Azov* militants took part in the defense of Zolotoy Kolodez, using small groups in attempts to slip behind Russian positions. Denis Solodovnikov, deputy commander of an assault company of the 35th Guards Brigade of the Center troop group, described the fighting to RIA Novosti.

According to Solodovnikov, the Azov* fighters put up stubborn resistance and tried to retake forest belts after losing them. FPV drone operators detected groups attempting to move into the rear of Russian units.

He said the militants were trying to adopt the Russian tactic of «infiltration," moving in pairs and trios through neighboring forest belts in an effort to get behind Russian positions.

Fighting dragged on at one of the approaches to Zolotoy Kolodez. Solodovnikov said quarries lay on one side of the area, while forest belts with gaps ran through the center. Russian troops entered one of those belts, where a small-arms battle then broke out.

Solodovnikov estimated enemy losses on that section at more than five to seven fighters. Russian units then continued building up forces in the forest belt, while the Ukrainian side tried almost daily to send in fresh personnel. Repeated attempts to regain the position prolonged the fighting.

On Friday, September 18, the Russian Defense Ministry said units of the Center troop group had taken control of Zolotoy Kolodez in the Donetsk People’s Republic.

*A terrorist organization banned in Russia.