In brief
Embedded with Ukrainian soldiers, journalists reveal the intensity and strategies of operations across the treacherous Dnipro River. The resilience of the 126th Territorial Defense Brigade shines as they navigate the complexities of warfare against Russian forces.
Late into the night, the dim glow of a map illuminated the faces of half a dozen Ukrainian infantrymen gathered around wooden pallets in a makeshift command post. As the clock ticked towards the hour of their next deployment, anticipation hung heavy in the air. This mission would involve a perilous operation across the treacherous Dnipro River.Leading the charge was Vyshyty, a determined deputy company commander, who outlined the plan for an operation scheduled for May. His voice steady and commanding, he emphasized the pivotal role his unit would play in supporting assault troops. “If they retreat,” he instructed, “you must hold your positions, provide covering fire, and facilitate evacuation for the wounded.” The soldiers of the 126th Territorial Defense Brigade stand among the elite forces of the Ukrainian army, equipped with specialized training from British operations and experienced in cross-river engagements alongside marine infantry and intelligence units. For nearly two years now, they have spearheaded operations against Russian forces in the southern Kherson region.In the spring, a select group of reporters received rare permission to embed with the brigade. The unique access allowed journalists not only to observe the rigors of their nighttime operations and training sessions but also to hear firsthand accounts of previously unreported missions. While certain operational details remain classified, the camaraderie and unwavering dedication of the soldiers shone through, as they shared stories under the cloak of night. Photographs captured the intensity of their work: a skiff deftly pushed into the Dnipro's waters, silhouettes taking cover along the shoreline—all through the lens of night-vision technology. Each image is a testament to the grit, bravery, and strategic resolve of a fighting force committed to stand its ground. Through tales of sacrifice and valor, the ongoing struggle along the Dnipro River reveals not only the harsh realities of war but also the deep-rooted resilience of those tasked with protecting their homeland in the face of adversity.
