These Are The Men Hunting Russian Soldiers

(SOUTHERN UKRAINE) – Ukrainian special operations forces have revealed details of close quarters combat operations that contributed to the liberation of over 745 square kilometres of territory and 26 villages in southern Ukraine.

The operations, conducted over several months, were kept secret to maintain tactical advantage. Clearance after clearance took place without public acknowledgement from the Ukrainian military, according to an interview published on 17th August 2026 by military analyst Preston Stewart.

Two team leaders from the Black Talon Group, identified by their callsigns Rojhat and SOUPS, described their experiences fighting within the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (SSO). Both are former United States military personnel now serving in Ukraine.

The soldiers detailed the challenges of clearing buildings when Russian forces are known to be inside. They explained that Russian troops often hide in cellars and underground spaces, remaining undetected for extended periods. In one operation, a village believed to be clear was later found to contain approximately 20 Russian soldiers who had been concealed for a week.

According to the team leaders, drones cannot access every location, making physical clearance operations essential. They described how reconnaissance drones identify signs of occupation, such as doors opening and closing, before assault teams are deployed.

The soldiers reported that Russian troops frequently booby trap positions with grenades and mines. They noted that many mines are now dropped from drones and left visible on the surface, though smaller butterfly mines remain difficult to detect in tall grass.

On medical evacuation, the team leaders described carrying wounded personnel over distances exceeding 20 kilometres. In one recent operation, a soldier shot in the leg and arm walked for two days using a stick as a cane while the entire team, all wounded, withdrew from the area.

“Someone has to go in and clear it out,” the soldiers stated, explaining that after drone strikes, ground forces must physically secure territory.

The interview was released as part of a fundraiser through Protective Volunteer to support the Black Talon Group with equipment.