Listen to the article
Russian Forces Shift Tactics in Oleksandrivka Direction, Combining Assault and Logistics
Russian forces have modified their offensive strategy in the Oleksandrivka direction, implementing a new approach that merges assault operations with logistics support, according to Ukrainian military sources.
In a recent interview with Army TV, a Ukrainian UAV platoon commander with the call sign “Hulk” detailed these tactical changes. “Hulk” serves in the “Bulava” company of the 3rd Mechanized Battalion of the Separate Presidential Brigade named after Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytskyi, a unit currently engaged in defensive operations against Russian advances.
“The enemy has shifted from deploying small groups to using units of four to five personnel in coordinated assaults,” the commander explained. This represents a significant departure from previous Russian tactics that relied on smaller, more dispersed attack formations.
Perhaps most notable is how Russian forces have reorganized their supply lines. According to “Hulk,” assault troops now double as logistics carriers, being deployed approximately 15 kilometers from the line of contact. These soldiers are heavily burdened with supplies—primarily ammunition and reconnaissance drones—which they gradually distribute to forward positions as they advance toward Ukrainian defensive lines.
This dual-purpose approach appears designed to address logistics challenges that have previously hampered Russian offensive operations. By combining combat and supply functions, Russian commanders may be attempting to maintain momentum during assaults while ensuring forward units remain adequately supplied.
The Ukrainian officer also described another element of Russian operations: mechanized incursions using civilian and modified vehicles. “There was one mechanized push—the guys repelled it,” he noted. “They drive in on modified pickups—’loaf vans,’ ‘Zhigulis,’ ‘Nivas’ with Starlinks.”
These vehicles, primarily modified civilian automobiles, are being used for rapid penetration operations aimed at creating propaganda opportunities rather than securing tactical advantages. “They jump into settlements to plant their flag, film it all, and launch news claiming they have captured some settlement,” the UAV commander explained.
This focus on creating visual evidence of supposed territorial gains suggests Russian forces may be prioritizing information operations alongside military objectives. By quickly entering Ukrainian settlements, documenting their presence, and withdrawing, Russian units can generate media content that portrays momentum even when actual territorial control remains contested.
Ukrainian defense forces continue to counter these tactics, with “Hulk” confirming that recent mechanized attempts have been successfully repelled. The Oleksandrivka direction remains a focal point of military operations, with Ukrainian forces adapting their defensive measures to counter these evolving Russian approaches.
Military analysts note that this tactical evolution likely reflects Russian adaptation to battlefield realities after nearly two years of full-scale war. The conflict has pushed both sides to continuously refine their operational approaches, with this latest change representing Moscow’s ongoing search for effective breakthrough methods against increasingly experienced Ukrainian defensive positions.
The Separate Presidential Brigade, where “Hulk” serves, continues to play a crucial role in Ukraine’s defensive efforts. Named after the historic Ukrainian Cossack leader Bohdan Khmelnytskyi, the unit has been involved in numerous defensive operations throughout the ongoing conflict.
As Russian forces continue to modify their assault methods, Ukrainian military leadership remains focused on identifying these changes and developing appropriate countermeasures to maintain defensive integrity along the extensive front line.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
8 Comments
Interesting to see Russia adapting their tactics in Ukraine. Combining assault and logistics seems like a pragmatic approach, but it will be critical to monitor how effective it proves on the ground.
You’re right, the ability to efficiently resupply assault forces could give Russia an advantage. Though their overall strategy remains questionable given the challenges they’ve faced.
This tactical shift by Russian forces highlights their adaptability, but their continued reliance on propaganda tactics is troubling. The situation in Ukraine remains fluid and complex.
The reorganization of Russian supply lines to integrate assault troops is a notable development. It suggests they are seeking to improve logistics and operational efficiency, though the ultimate effectiveness remains to be seen.
While the details of Russia’s changing assault tactics are interesting, the broader use of civilian vehicles for propaganda is deeply concerning. It speaks to the lengths they are willing to go to control the narrative.
You raise a good point. The blurring of military and civilian assets is a worrying trend that raises questions about Russia’s adherence to international laws and norms of warfare.
The use of modified pickup trucks for propaganda purposes is concerning. It demonstrates Russia’s willingness to leverage any available means to push their narrative, even if it means blurring the lines between military and civilian assets.
Agreed, the blending of military and civilian vehicles raises ethical questions. Russia appears increasingly desperate to maintain a favorable public image as the conflict drags on.