September 6 – October 2, 2022 · Northeastern Ukraine Theater
September 6 – October 2, 2022
One of the most dramatic military operations of the 21st century. Ukrainian forces, having lured Russian attention to the south with a publicized Kherson offensive, secretly massed forces in Kharkiv Oblast and struck with stunning speed on September 6. The Russian line collapsed instantly — Russian troops abandoned equipment, vehicles, and ammunition depots as Ukrainian forces advanced 50–60 km per day in some sectors. The major logistics hub of Izyum, holding the equivalent of a division's ammunition, was abandoned in 24 hours. Ukraine liberated over 8,000 km² in less than two weeks — more territory than Russia had captured in six months of fighting.
Commanders