Ukraine has reportedly regained control of territory in the northern part of Kharkiv Oblast, with an almost complete destruction of a Russian regiment, according to military sources.
On October 16, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) announced the liberation of 400 hectares (988 acres) of forest in Kharkiv Oblast, during which a large number of Russian troops were killed. This was reported by the Kyiv Independent.
The operation took place north of the village of Lyptsi, situated about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the Russian border.
Lyptsi had been under Russian occupation from February to September 2022 and came under attack again during Russia's renewed offensive in the region in 2024.
Details regarding the operation’s timing and duration were not disclosed.
HUR reported that Ukrainian forces captured a Russian battalion's defense area, eliminating three motorized rifle battalions, a Storm platoon, and a reconnaissance unit from Russia’s Seventh Separate Motorized Rifle Regiment.
Several Russian soldiers were reportedly taken prisoner during the operation.
Following the clearing of the 400 hectares of forest, HUR claimed that the position of the Russian invaders in this section of the front is "deteriorating and close to hopeless."
This success, according to HUR, paves the way for further efforts to drive Russian forces out of northern Kharkiv Oblast.
Earlier, in August, Ukraine's 3rd Assault Brigade launched a counteroffensive in Kharkiv Oblast, advancing nearly 2 square kilometers into Russian-held territory. The brigade, stationed near Borova village, has been consistently repelling Russian attacks.
In October, the brigade also reported retaking positions and freeing captured Ukrainian soldiers during a clash with a Russian sabotage group.
