Ukraine Russia War: Ukrainian special forces prepare for overnight stealth mission
Ukrainian forces are not backing down and are conducting daring raids behind enemy lines.
One such operation was captured on video by The Sun, which showed Ukrainian special forces preparing to engage nearby enemies during an overnight stealth mission. The footage, which has not yet been verified by The Sun and the location is currently unconfirmed, revealed the tense moments before the attack, as the soldiers checked their weapons, communicated with their commanders, and moved silently through the dark terrain.
The video also showed the aftermath of the raid, as the Ukrainian forces retreated under heavy fire and explosions. The Sun reported that the mission was successful and that the soldiers managed to destroy a Russian weapons cache and equipment. However, the video did not show any casualties or prisoners on either side.
The Ukrainian special forces are playing a pivotal role in the conflict, as they are tasked with undertaking direct action and special reconnaissance missions as part of wider internal security campaigns. According to Janes2, the Ukrainian Special Operations Command (SOCOM) was established in December 2015 and has expanded to feature four army special operations regiments, three navy special operations regiments, and two training centres.
The SOCOM has placed an emphasis on developing a modern force with equipment and practices aligned with NATO SOF elements. In 2015, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence signed a Letter of Intent signalling the SOCOM’s plans to co-operate with NATO Special Operations Headquarters, a move that included the planned certification of SOF units to work alongside their international partners in the NATO Response Force.
The SOCOM has also received training and assistance from the US and other allies, as well as participated in joint exercises and operations. For example, in March 2020, the 3rd SOF regiment began the process of undertaking NATO certification, enabling it to support coalition operations through the provision of a Special Operations Land Task Group.
However, the Ukrainian special forces are also facing formidable challenges and risks, as they operate in a complex and volatile environment. The Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine have access to sophisticated weapons and equipment, as well as support from Russian regular and irregular forces. The Ukrainian special forces have also been targeted by Russian propaganda and disinformation campaigns, which aim to undermine their legitimacy and morale.
One of the most tragic incidents involving the Ukrainian special forces occurred in February 2023, when four members of the 8th SOF regiment were killed in a covert operation near the border with Russia. The Guardian reported that the soldiers were part of a team that infiltrated the enemy territory and killed three Russian soldiers in a firefight. However, they were ambushed by a larger force on their way back and died in a heroic last stand.
The incident sparked outrage and grief in Ukraine, as well as admiration and respect from their allies. The US Special Operations Command Europe expressed its condolences and solidarity with the Ukrainian SOF community, saying that they “will always remember the sacrifice and bravery of these fallen heroes”.
The Ukrainian special forces are not only fighting for their country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also for their own honour and reputation. They are proving themselves to be a formidable and professional force, capable of striking behind enemy lines and inflicting damage on the aggressor. They are also demonstrating their commitment and loyalty to their allies and partners, as they seek to join the ranks of the NATO SOF family. They are the unsung heroes of the Ukraine-Russia war, and they deserve our recognition and support.
