A day before US-brokered talks, Russia and Ukraine batter each other with long-range strikes

On November 9, Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces (SOF) released video footage showcasing a mission conducted by the 73rd Naval Special Operations Center inside Russia. The video documented special reconnaissance activities, the placement of mines along Russian troop and supply routes, an explosive ambush, and target designation for strike drones.

Ukrainian special forces claimed these raids directly impact Russia’s military capabilities, disrupt command systems, and lower troop morale. According to their report, the operation resulted in the death of four Russian soldiers and nine wounded. Additionally, a vehicle carrying ammunition was destroyed during the mission. The successful deployment of these special forces operations forced Russian troops to deploy additional forces and reserves, restrict the use of specific routes, and slow their logistics operations.

SOF highlighted that the majority of missions conducted on Russian territory by Ukrainian special forces are typically not made public. On November 5, SOF reported the capture of a Russian soldier dressed in Ukrainian military uniform, who was forced to lay down his weapon without resistance.