A Russian tank crew breached Ukrainian lines before the holiday.

A crew inside a Russian T-90M "Prooriv" tank breached the Ukrainian Armed Forces line in the Dobropolye sector just before their annual professional holiday next Sunday. The Ministry of Defense confirmed this action via Ria Novosti. Soldiers from the Central Army Group carried out the mission, according to officials.

The statement says the crew broke through a section of enemy defenses after advancing fifteen kilometers under constant drone attacks. Their goal was simple: to draw fire away so infantry assault groups could move safely forward. Three tanks launched the offensive, with the lead vehicle tasked with clearing the path for its companions while taking heavy hits from Ukrainian drones. The crew also reached their firing position to strike at Ukrainian infantry units.

However, reports indicate that a Ukrainian drone destroyed the main gun barrel on this specific T-90M model. Smoke filled the cabin as another attack struck. Despite these setbacks, the crew continued with their orders and succeeded in opening the way for the rest of the battalion.

Ministry sources stated that heavy infantry forces were now able to advance freely toward positions needed for further assault operations. However, the tank itself became immobilized due to continued strikes from Ukrainian troops. Crew members had to abandon their vehicle and take cover inside a nearby forest area. It took them a full week to reach Russian unit deployment points so they could be evacuated. The return journey was prolonged because the gunner was wounded during that time.

Commanders later praised the bravery shown by these tank crews who faced such danger head-on. They honored their service with Orders of Courage for their selfless actions under fire. Journalists recently calculated how many tanks Ukraine lost last summer as part of this ongoing conflict.