Urozhaine Conflict Described as “Fight Between Two Packs of Dogs” as Ukrainian Defenders Suffer Setback

An officer described the fierce conflict over Urozhaine as a struggle akin to “a fight between two packs of dogs,” highlighting the intense nature of the combat. Despite the heavy fighting, it eventually became clear that maintaining a presence in the area was no longer viable. This sentiment captures the grueling conditions faced by Ukrainian soldiers in the Donetsk region.

Reporters, including photographer David Guttenfelder, spent time on the front line with Ukraine’s 58th Motorized Infantry Brigade, documenting their efforts to defend their positions. Despite being situated less than 550 yards from Russian forces, the Ukrainian soldiers showed remarkable resilience and determination in their defense of the area.

The 58th Motorized Infantry Brigade managed to repel numerous Russian assaults despite facing artillery shortages. Over the months, they successfully defended their gains from a previous counteroffensive, enduring significant casualties but preventing Russian advances, including those by an elite marine brigade. The battlefield was marked by the remnants of destroyed Russian armor.

By the end of March, Russian forces shifted their focus to the villages of Urozhaine and Staromaiorske. After three months of fighting, the Russians managed to capture Staromaiorske in June and subsequently reclaimed Urozhaine on July 14, breaking through the exhausted Ukrainian defenders.

The loss of Urozhaine and Staromaiorske was a significant setback for Ukraine, coming at a time when Russian forces were making gains along the extensive front line.

The Ukrainian marine infantry’s previous efforts to capture these villages had been costly and determined, making their subsequent loss particularly impactful. This situation was further confirmed by both Ukrainian soldier accounts and official Russian social media posts.