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Despite the aspiration, operational requirements were extensive. Ukrainian forces were tasked with securing a 30-kilometer stretch within just a few days, a daunting challenge considering the prevailing conditions and prior combat fatigue.
The Execution
The operation commenced between October 10 and 16, 2023, with coordinated assaults across designated sectors. Early successes included the 36th Brigade's capture of the railway bridge, which initially took Russian forces by surprise. However, the momentum posed operational challenges as logistical support failed to keep pace with the advancing troops.
A commander’s analysis illustrated the reality: “The order seemed insane to everyone at the time,” citing the lack of heavy equipment and resources amidst an arduous challenge.