing into the area between Dobropolye and New Zaporozhye. Commander Dmitry “Perun” Filatov explained that this flank attack aimed to pin down enemy forces and pave the way for potential advances in the Dnipropetrovsk region. The regiment reportedly penetrated Russian defenses by 12 kilometers using vehicles.

Strategic Objectives and Anticipated Russian Response

Filatov emphasized that these actions were not a new counter-offensive but rather a means to improve Ukraine’s tactical position. He believes Russia intends to launch its spring offensive first in the Pokrovsky direction, having established a fortified defensive line, and then in the Limansky direction.

Infantry Operations and Sabotage

The 2nd battalion of the 95th airmobile brigade, under the command of Anton Derlyuk, focused on pushing Russian forces out of the Dnepropetrovsk region. Their strategy involved infiltrating behind enemy lines to eliminate reconnaissance units and disrupt operations. Derlyuk reported that his unit neutralized approximately 60 Russian soldiers, taking three prisoners and destroying the remainder. The battalion advanced 10-11 kilometers beyond the line of contact, relying heavily on well-trained infantry.

Territorial Gains and Ongoing Operations

President Zelenskyy has stated that the area of recaptured territories in the Aleksandrovsky direction is between 300-450 square kilometers. The specific settlements regained control of remain undisclosed. Reports suggest Ukrainian forces may have advanced through villages in the southernmost part of the Dnipropetrovsk region, such as Vishnevoy, Egorovka, and Pershotravnevoy, and into the Zaporozhye region, pushing Russian forces back from Novoegorovka, Novoivanovka, and Pavlovka.

The ability of Ukrainian forces to consolidate their positions and retain control of these villages remains to be seen.