Ukrainian troops made a confirmed advance south of Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast, and Russian forces recently advanced near Dobropillya in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Confirmed Ukrainian advance near Ivanopillia, Kostiantynivka sector
ISW said in its 7 December daily report that Ukrainian forces recently advanced in the Kostiantynivka–Druzhkivka tactical area of Donetsk Oblast. Geolocated footage published the same day showed Ukrainian troops moving forward in northwestern Ivanopillia, located south of Kostiantynivka.
Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces seized Sofiivka, advanced to the outskirts of Pryvillya and Minkivka, and moved near Rusyn Yar. They also reported progress in central Virolyubivka, and claimed that Russian troops entered northern Bezimyane and seized Klynove.
The think tank noted that these claims align with a 5 December statement by Russia’s Ministry of Defense, which said Russian forces seized Bezimyane and Klynove. However, ISW assessed that such statements are likely part of a broader Russian effort to exaggerate advances for political and informational purposes. The think tank observed that Russian forces have used similar tactics, such as raising flags during infiltration missions that do not shift control or the forward edge of battle area (FEBA).
Russian movement near Huliaipole
ISW said geolocated footage showed Russian forces in Zaporizhzhia Oblast advancing on the eastern outskirts of Dobropillia, north of Huliaipole (not to be confused with the Dobropillia located in Donetsk Oblast north of Pokrovsk). Other footage showed Ukrainian forces striking a Russian-occupied building in eastern Huliaipole, which ISW assessed followed an infiltration mission that did not alter control.
Russian milbloggers claimed further advances near the Haichur River, in southeastern Huliaipole, and in nearby Varvarivka and Zarichne, which ISW did not confirm.
