A secretive Ukrainian special forces unit, known as the “ghost” team due to their stealth tactics, successfully destroyed two key Russian radar stations and an anti-aircraft missile launcher in eastern Donbas. This operation aimed to hinder Russian advancements in the region by disrupting their air defense capabilities.
The elimination of the anti-aircraft system not only weakens Russian defenses but also creates opportunities for Ukraine to launch more impactful assaults on Russia’s industrial and energy facilities. Additionally, a Russian troop-carrying truck was taken out in a drone strike orchestrated by special forces units to divert Moscow’s attention from their frontline offensives.
The Ukrainian intelligence agencies consider the destruction of the troop-carrier as a bonus, as it was an unexpected outcome during the drone attack on the weapon sites. The ongoing conflict in the eastern city of Pokrovsk, where Russian troops are engaging in intense battles, raises concerns about potential deeper Russian incursions into Ukraine if the city falls.
Reports indicate that Russian drone teams are targeting civilians in eastern regions to coerce them out of their homes. The recent attack by Ukraine’s special operations unit Prymary (“Ghosts”) on the S-300V anti-aircraft system in occupied Donbas underscores Ukraine’s strategic focus on dismantling Russian air defense capabilities to disrupt Moscow’s industrial infrastructure.
President Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s success in reducing Moscow’s oil refining capacity by 20% through targeted strikes on Russian refineries using Ukrainian-made long-range weapons. The impact of these actions, coupled with international sanctions, is putting pressure on Russia’s oil and gas exports, affecting its ability to sustain the ongoing conflict.
Despite diplomatic efforts for peace, the conflict persists with no resolution in sight. Recent sanctions imposed by the U.S. against Russian oil giants are expected to further strain Russia’s economy. Moreover, Ukraine’s efforts to cripple Putin’s financial resources through military actions and sanctions are significantly impacting Russia’s war economy.
Ukraine’s defense forces have achieved significant victories in destroying high-value Russian radar and missile systems in occupied regions and within Russia. The “Ghosts” unit continues to target critical Russian infrastructure, showcasing a series of successful operations aimed at weakening Russia’s military defenses and logistical capabilities.