Russian forces launch four offensives on Ukrainian southern fronts simultaneously

Oct 20, 2025 - 19:04

Russian forces have launched large-scale assault operations across multiple southern Ukrainian fronts. They are employing infantry, armored vehicles, quad bikes, and motorcycles, says Southern Defense Forces Spokesperson Vladyslav Voloshyn, as per UkrInform.

On 18 October, the Washington Post reported that Russian ruler Vladimir Putin suggested he was ready to give up Russian-occupied parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts in exchange for full control over Donetsk Oblast during a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump.

“Afternoon attacks occurred on several directions, involving substantial infantry and armored units,” Voloshyn reports.

200 troops, tanks, and vehicles clash

Russian assault groups advanced near Mala Tokmachka, Shcherbaky, Novodanylivka, and Novoandriivka settlements.

«Overall, we counted approximately 200 enemy personnel, 3 tanks, and about fifteen armored fighting vehicles. Russian forces also deployed quad bikes and motorcycles in these assaults,” the defense spokesperson adds.

Ukrainian forces counted up to 10 combat clashes with Russian troops during the day, some of them are still active.

Russia hid troop movements behind smoke screens

Earlier, Voloshyn said that Russia was actively preparing for autumn-winter operations, anticipating challenges as falling leaves hinder camouflage.

The occupiers used smoke screens to conceal movements from Ukrainian reconnaissance and fire.