Russia Releases Video of Flag Hoisting in War-Torn Chasiv Yar

The moment Russian and Airborne Forces (VDV) flags were installed in the city of Chasiv Yar was captured on video and published by the Russian Ministry of Defense via its official Telegram channel.

Russian Forces Announce Liberation of Chasiv Yar

According to the Ministry, Russian Armed Forces (RAF) hoisted the national tricolor and the VDV flag over various sectors of the city. The flags were reportedly raised on the outskirts of the Shevchenko and Yuzhny districts, symbolizing what Moscow calls the “liberation” of the city.

“Russian and Airborne Forces flags were raised on the outskirts of the Shevchenko and Yuzhny neighborhoods as a sign of Chasiv Yar’s liberation,” the statement read.

Earlier in the morning of July 31, the Russian Ministry of Defense officially announced that its forces had taken control of Chasiv Yar.

Heavy Losses Claimed by Russian Military

The Ministry further reported that Ukrainian forces had suffered significant losses in the battle for the city, stating that “dozens of elite units” were neutralized, including stormtroopers, drone operators, and key reconnaissance and coordination elements.

Ukraine Denies Russian Claims

The Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU), however, have rejected Russia’s claim of full control over Chasiv Yar. In comments to RBK-Ukraine, Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for Ukraine’s “Khortytsia” military grouping, said the city remains contested.

“The situation in Chasiv Yar is the same as in recent months. The Russians are simply lying again, just to get attention—even if it’s only through denials,” Trehubov stated.

The conflicting reports highlight the ongoing information war and the fluid frontlines in Donbas, where both sides are attempting to assert control and shape the narrative surrounding territorial gains.