Thread by @dianabutsko

I worked in southern Ukraine. Here are a few key takeaways from the 2026 ‘counteroffensive.’

1/ “We advanced roughly 10 kilometers into enemy defenses,” says “Lawyer,” deputy commander of the 3rd battalion of the 82nd Air Assault Brigade.

2/ One of the key factors behind the success was surprise.

“What helped us? Deception — that’s number one. Second — keeping all movements and the start of assault actions secret. Third — switching off Starlink. That also helped us a lot,” says “Lev,” a battalion commander.

3/ Air Assault units managed to redeploy from Donetsk region without being detected and caught the enemy off guard.

Small groups were even sent in different directions to confuse Russian forces.

“The enemy knew the 82nd brigade was moving somewhere —but not where,” says Lawyer.

4/ After relocating south, Ukrainian troops launched assault operations immediately.

During the first month, the advance was rapid. Instead of elite Russian naval infantry or airborne units, they encountered weaker motorized rifle units.

5/ “At first, the enemy didn’t even realize we were launching a counteroffensive. They hadn’t prepared positions, and the advance was very fast.”

“Now the enemy understands what forces are operating here. They’re preparing positions, reinforcing troops, bringing in reserves, and increasing fire support and reconnaissance.”

“In the first weeks, they barely used artillery,” Lawyer notes.

6/ The pace has now slowed.

Ukrainian units are advancing in small groups, but facing much stronger resistance compared to January–February when the operation began.

7/ Despite stabilizing the frontline, small Russian groups still infiltrate the rear.

“Forward elements have already penetrated deep beyond the initial line. Recently, our drone operators captured enemy soldiers at a depth of about 10 km.”

8/ “Overall, the line is now relatively stable. But we are the ones dictating it. The initiative is on our side,” says Lawyer.

Here is the story: