Ukrainian forces have intensified counteroffensive operations north of Lyman and east of Sloviansk in Donetsk Oblast under Operation Vivaldi, deploying drones, unmanned ground vehicles, and combined arms tactics to dislodge Russian positions. Recent advances have reclaimed dozens of square kilometers and multiple settlements in the sector, with Russian milbloggers acknowledging Ukrainian gains near Kryva Luka and other points along the Siverskyi Donets River approaches. Zakitne, a frontline settlement previously contested with Russian infiltration and partial advances reported earlier in 2026, sits amid these shifting lines where Ukrainian units are pressing to restore control. Russian forces continue localized assaults and artillery strikes but face supply strains and defensive setbacks as Ukrainian air superiority limits drone operations in the area. Ongoing frontline engagements, weather impacts on mobility, and any Russian reinforcements or Ukrainian resource allocation will shape near-term territorial control in this sector.