Ukrainian Forces Liberate Mali Shcherbaky in Zaporizhzhia Oblast

On October 12, 2025, Ukrainian troops successfully liberated the village of Mali Shcherbaky in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, as announced by Ukraine's 24th Separate Assault Battalion "Aidar." The battalion, in coordination with the 33rd Separate Assault Regiment, raised the Ukrainian flag over the village, asserting control over the area. This liberation marks a significant tactical advance in a region that has seen intense conflict, with Russian forces previously occupying much of Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Kyiv IndependentDefence forces advance in the Orikhiv areaUkrainian forces inflict heavy losses on Russian troops in Orikhiv sector – General StaffAFU successfully advancing in Zaporizhzhia direction: Zelenskyy noted counteroffensive

Mali Shcherbaky is located in the Orikhiv sector, an area that had been contested since early summer when Russian troops advanced towards it. The village had remained under Russian control or in a grey zone until this recent operation. Ukrainian forces have been actively counteroffensive in the region, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reporting that they have made gains of over 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) in the Zaporizhzhia region, particularly near Orikhiv and Dobropillia.

ReutersZelensky: Ukrainian forces advance more than three kilometers near Dobropillia, OrikhivKyiv IndependentDefence forces advance in the Orikhiv area

President Zelenskyy emphasized the coordinated efforts of the Ukrainian military, stating, "Ukrainian units are continuing our counteroffensive actions near Dobropillia, but also in other sectors - particularly in Zaporizhzhia region near Orikhiv." The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces confirmed the liberation of Mali Shcherbaky and noted that Ukrainian forces had improved their tactical positions in the area. They expressed gratitude to the soldiers involved, highlighting their courage and coordination.

Defence forces advance in the Orikhiv areaZelensky: Ukrainian forces advance more than three kilometers near Dobropillia, OrikhivAFU successfully advancing in Zaporizhzhia direction: Zelenskyy noted counteroffensiveReuters

Despite the Ukrainian claims of success, Russian sources have not acknowledged the loss of Mali Shcherbaky. The Russian Defense Ministry reported ongoing attacks on Ukrainian troops and equipment in the region, including strikes near Novoandriivka, which is close to Mali Shcherbaky. This discrepancy illustrates the conflicting narratives that often emerge from the front lines of the ongoing conflict.

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The situation along the front line remains fluid, with both Ukraine and Russia providing differing accounts of territorial control. Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Moscow's forces had captured 5,000 square kilometers of territory this year, asserting that they maintain a strategic advantage across various sectors. In contrast, Ukrainian officials assert that their forces are making significant advances, particularly in the Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions.

ReutersKyiv IndependentSky NewsDefence forces advance in the Orikhiv area

As Ukrainian forces continue their counteroffensive operations, they are also reportedly in discussions with U.S. officials regarding the potential provision of long-range precision strike weapons, including Tomahawk missiles. The ongoing military actions and diplomatic efforts indicate that both sides are preparing for further developments in the conflict, with the situation in Zaporizhzhia remaining a focal point.

Zelensky: Ukrainian forces advance more than three kilometers near Dobropillia, Orikhiv

• “The settlement of Mali Shcherbaky is under the control of the Defense Forces of Ukraine,” — 24th Separate Assault Battalion "Aidar."

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• “At this time, Ukrainian units are continuing our counteroffensive actions near Dobropillia, but also in other sectors - particularly in Zaporizhzhia region near Orikhiv,” — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Reuters

• “We thank the fighters of the 24th Separate Assault Battalion Aidar, the 33rd Separate Assault Regiment, and other units who demonstrate exemplary courage and coordination, thwart enemy plans, and regain control over Ukrainian territories,” — General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces

Ukrainian forces inflict heavy losses on Russian troops in Orikhiv sector – General Staff