Over 30 Russian Soldiers Captured as Ukrainian Forces Seal Enemy’s Underground Route in Kharkiv Region

Operation 'Veles' Disrupts Enemy Infiltration in Kharkiv Region

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Ukrainian troops have successfully blocked a covert underground passage used by Russian forces for over a year to secretly enter Kupiansk. This vital subterranean route, exploited by the enemy to infiltrate key positions, was the target of Operation 'Veles,' aimed at securing Ukrainian defenses in the area. During the mission, more than 30 Russian soldiers were captured inside a gas pipeline tunnel in the Kupiansk district.

The operation took place near Kupiansk, where Ukrainian units navigated approximately 15 kilometers through the underground route. A segment of Russian troops became isolated from their main forces and, following intense combat, some surrendered and were taken prisoner.

“Operation 'Veles' has been and remains a success. We achieved our objective by eliminating the Russians’ effective approach to the city - a route they exploited for infiltration for over a year.” - Sergeant Major 'Ayachcho,' from the 13th Brigade battalion-tactical group 'Khartiya'

Despite these gains, Russian forces persist in attempts to infiltrate and launch attacks on Ukrainian positions in and around Kupiansk. According to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, no offensive actions were recorded in the Kupiansk sector on October 25. Meanwhile, special forces unit Group 10 in the Sumy region thwarted Russian plans to disrupt critical supply lines by stopping an enemy offensive.

Frontline Developments

Operation 'Veles' fits into a broader Ukrainian strategy to prevent the encirclement of Donetsk Oblast. Following Operation 'Vivaldi,' Russian forces have temporarily halted direct assaults on Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. However, they continue to concentrate efforts toward Dobropillia, signaling ongoing threats in the region.

Sergeant Major Ayachcho also highlighted the unpredictable conditions faced by Ukrainian fighters inside the underground environment, emphasizing the complexity and dangers of close-quarters combat encountered during the operation.

As a crucial step in stabilizing the frontline amid increased Russian activity, Operation 'Veles' demonstrates Ukraine’s strategic approach to neutralizing enemy infiltration paths and readiness to mount counterattacks. The tense situation in and around Kupiansk underscores the urgent need for continued improvements in defensive measures and rapid response to evolving threats.