The conflict in Velyka Novosilka, Donetsk Oblast, has intensified as Russian forces find themselves trapped in a precarious situation, described as a “fire trap” by the Ukrainian 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade. Despite claims of Russian occupation in the village a few days prior, the fighting continues, with both sides fiercely contesting control over the settlement.
Located in southern Donetsk Oblast near the tripoint of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts, Velyka Novosilka is situated over 60 kilometers from the occupied Volnovakha. The village, devoid of functioning shops or pharmacies, remains without power and bears the scars of conflict, with approximately 50% of its buildings destroyed. Despite the destruction, over 300 residents are still trapped in the midst of the ongoing battle.
The Ukrainian 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade revealed through a Telegram post that Russian forces have been unable to advance further in Velyka Novosilka. Instead, they are compelled to reinforce their units within the city, with Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance actively monitoring enemy movements and positions. Subsequent strikes from FPV drones and artillery are strategically targeting the basement positions where Russian forces seek shelter, intensifying the pressure on the trapped troops.
On 27 January, the OSINT group Deep State asserted that Russian forces had taken control of Velyka Novosilka, marking it as Russian-held on its interactive war map. However, Ukrainian officials, including military spokesperson Ivan Siekach, refuted claims of full Russian control. Siekach emphasized that ongoing battles persist in the settlement, with Ukrainian forces still maintaining a presence amidst the conflict.
According to Siekach, the Russian forces have resorted to extensive propaganda tactics, including “flag insertions,” where specially prepared propaganda units emerge briefly from basements, wave flags, and retreat back into hiding. These deceptive maneuvers aim to create an illusion of control over the city, despite Ukrainian forces maintaining visibility over the entire settlement. The relentless artillery and FPV drone operations against enemy positions underscore the determination of Ukrainian forces to resist the Russian incursion.
### Expert Insights and Developments
#### Frontline Report: Ukrainian Garrison Withdraws from Velyka Novosilka
Recent reports indicate that the Ukrainian garrison in Velyka Novosilka has withdrawn after Russia severed crucial supply routes. The strategic decision to retreat underscores the complex dynamics at play in the ongoing conflict, with both sides adapting their strategies to gain the upper hand.
#### Reuters: Russia Advances in Pokrovsk
While the focus remains on Velyka Novosilka, Russia’s advances in Pokrovsk have garnered attention, with reports of continuous movement day and night. The sparing of troops and artillery in this particular advancement signals a shift in tactics that could have broader implications for the region.
#### ISW Analysis: Ukrainian Progress in Kharkiv Oblast
In a related development, Ukrainian forces have made significant progress in Kharkiv Oblast and near Donetsk’s Pokrovsk. These advancements, coupled with Russian movements in various directions, highlight the fluid nature of the conflict and the strategic maneuvers being employed by both sides.
As the situation in Velyka Novosilka remains volatile, with conflicting claims of control and ongoing military operations, the fate of the trapped civilians and the strategic significance of the settlement hang in the balance. The relentless efforts of both Ukrainian and Russian forces underscore the high stakes involved in this protracted conflict, as the battle for Velyka Novosilka unfolds amidst the ruins of war.
