Russian army sappers are clearing routes for assault units of the Yug troop grouping operating in the Slavyansk-Kramatorsk agglomeration in the Donetsk People’s Republic, according to a video published by the Russian Defense Ministry.

A platoon commander from the 103rd Motor Rifle Regiment, known by the call sign Vel, said direct clashes on the front line are relatively rare. Ukrainian units, he noted, rely mainly on drones, including R-18 UAVs and kamikaze drones.

According to Vel, Ukrainian forces are also extensively mining roads and paths in an effort to disrupt Russian supply lines and slow further advances.

He said Russian engineers are clearing and inspecting these routes to make the movement of infantry units as safe as possible.

Advancing Russian assault groups are also supported by drone crews from the Yug grouping. They conduct reconnaissance and deliver ammunition, medical supplies and food to forward positions.