Russian forces have conducted repeated infiltration attempts into Stepnohirsk in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, targeting high-rise districts and northern outskirts to secure routes toward Zaporizhzhia city along the E105 highway. Ukrainian units, including GUR special forces such as the Artan and Revanche groups, have responded with clearing operations that expelled Russian elements from infiltrated positions in May through September 2026. These actions followed earlier Russian deadlines to seize the settlement by June 2026 and involved elite airborne units facing significant losses. Fighting remains localized and fluid within the Orikhiv sector, with Ukrainian drone and artillery strikes disrupting consolidation efforts while Russian commands continue reinforcing the axis amid broader southern frontline pressure. No verified full capture has occurred, leaving outcomes dependent on sustained infantry advances or Ukrainian defensive reinforcements.