Major Military Situation Updates - December 20, 2024, 08:02 UTC
Kyiv Under Intense Missile and Drone Attack
Multiple Explosions: Kyiv experienced a series of powerful explosions in the early hours of December 20th. Affected districts include Holosiivskyi, Dniprovskyi, Solomianskyi, and Shevchenkivskyi.
Targets and Damage:
Missile and drone debris caused fires and damage across multiple locations.
Holosiivskyi District: Fires in a parking lot, damage to cars, a heating main, and an office building. Seven people are injured, four of whom were hospitalized. There was an initial report of one fatality, later revised. 630 buildings in the district, along with 16 medical facilities, 17 schools, and 13 kindergartens are without heat due to damage to a heating main. The Toronto business center across from St. Nicholas Cathedral was damaged, with windows blown out and the facade damaged. The roof of the business center was also severely damaged.
Dniprovskyi District: Debris fell on an unfinished building.
Solomianskyi District: A fire was reported in a non-residential building.
Shevchenkivskyi District: Debris reported in the area.
Missile Types: Reports indicate the use of Khinzhal hypersonic missiles and Iskander/KN-23 ballistic missiles. A total of 8 missiles were reportedly launched.
Air Defense Response: Ukrainian air defenses actively engaged incoming targets, but not all missiles were intercepted.
Drone Attacks: Russian forces launched drone attacks on Kyiv. Ukrainian air defenses reportedly destroyed all drones targeting the capital.
Infrastructure Impact: Damage to a heating main in Holosiivskyi district and an office building fire reported.
Strategic Implications: The attacks demonstrate Russia's continued capability to strike Kyiv with sophisticated missiles and drones, targeting civilian infrastructure and causing casualties. The use of hypersonic and ballistic missiles indicates an escalation.
Drone Attack on Boryspil: A warehouse in Boryspil, near Kyiv, was set on fire following a Russian missile attack. The fire encompassed a 15,000 m² area, requiring a large-scale emergency response involving 72 personnel and 24 units of equipment, including specialized equipment from Kyiv, the Boryspil airport, local fire brigades, and a fire train from the South-Western Railway, as well as vehicles for water supply from local authorities. The fire was contained by 04:05 UTC.
Southern Front: Kherson Under Heavy Shelling
Intense Shelling: Kherson and its suburbs are under continuous shelling from the Russian-occupied left bank of the Dnipro River. Residential areas, critical infrastructure, and social infrastructure are being targeted.
Casualties: One killed and nine wounded reported in Kherson.
Russian Sabotage and Reconnaissance Groups (DRGs): An enemy DRG attempted to advance towards Kherson but was reportedly detected and destroyed by Ukrainian forces. Another DRG was reportedly destroyed attempting to cross the border into the Sumy region.
Strategic Implications: The continued shelling of Kherson indicates Russia's intent to maintain pressure on the city and disrupt Ukrainian defenses.
Ukrainian Counteroffensive: Ukrainian forces are reportedly attacking the right bank of the Dnipro River near the bridge in Kherson.
Drone Activity: Ukrainian forces report a high level of enemy drone activity near the Antonovsky bridge.
Russian Advances on Multiple Fronts
Kursk Region:
Significant Gains: Russian forces made substantial gains, liberating Novoivanovka and advancing in the northern Sudzha district and near Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
Disrupted Ukrainian Rotation: Russian forces reportedly disrupted a Ukrainian troop rotation near the border, destroying armored vehicles and personnel.
Intense Fighting: Heavy fighting continues along the entire front line.
Repelled Counterattacks: Ukrainian counterattacks using NATO armored vehicles and HIMARS were repelled.
Airstrikes: Russian airstrikes targeted Ukrainian forces in Gornal and Malaya Loknya.
Destruction of Reserves: Ukrainian reserves being transferred to the Kursk region were reportedly destroyed in the Sumy region.
North Korean Involvement: Reports of North Korean special forces involvement persist, with claims of casualties and incidents of mistaken fire. These reports are likely exaggerated. Reports indicate that North Korean troops are suffering heavy losses in the Kursk region, with at least 100 killed and 1,000 wounded. Ukrainian forces claimed to have killed 12 and wounded 20 North Korean soldiers.
Strategic Implications: The Russian advances in the Kursk region represent a significant development, potentially opening a new front and stretching Ukrainian defenses.
Corruption: The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained for embezzling over 173 million rubles during the construction of fortifications on the border with Ukraine.
Donetsk Front:
Kurakhove and Pokrovsk:
Russian Control of Kurakhove: Russian forces control approximately 80% of Kurakhove, with intense fighting ongoing.
Encirclement Efforts: Russian forces are attempting to encircle Ukrainian forces near the Kurakhov thermal power plant.
Liberation of Territories: Russian forces liberated Ostrovsky (Konstantinopolskoe) and Zelenovka southwest of Kurakhove and secured a foothold in Novyi Komar.
Advance Towards Ukrainka: Russian forces advanced towards Ukrainka from Pushkino and Novoolenivka.
Clashes: Clashes reported near Dachne, Sontsivka, Stari Terny, Kurakhove, Yantarne, Myrolubivka, Promin, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zelene, Novovasylivka, Chumatske, and Novoolenivka.
Strategic Implications: The advances near Kurakhove and Pokrovsk indicate a sustained Russian offensive in the Donetsk region, aiming to capture key towns and encircle Ukrainian forces.
Vremivka Direction:
Success in Novyi Komar: Russian forces achieved success in Novyi Komar, with ongoing clearing operations.
Attacks Near Velyka Novosilka and Storozheve: Russian forces are attacking near these settlements, aiming to expand their control.
Capture of Stronghold: Russian forces advanced north of Nesterianka, capturing a Ukrainian stronghold.
Clashes: Clashes reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil, and Novodarivka.
Strategic Implications: The advances in the Vremivka direction suggest a Russian effort to push towards Velyka Novosilka and destabilize Ukrainian defenses in the southern Donetsk region.
Other Significant Developments
Drone Warfare: Russian air defense systems reportedly intercepted 36 Ukrainian drones overnight. Russian forces are using approximately 100 Geran drones to deplete Ukrainian air defenses overnight. Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Russian "Baba Yaga" drone. An image shows a Ukrainian FPV drone strike on North Korean troops in the Kursk region. Russian forces destroyed 13 Ukrainian drones over Kursk, Belgorod, Rostov, and Lipetsk regions. Ukrainian forces used drones to target a Russian position near a road and successfully targeted two soldiers in the open. Ukrainian forces used a drone to drop multiple munitions on targets, including personnel and buildings. A Russian military drone destroyed a camouflaged M119 howitzer of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Ukrainian forces report destroying a Russian "Plastun-3000" electronic warfare station and damaging a Russian command post with drones. The Ukrainian Air Force reported activity of Russian tactical aviation in the east, with a threat of the use of aerial weapons.
Testimony of Russian POW: A captured Russian soldier provided testimony detailing manpower shortages, inadequate training, low morale, and broken promises within the Russian military.
Putin's Address: Putin addressed the FSB, SVR, FSO, and Main Directorate of Special Programs, emphasizing the need for offensive actions in Donbas and Novorossiya and highlighting counterintelligence and combating internal threats.
International Reactions:
Slovakia: Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico announced Slovakia's intention to block possible EU sanctions against Russia in the nuclear energy sector and stated that Zelensky has completely ruled out the possibility of continuing gas transit through Ukraine, potentially harming the European bloc.
Hungary: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will reportedly postpone the decision on extending sanctions against Russia until after Trump's inauguration.
Turkey: Turkey reportedly received an exemption from the US for Gazprombank for gas payments from Russia.
Explosions Near Military Objects in Murmansk: Two explosions occurred near military objects in Murmansk on the evening of December 18. The cause is unknown but could be related to planned blasting operations or sabotage.
Missile Attack on Kryvyi Rih and Nikopolshchyna: Russian forces launched a missile attack on Kryvyi Rih, damaging infrastructure. They also attacked Nikopolshchyna 15 times throughout the day using heavy artillery and kamikaze drones.
Cyberattack on Ukraine: A large-scale cyberattack, attributed to Russian hackers, targeted Ukraine's state registry systems, causing significant disruption. Restoration efforts are expected to take at least two weeks.
Statements from Officials: 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 Ukraine does not have the forces to recapture Crimea and Donbas, but Ukraine cannot give up these territories.
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.
Putin on Negotiations with Ukraine: Putin stated that Russia is ready to engage in dialogue with Ukraine without preconditions, but based on the Istanbul agreements and the realities on the ground. He emphasized that any agreements must be signed with legitimate authorities in Ukraine.
Putin on "Special Military Operation": Putin stated that the "Special Military Operation" has shown that Russia has become much stronger in the last 2-3 years, contrary to the expectations of the West.
Putin on Peace Talks: Putin stated that peace talks with Ukraine are possible without preconditions, but based on the Istanbul agreements and the realities on the ground. He also stated that any peace agreement must be signed with legitimate authorities in Ukraine.
New statement from the Pentagon: There are about 2,000 US troops in Syria, not 900 as previously stated.
NATO Preparation: NATO is reportedly preparing for war with Russia, and Moscow is taking these risks into account in its military planning.
Russian state registries: were reportedly taken down, causing serious disruptions to information about property owners, legal entities, individual entrepreneurs, and marriage data. This is likely the most damaging attack of its kind.
Poland: Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk traveled to Lviv to meet with President Zelensky.
Strategic Implications
Escalation and Multi-Front Pressure: The intensified attacks on Kyiv, combined with Russian advances on multiple fronts, indicate a strategy of escalation and multi-front pressure on Ukraine.
Internal Challenges: The testimony of the Russian POW and reports of manpower shortages highlight potential internal challenges within the Russian military, which could impact their long-term operational capabilities.
International Divisions: The differing positions of Slovakia and Hungary on EU sanctions reveal growing divisions within Europe regarding the approach to the conflict, potentially impacting the unity and effectiveness of the Western response.
Cyber Warfare: The cyberattack on Ukraine demonstrates the increasing importance of cyber warfare as a tool for disruption and destabilization, highlighting the need for robust cybersecurity measures.
Negotiation Challenges: The statements from Ukrainian and Russian officials highlight the significant obstacles to achieving a negotiated settlement, with both sides holding firm to their positions.
Protracted Conflict: The ongoing fighting, internal challenges, and geopolitical divisions suggest the conflict is likely to be protracted, with no clear end in sight.
Immediate Concerns
Civilian Casualties: The continued targeting of civilian areas in Kyiv and Kherson raises serious concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian impact of the conflict.
Infrastructure Damage: The damage to infrastructure, including the heating main in Kyiv and the warehouse in Boryspil, will have significant consequences for the civilian population and the Ukrainian economy.
Potential for Further Escalation: The intensity of the attacks and the rhetoric from both sides suggest a high risk of further escalation in the coming days and weeks.
New Updates
The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a bill to compensate for property destroyed in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones. The law will come into effect four months after the President signs it. The procedure for providing compensation is to be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
Ukrainian forces are reportedly attacking the right bank of the Dnipro River near the bridge in Kherson.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that 2,200 Russian soldiers were killed, and 8 tanks, 24 armored fighting vehicles, 42 artillery systems, and 1 air defense system were destroyed in the past 24 hours.
The Ukrainian Air Force reportedly destroyed all drones launched by Russia to attack Kyiv.
The Ukrainian military is forming a third heavy mechanized brigade from the 5th Separate Tank Brigade, following similar changes with the 17th Tank and 117th Mechanized Brigades. The structure is expected to include at least 2-3 tank battalions and 2-3 mechanized battalions.
A map dated December 20, 2024, shows the deployment of Ukrainian heavy mechanized brigades, particularly around Donetsk, indicating a dynamic frontline with contested regions and potential offensive actions.
The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported that over the past day, there were over 300 shelling incidents and the enemy used 363 FPV drones of various modifications and dropped 350 shrapnel munitions.
A collection is underway for a repeater for a drone strike group, with a goal of 38,000 UAH.
A Russian soldier, Maxim Potashev, was awarded the title of Hero of Russia for destroying multiple Ukrainian targets with UAVs. He was also promoted to the rank of lieutenant.
A video shows the aftermath of a missile strike in Boryspil, with a warehouse on fire.
The Kyiv City Military Administration reported that one person was killed in the Holosiivskyi district due to a missile strike. The number of injured was later corrected to 4.
Images show the aftermath of a missile strike on Kyiv in the Holosiivskyi district, with burned-out cars and damage to buildings.
A Ukrainian soldier was captured in the Kursk region and admitted to receiving orders to shoot civilians if necessary.
Russian forces used approximately 100 Geran drones to deplete Ukrainian air defenses overnight.
An image shows a Ukrainian FPV drone strike on North Korean troops in the Kursk region.
Ukrainian forces used drones to target a Russian position near a road and successfully targeted two soldiers in the open.
Ukrainian forces used a drone to drop multiple munitions on targets, including personnel and buildings.
A Russian Ka-52 helicopter accompanied an Il-76MD military transport aircraft during takeoff from the Khmeimim airbase.
A Russian soldier confessed to killing civilians in the Kursk region under orders from his commanders.
A Brazilian mercenary admitted to killing two Russian soldiers, a father and son, during combat in the Kursk region.
Ukrainian forces used two HIMARS missiles with cluster munitions against groups of North Korean special forces attempting to storm Ukrainian positions near Mala Loknia and Kruhlenke.
The Russian Permanent Mission to the UN stated it will raise the issue of the terrorist attack on Kirillov at a Security Council meeting on December 20.
The Ukrainian 5th Assault Brigade reportedly eliminated Russian infantry on the Pokrovsk front.
A map shows the trajectories of Russian missiles and drones targeting various Ukrainian cities and regions on December 13th.
Russian forces attacked positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces near Nechaev and in the direction of Kruglyakovka in the Kursk region.
Russian forces established confident control over positions east of Novoyvanovka in the Kursk region.
Russian forces were noted to be present on the western bank of the Oskol River in Dvurechnaya on the Kupyansk front.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine were confirmed to have control over the territory of the Refractory Compound in Chasov Yar.
Russian forces initiated offensive actions in the Kulatsky Khutor microdistrict in the southern part of Dzerzhinsk.
On the Krasnoarmeysk front, Russian forces engaged in combat north of Shevchenko and Novy Trud, reached Novovasilievka, and made significant advances on the Zheltaya-Pushkino line and north of Zarya.
Near Kurakhovo, Russian forces took control of a significant part of Uspenovka and advanced along the Sukhoi Yal River towards Konstantinopolskoye.
In the area of Velikaya Novoselka, Russian assault units reached the western part of Razdolnoye, expanded their control zone in Novy Komar, and occupied positions on the western bank of the Mokrye Yaly River near Makarovka.
Russian forces continued mechanized attacks near Rovnopol towards Babya Gora.
On the Orekhovsky front, Russian forces attacked a Ukrainian stronghold north of Nesterianka.
The total advance of Russian forces in the area of operations was reported as +64.2 km², with a daily advance rate of 16.05 km². In the Kursk region, the total advance was +14.9 km².
A participant in the conflict reportedly killed his 14-year-old daughter, injured his wife and son, and then committed suicide. The family had come to visit him from Yakutia.
Ukrainian President Zelensky reportedly ruled out the possibility of continuing gas transit through Ukraine, according to Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico.
The Kyiv City Military Administration reported damage in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv, including a damaged office building, road surface, and gas pipe, with 5 cars catching fire. One person was initially reported killed, but this was later corrected. Two people were reported injured and hospitalized. Another address in the same district had a damaged facade of an office building with a subsequent fire on the roof and structural damage on the fifteenth floor, with two people preliminarily reported as injured and hospitalized. In the Solomyansky district, a fire broke out in a non-residential building due to falling debris, but no casualties were reported. In the Shevchenkivsky district, a fire broke out in a non-residential area, with details being clarified. Reports of debris falling in the Dniprovsky district were not confirmed after verification.
Firefighters battled a large warehouse fire in Boryspil, near Kyiv, following a missile attack.
The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported repelling 8 enemy attacks, 4 in the Zaporizhzhia direction near Novodarivka and Novopola. They also reported that the enemy launched 25 guided aerial bombs and 20 unguided aerial missiles at settlements in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.
The Ukrainian Parliament passed a bill on compensation for destroyed property in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones.
The Ukrainian General Staff reported that a series of drones with fiber optic communication, including the "BLACK WIDOW WEB 10" kamikaze drone, have successfully completed testing.
A donation of 2,000 UAH was made to support Ukrainian causes, with a message expressing strong nationalistic sentiment.
A Russian soldier, Maxim Potashev, was awarded the title of Hero of Russia for his actions in destroying Ukrainian targets with UAVs.
The Ukrainian Operational Tactical Group (OTG) "Kharkiv" reported on the estimated losses of the enemy from February 24, 2022, to December 20, 2024, including personnel, aircraft, helicopters, tanks, UAVs, armored personnel vehicles, cruise missiles, artillery systems, warships/boats, MLRS, submarines, anti-aircraft warfare systems, vehicles and fuel tanks, and special equipment.
A donation of 3,000 UAH was made to a military support cause by an individual, with a message indicating public support for the military.
Ukrainian state registries were reportedly taken down by Russian hackers, causing significant disruption.
The Ukrainian 5th Assault Brigade reportedly eliminated Russian infantry on the Pokrovsk front.
Ukrainian news outlet RBC-Ukraine reported on a massive fire at a warehouse near Kyiv following a night attack, with no casualties reported.
A military expert, Eduard Basurin, commented on the December 17th terrorist attack in Moscow on Ryazansky Prospekt, which resulted in the deaths of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov and his assistant, Ilya Polikarpov, suggesting UK involvement.
Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a Russian sabotage and reconnaissance group (DRG) attempting to cross the border into the Sumy region.
Russian forces are reportedly preparing for an offensive on Kherson, while Ukrainian forces are preparing to repel a potential Russian attack, according to statements from officials on both sides.
Ukrainian authorities reported that one person was killed and 18 were injured in Kherson region due to Russian shelling.
Russian media reported that the head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained in connection with the construction of defense structures.
The Kyiv City Military Administration released images showing the aftermath of a missile strike on Kyiv, including burned-out cars and damaged buildings.
The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported that they are continuing to repel enemy attacks and inflict fire damage on enemy positions and rear areas. They reported losses for the enemy in terms of personnel, artillery systems, anti-tank missile systems, vehicles, tanks, UAVs, boats, ATVs, quad bikes, motorcycles, UAV control antennas, electronic warfare stations, video surveillance cameras, Starlink systems, and generators. They also reported damage to enemy dugouts, personnel shelters, UAV control points, ammunition storage, observation posts, and a firing position.
Ukrainian Air Force pilots reportedly sent a "pre-Christmas greeting" to Russian forces.
A video from the 73rd Special Operations Center showcased their capabilities in night operations, maritime operations, and land warfare, emphasizing their readiness and professionalism.
Russian EOD specialists from the Sever Group of Forces are continuing to neutralize explosive objects in liberated areas of the Kursk region.
A video from the 14th Guards Special Forces Brigade showed the destruction of a concentration of enemy infantry on the South Donetsk front using UAVs.
The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was reportedly detained in connection with the construction of defense structures.
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a bill on compensation for destroyed property in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones, as reported by the head of the VRU, Ruslan Stefanchuk.
The Kyiv City Military Administration reported that 7 people were injured in Kyiv as a result of the enemy attack, with 4 hospitalized. There were no fatalities.
Russian media reported a global disruption in the operation of the Steam platform.
The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained on suspicion of embezzling over 173 million rubles during the construction of fortifications on the border with Ukraine.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that a series of drones with fiber optic communication, including the "BLACK WIDOW WEB 10" kamikaze drone, have successfully completed testing.
A donation of 2,000 UAH was made to support Ukrainian causes, with a message expressing strong nationalistic sentiment.
A Russian soldier, Maxim Potashev, was awarded the title of Hero of Russia for his actions in destroying Ukrainian targets with UAVs.
The Ukrainian Operational Tactical Group (OTG) "Kharkiv" reported on the estimated losses of the enemy from February 24, 2022, to December 20, 2024, including personnel, aircraft, helicopters, tanks, UAVs, armored personnel vehicles, cruise missiles, artillery systems, warships/boats, MLRS, submarines, anti-aircraft warfare systems, vehicles and fuel tanks, and special equipment.
A donation of 3,000 UAH was made to a military support cause by an individual, with a message indicating public support for the military.
Ukrainian state registries were reportedly taken down by Russian hackers, causing significant disruption.
The Ukrainian 5th Assault Brigade reportedly eliminated Russian infantry on the Pokrovsk front.
Ukrainian news outlet RBC-Ukraine reported on a massive fire at a warehouse near Kyiv following a night attack, with no casualties reported.
A military expert, Eduard Basurin, commented on the December 17th terrorist attack in Moscow on Ryazansky Prospekt, which resulted in the deaths of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov and his assistant, Ilya Polikarpov, suggesting UK involvement.
Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a Russian sabotage and reconnaissance group (DRG) attempting to cross the border into the Sumy region.
Russian forces are reportedly preparing for an offensive on Kherson, while Ukrainian forces are preparing to repel a potential Russian attack, according to statements from officials on both sides.
Ukrainian authorities reported that one person was killed and 18 were injured in Kherson region due to Russian shelling.
Russian media reported that the head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained in connection with the construction of defense structures.
The Kyiv City Military Administration released images showing the aftermath of a missile strike on Kyiv, including burned-out cars and damaged buildings.
The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported that they are continuing to repel enemy attacks and inflict fire damage on enemy positions and rear areas. They reported losses for the enemy in terms of personnel, artillery systems, anti-tank missile systems, vehicles, tanks, UAVs, boats, ATVs, quad bikes, motorcycles, UAV control antennas, electronic warfare stations, video surveillance cameras, Starlink systems, and generators. They also reported damage to enemy dugouts, personnel shelters, UAV control points, ammunition storage, observation posts, and a firing position.
Ukrainian Air Force pilots reportedly sent a "pre-Christmas greeting" to Russian forces.
A video from the 73rd Special Operations Center showcased their capabilities in night operations, maritime operations, and land warfare, emphasizing their readiness and professionalism.
Russian EOD specialists from the Sever Group of Forces are continuing to neutralise explosive objects in liberated areas of the Kursk region.
A video from the 14th Guards Special Forces Brigade showed the destruction of a concentration of enemy infantry on the South Donetsk front using UAVs.
The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was reportedly detained in connection with the construction of defense structures.
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a bill on compensation for destroyed property in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones, as reported by the head of the VRU, Ruslan Stefanchuk.
The Kyiv City Military Administration reported that 7 people were injured in Kyiv as a result of the enemy attack, with 4 hospitalized. There were no fatalities.
Russian media reported a global disruption in the operation of the Steam platform.
The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained on suspicion of embezzling over 173 million rubles during the construction of fortifications on the border with Ukraine.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that a series of drones with fiber optic communication, including the "BLACK WIDOW WEB 10" kamikaze drone, have successfully completed testing.
A donation of 2,000 UAH was made to support Ukrainian causes, with a message expressing strong nationalistic sentiment.
A Russian soldier, Maxim Potashev, was awarded the title of Hero of Russia for his actions in destroying Ukrainian targets with UAVs.
The Ukrainian Operational Tactical Group (OTG) "Kharkiv" reported on the estimated losses of the enemy from February 24, 2022, to December 20, 2024, including personnel, aircraft, helicopters, tanks, UAVs, armored personnel vehicles, cruise missiles, artillery systems, warships/boats, MLRS, submarines, anti-aircraft warfare systems, vehicles and fuel tanks, and special equipment.
A donation of 3,000 UAH was made to a military support cause by an individual, with a message indicating public support for the military.
Ukrainian state registries were reportedly taken down by Russian hackers, causing significant disruption.
The Ukrainian 5th Assault Brigade reportedly eliminated Russian infantry on the Pokrovsk front.
Ukrainian news outlet RBC-Ukraine reported on a massive fire at a warehouse near Kyiv following a night attack, with no casualties reported.
A military expert, Eduard Basurin, commented on the December 17th terrorist attack in Moscow on Ryazansky Prospekt, which resulted in the deaths of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov and his assistant, Ilya Polikarpov, suggesting UK involvement.
Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a Russian sabotage and reconnaissance group (DRG) attempting to cross the border into the Sumy region.
Russian forces are reportedly preparing for an offensive on Kherson, while Ukrainian forces are preparing to repel a potential Russian attack, according to statements from officials on both sides.
Ukrainian authorities reported that one person was killed and 18 were injured in Kherson region due to Russian shelling.
Russian media reported that the head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained in connection with the construction of defense structures.
The Kyiv City Military Administration released images showing the aftermath of a missile strike on Kyiv, including burned-out cars and damaged buildings.
The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported that they are continuing to repel enemy attacks and inflict fire damage on enemy positions and rear areas. They reported losses for the enemy in terms of personnel, artillery systems, anti-tank missile systems, vehicles, tanks, UAVs, boats, ATVs, quad bikes, motorcycles, UAV control antennas, electronic warfare stations, video surveillance cameras, Starlink systems, and generators. They also reported damage to enemy dugouts, personnel shelters, UAV control points, ammunition storage, observation posts, and a firing position.
Ukrainian Air Force pilots reportedly sent a "pre-Christmas greeting" to Russian forces.
A video from the 73rd Special Operations Center showcased their capabilities in night operations, maritime operations, and land warfare, emphasizing their readiness and professionalism.
Russian EOD specialists from the Sever Group of Forces are continuing to neutralise explosive objects in liberated areas of the Kursk region.
A video from the 14th Guards Special Forces Brigade showed the destruction of a concentration of enemy infantry on the South Donetsk front using UAVs.
The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was reportedly detained in connection with the construction of defense structures.
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a bill on compensation for destroyed property in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones, as reported by the head of the VRU, Ruslan Stefanchuk.
The Kyiv City Military Administration
Russian forces used Geran drones to deplete Ukrainian air defenses overnight.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported destroying all drones launched by Russia to attack Kyiv.
Russian forces destroyed 13 Ukrainian drones over Kursk, Belgorod, Rostov, and Lipetsk regions.
Ukrainian forces are reportedly attacking the right bank of the Dnipro River near the bridge in Kherson.
NATO is reportedly preparing for war with Russia, and Moscow is taking these risks into account in its military planning.
The Ukrainian military is forming a third heavy mechanized brigade from the 5th Separate Tank Brigade, following similar changes with the 17th Tank and 117th Mechanized Brigades.
A map dated December 20, 2024, shows the deployment of Ukrainian heavy mechanized brigades, particularly around Donetsk.
The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported over 300 shelling incidents and the enemy used 363 FPV drones of various modifications and dropped 350 shrapnel munitions in the past day.
Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Russian "Baba Yaga" drone.
RBC-Ukraine, along with volunteers, announced an urgent fundraising campaign to procure field cots for several units of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. This indicates ongoing logistical challenges and reliance on civilian support to meet basic needs. The goal is to raise 572,000 hryvnias.
Five were killed and seven injured in a fire in an isolation ward in Yakutia, where Russian military personnel who deserted their units are held. This highlights internal issues within the Russian military.
Changes Brought by New Messages:
Confirmation of Ongoing Air Attacks: The Ukrainian Air Force reports activity of Russian tactical aviation and the threat of air-launched weapon use, particularly guided bombs in the Donetsk region. A high-speed target from the Black Sea towards southern Odesa region was also reported, and later reported as shot down.
Increased Intensity in Kherson: Reports of increased shelling in Kherson, with 1 killed and 9 injured, and the targeting of residential areas, social and critical infrastructure, confirm the intensification of Russian attacks in the region.
Propaganda Video from Ukrainian Air Force: Ukrainian Air Force pilots sent a "pre-Christmas greeting" to Russian forces, likely a propaganda effort to boost morale and demonstrate defiance.
Casualties in Russian Detention Facility: Five were killed and seven injured in a fire in an isolation ward in Yakutia, where Russian military personnel who deserted their units are held. This highlights internal issues within the Russian military.
Corruption in Defense Spending: The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained for embezzling over 173 million rubles during the construction of fortifications on the border with Ukraine. This indicates potential corruption and mismanagement of funds allocated for defense.
Steam Platform Disruption: Russian media reported a global disruption in the operation of the Steam platform.
US Exemption for Turkey: Turkey reportedly received an exemption from the US for Gazprombank for gas payments from Russia, according to the head of the Ministry of Energy.
Casualty Update in Kyiv: The number of injured in Kyiv due to the Russian attack has been updated to 9, with 4 hospitalized.
New Ukrainian Bill: The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a bill to compensate for property destroyed in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones. The law will come into effect four months after the President signs it. The procedure for providing compensation is to be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
Ukrainian Attacks near Kherson Bridge: Ukrainian forces are reportedly attacking the right bank of the Dnipro River near the bridge in Kherson.
Russian Military Losses: The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that 2,200 Russian soldiers were killed, and 8 tanks, 24 armored fighting vehicles, 42 artillery systems, and 1 air defense system were destroyed in the past 24 hours.
Ukrainian Drone Success: The Ukrainian Air Force reportedly destroyed all drones launched by Russia to attack Kyiv.
New Ukrainian Heavy Mechanized Brigade: The Ukrainian military is forming a third heavy mechanized brigade from the 5th Separate Tank Brigade, following similar changes with the 17th Tank and 117th Mechanized Brigades. The structure is expected to include at least 2-3 tank battalions and 2-3 mechanized battalions.
Map of Ukrainian Heavy Mechanized Brigades: A map dated December 20, 2024, shows the deployment of Ukrainian heavy mechanized brigades, particularly around Donetsk, indicating a dynamic frontline with contested regions and potential offensive actions.
Shelling and Drone Use in the South: The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported that over the past day, there were over 300 shelling incidents and the enemy used 363 FPV drones of various modifications and dropped 350 shrapnel munitions.
Fundraising for Drone Repeater: A collection is underway for a repeater for a drone strike group, with a goal of 38,000 UAH.
Russian State Registries Down: Russian state registries were reportedly taken down, causing serious disruptions to information about property owners, legal entities, individual entrepreneurs, and marriage data. This is likely the most damaging attack of its kind.
Russian Soldier Awarded: A Russian soldier, Maxim Potashev, was awarded the title of Hero of Russia for destroying multiple Ukrainian targets with UAVs. He was also promoted to the
