Ukraine's secret Vivaldi push uses drones and mine-clearing tactics in Donbas

Operation Vivaldi, a top-secret counteroffensive in the Donbas, has recaptured 277 sq km and 16 villages as of mid-October, according to the Third Army Corps. Ukrainian troops faced extensive minefields and a fortified underground network in villages such as Shandryholove, forcing them to improvise wooden crossings and rely on constant drone surveillance. Infantry units advanced in small groups, using a blockade tactic to cut Russian supply routes and avoid detection by FPV drones.

The 21st Separate Unmanned Systems Regiment Kraken launched mid-range strike drones from Kharkiv Oblast against ammunition depots and fuel sites in occupied Luhansk, temporarily starving Russian forces of supplies. Commanders reported that harsh weather weakened Russian defenders, aiding the advance, while casualties were mainly injuries from mines and drone strikes. Ukrainian officials claim roughly 8,000 Russian casualties and over 250 prisoners, though these figures could not be independently verified.