Ukrainian forces are still holding the key logistics town of Rodynske in Donetsk Oblast despite Russian efforts to portray it as occupied, according to the Ukrainian National Guard's Azov Corps. Several Ukrainian units are defending the area and maintaining control of key positions while Russia reportedly suffers significant losses in personnel and equipment.
Ukraine holds the line in Rodynske
Ukraine's 14th Brigade “Chervona Kalyna,” the 20th Brigade “Liubart” of the Azov Corps, and the 132nd Separate Reconnaissance Battalion of the Air Assault Forces continue to defend Rodynske and its approaches as of 4 January 2026, the Azov Corps reported. The defense forces said that control over key positions is being maintained, and Russian troops are incurring heavy losses in both manpower and military hardware.
The Azov emphasized that Russian propaganda is pushing false narratives about the situation in Rodynske.
"Edited footage and manipulative messages are being used by the enemy to create a false impression of the alleged capture of the settlement," the report reads.
Rodynske, located northeast of Myrnohrad, plays a vital role in logistics and the defense of both Myrnohrad and Pokrovsk. Retaining this town is strategically important for the broader defense line in the area.
Russian claims denied by Ukrainian forces
On 27 December 2025, the Russian military command publicly claimed that Rodynske had been occupied. However, the Operational Command "East" immediately refuted this, confirming that the town remained under Ukrainian control. Days later, on 31 December, fighters from the Azov unit raised the Ukrainian flag in Rodynske and reaffirmed their presence in the town.
Ukrainian defenders reported that Russian troops tried to entrench themselves along the railway north of Rodynske and in its western districts but failed to make progress. The attempted advance was repelled, and Ukrainian forces continued to hold defensive positions.
