ZAPORIZHZHIA REGION, Ukraine #

Under cover of darkness, a squad of soldiers from the 117th Separate Mechanized Brigade assembled for a briefing before heading to the front lines. Ukrainian troops are officially in defensive mode along most of the front line, except for the southern region of Kherson where they are still on the offensive. Russian forces are now on the offensive, attacking Ukrainian positions near the town of Robotyne on a daily basis. The intensity of Russian attacks has made operating near the front line extremely dangerous for Ukrainian soldiers. Russian glide bombs have been particularly devastating, destroying buildings and causing casualties. Russian drones, known as F.P.V. kamikaze drones, have also become a new threat, forcing Ukrainian soldiers to abandon vehicles and move on foot in frontline areas. Both sides are using drones as weapons, but the Ukrainian soldiers highlighted that Russia has shown a more active interest in drones at the state level compared to Ukraine. The toll on soldiers is heavy, with many being wounded or narrowly escaping harm. Despite the challenges, Ukrainian soldiers remain optimistic and continue their defense efforts.