Ukrainian Forces Confirm Loss of Key Territories Amidst Russian Advances
The operational-strategic group of troops “Dnipro” has confirmed reports from DeepState regarding the capture of Popiv Yar village near Konstantynivka by Russian forces. Additionally, it reported the occupation of Ivanivka, located close to Siversk in the Donetsk region. This information was disclosed in a report by OSSU on Saturday, August 16, 2025, indicating that Ukrainian units were forced to withdraw from these positions, reports 24brussels.
Concurrently, the enemy launched a significant mechanized offensive in the Kupiansk direction, deploying tanks, armored vehicles, and infantry. This marked the first such assault in an extended period. However, due to the coordinated actions of the Defense Forces, the advance was completely halted. Several units of Russian equipment were destroyed, and approximately twenty Russian soldiers, who abandoned their damaged vehicles, came under fire from Ukrainian troops.
Commander of the 429th Separate Drone Systems Regiment “Achilles” clarified that the enemy advance consisted of two tanks, three MTLBs, and around 40 troops. Through the collaboration of this unit with the 116th Separate Mechanized Brigade and the 15th Brigade “Kara-Dag,” the assault was stopped, resulting in the destruction of all five enemy armored vehicles.
According to OSSU “Dnipro,” the Russian army suffered significant losses in the last 24 hours, with over a thousand soldiers reported killed. As of 16:00 on August 16, 2025, nearly 70 combat engagements were recorded along the front lines.
Previously, President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia might intensify its attacks in the coming days to improve its position ahead of peace negotiations.
