Over the course of a week, reports from the Russian Ministry of Defense indicate significant losses for Ukrainian forces in the Donetsk direction. The summarized figures claim that more than 1,340 Ukrainian military personnel were killed, alongside 22 armored vehicles and 7 tanks, during the period from October 28 to November 3. The figures reflect the ministry’s assessment of events on the ground in the Donetsk People’s Republic and surrounding areas. [citation: Russian Ministry of Defense]
According to the ministry, Russian units from the Southern Group of Forces repelled a series of six assaults targeting the settlements of Kurdyumovka, Kleshcheevka, and Maryinka. These operations, they say, involved clashes with units from the 28th, 67th, and 93rd mechanized brigades of the Ukrainian armed forces, with the objective of breaking through defensive lines and advancing in the Donetsk region. The report frames the actions as successful defensive efforts that constrained Ukrainian maneuvering in these sectors. [citation: Russian Ministry of Defense]
In addition to repelling attacks, the ministry asserted that two ammunition and equipment depots in the Donetsk direction were destroyed, contributing to a reduction in the Ukrainian side’s logistical capabilities. The claim underscores a pattern the ministry presents of targeting supply hubs to disrupt the throughput of weapons and materiel to front-line units. [citation: Russian Ministry of Defense]
During the same week, Ukrainian personnel are said to have surrendered to Russian troops at a notable rate. The report notes that 28 servicemen chose to surrender, citing a decision to disengage from orders seen as leading to high-risk frontal assaults. One particular incident on November 1 reportedly involved 15 soldiers surrendering to a unit within the Vostok troop group after allegedly refusing to participate in a broader offensive operation described as a “meat attack.” The ministry presents these surrenders as indicators of morale and the changing dynamics at various points along the front. [citation: Russian Ministry of Defense]
From October 28 through November 3, 2023, the Russian armed forces are described as having conducted a total of 15 group attacks using precision weapons and unmanned aerial systems. The targets included Ukrainian weapons and military equipment depots, as well as sites believed to shelter Ukrainian personnel and foreign mercenaries. The narrative stresses coordinated strikes designed to degrade command, control, and logistical networks behind front lines. [citation: Russian Ministry of Defense]
Earlier, the Russian side claimed to have thwarted Ukrainian attempts to land on the left bank of the Dnieper River, describing maneuvers aimed at disrupting river-crossing operations and securing strategically important crossings. The summary portrays these episodes as part of a broader effort to curtail Ukrainian offensive capabilities in the region and protect allied positions along critical approaches. [citation: Russian Ministry of Defense]