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Tension Mounts as Russian Forces Close In on Zaporizhzhia and Huliaipole
Zaporizhzhia braces as Russian forces advance toward Huliaipole, just 4km from the town. Residents face fear and uncertainty amid heavy bombardments and rising frontlines.
MH
by Muhammad Hashir
2025-11-18
Tension Mounts as Russian Forces Close In on Zaporizhzhia and Huliaipole

Tension is rising in Zaporizhzhia, the southeastern Ukrainian city split by the Dnipro River, as Russian forces advance steadily from the east. Over the past weeks, the front line on the left bank has moved to within 40km of the city, which has been partially occupied since 2022.

Russia has bolstered its attacks with long-range glide bombs capable of destroying entire apartment buildings—out of reach of Ukrainian air defenses. While life in the city continues—medical centers and swimming pools remain open—many residents are anxious, and some are preparing to flee.

The situation is particularly dire in Huliaipole, a strategic town of 20,000 that now has only a few hundred residents, mostly the elderly. Russian troops are reportedly just 4km away, capable of striking the town with mortars. Military analysts warn that the town may fall quickly, potentially without heavy fighting, representing a significant blow to Ukrainian forces both strategically and in public perception.

The open terrain of southeastern Zaporizhzhia favors Russian advances, unlike in northern Donetsk where Ukrainian forces maintain well-fortified positions. Russia has deployed “couriers”—robots emitting smoke—to conceal troop movements from Ukrainian reconnaissance. Analysts suggest that slow decision-making by Ukrainian commanders has allowed Russian breakthroughs to gain ground.

Observers warn that unless Ukrainian forces act decisively, Huliaipole could soon be encircled, with attempts to relieve it likely to be costly. Some critics have accused top Ukrainian commanders of sluggishness and mismanagement, while others emphasize that Russia’s territorial gains remain limited, currently controlling around 19% of Ukraine.

For residents like Tetiana, a local psychologist, the fear is palpable. “There’s a feeling that maybe at some point we’ll have to leave,” she said. “There’s a readiness.” As the front lines shift, the city and its surrounding towns face a precarious future.
Tagged:

ukrainewar

RussiaUkraineConflict

Zaporizhzhia

Huliaipole
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