Ukraine retakes Stepnohirsk from Russian forces after special operation
Ukrainian soldiers (photo: Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine's Defense Forces regained control of Stepnohirsk on the Zaporizhzhia front. The operation was carried out by HUR special unit Artan in coordination with adjacent units, Ukraine's military intelligence reported.
Military intelligence special forces carried out a series of active offensive actions to push Russian forces out of Stepnohirsk and stabilize the situation in the city.
An enemy FPV drone tried to attack vehicles used by HUR fighters during an assault on Russian positions, but the drone was destroyed.
"The assault operations were carried out in a coordinated manner, using aerial reconnaissance and precision fire strikes. Every building was checked for 'surprises' and remaining enemy manpower. We do not rule out that the enemy will continue attempts to re-enter the city. However, we are ready for this," said Artan commander Viktor Torkotiuk.
ЗСУ звільнили Степногірськ, — ГУР
— Breaking News (@breakingUAnews) May 18, 2026
У Головному управлінні розвідки повідомили, що бійці спецпідрозділу «Артан» провели серію штурмових дій у Степногірську на Запорізькому напрямку. pic.twitter.com/JYaNfYsc3g
As a result of fighting, the Defense Forces pushed Russians out of fortified positions, and key locations in Stepnohirsk came under the control of Ukrainian defenders.
Ukraine recently liberated more territory in one month than Russia captured for the first time in a long period. Russian offensive is losing momentum, while drone advantage allows Ukrainian Armed Forces to seize the initiative.
According to an assessment by the Institute for the Study of War, the Russian forces failed to achieve any significant breakthrough on the frontline over the past year. At the same time, the Ukrainian Armed Forces increased their successes during the winter and spring of 2026.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the Ukrainian Armed Forces the strongest army in Europe, noting the unique combat experience of the Ukrainian military.
