russian forces have again attempted to use unconventional tactics to advance near Kupiansk, trying to move assault troops through the underground pipeline of the Soyuz gas pipeline, according to the 115th Separate Mechanized Brigade. The attempt reflects continued russian efforts to exploit infrastructure in order to bypass Ukrainian defensive positions.
The report states that the enemy concentrated a significant number of infantry for the operation, approximately the equivalent of two platoons. The plan relied on covert movement through the pipeline to approach Ukrainian positions undetected and achieve tactical surprise on the Kupiansk axis.
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However, Ukrainian defenders were aware of the maneuver. As russian infantry emerged from the pipeline, they were met by prepared Ukrainian forces, indicating that the attempted infiltration had been anticipated and countermeasures were already in place.
As a result, the assault was decisively repelled. The engagement prevented russian troops from gaining ground and neutralized the element of surprise that the pipeline approach was meant to provide. Ukrainian forces retained full control of their positions in the area.
The 115th Brigade reported that enemy losses were inflicted during the operation, though the exact number of russian personnel eliminated is still being clarified. No Ukrainian losses were reported in the initial statement.
The use of gas pipelines for troop movement is not new in the current war and highlights the increasingly improvised and high-risk methods employed by russian forces when conventional assaults fail. Such tactics also underscore the strain on russian infantry units, which continue to be used in frontal and unconventional attacks despite heavy losses.
Overall, the failed attempt near Kupiansk demonstrates the effectiveness of Ukrainian situational awareness and defensive preparation. By detecting and countering the pipeline infiltration, Ukrainian forces once again denied russian troops any tactical breakthrough on this critical sector of the front.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukraine's Defense Intelligence has released exclusive footage detailing a special operation conducted in November 2025 on the Pokrovsk axis, one of the most contested sectors of the eastern front. The mission was carried out by fighters of the Black Winter Group, operating as part of the Tymur Special Unit under the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine.
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