Russia Tries the Pipeline Trick Again—Ukrainian Forces Shut It Down With Heavy Losses

Russian forces attempted to break through Ukrainian positions in the Sumy region by moving through a gas pipeline near the village of Yablunivka, while simultaneously launching a diversionary assault using motorcycles, Ukraine’s 71st Separate Airmobile Brigade reported on April 19.

According to the brigade, the maneuver was detected in time and disrupted through coordinated action with adjacent units.

The attempted infiltration ended with significant losses for Russian forces. Ukrainian troops reported 35 killed and 17 wounded, along with the destruction of three motorcycles and four all-terrain vehicles used in the assault.

Open-source analyst moklasen noted that Russian troops emerged from the pipeline northwest of Yablunivka before being engaged and eliminated by Ukrainian forces.

This marks at least the fourth such attempt in 2026 to use sections of the Druzhba gas pipeline network to infiltrate behind Ukrainian lines in this sector.

The pipeline itself carries broader geopolitical significance. It is part of the same network that Hungary has repeatedly pushed Ukraine to restore for the transit of Russian fuel, arguing for economic and energy stability.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

Russian Troops Used Pipelines for Surprise Attacks. Now It’s a Disaster

Feb 19, 2026 14:18

At the same time, Budapest has used disputes over energy transit and related issues as leverage in blocking or delaying certain forms of EU assistance to Ukraine, adding a political dimension to infrastructure now being used in active combat operations.

Earlier, the Atesh partisan movement reported a sharp deterioration in morale among Russian troops operating on the Kupiansk axis, citing mounting losses and internal breakdown within units.

On the Frontline of Truth

Our reporters work on the frontlines to show what’s really happening in Ukraine. Your support helps them keep reporting.

SUPPORT