Russian Assaults Falter on Oleksandrivskyi Axis as Ukrainian Paratroopers Push Back

Ukrainian forces repelled seven Russian assaults on the Oleksandrivskyi axis, with frontline troops reporting signs that Moscow’s offensive pressure in the area is weakening after months of sustained fighting.

Andrii Yarmoliuk, chief sergeant of a company in the 3rd Air Assault Battalion of the 82nd Air Assault Brigade, speaking to Suspilne News on May 5, said Ukrainian paratroopers have been holding positions in the sector for nearly five months while continuously fending off attempts to break through their defenses.

Yarmoliuk stated that Russian forces initially relied on organized infantry units to force a breakthrough, making the situation particularly difficult during the early stages of the deployment.

More recently, however, Russian tactics have shifted. A week ago, assaults were carried out using quad bikes and other light vehicles, but current attacks are now being conducted by small infantry teams of one or two soldiers, he said.

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“At the beginning, when we moved here, the enemy often used infantry. They had designated groups that they wanted to use to break through. It was very difficult. But today the enemy is exhausted; they are starting to abandon their positions. Our guys are conducting counteroffensive actions and securing positions that belonged to them,” Yarmoliuk said.

Ukrainian forces continue to launch localized counterattacks in the area, aiming to consolidate gains and push Russian troops back from previously held positions.

Earlier, Ukrainian forces launched localized counterattacks near the village of Charivne in the Zaporizhzhia region, while Russian troops have failed to make any recent advances along the southern front.

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