Ukrainian defenders are successfully preventing Russian forces from advancing towards the Sloviansk-Kostiantynivka agglomeration in Donetsk and the city of Izium in Kharkiv. The Third Army Corps, established a year ago, is currently maintaining a defensive line that spans over 150 kilometers, representing approximately 12% of the active frontline.
Despite facing the 20th and 25th Combined Arms Armies and the 1st Tank Army of Russia, the Third Army Corps has managed to stabilize the front and prevent any territorial losses. The corps has effectively integrated unmotivated units and improved their operational capabilities through enhanced artillery and drone use.
Commanded by Andrii Biletsky, the Third Army Corps has taken significant steps since its formation last summer. It operates its own brigades while also managing Territorial Defense units, the State Border Guard Service, and the National Guard.
According to Deputy Chief of Staff Danilo Novytskyi, the corps has created a robust defense, eliminating infiltration zones that previously extended up to ten kilometers into Ukrainian territory. Recent efforts have focused on disrupting Russian logistics in Luhansk, significantly impacting their operational effectiveness.
“Where we previously lost up to 70 square kilometers a month, we now maintain our positions and improve our tactical stance,” Novytskyi stated.
The corps has introduced a unified command system based on NATO standards, tailored to their specific needs. This includes the role of Battle Captain, an officer responsible for direct combat management, which has streamlined operations significantly.
“We have reduced redundant reporting, allowing our officers to focus on combat rather than paperwork,” Novytskyi added.
Challenges faced by the Third Army Corps included a lack of resources and low morale among troops. Volodymyr Fokin, commander of the 125th Separate Mechanized Brigade, highlighted the initial state of his unit, which had only 18% personnel completeness and minimal equipment.
“When I took command, the unit was demoralized and lacked basic supplies. However, we have since restructured and improved our operational readiness,” Fokin explained.
In just seven months, the brigade’s personnel numbers increased by 234%, and they have established new battalions for tanks and drone operations. The brigade has also improved its effectiveness in drone strikes and artillery operations.
As of October 2025, the 120th Territorial Defense Brigade was also integrated into the Third Army Corps, allowing for better coordination and information sharing, which has been crucial for their defensive operations.
In March 2026, Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a major Russian offensive in the Lyman-Borivske direction, destroying significant enemy equipment and personnel.
As the Third Army Corps continues to hold key positions in Luhansk, including the towns of Nadiya, Novoiehorivka, and Hrekivka, Russian attempts to advance in this strategic area have proven unsuccessful. Over the past year, the enemy has reportedly lost 34,300 troops in this region alone.
The corps has also developed a layered air defense system, successfully intercepting over 17,000 enemy aerial targets, including drones used for attacks on civilian infrastructure.
In total, nearly 3,200 soldiers have undergone training in specialized units to enhance their operational capabilities.
Ukrainian forces are effectively holding their ground against Russian advances in key strategic areas. The Third Army Corps has stabilized the front, improved operational readiness, and significantly disrupted enemy logistics, resulting in substantial enemy losses.
