Ukraine’s Reported Operation Veles Turns Russia’s Pipeline Tactics Against Its Forces

Ukraine reportedly conducted an underground operation near Kupiansk, using an abandoned Soviet-era gas pipeline network to infiltrate Russian positions behind the front lines. The operation, identified in the supplied account as Operation Veles, is described as an effort to adapt tactics previously used by Russian forces and turn underground infrastructure into an unexpected route for a counteroffensive.

According to the report, Ukrainian troops advanced more than 15 kilometers through the pipeline system, targeting Russian positions that were difficult to reach with conventional drones, thermal imaging, or artillery. Ukraine’s 2nd Khartiia Corps reportedly deployed combat engineers and specialized ground robots to overcome barricades and clear underground obstacles.

The operation allegedly resulted in approximately 100 Russian soldiers killed and another 30 captured, although these figures have not been independently verified. Ukrainian personnel also faced serious dangers, including mines, tripwires, toxic substances, restricted visibility, and extremely narrow passages that complicated movement and protective measures.

The reported operation illustrates how underground infrastructure can create unconventional opportunities in modern warfare. It also demonstrates the risks involved in using confined spaces to bypass established defensive positions.

If the reported details are confirmed, Operation Veles could offer an example of how Ukraine is adapting enemy tactics and combining engineering capabilities with robotic systems to challenge Russian positions near Kupiansk.