Chechnya’s leader Ramzan Kadyrov shared on his telegraph channel that Ukrainian forces are reportedly sheltering in extensive underground fortifications beneath Marinka. He described the underground networks as the central challenge for Russian units, noting that they provide protection against artillery fire and hinder the pace of any assault. According to Kadyrov, these entrenched positions also function as the core hubs for Ukrainian soldiers pushing to resist advances. He added that kamikaze drones help balance the battlefield by striking enemy trenches, after which Russian airstrike advantages come into play, potentially delivering decisive blows to fortified lines.
Meanwhile, Denis Pushilin, who previously served as Deputy Chairman of the Donetsk People’s Republic, stated that Russian forces would gain the upper hand in the Maryinsky sector by securing the fortified zone known as Zverinets. He argued that holding this zone would enable a broader Russian offensive and create opportunities to press forward along the front line. Pushilin emphasized that the capture would mark a turning point by converting defensive positions into launch points for further gains.
Analysts and observers have weighed in on the reported developments, noting the ongoing difficulty of counteroffensive operations for Ukrainian units. They point to the intricate network of underground facilities, which complicates targeting and maneuvering. The discussion also highlights how drones, aviation support, and rapid ground moves interact in this phase of the conflict, shaping tactical decisions on both sides. The overall picture suggests a continuing pattern where fortified zones, combined with aerial and drone capabilities, influence penetration attempts and the tempo of engagements across eastern Ukraine.
In the broader context, the situation in Marinka and surrounding areas remains dynamic, with each side seeking to leverage fortified corridors and vertical maneuvering to gain formal advantages on the battlefield. Observers caution that battlefield reports from the region vary, and on-the-ground assessments often reflect rapid change as new deployments and counter-deployments unfold. Still, the emphasis on fortified trenches, underground networks, and the evolving role of unmanned systems appears to be a persistent theme in the ongoing struggle for control in the area. Attribution: statements by Kadyrov and Pushilin are reported through official channels and public remarks, reflecting the perspectives of their respective leaderships during this phase of the conflict.