Third Army Corps Liberates Three Villages, Regaining Another 51 sq. km of Territory and Takes More Than 250 Russian Servicemembers Prisoner During Operation “Vivaldi”

The Third Army Corps has successfully completed the third season of Operation "Vivaldi" by liberating three villages and regaining control over a significant portion of Ukrainian territory. The villages of Nove, Ridkodub, and Katerynivka were freed, as well as Karpivka and Novomykhailivka. These actions resulted in the restoration of 176 square kilometers of Ukrainian land under the corps' control since the offensive began.

During the offensive, the corps captured more than 250 Russian servicemembers, along with around 2,000 enemy personnel. This marked a turning point in the operation, which had initially been focused on the strategic village of Nove, the key hub on the bridgehead. The Third Army Corps' commander, Andrii Biletskyi, emphasized that control over surrounding heights was crucial for maintaining the initiative on the battlefield.

To overcome the enemy's defensive positions, the corps utilized modified Soviet BTR-60 armored vehicles, converting them into robotic kamikaze systems. These were employed to destroy the enemy's most formidable fortifications. The operation showcased the Third Assault Brigade's high morale and professionalism, with their detachment named after Hero of Ukraine Colonel Yevhenii Pikus restoring full control over Ridkodub and swiftly establishing new defenses.

Another 51 square kilometers of Ukrainian land were regained during the third season of the operation, in addition to the 176 square kilometers lost since the start of the offensive actions. The Third Army Corps' efforts have proven instrumental in shifting the balance of power in the Donetsk region.