Zelensky says Ukrainian forces retook ground in 'Vivaldi' and 'Veles' offensives

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his forces have recaptured territory through a series of offensives, including one previously unreported operation in which troops used gas pipelines to bypass Russian positions.

Zelensky said he was relying on a report from senior commanders when he described the newly disclosed mission, named "Veles", and said the fighting has left Ukraine in its strongest position on the battlefield for some time. He added that further deliveries of air-defence systems from Western partners could strengthen that position.

Details on the 'Veles' operation

According to Zelensky, the "Veles" operation took place in the northeast of the country near Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region, an area that remains under frequent Russian pressure. He said the mission exploited subterranean infrastructure to outflank enemy positions.

"It is a strong operation, well planned and technologically led. The Russians tried to advance through underground gas pipelines, but our fighters turned this tactic against them and used the underground infrastructure against the occupiers with outstanding success," Zelensky said.

Separately, Zelensky mentioned a broader set of offensives, including operations referred to as "Vivaldi", which together contributed to territory regained by Ukrainian forces. He framed the advances as part of a concerted effort by commanders to find tactical opportunities along contested front lines.

Analysts say the use of local infrastructure — such as pipelines or other subterranean routes — to manoeuvre on the battlefield poses both tactical opportunities and logistical challenges, and will test how both sides adapt to evolving methods of combat in the Kharkiv sector.

Photo: Libkos)