Ukraine's Operation Vivaldi pushes Russia back in Donbas as Starlink tensions rise

Ukraine's Operation Vivaldi counter-offensive has liberated 277 square kilometers in the eastern Donbas region, pushing Russian forces back, though concerns over restrictions on Starlink's military version, Starshield, have dampened optimism. The operation, named for its four stages, blunted a Russian pincer movement threatening key cities. Ukraine reports 8,000 Russian casualties in Vivaldi and nearly 50,000 along the front in September, with few Ukrainian losses, relying heavily on drones and digital connectivity. Tensions with the US have escalated, with President Zelensky feeling "betrayed" by Donald Trump over Starshield limitations and intelligence concerns. Despite this, soldiers' morale remains high, with one infantryman saying the operation renewed his belief Ukraine can win.