Sitrep 2024-12-11 19:38:18

Updated Operational Situation Overview – December 11, 2024 (As of 19:36 UTC)

Key Developments:

The situation in Ukraine remains extremely volatile, with significant escalations and rapid deteriorations across multiple fronts.
The Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine continues its rapid advance, resulting in substantial territorial gains and heavy Ukrainian casualties. The situation around Kurakhovo and Pokrovsk remains critical, with reports of potential encirclements, extremely high Ukrainian casualty rates, desertions, and widespread low morale.
A Ukrainian military assessment points to chaotic battlespace conditions and severe incompetence at the command level directly contributing to these losses.
Russian forces are within 2km of the outskirts of Pokrovsk following the capture of Shevchenko and have launched a new offensive near Toretsk. They are within 5km of the Pokrovsk coal mine.
Intensified Russian attacks in Zaporizhzhia, including multiple ballistic missile strikes on a medical facility and a business center, resulted in at least nine deaths and twenty-two injuries. A private clinic and a nearby cafe were destroyed. Further strikes on Yenakiieve prompted a mass evacuation.
Reports reveal widespread corruption within the Ukrainian military, hindering efforts to build effective defensive lines; 30 criminal investigations into alleged embezzlement totaling $483 million are underway.
Ukrainian forces lack sufficient engineering personnel, relying on local authorities and infantry brigades for fortifications, with many engineering personnel deployed to frontline positions.
Russian forces have taken Zolote, in the Donetsk People's Republic.
Reports indicate that Russian forces are advancing in the Kurahov area, with fighting occurring in the town center and near Uspenivka, with a reported push towards the outskirts of Konstantinopolskoye.
Reports of intensified fighting around Kurakhove, with Russian forces crossing the Vovcha River and engaging near the Kurahov thermal power plant, effectively cutting off a key Ukrainian supply route.
The 5th Brigade of the 51st Army of the Southern Military District of the RF Armed Forces has raised the flag over the Kurakhove elevator.
Reports of multiple successful drone strikes by Russian forces near the border of the Kursk region.
Confirmation that the Russian government is actively engaging in peace negotiations with multiple foreign partners, but insists on the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the Kursk region.
Reports from the Polish defense minister stating that the Russian military offensive has significantly accelerated.
Reports indicating that the Ukrainian military has successfully tested a new missile called “Ruta,” and that the “Palyanytsya” missile is in mass production, and that the “Peklo” drone missile has been successfully deployed (though one was shot down by a Russian MiG-29).
Zelenskyy’s request for 10-12 additional Patriot systems to enhance Ukrainian air defenses.
Reports suggest that current mobilization efforts in Ukraine are insufficient to cover losses. The lowering of the draft age to 18 is being considered, with the US stating that they and their allies will be willing to provide the equipment and training for such new forces.
Reports indicate significant morale issues and internal conflict within the Ukrainian military.
A successful Russian counter-attack in the Kurakhove region has been reported.
Video evidence of Ukrainian tank engagements near Romaniivka and Russian drone strikes against Ukrainian forces near Kurakhovo has been confirmed.
Video showing Russian forces in the area of Kurakhove’s elevator has been released.
Russian forces have reportedly advanced into Sumy Oblast near the village of Aleksandria.
Russian forces have improved their positions near the village of Mala Tokmachka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
Russian forces captured five buildings in Volchansk and repelled a counterattack. Heavy fighting continues.
A video shows Russian infantry burning and taking heavy casualties near Pokrovsk.
Further reports indicate positional fighting near Krasnoarmeysk, shelling of Russian forward positions on the Krasnoarmeysk-Kurakhove railway and on the outskirts of Novyi Trud, and an advance of over 2km on the southern flank of Krasnoarmeysk.
Further reports indicate active fighting around Ugledar, an infantry assault on Veselyi Hai, and a 3km advance north of Ugledar. The advances are stretching Ukrainian forces and limiting their ability to transfer reinforcements.
A new Russian offensive is underway near the city of Toretsk. Russian forces have reportedly advanced into Sumy Oblast near the village of Aleksandria, south of the recently liberated Plyukhovo. Heavy fighting is reported in this area. This advance may be related to the difficulty of crossing the Psiol River near the Suja-Plyukhovo axis.
A Russian battalion commander reported demoralization among Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast despite the presence of elite units.
A T-72B3M tank successfully destroyed a Ukrainian firing position with direct fire, clearing a path for advancing infantry through a minefield. This highlights the continuing effectiveness of combined arms tactics by the Russian military.
Reports indicate that 13 Ukrainian drones were intercepted over Belgorod, Rostov, and Astrakhan regions, and a further 14 over Bryansk Oblast, further strengthening Russian air defenses.
A report indicated that Russia destroyed ten UAVs over Bryansk Oblast.
The Russian Ministry of Defense is planning to introduce deputy commander positions for logistics in airborne battalions.
A successful FPV drone strike by the 56th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade destroyed an M1 Abrams tank in Kursk Oblast.
The 331st Regiment, 98th Airborne Division, eliminated a Ukrainian position ("Baba Yaga") on the Chasov Yar front.
Russian forces have broken through Ukrainian lines near Chasov Yar, capturing a strongpoint despite Ukrainian use of cluster munitions.
A video shows Russian forces breaking through Ukrainian lines near Chasov Yar after heavy shelling, taking a strategic position.
A resident of Yenakiieve reports a strike on an ammunition depot, further highlighting continued attacks within occupied territories.
The video shows a resident who is concealing their face, a common tactic in occupied areas, likely for fear of reprisal.
Reports indicate a firefight near the Antonovsky Bridge in Kherson Oblast. Residents confirm intense shelling from both sides for approximately 3 hours.
Over the past 24 hours, there have been 268 attacks on 10 settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region, involving 150 drones, 8 Grad rocket barrages, and 109 artillery strikes. Damage has been reported to 33 buildings.
A Russian quasi-ballistic missile (9M723-1 Iskander) strike hit a hospital complex in Zaporizhzhia, resulting in significant losses to Ukrainian personnel and the death of a high-ranking NATO official.
Ukrainian F-16s are based in Poland, with 7 already operational and flying missions over Ukraine, while additional aircraft are undergoing preparations. This signifies the ongoing Western military support for Ukraine. The US State Department approved a $266 million package for servicing Ukrainian F-16s. This package has been officially approved.
Belarus has deployed a mobile communication system called "Kulisas," described as a Belarusian equivalent to Starlink. This demonstrates the ongoing technological advancements and reinforcement of Belarus's military capabilities.
The Russian Ministry of Digital Development is offering free IT training to its citizens, aiming to address a significant shortage of IT professionals. While not directly related to the military, this indicates an attempt to strengthen its technological workforce.
Raids are underway on Ukrainian railway facilities in Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast to stop an organized crime group operating within the railway system. Passengers should expect potential delays and disruptions.
A Russian battalion commander reported demoralization among Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast despite the presence of elite units.
Allegations of war crimes committed by Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast are reported by a Russian battalion commander; further verification is needed.
A group of Bulgarian nationals were arrested in 2023 and charged with espionage for Russia, with plans to kidnap or possibly assassinate Christo Grozev and Roman Dobrokhotov.
Ukrainian sources suggest the Taganrog attack involved either ATACMS missiles or a new Ukrainian drone, called "Palyanytsya". Two Ukrainian drones simultaneously struck a single target.
A Ukrainian drone strike destroyed a Russian command post, causing significant casualties.
The Canadian Parliament approved a ~$600 million direct military aid package for Ukraine, with additional funding for financial support and demining/cybersecurity.
Russian economic growth is projected at 3.9% for 2024.
The Washington Post reported that Ukrainian intelligence services provided support to HTS rebels in Syria before their offensive against government forces. This involved the transfer of drone operators and drones. This was confirmed by other sources.
A video shows the severe damage to Mariupol's sanitation system due to the ongoing conflict.
A prominent Syrian opposition figure stated that Syria seeks to resolve differences with all countries, based on non-interference principles. He later stated that the new Syrian government will consider the issue of Russian military bases.
Increased activity of Russian tactical aviation is reported in the southeastern direction of Ukraine, posing a threat to the use of air weapons in areas near the front. Ukrainian air forces reported increased activity of Russian tactical aviation in the southeast. They also reported conducting guided air bomb strikes in the Donetsk region. Ukrainian tactical aviation conducted guided air bomb strikes in the Donetsk region.
Reports allege embezzlement and corruption within the Ukrainian military, negatively impacting troop morale and operational effectiveness.
A report in the National Interest suggests NATO may deploy B-61 nuclear bombs in Poland or Ukraine as a response to the deployment of Russian Oreshnik missiles.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed a strike on the Bryansk oil depot, resulting in a large fire and potential significant disruptions to Russian fuel supply lines. Multiple sources confirmed this strike, showing extensive fire damage.
Reports suggest Ukrainian aid to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebels in Syria before their offensive against government forces, including the transfer of drone operators and drones. This was confirmed by multiple sources.
Video footage shows an overturned US-made M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle, abandoned by Ukrainian forces.
Maria Zakharova stated that the US aid to Ukraine is intended to prolong the conflict.
A video shows a successful sniper engagement by a commander from the Akhmat special forces, killing two Ukrainian snipers.
A report details the fraudulent enlistment of seven conscripts in Chebarkul, forcing them to sign contracts under duress, highlighting issues with Russian military recruitment practices.
A captured Ukrainian soldier reports low morale, widespread food poisoning, and illnesses within his unit.
Reports suggest that the Biden administration is considering imposing stricter sanctions on Russian oil exports before Trump's inauguration, potentially impacting global oil prices.
A Ukrainian military unit successfully shot down a Russian Supercam drone.
Alexi Raumo, former deputy director-general of the Karelian Development Corporation, was arrested in Petrozavodsk, Russia. He had previously fled Russia due to geopolitical issues.
Three call centers in Moscow were raided by FSB and МВД, resulting in several arrests. These centers were allegedly linked to an international network of scammers who funneled some proceeds to support the Ukrainian military effort.
A new Ukrainian drone, the "Postman," is reported deployed near Kurakhovo, delivering targeted strikes.
Great Britain successfully tested a laser weapon mounted on an armored vehicle.
The Russian Ministry of Defense announced the liberation of Daryino and Plyukhovo in Kursk Oblast.
The Russian Ministry of Defense claims Ukrainian losses of over 200 soldiers, one tank, and three Bradley fighting vehicles in Kursk Oblast.
President Zelenskyy confirmed significant Ukrainian strikes on Russian military and energy targets in Bryansk and Taganrog oblasts, citing “range and accuracy” as key factors. Multiple sources confirm the damage to the Taganrog Aviation Scientific and Technical Complex and the Bryansk oil depot.
President Zelenskyy reported record Russian casualties in November and December.
Continued reports of Russian offensive actions throughout Donetsk Oblast, with advances in numerous locations. Ukrainian forces are reportedly deploying reserves in several areas to counter these advances.
Heavy fighting continues throughout numerous locations in eastern Ukraine, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
Reports of mass casualties in Syria, alongside the release of prisoners from Assad-era prisons, indicative of intensified fighting between various factions. Bashar al-Assad has reportedly fled to Russia.
Reports suggest that President Macron is seeking allies for a potential European peacekeeping mission in Ukraine.
Reports suggest significant corruption and leadership problems within the 152nd Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Serhiy Sternenko announced the delivery of 320 drones to various Ukrainian military units.
Images emerged showing an upgraded Russian Su-57 fighter jet with a new engine nozzle design aimed at improving stealth capabilities.
Maria Zakharova urged Russian citizens to avoid travel to Western countries, while Sergey Ryabkov stated that Russia’s nuclear disarmament cooperation with unfriendly nations is “politically unacceptable.” Vyacheslav Volodin expressed Russia’s commitment to addressing illegal migration, seeking migrants who respect Russian laws and traditions.
A major fire occurred in the Mercury Tower in Moscow-City.
Reports indicate that a mobilized soldier with suicidal ideation was returned to the front line and that another soldier was sentenced to six years in prison for desertion.
The assassination of Khalil Haqqani, a Taliban official in Kabul, was reported.
In Syria, the complete collapse of the Assad regime has created a power vacuum and widespread chaos. Numerous factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), are vying for control, resulting in widespread summary executions and a major refugee crisis. Reports indicate summary executions and war crimes by multiple actors, including the confirmed presence of rape and torture by Russian occupiers.
Israel's large-scale military strikes, culminating in the complete destruction of the Syrian navy, have dramatically escalated the situation, potentially triggering further regional instability.
Russia is reportedly conducting a large-scale withdrawal of its forces from Syria, with some units being evacuated under duress from areas controlled by Kurdish forces. A video shows a long column of surrendering Syrian soldiers.
Israel has confirmed the destruction of Syrian naval vessels and intends to defend its security interests while avoiding Syrian internal affairs, but will respond resolutely to hostile acts from the new Syrian government.
Turkish-backed Syrian rebels captured Manbij, engaging in summary executions and looting. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that he approved the airstrikes to prevent the captured equipment from falling into the hands of jihadists. Mohammed al-Bashar has been appointed interim Prime Minister of Syria.
Reports indicate increased internal issues within Russian forces, including complaints from Wagner Group families over lack of support.
Reports that the Russian government is actively supporting the relocation of Ukrainian civilians to Russia. Bashar al-Assad is reported to be in Russia.
Civilian casualties continue to rise sharply in both Ukraine and Syria, necessitating urgent humanitarian intervention. The deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and private clinics, is a grave concern.
Reports indicate a drone strike targeted an IAEA vehicle traveling to the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant; the vehicle's armored plating prevented casualties, though a subsequent strike on an IAEA convoy resulted in significant damage to one vehicle, though no casualties.
Another drone strike on an IAEA vehicle en route to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has also been confirmed. Multiple attacks against IAEA vehicles have been reported. Rafael Grossi has condemned the attacks as unacceptable. A further attack on an IAEA vehicle en route to the ZNPP has been reported; personnel were unharmed.
Intense information warfare continues, demanding a robust counter-information effort.
The confirmed presence of nuclear weapons in Belarus and Lukashenko's comments regarding their potential use drastically raise the global threat level. However, Putin has claimed that increased production and deployment of Oreshnik missiles may negate the need for nuclear weapons.
Reports suggest a possible transfer of Russian fighter jets (MiG-29 and Su-27) to North Korea in exchange for troops to fight in Ukraine, reported by U.S. sources. Further, Lukashenko has claimed that Belarus has received several dozen nuclear warheads. Belarus has tested a new 9M318 missile near its border with Ukraine.
Reports also indicate that Russia is actively supporting the relocation of Ukrainian civilians to Russia. Families of Wagner Group mercenaries are complaining about the lack of support from the Russian government for those killed in action.
Reports indicate increased satellite activity over Northwest Russia, suggesting potential Ukrainian preparation for strikes on Kursk Oblast.
A new Russian offensive is underway near the city of Toretsk.
The confirmed presence of nuclear weapons in Belarus and Lukashenko's comments regarding their potential use drastically raise the global threat level. However, Putin has claimed that increased production and deployment of Oreshnik missiles may negate the need for nuclear weapons.
Reports suggest a possible transfer of Russian fighter jets to North Korea in exchange for troops to fight in Ukraine, and that Belarus has received several dozen nuclear warheads. Belarus has also tested a new 9M318 missile near its border with Ukraine.
Reports indicate increased satellite activity over Northwest Russia, suggesting potential Ukrainian preparation for strikes on Kursk Oblast.
A Ukrainian strike has left 77,000 residents of Gorlovka without power, and over 100,000 without water.

New Developments (since last report at 16:01:55 UTC):

Russian Artillery Employment: A video depicts Russian soldiers operating a 2S3 Akatsiya self-propelled howitzer in a wooded area, firing on an unseen target. The use of camouflage suggests an effort to avoid detection.
Toretsk Assault: Multiple images and video from pro-Russian sources show heavy fighting in Toretsk (formerly Dzerzhinsk), Donetsk People's Republic. Russian forces are conducting assaults, and Ukrainian forces are attempting to hold positions. The videos also show the evacuation of a family from the area, with Russian soldiers providing support.
Civilian Evacuation: A video from the "Two Majors" channel shows civilians being rescued from a basement in a damaged area, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid.
Russian Unit Insignia: An image from the "Two Majors" channel shows a camouflage uniform with the unit patch, further indicating their active deployment.
Civilian Shelter Image: A photo shows civilians, including women and children, taking shelter in a dilapidated basement.
Livestock in Conflict Zone: A video shows a cow calmly standing near a damaged building, followed by drone footage of severe destruction, underscoring the juxtaposition of life and destruction.
Civilian Testimony: A video depicts a Ukrainian family in a basement, recounting how Russian soldiers helped them escape their burning home.
Ukrainian Armored Vehicle Losses: Video from Colonelcassad shows multiple destroyed or abandoned Ukrainian armored vehicles, including a T-72, M113, and a BTR-60 in Shevchenko, Krasnoarmeysk direction.
Russian Mobilization Issues: Evidence of fraudulent and forced contract signings is emerging, highlighting a recruitment problem within the Russian military.
Ukrainian Veteran Support Programs: The Dnipropetrovsk Regional Military Administration is expanding support programs for veterans, signaling recognition of the need for support infrastructure.
Russian Military Recruitment: Contract signing on 4th of December has occurred in Ulyanovsk, Russia and is being circulated on Telegram channels.
Russian Recruitment: A photo depicts a young man in front of a Russian military recruitment center.
Russian Military Calendar: An image of a 2025 calendar featuring Russian military aircraft is shared by a prominent pro-Russian war blogger, possibly used as a form of propaganda.
Ukrainian Air Defense Success: Ukrainian Air Force reports destroying two Russian Kh-59/69 missiles over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. A video confirms this.
Ukrainian Artillery Strike: A video from the Ukrainian Air Force shows a distant artillery strike, underscoring their ongoing operational capabilities.
Russian Drone Deployment: A Russian source reports the development of a new FPV drone, the "Aqua-4", for urban reconnaissance.
Taganrog Strike Confirmation: The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed a Ukrainian ATACMS strike on the military airfield in Taganrog, with an attack of 6 missiles. Two were intercepted, and there were resulting casualties.
Aid for Refugees: A Russian source reports on the need for a new government structure to help refugees from ongoing conflicts.
Ukrainian Railway Corruption: A video from Ukrainian sources reveals a corruption scheme within Ukrainian Railways involving illicit ticket sales, causing significant financial losses.
Ukrainian Missile Strike: A video from Ukrainian sources shows the downing of Russian cruise missiles over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
Russian Drone Destruction of Ukrainian Vehicles: A video from Russian sources shows the destruction of Ukrainian armored vehicles in Kharkiv oblast by Russian drones.
Dispute over the Taganrog attack: A Russian source claims the Taganrog airbase was attacked by 6 ATACMS missiles, while Ukraine indicates that the attack may have included a "Palyanytsya" drone.
Russian Recruitment: A Russian source has stated that personnel in Ulyanovsk have been forced to sign military contracts.
Ukrainian Forces in Kharkov Oblast: A video shows Ukrainian forces taking the village of Kopanky in Kharkov Oblast, after which a Russian flag was taken down and a group of Russian occupiers were captured.
FIFA World Cup Host Cities: A list of the FIFA World Cup host cities is revealed, indicating planning continues for global events.
Satellite Activity Over Russia: A Russian source reports that Western satellites are being used to confirm Russian targets for Ukrainian missile strikes. This highlights the ongoing intelligence war.
Putin's Comments on AI: A video from TASS shows Russian President Putin stating that all critical tasks, including those involving artificial intelligence, are ultimately managed by humans.
Russian Military Aid: Russian soldiers express gratitude for equipment from a volunteer group, highlighting a reliance on these kinds of organizations, specifically for communication devices on the Kurakhov front.
Russian Strikes in Taganrog and Kursk: Russian sources have confirmed that Ukrainian forces launched 6 ATACMS missile at the airbase in Taganrog, and that Russian forces will "answer". Ukrainian forces claim that they targeted a fuel depot.
Ukrainian Forces Deployed Drones in Dnipro: Ukrainian Airforce shot down two missiles attacking Dnipro.
Russian Drone Development: A Russian source indicates a new FPV drone has been developed for building reconnaissance operations.
Ukrainian Forces Take Action in Kharkov Oblast: Ukrainian forces have reported clearing the village of Kopanky in Kharkov Oblast after Russian personnel were found and captured.
Ukrainian Railway Issues: Ukrainian sources confirm a raid on railway facilities in Kyiv to counter a criminal organization.
Ukrainian Drone Activity: Ukrainian Airforce reports shooting down two X-59/69 missiles over Dnipro.
Ukrainian Counterdrone Activity: Ukrainian forces claim to have recovered a downed “Peklo” drone.
Russian Drone Activity: Russian sources have indicated that Russian forces have destroyed a Ukrainian "Plastun-3000" electronic warfare station with an FPV drone.
Russian Special Forces Activity: Russian sources have indicated that the 14th and 16th Special Forces Brigades conducted drone operations near the Sukhie Yaly River and Serebryansk Forest respectively.
Russian Advances Near Toretsk and Kurakhove: Russian forces continue to make advances in Donetsk oblast, achieving tactical success in Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Kurakhove, in which multiple settlements were taken.
Russian Forces Destroyed Ukrainian Forces: Russian forces have destroyed a Ukrainian force grouping near Elizavetovka and Uspenovka.
Ukrainian Losses: Ukrainian forces have suffered casualties and equipment loss near Shevchenko and the Krasnoarmiiske area, a video shows multiple abandoned and destroyed pieces of equipment.
Russian Recruitment: Russian police are forcing people to sign contracts, after which they are sent to combat. Russian military personnel are forcing people to sign contracts under duress.
Ukrainian Veteran Support: The regional government is improving support for veterans, especially through providing them with housing.
Russian Air Force Activity: Russian airforce has destroyed two Ukrainian X-59/69 missiles over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
Russian Drones: Russian sources claim that their drones are being used effectively in reconnaissance operations.
Russian Drone Technology: Russian forces have released footage of drone targeting and attacks from the "Arkhangelsk Special Forces."
Russia's focus on Refugees: A Russian source states that new structures are needed for assisting refugees in Russia.
Russian Recruitment: Russian sources have published a military contract, dating from 4th December 2024, detailing the enlistment of a civilian into a contract position.
Russian Recruitment: The presence of a man standing in front of a Russian recruitment center suggests recruitment is continuing.
Russian Military Planning: A Russian war blogger has revealed that there is a 2025 calendar with pictures of Russian warplanes.
Ukrainian Air Defense: Ukraine has confirmed downing two Kh-59/69 missiles in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
Ukrainian Artillery Activity: Ukrainian sources have published a video of an artillery strike, though without any precise targeting.
Russian Counter Drone Operations: Russian forces have confirmed the use of "Aqua-4" drones for building clearance operations.
Russian Confirmation of Taganrog Attacks: The Russian Ministry of Defense confirms the attack on a military airfield in Taganrog, stating two of the six missiles were intercepted and that there are wounded personnel.
Corruption in Ukrainian Railway System: Ukrainian sources confirm a corruption issue in the Ukrzaliznytsia that resulted in more than 72 million UAH being stolen.
Ukrainian Artillery Fire: Ukrainian sources have published video footage of an artillery strike at an unknown location.
Russian Drone Successes: Russian sources show that Russian drones have destroyed Ukrainian military vehicles in the Kharkov region.
Ukraine's Drone Losses: A video shows what has been indicated to be a failed Ukrainian drone, the "Peklo" drone.
Ukrainian Troop Captures: A video shows Russian forces capturing a group of Ukrainian soldiers, highlighting their operations in Kharkov oblast.
Russian Recruitment Issues: Russian conscripts are being forced to sign contracts, often after duress and under threat.
Russian Support for Soldiers: A video has been released that features soldiers from the Kurakhove direction, thankful for communication devices they received from Two Majors, confirming a need for support for the Russian military.
Russian Propaganda: Russian sources have published a photo of a pro-Russian propaganda piece.
Russian Military Actions: A video released by pro-Russian sources confirms that Russian forces in the Kurakhovo area are successfully targeting and destroying Ukrainian forces, with heavy use of drones to find targets.
Ukrainian Military Actions: Ukrainian forces have released a video showing the clearing of Kopanky in Kharkov oblast, and the capture of Russian personnel who had set up camp in the village.
FIFA World Cup planning: The schedule for the upcoming FIFA World Cup has been announced.
Ukraine's Demographic Crisis: A Ukrainian demographer warns that Ukraine's population may decrease to 25 million or below due to the war, emphasizing the need for long-term planning with an uncertain human resources base.
Russian Exam Schedule: Russia has released their exam schedule for 2025, indicating the need to balance education and recruitment efforts.
Russian Volunteer Effort: Russian sources have announced a second "Volunteer Forum" for February 2025, designed to organize and coordinate volunteer efforts.
Ukrainian Air Defense: Ukrainian Air Force reports shooting down two Kh-59/69 missiles aimed at Dnipropetrovsk.
Russian Reconnaissance: Russian drones are deployed to provide reconnaissance in the Kurakhovo area.
Russian Support for Soldiers: The Two Majors channel has confirmed that they have provided Russian soldiers in the Kurakhovo direction with 20 communication devices.
Russian Strategic Communications: Russian sources have confirmed that the Ukrainian military targeted the airbase in Taganrog with six ATACMS missiles.
Russian Claims of Russian Military Successes: Russian forces claim to have taken a significant amount of Ukrainian POWs in Kursk.
Ukrainian Airforce Actions: The Ukrainian airforce has claimed to have shot down two missiles attacking Dnipropetrovsk oblast.
Russian Recruitment Practices: Russian officials are giving cash incentives for people to sign up and force their friends to enlist in the army.
Russian Military Activity: A Russian source has indicated that a FPV drone, "Aqua-4", is being used in building clearance and reconnaissance operations.
Ukrainian Military Action: The Ukrainian Air Force is actively downing cruise missiles.
Russian Military Actions: Russian drones are successfully targeting Ukrainian armor and other assets near Kurakhovo.
Ukrainian Forces Regroup: Ukrainian forces are reinforcing their defenses.
Civilian Casualties: Ukrainian officials have confirmed that 1 person has been wounded in Nikopol as a result of the shelling, with 6 houses, one commercial building and one school being damaged. A second report indicates 8 residential buildings and two vehicles are damaged near Dnipro.
Ukrainian Air Defense Actions: Ukrainian sources have released a video showing the successful interception of two missiles.
Ukrainian Support for Veterans: A Ukrainian region is creating new projects and programs to support veterans.
Russian Actions: Russian sources have released footage of a T-72 tank destroying a Ukrainian military position with direct fire.
Ukrainian Forces Near Kharkov: A Ukrainian military unit has published a video of them clearing a village in the Kharkov region.
Ukrainian Military Action: The Ukrainian Air Force shot down two cruise missiles aimed at Dnipro.
Russian Military Successes: Russian forces are continuing operations and have taken multiple settlements.

New Information and Context:

Russian Perspective on Ukrainian Forces: A Russian news channel highlighted that Ukrainian forces in the Kurakhovo direction have been largely destroyed, and that they are consolidating gains in Southern Kurakhovo.
Reports of Ukrainian Demoralization: A Russian battalion commander reported demoralization among Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, despite the presence of elite forces. A second source stated that Ukrainian forces are demoralized in Kursk oblast.
Russian Artillery Actions: Russian artillery units are conducting actions in support of a counteroffensive by burning and destroying Ukrainian military positions.
Russian Drone Actions: Russian FPV drones are destroying Ukrainian positions and hardware.
Ukrainian Air Defense: Ukrainian Airforce continues to shoot down missiles aimed at infrastructure and cities.
Ukrainian Actions in Kursk Oblast: Ukrainian forces are conducting attacks in Kursk Oblast.
Ukrainian Forces Capture Russian Personnel: Ukrainian sources have released video showing captured Russian forces after they cleared a village.

Summary of Recommendations for Commanders:

Reinforce Defensive Measures: Given the increased drone threats and the significant Russian offensive, commanders should prioritize strengthening air defense systems and establish immediate reinforcement for vulnerable units.
Enhance Intelligence and Surveillance: Continuous monitoring of troop movements and aerial threats is critical, especially focusing on UAV patterns and Russian artillery placement.
Coordinate Humanitarian Efforts: Due to rising civilian casualties, proactive collaboration with international relief organizations is essential to ensure that humanitarian assistance is effectively delivered to affected populations.
Psychological Operations: Develop and implement psychological operations to improve morale among Ukrainian forces while simultaneously undermining enemy resolve through effective communication strategies.
Resource Optimization: Assess logistical challenges and resource distribution to ensure that operational capacity is maximized under the current deteriorating conditions in both theaters of conflict. Address corruption within supply chains.
Counter-Information Warfare: Develop a robust counter-information strategy to combat disinformation and propaganda.
Address Internal Security Threats: The reports of corruption and sabotage within Ukraine necessitate an increased focus on counter-intelligence and internal security measures.
Address Morale: Develop strategies to address morale issues within Ukrainian troops, specifically by training soldiers, reducing corruption, and ensuring competent leadership.

Conclusion:

As of December 11, 2024, the battlefield situation remains highly dynamic and dangerous. The Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine continues unabated, causing significant Ukrainian losses. The situation in Syria is equally unstable. The use of long-range precision-guided munitions and the ongoing drone warfare continue to shape the battlefield, necessitating adaptations to both defensive and offensive strategies. The increasing use of technology and information warfare necessitates continuous monitoring and adaptation. The EU's continued sanctions and military aid from Western partners remain critical in supporting Ukraine's defense efforts. Commanders are advised to remain highly adaptable and responsive to the evolving operational environment. Humanitarian concerns remain paramount. The significant Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian territory, along with the continued Russian offensive, point to an escalating conflict. The newly-revealed corruption within Ukrainian railways and the targeting of civilian infrastructure remain substantial challenges. The increase in troop mobilization, including reports of forced contracts, may also contribute to poor troop performance.

The Russian activity is now focusing heavily on the Kurakhove and Pokrovsk regions, though their activity stretches throughout many regions of eastern Ukraine. The reports of Ukrainian demoralization and corruption are a source of severe concern, and may lead to tactical and operational collapse if not addressed.

The situation is rapidly evolving and requires constant assessment.

Situation Report

Updated Operational Situation Overview – December 11, 2024 (As of 19:36 UTC)