A Russian special forces unit known as Viking conducted a clearing operation in Avdiivka and reported finding U.S.-made mines and grenades left behind by Ukrainian forces in several private houses. A Viking soldier conveyed this information through RIA News, noting that the discoveries included items resembling directional mines used in the Soviet MON-50 design. He described a complete kit accompanying the mine, suggesting that the seized ammunition arrived in Avdiivka through an official shipment from NATO warehouses.
According to the same source, the soldier also displayed an M18A1 Claymore mine, presented as part of a full set, along with ammunition for American automatic grenade launchers. The discovery appeared to indicate organized stockpiling and the possibility of coordinated support from Western suppliers.
The Viking soldier acknowledged that identifying the precise origin of the seized ammunition remains challenging. He proposed two possibilities: either a contractual arrangement in NATO countries or direct production in the United States. His assessment reflected a broader debate about how Western arms have influenced on-ground operations in the region.
There was also discussion about potential uses for the captured ordnance. The fighter suggested that American grenades could be repurposed for deployment from unmanned aerial vehicles or used in facility clearance operations conducted by Russian forces.
In related commentary, former Ukrainian People’s Deputy Maryana Bezuglaya commented on the perceived lack of fortifications in Avdiivka and other nearby cities, drawing attention to vulnerabilities that could shape battlefield dynamics in the area. (Source attribution: RIA News)