Events in Konstantynivka in the Donetsk region have taken a dramatic turn. Russian Telegram channels published a video showing two Ukrainian soldiers, allegedly captured, holding Ukrainian flags with portraits of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi attached to them. However, shortly thereafter, these same servicemen, at gunpoint, stated that they had been taken prisoner by Russian occupiers.
'Skelya' Regiment Confirms Capture of Its Soldiers
The 425th Separate Assault Regiment 'Skelya' officially confirmed that the individuals in the video are indeed their servicemen. As reported by RBC-Ukraine citing a statement from the regiment, this became known after footage of the prisoners began circulating in Russian channels on July 19.
"For the regiment, the capture of comrades is extremely painful news. But the most important thing is that our soldiers are alive, and the regiment will facilitate all necessary procedures for their speedy return home," the 'Skelya' regiment stated.
Chronology of Events: From Raid to Capture
On July 18, the 'Skelya' regiment announced a raid in Konstantynivka and the raising of the Ukrainian flag. The next day, the Ukrainian Telegram channel 'Operative VVS' showed footage of two regiment soldiers holding flags with portraits of Zelenskyy and Syrskyi.
However, within a few hours, the situation changed. A video appeared in Russian channels showing the same servicemen, under threat of weapons, claiming they had been captured. They were forced to say that they were sent to Konstantynivka, although the city is allegedly under Russian control. After this, the soldiers "thanked" the 4th Guards Motor Rifle Brigade, threw away the Ukrainian flags, and unfurled the Russian tricolor.
Regiment's Reaction: War Is Not Just About Victories
The 'Skelya' regiment emphasized that the capture does not indicate a defeat or the seizure of Konstantynivka. "War does not consist only of victories. Successful completion of a combat mission does not mean the absence of losses. After any raid, the enemy attempts to regain lost positions and launches counterattacks," the regiment noted.
The 'Skelya' regiment also added that during the same battles, Ukrainian warriors captured two occupiers. This highlights that the situation on the front remains dynamic and complex.
Previous Operations of the 'Skelya' Regiment
Previously, it was reported that 'Skelya' assault troops thwarted a Russian breakthrough in the Kharkiv region. Media also reported the arrest of one of the regiment's soldiers for beating a lieutenant colonel. These events demonstrate that the regiment is actively involved in hostilities and faces various challenges.
The situation in Konstantynivka remains tense, and the 'Skelya' regiment continues to work on returning its soldiers home. War requires not only courage but also strategic thinking to minimize losses and maintain morale.
