Ukraine claims it retook Novomykhailivka after special forces counterattack

Units from Ukraine’s military intelligence directorate (GUR) and the Third Army Corps carried out an offensive operation and say they restored control over the village of Novomykhailivka.

Special operations forces from the GUR and the Third Assault Corps of the Ukrainian Armed Forces delivered a heavy strike on Russian troops in Donetsk region, according to statements from the press services of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence and the 3rd corps. They said Novomykhailivka has been fully cleared and returned under the Ukrainian flag.

The operation involved fighters from the GUR Defense Ministry’s Department of Active Measures, including the “Artan” special unit, and the 2nd assault battalion of the Third Assault Brigade. Radio intercepts indicated the assault took Russian forces by surprise, the statements said, estimating Russian losses at roughly a company and claiming commanders rushed reserves from other directions.

Thanks to coordinated work by intelligence, assault units, armored vehicles and drones, Ukraine’s forces improved their tactical position and reinforced defensive lines in the area, the statements said. Novomykhailivka is now fully under the control of Ukraine’s Defense Forces, they added.

“Our flags are returning to where they belong,” the GUR and the 3rd corps said.

Fierce fighting continues around Lyman. According to Ukraine’s General Staff, on August 24 Russian forces mounted 20 attacks and continue attempts to break through near the settlements of Grekivka, Redkodub, Karpivka, Kolodezi, Dronivka and Serebryanka. Several engagements were ongoing into the evening. CNN has not independently verified battlefield claims from either side.

The operation to retake Novomykhailivka was a significant and emotionally resonant success amid the national holiday, underscoring, Ukrainian officials said, that neither surprise nor the enemy’s firepower can stop the return of Ukrainian land under the blue-and-yellow flag.