Ukrainian forces reclaim three settlements in northern Donetsk as “Vivaldi” operation advances
Ukraine's Third Army Corps reports its counteroffensive in northern Donetsk has retaken three settlements and roughly 50 square kilometers of occupied land, potentially delaying Russia's planned offensive in the northern Donbas.
Ukraine's Third Army Corps has announced that its counteroffensive operation, codenamed "Vivaldi," has regained control of three settlements in the northern Donetsk region. In total, approximately 50 square kilometers of previously Russian-occupied territory have been reclaimed.
The area has been one of the main directions of Russian military pressure for years, with Moscow long seeking to expand its foothold there. The Ukrainian advance may force Russia to delay its planned offensive in the northern part of the Donbas, as occupying forces are pushed to regroup in the newly lost territory.
Representatives associated with operation "Vivaldi" say the effort is only in its early stages but is already being described as one of the most significant Ukrainian victories of 2026 in the ongoing war. Specific details about the settlements involved and future plans for the operation have not been disclosed, for military security reasons.
The northern Donetsk direction holds strategic importance, affecting supply routes and defensive lines across the wider Donbas region. Ukraine's gains there could also influence the broader situation along the front line, though conditions remain fluid as both sides continue fighting for control of the area.
