Major Military Situation Updates - December 19, 2024, 11:32 UTC

Rostov Region Drone and Missile Attack

Extensive Overnight Drone and Missile Attack: A significant overnight assault targeted the Rostov region. Russian air defenses intercepted 84 Ukrainian drones, including 36 over Rostov. This represents a marked escalation in drone attacks on the region and the first large-scale missile attack in months.
Widespread Air Defense Activation: Air defense systems were heavily engaged across multiple cities, including Taganrog, Bataysk, Rostov, Shakht, Kamensk, Millerovo, and Novoshakhtinsk, demonstrating the broad scope of the attack.
Damage and Casualties: One injury was reported near Rostov. Houses sustained damage in the Kamensk district. The Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery was attacked and set on fire by a drone and missile strike, later confirmed by Ukrainian forces as a joint operation by the SBU and the Navy. Drones were used to overwhelm Russian air defenses and missiles to strike the target. The fire has been extinguished. This attack underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure deep within Russian territory. The refinery is confirmed to play an important role in supplying fuel to Russian forces.
Alleged Retaliation for ATACMS: The Russian MoD claims this large-scale drone attack is retaliation for Ukraine's prior use of ATACMS missiles near Taganrog, suggesting a potential cycle of escalation. Russia states that the massive strike on Ukrainian infrastructure on December 17th was a response to the Ukrainian use of ATACMS missiles near Taganrog.
Ukrainian Drone Losses: Ukrainian forces report downing 45 out of 85 drones launched by Russian forces, with an additional 40 drones "locationally lost" due to defensive measures.

Intense Fighting Across Multiple Fronts

Eastern Front

Kurakhove and Pokrovsk

Ukrainian Territorial Losses: Ukrainian forces have lost control of Trudove and Uspenovka. Russian forces are attempting to sever the supply route from Dachenske to Uspenovka, further weakening the Ukrainian position.
Advance to Key Road: Russian forces have advanced to within 3 km of the Konstantinopol-Kurakhovo road, capturing Zelenovka. This threatens a critical supply route for Ukrainian forces. The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed the liberation of Zelenovka.
Pokrovsk Advance: Russian forces are expanding their control near Pokrovsk, capturing Novyi Trud and advancing north of Pushkino. The situation for Ukrainian forces near Pokrovsk is described as increasingly difficult. Russian forces have reportedly entered the village of Pisky.
Kryvyi Rih and Nikopolshchyna Attacked: Russian forces launched a missile attack on Kryvyi Rih, damaging infrastructure, two nine-story buildings, a hospital, a school, a store, and ten cars. One of the boilers was stopped in Kryvyi Rih. Traffic was restored, and the overhead wires were repaired. They also attacked Nikopolshchyna 15 times throughout the day using heavy artillery and kamikaze drones, damaging five private houses and two outbuildings.
Continued Assaults: Russian forces continue their assault on Kurakhove, making advances and reportedly inflicting significant casualties on Ukrainian forces, who are reportedly fleeing while being shelled by Russian forces. Russian forces control approximately 80% of Kurakhove, including the city council building and all residential areas. Active combat is ongoing, with Russian forces attempting to encircle Ukrainian forces near the Kurakhov thermal power plant and within the city. Approximately 700 Ukrainian troops, including special forces, are surrounded south of Kurakhove. In Kurakhove itself, battles are ongoing west of Mechnikov Street.
Forced Mobilization in Ukraine: Ukrainian MP Fedienko reports that mobilization centers are forcibly mobilizing individuals with exemptions, claiming that paper documentation is not recognized if the individual's data is not in the "Oberig" system.
At Kurakhivka axis clashes yesterday near Dachne, Sontsivka, Stari Terny, Kurakhove and Yantarne.
At Pokrovsk axis clashes yesterday near Myrolubivka, Promin, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zelene, Novovasylivka, Chumatske and Novoolenivka.

Vremivka Direction

Novyi Komar Advance: Russian forces have achieved success in Novyi Komar, with ongoing clearing operations. They are also attacking near Velyka Novosilka and Storozheve. The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed the liberation of Novyi Komar.
Advance North of Nesterianka: Russian forces have advanced north of Nesterianka on the Zaporizhzhia front, capturing a Ukrainian stronghold.
Clearing of Novyi Komar Confirmed: Russian forces have reportedly cleared Novyi Komar, in the area of Velyka Novosilka.
At Vremivka axis clashes yesterday near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil and Novodarivka.

Northern Front

Kursk Region

Intense Fighting: The "Sever" group of forces is engaged in fierce battles along the entire front line. Russian forces have been conducting an intense offensive in Kursk Oblast for three days.
Advances in Kruhlenke and Cherkasskaya Konopelka: Russian assault groups are advancing in Kruhlenke and have made progress in Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
Ukrainian Counterattacks Repelled: Four unsuccessful Ukrainian counterattacks were launched using NATO armored vehicles and HIMARS MLRS.
Airstrikes and Artillery: Russian Aerospace Forces and Tornado-S MLRS conducted strikes on Ukrainian forces near Sverdlikovo, Martynovka, and Belovody.
Ukrainian Reinforcements: Ukrainian forces are reportedly transferring additional reserves to the Kremenna area due to increased Russian activity.
Drone Activity: Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian "Baba Yaga" drone near Kupyansk. Operators of the 80th Airborne Assault Brigade destroyed an enemy along with equipment in the Kursk region. FPV-drones of the National Guard of Ukraine "Spartan" are destroying Russians in the Zaporizhzhia direction.
Heavy Losses for North Korean Troops: Reports indicate that North Korean troops are suffering heavy losses in the Kursk region, with at least 100 killed and 1,000 wounded.
In Kursk region Ukrainian forces have repelled 42 Russian army assaults.

Sumy Oblast

Drone Activity: New groups of enemy drones are entering Sumy Oblast from the Kursk region, moving west/southwest. An attack drone was reported in the south of Sumy region, heading towards Poltava. Attack drones were reported in Sumy region, heading south. New groups of drones are entering the eastern part of the region, moving south/southwest. There is also a report of a drone flying over Shostka heading west and 7 drones north of Myrhorod heading south. Drones are moving through the center of Sumy Oblast in a northeasterly direction. Drones are moving through the southeast of Chernihiv Oblast in a westerly direction. Drones are moving through the southwest of Chernihiv Oblast in a westerly direction. Drone activity continues in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Russian operators of FPV drones destroyed a Ukrainian "Baba Yaga" drone near Kupyansk. Russian forces have used drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a wooded area. High-speed drones are a threat to Ternopil. Multiple drones are reported to be active across Ukraine, moving towards or over Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Poltava, Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, Vinnytsia, Kherson, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia. Multiple drones are reported to be approaching or over Sumy. A drone is moving towards Dnipro from the north. A large group of drones launched from the Black Sea, moving towards Tatarbunary. Drones are approaching Bila Tserkva, Belyayevka, Borispil, and Kryvyi Rih. Two Ukrainian drones simultaneously struck a single target. Drones are moving northwest from the border with Mykolaiv Oblast. Drones are approaching Kherson from the direction of Zelenovka. Russian forces are launching guided air bomb attacks in the Kharkiv Oblast. Drones are moving west/southwest from the southern part of the region. One drone is approaching Mykolaiv from the direction of Zelenovka. A video shows drone footage of a battle between drones over Chasov Yar. Operators of the 80th Airborne Assault Brigade destroyed an enemy along with equipment in the Kursk region. FPV-drones of the National Guard of Ukraine "Spartan" are destroying Russians in the Zaporizhzhia direction. Mi-8 of the Ukrainian Air Force shoots down a Shahed drone. A Ukrainian drone was destroyed by a Russian FPV drone. A Ukrainian drone struck a vehicle in the Belgorod region, injuring a civilian. 45 out of 85 drones were shot down, and 40 were "locationally lost".
Ukrainian Reserves Targeted: Ukrainian reserves being transferred to the Kursk region were reportedly destroyed in the Sumy region.

Kharkiv Region

Shelling in Tsyrkuny: Four people were injured in Tsyrkuny due to enemy shelling.
At Kharkiv axis clashes yesterday near Vovchansk.
Explosive strikes were reported in the Kharkiv region.

Other Key Developments

Chasov Yar: Russian paratroopers continue to engage Ukrainian forces in Chasov Yar.
Drone Shootdowns: In addition to the drones shot down over Rostov, 21 were shot down in Bryansk, 14 in Belgorod, 6 in Voronezh, 3 in Kursk, 3 in Tambov, and 1 in Krasnodar Krai.
Kamchatka Aircraft Incident: An An-2 aircraft disappeared from radar in Kamchatka. A rescue operation is underway.
Murmansk Train Collision: The death toll from a train collision in the Murmansk region has risen to two, with 31 injured, including five children. 14 people were hospitalized, 4 of them in serious condition. The train driver and assistant driver have been detained. Passengers from the train have continued their journey on a specially formed train.
Extremist Group Neutralized in Kyrgyzstan: 22 members of the "Hizb ut-Tahrir" extremist group were arrested in Kyrgyzstan.
Israeli Airstrikes on Yemen: The Israeli army confirmed launching airstrikes on Yemen. At least nine people were killed in the airstrikes. Airstrikes targeted Sanaa, Hodeidah, and the port of Ras-Isa.
Discussion on Russian Prosecutor General: The Federation Council committees will discuss the candidacy of Igor Krasnov for the position of Prosecutor General on December 19.
Air Raid Alert: An air raid alert has been issued for Kyiv. The alert in the Zaporizhzhia region has been lifted.
Detainment for Treason: A resident of Khakassia has been detained on suspicion of treason for financing the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Cossack Participation in Special Operation: 43,000 Cossacks have participated in the special military operation, with over 4,500 receiving state awards.
Naval Activity in the Black, Azov, and Mediterranean Seas: No enemy warships are present in the Black and Azov Seas. Six enemy warships are in the Mediterranean Sea, three of which are armed with Kalibr cruise missiles.
Passage through the Kerch Strait: One vessel traveled through the Kerch Strait towards the Black Sea, and five vessels towards the Azov Sea. Two of these continued towards the Bosporus Strait.
Russia Reinforces Army and Uses Conscripts in Ukraine: The ISW reports that Russia is intensifying its army recruitment and coercing conscripts into signing contracts to participate in the war in Ukraine.
Territorial Changes on December 18: A Russian source reported a net gain of 15.68 km² in the "KTO Zone" on December 18, with no changes in the "SVO Zone."
Assassination Attempt on General Kirillov: A suspect in the assassination attempt on Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov has reportedly confessed. The suspect, a citizen of Uzbekistan, claims to have been recruited by Ukrainian special services. The detonation was triggered remotely from Dnipro, Ukraine. The suspect has been transported to the scene of the crime for investigative actions. New suspects might be identified.
Britain Announces Aid Package: Britain announced a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at 286 million hryvnias.
Zelensky-Rutte Meeting: President Zelensky discussed strengthening Ukraine's air defense and security guarantees with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Zelensky Confirms Visit of Trump Envoy: President Zelensky confirmed the visit of US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg to Ukraine in early January.
Discussion on Peacekeeping Contingent: President Zelensky stated that the deployment of a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine is being discussed in Brussels, with positive developments. French President Macron is reportedly leading the consultations.
Mobilization in Ukraine: There are reports of Ukrainian mobilization efforts targeting individuals with exemptions, claiming that paper documentation is not recognized if the individual's data is not in the "Oberig" system. Ukrainian MP Fedienko reports that mobilization centers are forcibly mobilizing individuals with exemptions.
Ukrainian Casualties: Reports of a Ukrainian police major being killed by a Russian drone strike in the Chernihiv region.
German Military Aid: Germany is reportedly sending 20 additional Marder IFVs to Ukraine, with delivery expected in the first half of 2025. The vehicles are being provided from Rheinmetall's industrial stocks.
Statements from Officials: President Zelensky stated that Ukraine does not need mediators like Hungary and its Prime Minister Orban and emphasized the need for direct relations with the US. Andriy Yermak, the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, stated that "real negotiations" about peace with Russia will only begin when Russia no longer has the resources to continue the war. President Zelensky stated that he does not need intermediaries in communicating with Trump. President Zelensky stated that Ukraine does not have the forces to recapture Crimea and Donbas, but Ukraine cannot give up these territories.
NATO to Coordinate Military Aid to Ukraine: NATO has reportedly taken over the coordination of military aid to Ukraine from the US.
Negotiations to End the War: Discussions are reportedly taking place between US and Ukrainian officials to find a way to end the war. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that Kyiv will be in a weakened position in negotiations with Russia if the US stops providing aid.
Discussion on European Troops in Ukraine: Discussions are reportedly taking place in Brussels about sending European troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire or peace agreement.
Alleged Israeli Involvement: Reports suggest that Israeli forces are expanding their occupied zone in the Golan Heights and preparing for strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Statements from Officials: Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that Ukraine will not agree to reduce the size of its armed forces, even if invited to join NATO.
At Kherson axis Ukrainian forces have repelled 2 Russian army assaults.
Putin on "Oreshnik": Putin stated that "Oreshnik" is based on Russian developments and is a "modern and very new weapon." He claimed that no one has a chance to shoot down "Oreshnik." He also mentioned that the range of "Oreshnik" is up to 5,500 kilometers. He suggested a "technological duel" with the West, proposing to choose a target in Kyiv, concentrate all air defense and missile defense forces there, and Russia will strike it with "Oreshnik." He also stated that he does not know why "Oreshnik" is called "Oreshnik." Putin offered to conduct a test of the "Oreshnik" system against a target in Kyiv, where all Western air defense systems would be concentrated.
Putin on Negotiations with Ukraine: Putin stated that there are many people in Ukraine who want to rid the country of neo-Nazism and that Russia has someone to talk to there.
Putin on THAAD System: Putin stated that he sees no problem if the US deploys the THAAD air defense system to Ukraine. He called the American air defense system expensive and ineffective.
Putin on Nuclear Doctrine: Putin stated that the protection of Belarus is a very important component of Russia's updated nuclear doctrine.
Putin on Payments to Soldiers: Putin stated that all soldiers fighting in the Kursk region should receive payments as participants in the special operation. He promised to check why this is not happening.
Putin on Restoration of New Regions: Putin stated that Russia has enough strength and resources to restore all its historical territories. He said that a program has been developed until 2030 to address housing, utilities, and infrastructure issues. He also mentioned plans to build a ring road around the Sea of Azov, similar to the Tavrida highway in Crimea.
Putin on Mariupol: Putin stated that 1,700 houses have already been restored in Mariupol and that more than 300,000 people have returned to the city.
Putin on Assad: Putin stated that he has not yet met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since his arrival in Moscow but plans to talk to him. He also promised to discuss the issue of a missing American journalist in Syria with Assad and the new Syrian authorities.

Analysis and Strategic Implications

The situation remains highly volatile and dynamic. The massive drone and missile attack on the Rostov region marks a significant escalation and could lead to increased military activity and heightened tensions. Russian air defense systems were heavily engaged, highlighting both their effectiveness and the scale of the Ukrainian drone threat. The targeting of the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery demonstrates the vulnerability of critical infrastructure deep within Russian territory and could impact Russia's fuel supply and logistics. This attack was confirmed to be a joint operation conducted by the SBU and Ukrainian Navy, utilizing drones to overwhelm Russian air defenses and missiles to strike the target.

Russian forces continue to make gains on the Eastern Front, particularly near Kurakhove and Pokrovsk. The reported loss of Trudove and Uspenovka, along with the advance towards the Konstantinopol-Kurakhovo road, further jeopardizes the Ukrainian position in the area. The expanding zone of control near Pokrovsk indicates a concerted effort to push back Ukrainian defenses and potentially encircle Ukrainian forces. The attacks on Kryvyi Rih and Nikopolshchyna underscore the ongoing threat to civilian infrastructure and population centers.

On the Vremivka direction, the success in Novyi Komar and the advance north of Nesterianka demonstrate continued Russian pressure and a potential shift in the frontline on the Zaporizhzhia front. The clearing of Novyi Komar further solidifies Russian gains in this area.

In the Kursk region, intense fighting and reported advances in Kruhlenke and Cherkasskaya Konopelka highlight efforts to push back Ukrainian forces. Repelled Ukrainian counterattacks and the use of airstrikes and artillery indicate a strong Russian defensive posture. Ukrainian reinforcement of the Kremenna area suggests concern about increasing Russian activity in the north. The reported heavy losses suffered by North Korean troops in the Kursk region, if true, indicate the significant risks faced by foreign forces involved in the conflict.

The disappearance of the An-2 aircraft in Kamchatka and the train collision in Murmansk, while not directly related to the conflict, highlight logistical and safety challenges in Russia, potentially impacting military operations and resource allocation.

The neutralization of an extremist group in Kyrgyzstan demonstrates ongoing regional security challenges. Israeli airstrikes on Yemen, with reported casualties, represent a further expansion of the Middle East conflict.

The discussion on Igor Krasnov's candidacy for Russian Prosecutor General indicates ongoing political developments within Russia. The air raid alert in Kyiv and the lifting of the alert in Zaporizhzhia suggest continued aerial threats and defensive measures.

The absence of enemy warships in the Black and Azov Seas, with a concentration in the Mediterranean, suggests a potential shift in naval strategy. Reported reinforcement of the Russian army, use of conscripts in Ukraine, and procurement of drones for Ukrainian forces indicate an intensification of military efforts on both sides.

Reported territorial gains by Russian forces suggest a dynamic and evolving battlefield. The confession of the suspect in General Kirillov's assassination attempt, if true, represents a significant escalation, highlighting the potential for covert operations and targeted killings.

The new British aid package for Ukraine and the Zelensky-Rutte meeting demonstrate continued international support for Ukraine. The confirmation of a visit by a US Special Envoy and discussions about a peacekeeping contingent suggest ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the conflict.

The destruction of a significant number of Ukrainian drones and continued fighting on multiple fronts indicate the conflict is far from over, with both sides actively engaged. The successful interception of many drones demonstrates Ukrainian air defense effectiveness, likely influencing strategic decisions regarding drone use and air defense systems in future operations.

NATO's reported takeover of coordinating military aid to Ukraine from the US and discussions about deploying European troops in case of a ceasefire or peace agreement signal a potential shift in international involvement and long-term planning for the conflict.

President Zelensky's statement about Ukraine not agreeing to reduce its armed forces, even if invited to NATO, underscores Ukraine's determination to maintain a strong military posture regardless of international alliances or negotiations.

Changes from Previous Situation (6 hours ago):

Major Escalation: The large-scale drone and missile attack on the Rostov region, with 84 Ukrainian drones intercepted (36 over Rostov), marks a significant escalation in the scale and intensity of attacks.
Air Defense Activation: Widespread activation of air defense systems across multiple locations.
Casualties and Damage: One injury near Rostov, damage to houses in the Kamensk district, and a fire at the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery.
Ukrainian Drone Losses: Ukrainian forces reported shooting down 45 out of 85 drones, with 40 additional drones "locationally lost."
New Drone Activity: New drone activity reported in Sumy and Khmelnytskyi Oblasts.
Air Raid Alert: Air raid alert issued for Kyiv, lifted in Zaporizhzhia.
Cossack Participation: 43,000 Cossacks reported to have participated in the special military operation.
Naval Activity: No enemy warships in the Black and Azov Seas, six in the Mediterranean.
Territorial Changes: Reported Russian net gain of 15.68 km² in the "KTO Zone" on December 18.
British Aid Package: Announcement of a new 286 million hryvnia military aid package from Britain.
Zelensky-Rutte Meeting: Discussion on strengthening Ukraine's air defense and security guarantees.
Other Developments: Increase in Murmansk train collision death toll, confession of suspect in General Kirillov's assassination attempt.
Ukrainian Reserves Targeted: Ukrainian reserves being transferred to the Kursk region were reportedly destroyed in the Sumy region.
Mobilization in Ukraine: Reports of Ukrainian mobilization efforts targeting individuals with exemptions, claiming that paper documentation is not recognized if the individual's data is not in the "Oberig" system.
Ukrainian Casualties: Reports of a Ukrainian police major being killed by a Russian drone strike in the Chernihiv region.
German Military Aid: Germany is reportedly sending 20 additional Marder IFVs to Ukraine, with delivery expected in the first half of 2025.
North Korean Losses: Reports of significant North Korean troop losses in the Kursk region.
Confirmation of Novoshakhtinsk Refinery Attack: Ukrainian forces confirmed the attack on the Novoshakhtinsk refinery as a joint SBU and Navy operation.
Liberation of Zelenovka and Novyi Komar Confirmed: The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed the liberation of Zelenovka and Novyi Komar in the Donetsk People's Republic.
Putin on "Oreshnik": Putin stated that "Oreshnik" is based on Russian developments and is a "modern and very new weapon." He claimed that no one has a chance to shoot down "Oreshnik." He also mentioned that the range of "Oreshnik" is up to 5,500 kilometers. He suggested a "technological duel" with the West, proposing to choose a target in Kyiv, concentrate all air defense and missile defense forces there, and Russia will strike it with "Oreshnik." He also stated that he does not know why "Oreshnik" is called "Oreshnik."
Putin on Negotiations with Ukraine: Putin stated that there are many people in Ukraine who want to rid the country of neo-Nazism and that Russia has someone to talk to there.
Putin on THAAD System: Putin stated that he sees no problem if the US deploys the THAAD air defense system to Ukraine. He called the American air defense system expensive and ineffective.
Putin on Nuclear Doctrine: Putin stated that the protection of Belarus is a very important component of Russia's updated nuclear doctrine.
Putin on Payments to Soldiers: Putin stated that all soldiers fighting in the Kursk region should receive payments as participants in the special operation. He promised to check why this is not happening.
Putin on Restoration of New Regions: Putin stated that Russia has enough strength and resources to restore all its historical territories. He said that a program has been developed until 2030 to address housing, utilities, and infrastructure issues. He also mentioned plans to build a ring road around the Sea of Azov, similar to the Tavrida highway in Crimea.
Putin on Mariupol: Putin stated that 1,700 houses have already been restored in Mariupol and that more than 300,000 people have returned to the city.
Putin on Assad: Putin stated that he has not yet met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since his arrival in Moscow but plans to talk to him. He also promised to discuss the issue of a missing American journalist in Syria with Assad and the new Syrian authorities.
Statements from Officials: President Zelensky stated that Ukraine does not have the forces to recapture Crimea and Donbas, but Ukraine cannot give up these territories.

Changes from Older Situations (6 hours to 3 days ago):

Continued Russian Advances: Russian forces continue to make advances on the Eastern Front, particularly in the Pokrovsk and Kurakhove directions, capturing several settlements and expanding their zone of control.
Intense Fighting: Intense fighting is reported along the Vremivka axis, in the Toretsk area, and the Kursk region, where Russian forces have renewed their offensive.
Drone Warfare: Drone warfare remains a dominant feature, with both sides employing extensive drone operations and new tactics.
Missile Attacks: Missile attacks continue to target Ukrainian infrastructure, with significant damage reported in the Lviv and Ternopil regions.
Alleged Assassination of a Russian General: The alleged assassination of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov remains a significant development, with a suspect arrested and confessed.
International Involvement: NATO has taken over coordination of military aid to Ukraine from the US. Discussions about sending European troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire or peace agreement.
North Korean Involvement: Reports of North Korean troops participating in the conflict continue.
Negotiations: Discussions are reportedly taking place between US and Ukrainian officials to find a way to end the war.
Syrian Situation: Israeli airstrikes continue in Syria, with reports of Russian troop withdrawals from the front lines.
Desertion in the Ukrainian Army: The number of Ukrainian soldiers deserting their posts has significantly increased.
New Mobilization Effort in Ukraine: A new mobilization effort is potentially targeting younger age groups.
Russian Military Reports: The Russian MoD reported that all tasks assigned to the Russian Armed Forces for 2024 have been completed. The main training event for 2025 will be the joint strategic exercise "West-2025" with Belarus.
Statements from Officials: President Zelensky stated that Ukraine does not need mediators like Hungary and its Prime Minister Orban and emphasized the need for direct relations with the US. Andriy Yermak, the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, stated that "real negotiations" about peace with Russia will only begin when Russia no longer has the resources to continue the war.
Drone Shootdowns: Ukrainian forces claim to have shot down 51 out of 81 enemy drones launched on the night of December 17th, with 30 drones "locally lost" without reaching their targets.
Air Raid Alerts: Air raid alerts are active in Mariupol and Pryazovia due to the threat of drones and missiles.
Missile Attack on Rostov Oblast: Three missiles were shot down over Rostov Oblast, with one hitting a farm building. A residential building was set on fire due to falling fragments from a downed rocket. No deaths were reported from the missile attacks.
Arrest of Suspect in Assassination: A 29-year-old citizen of Uzbekistan, suspected of carrying out the assassination of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, has been arrested and has confessed to being recruited by Ukrainian special services. The detonation was triggered remotely from Dnipro, Ukraine.
Casualty Reports: The Ukrainian Armed Forces (VSU) reportedly lost up to 540 military personnel and one tank in the Kursk region.
Destruction of "Abrams" Tank: A Russian BpLA calculation of Crimean paratroopers reportedly destroyed an American "Abrams" tank near Novoivanovka, Kursk region.
Drone Activity: New groups of enemy drones are entering Sumy Oblast from the Kursk region, moving west/southwest. An attack drone was reported in the south of Sumy region, heading towards Poltava. Attack drones were reported in Sumy region, heading south. New groups of Russian drones enter from the Kursk region, with multiple drones moving towards Kyiv, Poltava and Pryluky. Sumy is under threat of attack from the northwest and northeast. A drone was reported to be moving past Sumy to the southwest. Another drone was reported in the Sumy region, moving towards Poltava Oblast. A drone was reported moving past Sumy to the southwest. An enemy drone was reported on the northeast of Poltava region, moving southwest. New groups of enemy drones are entering Sumy Oblast from the Kursk region, moving west/southwest. A group of attack drones was reported in Chernihiv region, heading west.
Clearing of Novyi Komar: Russian forces have reportedly cleared Novyi Komar in the Velyka Novosilka area.
Houthi Missile Attack on Tel Aviv: Houthi forces reportedly launched a missile attack on Tel Aviv, with one missile hitting a school.
Allegations of Israeli-Turkish Conflict in Syria: Reports of escalating tensions between Israel and Turkey over Syrian territories.
Ukrainian Counteroffensive: Reports of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kupyansk direction, with limited success.
New Russian Offensive: Reports of a new Russian offensive in the Avdiivka and Marinka directions, with heavy fighting reported.
Allegations of Ukrainian Shelling of Civilians: Reports of Ukrainian shelling of civilian areas in Donetsk and other cities, with casualties reported.
Wagner Group: Reports of Wagner Group fighters returning to the front lines after the death of Yevgeny Prigozhin.

New Information from Recent Messages:

Update on Kharkiv Front (08:36:59 UTC): The operational situation on the Kharkiv front remains complex. Ukrainian forces are holding back Russian troops. One clash occurred near Vovchansk. Russian forces conducted 3 airstrikes with 23 unguided aerial rockets (NARs) and 27 drone strikes. They also carried out 28 shellings of Ukrainian positions. Ukrainian forces are responding and inflicting losses on the enemy. Russian losses in the past day include 54 troops (16 killed, 38 wounded), 42 pieces of equipment destroyed or damaged, and 59 shelters destroyed.
Liberation of Zelenovka and Novyi Komar (08:37:12 UTC, 08:52:07 UTC): The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed the liberation of Zelenovka and Novyi Komar in the Donetsk People's Republic. The capture of Novyi Komar has allowed Russian forces to cut off a supply route to Ukrainian forces in Velyka Novosilka.
MoD Briefing (08:37:20 UTC):
- The "Center" group of forces inflicted up to 520 casualties on Ukrainian forces.
- The "West" group repelled two counterattacks, with Ukrainian losses of up to 460 troops.
- Air defense forces shot down a "Neptune" guided missile and 154 Ukrainian drones.
- Russian forces struck airfields and Ukrainian manpower in 149 areas.
Zelensky on Army Size (08:37:47 UTC): President Zelensky stated that Ukraine will not agree to reduce the size of its armed forces, even if invited to join NATO. He emphasized the need for a large and strong army.
Drone Attack on Novoshakhtinsk Refinery (08:39:40 UTC): Sources indicate that the attack was a combined operation involving drones and missiles. Drones were used to overload Russian air defenses, creating an opportunity for missiles to strike the target.
Israeli Airstrikes in Yemen (08:29:01 UTC): Overnight, Israel and the US conducted airstrikes in Yemen, including the port of Hodeidah. Houthi forces retaliated by launching a missile attack on Tel Aviv, claiming to have used a "Palestine-2" hypersonic missile.
Alleged Atrocities in Selidovo (08:12:02 UTC): Reports have emerged alleging that Ukrainian forces have committed mass killings of civilians in Selidovo. A resident, Irina Strelnik, reported the disappearance and death of her 77-year-old neighbor, Maria Ivanovna Semyonova, after encountering Ukrainian military personnel. Ukrainian soldiers reportedly referred to local residents as "Moskals."
Alleged Liquidation of Colombian Mercenaries (08:12:02 UTC): Russian forces reportedly liquidated a unit of Colombian mercenaries near the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR).
57th Motorized Rifle Regiment (08:12:02 UTC): The Russian Defense Minister congratulated the command and personnel of the 57th Motorized Rifle Regiment with the liberation of Elizavetovka (DPR) from neo-Nazis. More than 1,100 servicemen of the regiment were presented with state awards and departmental insignias for bravery and resilience in the fight with armed Ukrainian formations. A video shows how the 57th regiment liberated Elizavetovka, advancing towards Kurakhovo.
Drone Strikes (08:12:02 UTC): 425 ОШБ "Скала" conducted a drone strike operation in the village of Shevchenko. A video shows drone footage in a snowy, wooded area of a military operation.
Ukrainian Withdrawal from Uspenivka Pocket (08:12:02 UTC): Ukrainian forces were successfully withdrawn from the "Uspenivka pocket" with fewer losses than anticipated.
One Ukrainian soldier killed, another injured in Kupiansk (08:12:02 UTC): Due to shelling by Russian forces.
Toretsk and Chasov Yar (08:12:02 UTC): Russian forces are consolidating control in Toretsk and reportedly advancing near Dzerzhinsk. Russian forces evacuated civilians from Toretsk (Dzerzhinsk). Russian forces advanced in the Khomkolonka microdistrict of Toretsk. In Toretsk, in the southern part of the "Central" mine, Russian fighters captured two objects located on the outskirts of the spoil heap. Fighting continues on the northern and western edge of the Fire-Resistant Compound in Chasov Yar. Russian forces advanced towards the small mine No. 10 spoil heap near Toretsk. Russian assault troops were able to advance 500 meters to the west in the Khimkolonka area and occupy new positions in the private sector. Russian forces have partially dislodged Ukrainian forces from the fire-resistant compound in Chasov Yar. Clashes reported near Toretsk, Krymske, and Dyliivka. The assault on Chasov Yar continues with some success, including advances and the use

Situation Report