Russian assault units captured Ukrainian stockpiles of food and ammunition during the liberation of the city of Mirnograd in the Donetsk People’s Republic, according to servicemen involved in the operation.

Details were shared by Andrey Khotenkov, a machine gunner with the 5th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade named after A. v. Zakharchenko, part of the 51st Guards Army within Russia’s Center force grouping. Speaking in a video released by the Russian Defense Ministry, he said Russian troops did not face shortages of ammunition or supplies during the fighting.

Khotenkov explained that his unit initially advanced with its own reserves, but once they secured their positions, they discovered well-stocked Ukrainian depots containing both provisions and ammunition. He added that as Russian forces continued moving in, supply lines were quickly established to ensure uninterrupted delivery of everything needed.

He also stressed that during the operation, Russian troops made a concerted effort to protect civilians. According to him, Ukrainian fighters attempted to use residents as human shields, forcing Russian units to adjust their tactics. Instead of direct frontal assaults, troops maneuvered around positions and waited for moments when civilians managed to escape on their own.

Khotenkov noted that many residents actively sought protection from Russian forces. He said soldiers evacuated civilians whenever possible, recalling that eight people were escorted to safety in his presence alone.

Another serviceman, senior reconnaissance officer Aleksandr Ignatok, said locals were openly waiting for the arrival of Russian troops and, in many cases, provided them with valuable information. He described relations with civilians as cooperative, adding that many residents were eager to be evacuated and that evacuation efforts were already underway.

Earlier reports had also indicated that civilians in frontline settlements within the zone of the special military operation in Ukraine have been actively assisting Russian servicemen.