Ukraine’s Intel Says HUR Unit Carried Out Deep Raid Behind Russian Lines in Zaporizhzhia

Ukraine’s Military Intelligence (HUR) said Wednesday that fighters from HUR’s “Brotherhood” unit carried out a successful deep-penetration raid behind Russian lines in the Zaporizhzhia sector, killing two Russian troops, wounding two others and capturing two prisoners.

According to the statement released by HUR, the sabotage and reconnaissance group from the “Brotherhood” unit, part of Tymur Special Unit, conducted the operation in December 2025 near the Kakhovka Reservoir. The fighters operated deep in enemy-held territory before escorting the captured Russian soldiers approximately 27 kilometers (17 miles) back to Ukrainian-controlled areas.

During the operation, Ukrainian intelligence officers eliminated two Russian soldiers, wounded two others, and took two prisoner, HUR said.

According to HUR, the captives later provided valuable intelligence on the locations of Russian officers, artillery positions, drone operators, troop concentrations, military equipment, and ammunition depots.

HUR said the operation exposed significant weaknesses in Russia’s frontline defense system, noting that Russian forces were unprepared for active Ukrainian intelligence operations deep within their rear areas and were unable to mount an effective response.

Following the mission, Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, then still the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence and now the head of the president’s office, awarded fighters and commanders of the “Brotherhood” unit with state and departmental honors.

Other Topics of Interest

Putin to Confront Weak Economy at ‘Russian Davos’, Under Threat of Ukrainian Drones

President Vladimir Putin is set to address Russia’s flagship investment forum as the economy shows signs of stagnation under the strain of the Ukraine war. Rising inflation, labor shortages, budget deficits and Ukrainian drone strikes on key infrastructure are increasing pressure, while businesses report mounting costs and weakening demand.

Earlier, on Dec. 25, 2025, Budanov personally visited forward positions of HUR special forces operating on the Zaporizhzhia front, including units of the Tymur Special Unit, the intelligence agency said. During the visit, Budanov spoke with soldiers and officers involved in frontline combat operations, inspected their working conditions, and presented awards for professionalism and bravery.

HUR said Budanov’s arrival at the frontline positions came as a surprise to the special forces fighters and served as a morale boost as Ukraine continues its armed struggle against Russian forces.

“Armed resistance continues,” the HUR statement reads.