Nostalgia for Tank Battles as Russian Forces Target Key Ukrainian Town
The Ukrainian armor platoon in the northeast town of Kupyansk expresses nostalgia for tank-on-tank battles that tested soldiers’ will and skill last year. Russian invaders have now shifted their focus to this strategic town, forcing Ukrainian troops to adapt their tactics.
The commander of the Ukrainian armor platoon, known as Leshyi, explains that the war has changed. The enemy is no longer using full-on blitzing tactics but instead probes for weak spots, requiring the Ukrainians to use their tanks more like howitzers. Leshyi, a veteran soldier, spoke on the condition of anonymity for military reasons.
While Ukrainian troops continue their grueling counteroffensive in the south to retake occupied territory, it remains unclear whether Russia is really trying to advance in Kupyansk or merely distracting Ukrainian resources. Ukrainian officials believe that Moscow is trying to gain ground toward Kupyansk, given its strategic roads and rail tracks, including a train line that reaches Russia’s border.
Seizing Kupyansk would be challenging for the Russians. The city is bisected by the Oskil River, presenting a significant obstacle for any advancing forces. Furthermore, Kupyansk is located in Kharkiv, which is not part of the four Ukrainian regions that Russia has declared annexed. However, Russian forces have recently made modest gains in the area, prompting a call for reinforcements from Ukraine’s top commander in the east.
Russian forces continue to carry out attacks and shell Ukrainian positions, causing civilian casualties and prompting a mandatory evacuation order. However, only a fraction of the population has evacuated so far. Unless there is a collapse on either side, a stalemate seems to be the most likely outcome.
The Russian push toward Kupyansk has brought them closer to the 3rd Tank Brigade. The Ukrainian tank crew has had some indirect contact with the enemy, but it does not offer the same immediacy as previous battles. Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov suggests that Russia’s strategy of diverting Ukrainian troops from the south is a logical move, but it risks dividing their forces.
Ukrainian field commanders have observed Russia revising its tactics, attacking in smaller numbers and probing for weaknesses in Ukrainian lines. However, the strategy has been uneven, leading to confusion and uncertainty among Russian troops.
In the midst of the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian soldiers continue to endure the hardships of war and strive to hold their ground. As the tanks move out for their next mission, the younger generation prepares to take the lead, while the more experienced soldiers follow closely behind.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate, with no immediate resolution in sight. The situation remains tense, and the outcome remains uncertain.