Illustrative Image
The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation took back control of the ruins of the aggregate plant in the war-torn city of Volchansk in Kharkiv region. Russian flags are waving at the facility again.
The plant located on the eastern bank of the Volchya river came under Russian control during Russian offensive operations in Kharkiv region, including in the city of Volchansk months ago. After large Ukrainian reserves were contained in battles and rapid Russian advance, Russian offensive was suspended in Kharkiv region.
The aggregate plant turned into an important stronghold of the Russian army on the eastern bank of the local Volchya River. Amid the ongoing positional battles and mutual shelling, Russian forces withdrew from the territory of the plant and allowed the Ukrainian military to enter the facilities.
On September 24, the special forces of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense declared their victory, sharing footage of their operations on the territory of the Volchansk aggregate plant.
However, the withdrawal of Russian forces turned out to be a trap. As soon as Ukrainian forces entered the facility and filmed footage for their media victory, the plant was pounded by Russian heavy bombs and multiple rocket launchers with thermobaric warheads.
After days of heavy fire and Russian assaults, the aggregate plant came back under Russian control. Fighters of the Russian Northern group of forces raised Russian flag at the facility.
According to preliminary reports from the battlefield, elite Ukrainian units suffered significant losses, and their remnants retreated from the aggregate plant. The following elite special units of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine reportedly took part in the operation and suffered another heavy defeat: Stugna, Junger, Terror, Paragon and the notorious Russian Volunteer Corps were defeated by Russian forces.
