Russia Claimed Victory With a Flag Video. Ukraine Released What Happened Next

A Russian assault group that filmed itself raising a Russian flag in the village of Novoselivka in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region was subsequently attacked by Ukrainian forces, leaving several soldiers killed and one taken prisoner, according to statements released by Ukraine’s 92nd Separate Assault Brigade and 61st Separate Mechanized Brigade on June 29.

The incident followed Russia’s Defense Ministry publishing footage on June 28 showing troops from the Vostok grouping displaying a Russian flag in the village as evidence of its claimed capture.

According to the Ukrainian brigades, the Russian soldiers belonged to Russia’s 38th Separate Motor Rifle Brigade. After recording the video, they were engaged by Ukrainian drone operators and infantry units operating in the area.

The 92nd Brigade published footage showing the aftermath of the engagement, including the capture of one Russian serviceman. The brigade also released video of a drone approaching a Russian soldier carrying the flag.

“Russia’s hopelessness was especially evident when our drone flew right up to the occupier carrying the Russian tricolor flag in his hands. He didn’t even try to run or hide because he already understood he was doomed,” the statement read.

Russia’s Defense Ministry had earlier presented the flag-raising footage as confirmation that Novoselivka had come under Russian control.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

Putin Demands the Donetsk Region Russia Has Failed to Fully Capture for 11 Years

Nov 13, 2025 14:24

However, Ukraine’s General Staff reported on June 29 that Russian forces carried out 30 assaults on the Huliaipole axis over the previous day. The attacks took place near Dobropillia, Zaliznychne, and toward the settlements of Vozdvyzhivka, Hirke, Novoselivka, Tsvitkove, and Charivne, indicating continued fighting in the area.

Earlier, Ukrainian forces reported eliminating a Russian sabotage group near Dobropillia in the Zaporizhzhia region that Ukrainian officials said intended to film a staged flag-raising video to support false claims of capturing the settlement. According to Ukraine’s General Staff, the village remained under Ukrainian control.

Protect Ukrainian Skies

Subscribe to Sky Defense