Ukrainian troops liberate key villages in Donetsk region

In August 2025, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, specifically the Airborne Assault Forces, executed a successful operation that culminated in the liberation of the villages of Zolotyi Kolodiaz and Petrivka in the Donetsk region from Russian control. This operation was primarily conducted by the 79th and 82nd Separate Airborne Assault Brigades and was significant in its timing and execution, aiming to reclaim territory that had been under Russian occupation. The mission was shared publicly through footage released on social media, highlighting the operation's transparency and the modern methods of communication utilized in warfare today. During the combat operations, Ukrainian soldiers engaged Russian forces, resulting in heavy losses for the enemy in terms of personnel, weapons, and military equipment. Several Russian combatants were captured during the fighting and subsequently moved to the exchange fund, showcasing the ongoing conflict's human toll. Reports indicate that over 100,000 Russian military personnel were recorded in the Pokrovsk direction prior to this operation, emphasizing the scale of military presence and the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces. This successful liberation aligns with previous reports that indicated Ukrainian defense forces had cleared several settlements in the Pokrovsk sector, including Hruzke, Rubizhne, Novovodiane, Vesele, and now Petrivka and Zolotyi Kolodiaz. The Ukrainian advance represents a crucial step towards regaining control over strategically important areas and symbolizes the continued resilience and bravery of Ukrainian forces against ongoing aggression. These operations contribute to the larger narrative of the conflict, where both sides are vying for control, and the liberation of territory is seen as a significant morale booster for the Ukrainian military and its supporters. In conclusion, the liberation of Zolotyi Kolodiaz and Petrivka not only represents a tactical victory for Ukraine but also highlights the ongoing hostilities in the region. With increasing reports of Russian troop losses and the recapture of territory, the dynamics of the conflict continue to evolve, influencing both military strategies and geopolitical relations in Eastern Europe.