Russian Forces Announce Capture of Gerasimovka in Dnipropetrovsk Region

Russian Ministry of Defense Confirms Gerasimovka Capture

On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the Russian Defense Ministry announced that its forces had successfully taken control of the settlement of Gerasimovka in the Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine. The ministry stated that units of its Vostok (East) Group of Forces were responsible for the capture, which occurred within the last 24 hours.

Strategic Significance and Operational Details

The capture of Gerasimovka is considered a significant development, with the Russian Defense Ministry indicating it creates 'conditions for further development of the offensive into Dnepropetrovsk region'. The operation involved the 36th Guards Motorised Rifle Brigade of the 29th Army, which advanced from the village of Ostapivske and crossed the Gaichur River. Following the successful operation, Russian troops reportedly established a bridgehead on the western bank of the Gaichur River. This action is viewed as having 'effectively broken through the Ukrainian Armed Forces' defensive line along the Gaichur River'.

Reported Gains and Casualties

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the Vostok Group of Forces gained control of a frontal area extending up to 2 kilometers wide and 1 kilometer deep. During the engagements, Ukrainian forces reportedly sustained casualties, including personnel, two armored fighting vehicles, and 12 'Baba Yaga' hexacopters, which were neutralized. Gerasimovka marks the second settlement on the left bank of the Haichur River to be captured by the Vostok Group of Forces, following the earlier capture of Pischane a few days prior.

Location of Gerasimovka

The settlement of Gerasimovka is located in the Samar Raion of the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in Ukraine. It is situated on the left bank of the Haichur River. The area has been a focal point of recent military activity, with Russian forces continuing to expand their control in the region.