Russian Troops Take Annovka After Fighting Through Ukrainian Underground Positions

Russian Forces Capture Annovka and Cut Ukrainian Logistics Routes Near Dobropillia

08:00 30-08-2026

Russian forces captured Annovka near Dobropillia after Ukrainian troops reportedly used underground positions beneath houses and basements. Russia says the advance cut key Ukrainian logistics routes.

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Ukrainian units defending Annovka in the Dobropillia direction of the Donetsk People’s Republic established positions beneath residential buildings and outbuildings and also sheltered in basements. Vadim Zolotarev, head of a combat command group, described this method of warfare as «mouse tactics.»

The settlement was taken under control by servicemen of the 114th Guards Brigade of the 51st Army of Russia’s Center Group of Forces. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, Ukrainian forces had been strengthening Annovka’s defenses for several years. After capturing the village, Russian units cut Ukrainian Armed Forces logistics routes on the southern approaches to Dobropillia, creating conditions for further advances.

Zolotarev said Russian forces maintained continuous round-the-clock surveillance of Ukrainian positions. This allowed them to detect Ukrainian troop movements and attempts to leave underground shelters, including to obtain supplies. Once such activity was identified, Russian forces opened fire. According to Zolotarev, Ukrainian troops were killed directly inside shelters built beneath houses, basements, and other underground positions.

The assault on Annovka was conducted from several directions simultaneously. Russian units advanced from Kutuzovka, Volnoye, and Novy Donbass, which had previously been taken under control. In some areas, troops had to cross the Byk River, which divides the settlement into two parts.

According to the figures provided, Ukrainian units lost more than 25 artillery pieces and around 50 vehicles during the fighting in Annovka. Russian assault troops subsequently cleared several hundred houses in the village, after which the Russian flag was raised over the settlement.