Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a major Russian assault, resulting in substantial losses for the attacking troops. The battle, which took place near the ruins of Avdiivka, was one of the largest armored assaults by Russian forces in recent memory. Ukrainian brigades exploited leadership problems within the Russian ranks, halting their advance westward.
The Ukrainian 79th Air Assault Brigade reported that they defeated a massive Russian force, which included 11 tanks, 45 armored vehicles, and 12 motorcycles. The assault, executed by the Russian 150th Motor Rifle Division, was aimed at capturing Ukrainian positions in Kurakhivka, about 20 miles south of Avdiivka. However, within hours, the Russians were forced to retreat, leaving behind significant casualties and destroyed equipment.
Social media footage, posted by the pro-Ukrainian account War is Translated, showed the battle. The video, which has garnered significant attention, depicted strikes on military vehicles and smoke billowing from the battlefield. According to the Ukrainian brigade, their forces managed to destroy six tanks, seven armored vehicles, and all 12 motorcycles, inflicting 40 fatalities and 37 injuries on the Russian side.
This is insane. The 79th Air Assault Brigade repelled one of the largest Russian assaults from multiple directions. The attack involved 11 tanks, 45 BMP/BTR, a BMP-T “Terminator,” 12 motorcycles, and around 200 personnel.
The brigade, experienced in defending against mass… pic.twitter.com/tvLRQwv9tN
— NOELREPORTS 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) July 24, 2024
The success of the Ukrainian defense was attributed to several factors. The 79th Air Assault Brigade used aerial reconnaissance to spot the attackers early, followed by artillery bombardments, explosive drone strikes, and anti-tank missiles. The Russians were further hampered by pre-placed minefields, which caused additional casualties and chaos.
Despite the victory, the situation in Donetsk remains fluid. Russian forces continue to press their attacks in various sectors, while Ukrainian troops strive to hold their ground and launch counter offensives.
Large mechanized assaults by Russian forces continue in the area between Novomykhailivka and east of Vuhledar, almost reaching the O0532 road last week.
Russian forces lost about 20 mechanized vehicles (albeit older T-62M and other models of AFV), though this does allow us to… pic.twitter.com/Ruthzt9H5L
— Ukraine Control Map (@UAControlMap) July 24, 2024
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