The situation on the Konstantynivka axis remains one of the most tense along the entire front line. Active combat operations continue in the city and surrounding areas, during which Ukrainian units carry out systematic work to identify and neutralize enemy sabotage groups and firing positions.
Enemy force buildup and VSU countermeasures
According to military intelligence, Russian occupiers have concentrated up to 145 servicemen in Konstantynivka in the Donetsk region. Despite this, Ukrainian forces do not cease counter-sabotage operations. Every day, the enemy carries out up to 20 attacks, attempting to penetrate deep into the city, but the defenders successfully repel these attempts.
A key element of defense has become the mass use of unmanned systems of all types. Ukrainian fighters actively use FPV drones for precision strikes against enemy personnel and equipment, as well as for reconnaissance and fire adjustment.
Personal visit by the Commander-in-Chief
The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, personally visited the combat zone on the Konstantynivka axis. During the visit, he heard reports from the command of the 19th Army Corps, as well as from brigade and unit commanders regarding the operational situation and troop support.
Syrskyi emphasized that the task facing Ukrainian defenders is to protect Konstantynivka and inflict maximum damage on the occupiers, noting that this task is being carried out effectively.
Results of combat operations on July 18
In just one day — July 18 — Ukrainian troops inflicted significant damage on the enemy in Konstantynivka. According to VSU data, enemy losses amounted to 21 killed and 6 wounded servicemen. Six enemy shelters were also hit, which significantly reduces the enemy's ability to organize defense and plan further attacks.
Political context and statements by the parties
On July 3, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Konstantynivka had been fully captured by Russian troops. However, the actual situation on the front does not confirm these assertions. The next day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed a personal meeting with Putin directly in Konstantynivka if the city is indeed under Russian control. The Kremlin rejected this offer and proposed meeting in Moscow.
At the same time, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated its desire to temporarily cease shelling of the city, allegedly to transfer the bodies of fallen soldiers. Head of unmanned systems of the 40th Separate Marine Brigade, Oleksandr Anikolchuk, explained that Russia is striving for a pause to clarify the actual line of contact, as the city has turned into a "gray zone" with unclear control boundaries.
Tactics and defense strategy
Ukrainian defenders apply a comprehensive approach to the defense of Konstantynivka: from traditional search-and-strike operations to high-tech use of drones. This allows them not only to repel attacks but also to deliver preemptive strikes against enemy positions, minimizing losses on their own side.
The main emphasis in the current phase of combat operations is on increasing the use of unmanned systems of all types. This not only increases the effectiveness of striking the enemy but also reduces risks for personnel, allowing combat operations to be conducted with minimal direct contact.
