“Unseen in three years”: Ukraine’s 65th Brigade on escalation in Zaporizhzhia

This was reported on Espreso TV by the deputy commander of Ukraine’s 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade “Velykyi Luh,” known by the call sign Forest.

"In the Zaporizhzhia region, the enemy is conducting assault operations along the entire line of contact," he said. "They are operating in small groups of 3–4 soldiers, often without using heavy equipment. In some cases, they use buggies or motorcycles. Compared to 2022 or 2023, the intensity of enemy assaults in 2025 is significantly higher. We haven't witnessed this level of activity in the past three years," noted the battalion commander of the 65th Mechanized Brigade.

According to him, Russia has significantly increased its activity in the Zaporizhzhia direction — particularly in assault operations, the use of FPV and reconnaissance drones, and artillery strikes.

"The enemy has been tasked with reaching the Mariupol highway, cutting off logistical support to Donetsk, capturing Orikhiv, and advancing toward Kamianske and Komyshuvakha. Based on this, it's clear they will continue assault operations throughout the summer," the officer explained.

• On July 7, the DeepState analytical project reported that Russian forces had captured two more settlements: Lobkove in the Zaporizhzhia region and Piddubne in the Donetsk region.