In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the Ukrainian Armed Forces (VSU) have reportedly taken control of the village of Demidovka in the Belgorod region of Russia. As reported by various military bloggers on March 23, 2025, this operation marks a deeper incursion into Russian territory by Ukrainian forces, raising alarms within Russian media.
Military blogger Yuriy Podolyaka claimed that the Russian army was able to initially dislodge the VSU from Demidovka, stating on his Telegram channel, "Our forces have pushed the enemy out of Demidovka. Cleanup operations are now underway." This cleanup operation involves the 'Spetsnaz-Akhmat' unit, the 155th artillery brigade, and GRU special forces, emphasizing a coordinated effort from Russian units.
Podolyaka highlighted that the infiltration by the Ukrainian troops into the village was due to issues with coordination and communication among Russian units, questioning when these persistent problems would be resolved. As the conflict enters its fourth year, the sense of urgency and frustration regarding operational effectiveness is palpable. Earlier on the same day, he noted that fighting was already intensifying in Demidovka.
In contrast, Ukrainian sources reported that their forces successfully entered Demidovka after initiating an offensive earlier in the week. They engaged directly along Mostovaya Street within the village, employing a range of tactics including the use of HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems and guided bombs to target Russian strongholds. This tactical approach is noteworthy as it does not involve heavy equipment but relies on rapid rotations and flexible infantry movements, indicating a shift in how the VSU conducts operations.
The dreaded 'Baba Yaga' kamikaze drones have also been deployed in the area, causing significant concerns among Russian forces as they complicate supply routes. Reports from military bloggers indicate that the operational-military situation remains tense, with ongoing artillery and aerial strikes failing to halt the advance of Ukrainian troops.
Both Russian and Ukrainian analyses pointed out that while initial skirmishes were taking place, the reality on the ground was evolving quickly. Z-blogger Kirill Fedorov claimed that the VSU's advances in Demidovka are creating panic within Russian Telegram channels, highlighting a noticeable shift in morale.
As some Russian commentators attempt to reassure their audience about the potential recovery of lost positions, reality checks are persisting through discussions on the very possibility of encirclements for Russian units. Reports emerged that certain Russian forces, having retreated from Demidovka, are regrouping in nearby areas while facing operational challenges.
Moreover, this situation seems to be mirrored in the nearby Kursk region, where previous territorial gains for Ukrainian forces were being scaled back. Currently, the focus is on the rapid advancement of the VSU into the Krasnoyaruzhsky district and the unyielding pressure on Russian defensive lines.
This growing tension along the Belgorod border area has resulted in the necessity of evacuations for local civilians. Many residents from the Krasnoyaruzhsky and neighboring Rakityansky districts have reported difficulties with evacuations due to the ongoing military actions.
The shifting dynamics on the ground are further supported by a published map from Z-military correspondents illustrating the Ukrainian forces' advance southwest of Demidovka, underlining the significance of this operational development.
On this escalated battlefield, the clash of narratives continues as both sides report conflicting accounts of the control and casualties. As of late March 23, it remains unclear on which side the advantageous narrative truly prevails as neither the Russian Ministry of Defense nor Ukrainian military officials have officially confirmed these developments, creating an air of uncertainty.
The situation in the Belgorod region reflects the broader trends of the conflict as operational strategies evolve, revealing problematic communication and deployment issues, casualties, and tactical shifts as both militaries gear up for what could be a protracted confrontation. What remains evident is the persistence of conflicts fueled by strategic decisions made on both sides, continuing to impact the civilian population in bordering areas.
