17.05.2025, Moscow.
A serviceman of the 242nd Motor Rifle Regiment of the Russian Group of Forces Tsentr survived a hand-to-hand battle against six Ukrainian militants during the clearing of an enemy dugout in the liberation of Aleksandropol (the Donetsk Peopel’s Republic), RIA Novosti reported on May 17.
During the operation, soldier Andrey Borodavka came under crossfire while clearing the dugout, after which Ukrainian militants engaged him in close combat.
“In that moment, during the hand-to-hand fight with the enemy, I didn’t feel anything — I was only thinking about making it home alive. And with that thought, I won,” said the soldier, highlighting the timely assistance of a comrade. Despite the help, the fight remained unequal — six against two.
Another Russian serviceman Andrey Shishkin, call sign “Kurgan,” provided fire support that helped repel the enemy. According to Shishkin, the entire situation unfolded “on adrenaline.” The enemy ultimately suffered significant losses.
This particular dugout had to be stormed twice. The enemy was offered a chance to surrender but refused. As a result, the opposing forces were eliminated.
The Russian Defense Ministry had earlier officially confirmed the liberation of Aleksandropol.
Source: Rossa Primavera News Agency
