Ukrainian Soldiers Train for Counteroffensive in Secret Location
The location and timing of the Ukrainian counteroffensive is strictly confidential, but preparations have been underway for months. This includes training soldiers for battle, which involves rigorous exercises.
Ukrainian Soldiers Train to Secure Woodland Area and Storm Enemy Trenches
In a woodland area in the Saporischschja region, a group of Territorial Defence soldiers train by securing a dense green forest and storming an enemy trench. Based on their instruction, soldiers are only allowed to move for three to five seconds and should always seek cover.
The Goal is to Save as Many Lives as Possible
Once the woodland area is secure, the soldiers are given instructions to trap enemy soldiers inside the trench. The overall aim is to save as many Ukrainian lives as possible during the counteroffensive.
Learning from Experience
Many National Guard soldiers have seen war before and understand the importance of learning from their experiences. Some have been bombed by Russians in the past and have seen their villages destroyed, so they understand the importance of being fully prepared.
Never Underestimate the Enemy
The Russian army has been in the fighting zone for over a year now, and as a result, they have gained significant combat experience. Despite some claims that Russian soldiers may be alcoholics or unable to fight, the Ukrainian soldiers understand that it is never wise to underestimate the enemy.
Western Weapons Enable New Tactics
According to Oleh, attacking during an offensive results in more deaths compared to defending, but with the use of western weapons, new tactics are possible, and more Ukrainian soldiers have a chance of survival during a counteroffensive.
Importance of Training and Psychological Stability
Oleh, who studied at the National Guard Academy in Charkiw, believes that good weapons and combat experience are essential, but so is psychological and moral stability. Fear and panic can result in unnecessary losses, and soldiers must learn to overcome their fears.
Fear of Russian Captivity
One of the biggest fears during these preparations is the possibility of Russian captivity. Ukrainian soldiers have seen videos of Russian forces engaging in sadistic behavior towards prisoners, including castration, beheading, and arbitrary shootings. This fear is prevalent among soldiers, with some even carrying grenades to avoid Russian captivity.
Determination to Defend Ukraine
Despite the risk, Ukrainian soldiers are determined to defend their country and rid it of the occupiers. Soldiers from Territorial Defence units in Ivano-Frankivsk have been in the fighting zone for over a year and have undergone rigorous training exercises to prepare for a potential counteroffensive.
Hope for a United Ukraine
Although some members of their unit have been killed or injured in combat, the soldiers are determined to hold on and see it through. They believe in themselves, their training, and the hope that one day, Ukraine will be whole again.