In June 2014, Ukraine's leadership developed a strategic plan that foresaw the Ukrainian military blocking both the Russia–Ukraine border as well as the surroundings of major cities in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

In tandem with 95th brigade's northward push, forces from the Donbas Battalion of the National Guard of Ukraine assisted in removing Russian units on the way to the city center.

[7] On July 19, units of the 95th brigade went on the offensive, destroying the block post and advancing on a strategically important height.

Following the strategic height's capture by the 95th brigade, paratroopers took control of a nearby oil refinery that risked destruction from pro-Russian forces.

[10] The advance of Ukrainian forces resulted in celebrations amongst locals, with one soldier who fought with the 95th brigade later relating:That was the greatest joy for all the time of my service.

[11] According to Ukrainian government reports, the paratroopers ultimately successfully carried out a 470-kilometer raid on the rear of the separatists while also destroying three hostile checkpoints.