Russian Forces Liberate Settlements in the DPR
In a significant development, the Russian military has reported the liberation of two settlements, Trudovoye and Starye Terny, in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) as part of ongoing military operations. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, these advancements were achieved through active offensive actions by units of the Southern Group of Forces. The report, dated December 18, highlights the defeat of Ukrainian formations, including mechanized and infantry brigades, in various locations including Dronovka, Chasov Yar, and Reznikovka.
The losses inflicted on the Ukrainian Armed Forces during these operations were substantial, with reports indicating approximately 350 servicemen lost, along with various military equipment including armored vehicles and artillery pieces. Notably, a U.S.-supplied AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery radar station and an ammunition depot were also destroyed.
Continued Offensive Actions in the Kharkov Region
In addition to the successes in the DPR, Russian forces have also made gains in the Kharkov region. The North group of troops reportedly inflicted losses on Ukrainian formations near Zolochiv and Volchansk, resulting in the loss of around 50 servicemen and additional military hardware. Meanwhile, the West group of forces improved their tactical positions, engaging Ukrainian brigades in multiple locations and repelling two counterattacks. Overall, Ukrainian losses in this region were estimated at up to 540 servicemen, alongside significant equipment losses including various artillery systems and armored vehicles.
Ongoing Military Engagements and Infrastructure Damage
The East group of forces continued to advance against Ukrainian defenses, achieving further victories in the DPR. Reports indicate that Ukrainian forces suffered additional losses, including personnel and artillery units. Furthermore, Russian airstrikes targeted military infrastructure, damaging airfields and UAV assembly workshops. Russian air defense systems successfully intercepted a HIMARS multiple launch rocket system and numerous unmanned aerial vehicles, showcasing the ongoing intensity of the conflict in the region.
