Major Military Situation Updates - December 20, 2024, 16:55 UTC
Kyiv Missile Attack Aftermath
Kyiv Under Attack: Kyiv was struck by multiple explosions in the early hours of December 20th. The Holosiivskyi, Dniprovskyi, Solomianskyi, and Shevchenkivskyi districts were impacted, with missile and drone debris causing fires and damage.
Casualties: One fatality was reported in the Holosiivskyi district, with the injured count in Kyiv rising to 13.
Infrastructure Damage: Extensive damage to civilian infrastructure was reported.
Holosiivskyi District: 630 buildings, 16 medical facilities, 17 schools, and 13 kindergartens were initially without heat. "Kyivteploenergo" restored heat to most buildings, leaving only 3 buildings without. 18 houses, one hospital, and 13 administrative buildings remain without heating and hot water.
Toronto Business Center: Suffered significant damage, including blown-out windows, facade damage, and severe roof damage.
St. Nicholas Cathedral: Damaged from a nearby strike, with windows and facade affected.
Boryspil: A large warehouse fire occurred following a missile attack.
Missile Interception: Ukrainian Air Force reports the interception and destruction of all five ballistic missiles launched at Kyiv, including Khinzhal hypersonic missiles, Iskander/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and a guided X-59/69 air-launched missile.
Air Defense: Ukrainian air defenses destroyed all 5 ballistic missiles and 40 out of 65 drones, with 20 drones failing to reach their targets. Germany transferred a sixth IRIS-T air defense system to Ukraine and plans to transfer 4 more IRIS-T SLM and 3 IRIS-T SLS by next year.
Aftermath: Videos and images show widespread damage to civilian buildings, vehicles, and infrastructure. Emergency services are actively responding.
Diplomatic Missions Damaged: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported damage to foreign diplomatic missions, including those of Albania, Argentina, Palestine, North Macedonia, Portugal, and Montenegro. A spokesperson condemned the attacks on diplomatic missions.
Drone Activity: New drone groups were reported entering Sumy Oblast from the Kursk region. Drone threats were reported across various regions, including Kharkiv, Pavlohrad, Dnipro, Tatarbunary, Bila Tserkva, Belyayevka, Borispil, Kryvyi Rih, Mykolaiv, and Kherson.
Southern Front: Kherson Under Siege
Intense Shelling: Kherson and its suburbs are under continuous shelling from the Russian-occupied left bank of the Dnipro River.
Casualties: One person was killed, and eighteen were injured in Kherson due to increased shelling.
Sabotage and Reconnaissance: A Russian DRG was reportedly destroyed near Kherson, and another near the Sumy region border.
Offensive Preparations: Russian forces are reportedly preparing for an offensive on Kherson, while Ukrainian forces are preparing to repel a potential attack.
High Drone Activity: High levels of enemy drone activity are reported near the Antonovsky bridge. The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South reported over 300 shelling incidents, 363 FPV drone strikes, and 350 shrapnel munitions dropped.
Drone Warfare: Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian "Plastun-3000" electronic warfare station and damaged a Russian command post with drones. A video shows a drone duel over Chasov Yar. Russian electronic warfare systems in the DPR reportedly disrupted nearly 140 Ukrainian air attacks, intercepting 138 enemy UAVs.
Ukrainian Defense Forces Report: Ukrainian forces repelled 8 enemy attacks, including 4 in the Zaporizhzhia direction near Novodarivka and Novopola. They also reported 25 guided aerial bombs and 20 unguided aerial missiles launched at settlements in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.
Russian Advances on Multiple Fronts
Kursk Region:
Significant Gains: Russian forces liberated Novoivanovka and made advances in the northern Sudzha district and near Cherkasskaya Konopelka. They established control over positions east of Novoyvanovka and were noted to be present on the western bank of the Oskol River in Dvurechnaya on the Kupyansk front. Russian forces attacked Ukrainian positions near Nechaev and in the direction of Kruglyakovka.
Disrupted Rotation and Mine-Laying: Russian forces disrupted a Ukrainian troop rotation and used drones to disrupt Ukrainian mine-laying operations.
Intense Fighting: Heavy fighting continues along the front line, with 55 engagements reported and 25 ongoing. The hottest point was Kursk, with 57 clashes.
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 indicate North Korean troops are suffering heavy losses, with at least 100 killed and 1,000 wounded. Ukrainian forces claimed to have killed 12 and wounded 20 North Korean soldiers. Reports suggest North Korean soldiers are being treated in the Kursk city hospital, though evidence of their involvement remains weak.
Corruption: The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained for embezzling over 173 million rubles during the construction of fortifications.
Reports of Atrocities: A captured Ukrainian soldier confessed to killing civilians in the Kursk region. Another Ukrainian soldier reported orders to shoot civilians if necessary.
Alleged Atrocities by Mercenaries: A Brazilian mercenary admitted to killing two Russian soldiers, a father and son, during combat in the Kursk region.
Drone Operations: Ukrainian forces conducted successful drone operations, targeting Russian military vehicles and logistics. UA REG TEAM conducted successful drone operations, targeting various Russian military vehicles. Ukrainian forces reported that Russian forces used drones to target the positions of the 33rd Mechanized Brigade in the Kurakhovo direction. Operators of the 80th Airborne Assault Brigade destroyed an enemy along with equipment in the Kursk region.
VSU Losses: The Ukrainian Armed Forces (VSU) reportedly lost up to 540 military personnel and one tank in the region.
Rylsk Shelling: The town of Rylsk came under heavy shelling, reportedly from ATACMS missiles with cluster munitions, resulting in multiple civilian casualties (at least five killed and up to 30 injured) and significant damage to civilian infrastructure.
Strategic Implications: The Russian advances represent a significant development, potentially opening a new front and stretching Ukrainian defenses.
Donetsk Front:
Kurakhove and Pokrovsk:
Russian Control: 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.
Territories Liberated: Russian forces liberated Ostrovsky (Konstantinopolskoe), Zelenovka, Uspenivka, and secured a foothold in Novyi Komar. They also attacked from Shevchenko, advancing west of Novotroitskoye, and capturing the northeastern outskirts of Novovasilyevka.
Advance Towards Ukrainka: Russian forces advanced towards Ukrainka from Pushkino and Novoolenivka.
Clashes: Clashes were reported near Dachne, Sontsivka, Stari Terny, Kurakhove, Yantarne, Myrolubivka, Promin, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zelene, Novovasylivka, Chumatske, and Novoolenivka. Russian forces took control of a significant part of Uspenovka and advanced along the Sukhoi Yal River towards Konstantinopolskoye. They are trying to develop success in the Zelenovka area after taking Konstantinopilskoye, they are attacking Gigant. North of Dalne, Russian forces are bypassing the line of defense on the right bank of the river in the direction of Yantarnoye.
Ukrainian Response: Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a bridge leading to Pokrovsk and replaced the commander of the "Donetsk" Operational Tactical Group (OTG).
Drone Operations: Drone operators of the Southern group of forces disrupted the rotation of a unit of the 33rd mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. 425 ОШБ "Скала" conducted a drone strike operation in the village of Shevchenko.
Strategic Implications: The advances near Kurakhove and Pokrovsk indicate a sustained Russian offensive, 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.
Capture of Stronghold: Russian forces captured a Ukrainian stronghold north of Nesterianka.
Clashes: Clashes were reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil, and Novodarivka. 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. Russian assault units crossed the river between Storozhevoe and Makarivka. Ukrainian forces are reporting that the Russians are about to cut off Makarivka and that pressure is also being exerted on Storozhevoe.
Strategic Implications: The advances suggest a Russian effort to push towards Velyka Novosilka and destabilize Ukrainian defenses in the southern Donetsk region.
Toretsk and Chasov Yar:
Consolidation and Advances: Russian forces are consolidating control in Toretsk and advancing near Dzerzhinsk, with street fighting ongoing for two months. The city is effectively divided in half. Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian command post and personnel concentration near the Toretsk mine.
Chasov Yar Fighting: Russian forces have partially dislodged Ukrainian forces from the fire-resistant compound in Chasov Yar.
Seversk Advance: Russian assault groups reportedly breached Ukrainian defenses and advanced 2 km towards Seversk from Zolotarevka.
Other Significant Developments
Extensive Drone Warfare:
Russian air defense systems reportedly intercepted 36 Ukrainian drones overnight, and approximately 100 Geran drones were used to deplete Ukrainian air defenses.
Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Russian "Baba Yaga" drone near Kupyansk.
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.
Germany is transferring a new batch of Songbird 150 reconnaissance drones to Ukraine.
Ukrainian air defenses intercepted a Russian reconnaissance UAV over the Dnipropetrovsk region.
Pilots from the 71st Separate Jaeger Brigade are destroying enemy armored vehicles along with their occupants.
Russian forces used drones to disrupt Ukrainian mine-laying operations along a road in Kursk region. The Ukrainian Air Force reported activity of Russian tactical aviation in the east, with a threat of the use of aerial weapons.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported destroying all drones launched by Russia to attack Kyiv.
An advertisement for drone operator training in Moscow was released.
A video from the 65th Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces showed drone strikes on Russian positions in the Zaporizhzhia direction.
A video from the 2nd Battalion of the 5th Separate Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces showed a drone strike on a Russian "space marine" on the Bakhmut front.
A Ukrainian sniper from the "Sniper Group E40" was shown targeting and eliminating a Russian soldier, with the kill confirmed by drone footage.
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.
Ukrainian forces successfully destroyed an enemy drone with an aerial ram. Ukrainian forces report destroying a Russian "Plastun-3000" electronic warfare station and damaging a Russian command post with drones.
Drone operators of the Southern group of forces disrupted the rotation of a unit of the 33rd mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Kurakhovo direction.
Russian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a pickup truck carrying Ukrainian troops in the Kharkiv region.
A Russian attack drone unit successfully eliminated Ukrainian troops in a forested area in the Kharkiv region.
Ukrainian forces were reportedly killed by Russian drones near Kharkiv.
Russian forces reportedly used drones to eliminate a Ukrainian special forces group near Kupyansk.
Russian forces have used drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a wooded area.
Russian forces have used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a forest.
Pilots of the "ACHILLES" battalion of the 92nd brigade, operating heavy night bombers, are reported to have destroyed enemy personnel and a truck in the Kharkiv region.
Video shows Ukrainian forces using a drone to destroy a Russian "Mavik" drone near Chasiv Yar.
Ukrainian forces used a drone to attack a Russian position near a road, resulting in a fire.
Ukrainian forces are utilizing a drone to drop multiple munitions on targets, including personnel and buildings.
Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Russian command post.
Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Ukrainian T-64BV tank near Kupyansk.
In the Kupyansk area, fighters of the 16th Special Forces Brigade destroyed an enemy T-64BV tank with two FPV drones.
Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy a Russian command post near the Toretsk mine.
Ukrainian forces report destroying a Russian "Plastun-3000" electronic warfare station with an FPV drone and damaging a Russian command post with another drone.
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. Putin stated that peace talks with Ukraine are possible without preconditions, but based on the Istanbul agreements and the realities on the ground.
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.
Hungary: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will reportedly postpone the decision on extending sanctions against Russia until after Trump's inauguration. The EU Council called a mistake its statement that "Ukraine must win this war." Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán requested a phone call with Ukrainian President Zelensky to discuss a potential ceasefire with Russia, but the request was denied.
Turkey: Turkey reportedly received an exemption from the US for Gazprombank for gas payments from Russia.
Georgia: The Ministry of Defense of Georgia summoned the British ambassador after the UK imposed sanctions on the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the republic and other high-ranking officials.
Explosions Near Military Objects in Murmansk: Two explosions occurred near military objects in Murmansk on the evening of December 18.
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.
Cyberattack on Ukraine: A large-scale cyberattack, attributed to Russian hackers, targeted Ukraine's state registry systems, causing significant disruption. Ukrainian officials reported that the cyberattack on the state registry systems did not result in data leaks.
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. President Zelenskyy announced that the "Army Plus" app now allows for transfers within the National Guard of Ukraine, with plans to expand to other branches.
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.
NATO Preparation: NATO is reportedly preparing for war with Russia, and Moscow is taking these risks into account in its military planning. NATO plans to increase its presence in Ukraine next year.
Poland: Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk traveled to Lviv to meet with President Zelensky.
Steam Platform Disruption: Russian media reported a global disruption in the operation of the Steam platform.
Ukrainian Military Formation: The Ukrainian military is forming a third heavy mechanized brigade from the 5th Separate Tank Brigade.
Map of Deployment: A map dated December 20, 2024, shows the deployment of Ukrainian heavy mechanized brigades, particularly around Donetsk.
Collection for Repeater: A collection is underway for a repeater for a drone strike group, with a goal of 38,000 UAH.
Russian Hero: A Russian soldier, Maxim Potashev, was awarded the title of Hero of Russia for destroying multiple Ukrainian targets with UAVs.
Ukrainian Soldier Captured: A Ukrainian soldier was captured in the Kursk region and admitted to receiving orders to shoot civilians if necessary.
Russian Ka-52 Helicopter: A Russian Ka-52 helicopter accompanied an Il-76MD military transport aircraft during takeoff from the Khmeimim airbase.
Brazilian Mercenary: A Brazilian mercenary admitted to killing two Russian soldiers, a father and son, during combat in the Kursk region.
HIMARS Attack: Ukrainian forces used two HIMARS missiles with cluster munitions against groups of North Korean special forces.
Russian UN Statement: 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. Russia will also raise the issue of the missile strikes on Rylsk in the UN Security Council on Friday.
Russian Attacks: Russian forces attacked positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces near Nechaev and in the direction of Kruglyakovka in the Kursk region.
Russian Advances: Russian forces established confident control over positions east of Novoyvanovka in the Kursk region.
AFU Control: The Armed Forces of Ukraine were confirmed to have control over the territory of the Refractory Compound in Chasov Yar.
Russian Offensive Actions: Russian forces initiated offensive actions in the Kulatsky Khutor microdistrict in the southern part of Dzerzhinsk.
Rostov Region Attack: The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that on December 18, 2024, the AFU launched a missile strike at the Kombinat Kamensky enterprise in Rostov region. In response, Russian forces conducted a strike on a command post of the Security Service of Ukraine, the Luch Design Bureau, and a Patriot SAM system position.
Russian Advances: 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.
Family Tragedy: A participant in the conflict reportedly killed his 14-year-old daughter, injured his wife and son, and then committed suicide.
Ukrainian President's Statement: Ukrainian President Zelensky reportedly ruled out the possibility of continuing gas transit through Ukraine, according to Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico.
Fire in Boryspil: Firefighters battled a large warehouse fire in Boryspil, near Kyiv, following a missile attack.
Ukrainian Parliament Bill: The Ukrainian Parliament passed a bill on compensation for destroyed property in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones.
Ukrainian Drone Testing: 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.
Donations: Donations of 2,000 UAH and 3,000 UAH were made to support Ukrainian causes and military support.
Estimated Enemy Losses: 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.
Cyber Attack Aftermath: Ukrainian state registries were reportedly taken down by Russian hackers, causing significant disruption.
Terrorist Attack in Moscow: 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.
Russian Offensive Preparations: 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.
Casualties in Kherson: Ukrainian authorities reported that one person was killed and 18 were injured in Kherson region due to Russian shelling.
Detainment in Kursk: Russian media reported that the head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained in connection with the construction of defense structures.
Ukrainian Defense Forces Report: 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.
Ukrainian Air Force Pilots: Ukrainian Air Force pilots reportedly sent a "pre-Christmas greeting" to Russian forces.
73rd Special Operations Center Video: 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: Russian EOD specialists from the Sever Group of Forces are continuing to neutralize explosive objects in liberated areas of the Kursk region.
14th Guards Special Forces Brigade Video: 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.
Verkhovna Rada Bill: The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a bill on compensation for destroyed property in temporarily occupied territories and active combat zones.
Steam Platform Disruption: Russian media reported a global disruption in the operation of the Steam platform.
Corruption in Kursk: The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region, Vladimir Lukin, was detained for alleged embezzlement of over 173 million rubles during the construction of fortifications.
Explosions in Donetsk: Six explosions were reported in Donetsk, with damage to a building used by the "MGB DNR" (now the FSB of the Russian Federation).
Water Supply in Donetsk: Water supply in Donetsk will be reduced until December 25 due to planned repairs.
Military Technology Claims: CNN published a statement from Patrick Senft of Armament Research Services about Ukraine's potential to develop directed-energy weapons.
Drone Strike Aftermath: A video showed the aftermath of a drone strike in Donetsk, with a body lying amidst the debris.
Russian MoD statements: The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that 59 Ukrainian servicemen surrendered in the past week, 10 settlements in the Donetsk People's Republic were liberated, MiG-29 aircraft and 519 Ukrainian drones were shot down, 24 strikes were carried out using high-precision weapons and drones, hitting energy facilities supplying the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Ukrainian forces lost over 3,610 soldiers in the responsibility zone of the "West" group, over 2,675 soldiers in the responsibility zone of the "North" group, up to 440 soldiers and 6 field ammunition depots in the responsibility zone of the "Dnepr" group, up to 1,250 soldiers and one Leopard tank in the responsibility zone of the "East" group, over 2,365 soldiers in the responsibility zone of the "South" group, and over 2,945 soldiers in the responsibility zone of the "Center" group, with two tanks and 15 armored fighting vehicles destroyed.
Georgian Ministry of Defense: The Ministry of Defense of Georgia summoned the British ambassador after the UK imposed sanctions on the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the republic and other high-ranking officials
Arson Attack on Military Recruitment Office in St. Petersburg: A man threw a Molotov cocktail at a military recruitment office in St. Petersburg. The incident was captured on video, showing the man throwing the firebomb at the doorway and then fleeing. He was later detained by police.
Drone Operations in Kursk Region: Ukrainian drone operators are actively targeting Russian forces in the Kursk region. The 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade reported successful strikes on enemy positions, vehicles, and personnel.
Conference on Drone Technology: The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine held a conference focused on drone technology. The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Defense, combat brigades, military command, and developers. Colonel Andriy Lebedenko emphasized the importance of collaboration between the military, manufacturers, and scientists to develop innovative solutions for enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities.
Bulgarian Prime Minister Hesitates on Security Agreement with Ukraine: Bulgarian Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev delayed signing a security cooperation agreement with Ukraine, citing the need for parliamentary discussion. This hesitation may be influenced by differing views within the Bulgarian government and the recent visit of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Germany and Norway Increase Submarine Orders: Germany and Norway are increasing their orders for Type 212CD submarines from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), signaling a strengthening of NATO's northern flank.
Ukrainian Businessman Labeled Extremist: Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov was added to the Russian Ministry of Justice's registry of extremists.
Moscow to Raise Rylsk Attack at UN Security Council: Russia plans to raise the issue of the missile attack on Rylsk at the UN Security Council, according to Maria Zakharova.
Ukrainian HIMARS Strike in Rylsk: Ukrainian forces reportedly used HIMARS to target Russian barracks and officers' quarters in Rylsk.
Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Shows Damaged Diplomatic Missions: The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a video showcasing the damage to diplomatic missions in Kyiv following a Russian attack. The affected missions include those of Albania, Argentina, Palestine, North Macedonia, Portugal, and Montenegro.
Drone Operators Continue to Target Enemy in Kursk Region: Operators of strike UAVs continue to target and destroy enemy forces in the Kursk region, highlighting the ongoing conflict in the area.
Meeting on Drone Technology Needs: A meeting was held to discuss the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the field of drone technology. The meeting involved representatives from the Ministry of Defense, combat brigades, military command, and developers.
Discussion Between Civilian and Military Personnel: An image shows a discussion between a civilian, likely a key stakeholder, and a military personnel named Lebedenko of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, suggesting coordination or information exchange.
Document on Drone Technology: An image shows a document featuring a drone diagram and a Ukrainian slogan, indicating a focus on drone technology in defense activities.
Fixed-Wing UAV in Workshop: An image shows a fixed-wing UAV in a workshop setting, suggesting preparation, maintenance, or modification for ISR missions.
Ukrainian Military Figure in Front of Drone Illustration: An image shows a Ukrainian military figure, likely an officer, actively communicating in front of a banner featuring a drone illustration, highlighting the importance of UAVs in the conflict.
Indoor Gathering with Military Personnel: An image shows an indoor gathering with people in civilian clothing and at least one in military camouflage, suggesting a meeting related to defense or security.
Portable Radar System: An image shows a portable radar system, possibly vehicle-mounted, suggesting capabilities for surveillance, targeting, electronic warfare, and potentially air defense.
Serious Conversation Between Ukrainian Military Officer and Civilian: An image shows a serious conversation between a Ukrainian military officer and a civilian, possibly from the government or related industry, taking place in a conference setting.
Bulgarian Prime Minister Does Not Sign Security Agreement with Ukraine: The Bulgarian Prime Minister did not sign the expected security cooperation agreement with Ukraine, citing the need for parliamentary discussion. This may be influenced by differing views within the Bulgarian government and the recent visit of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Germany and Norway Increase Submarine Orders: Germany and Norway are increasing their orders for Type 212CD submarines, signaling a strengthening of NATO's northern flank.
Image of Modern Submarine: An image shows a modern submarine, likely at a launching or commissioning ceremony, indicating a nation's investment in naval power projection and undersea warfare capabilities.
Type 212 Submarine Variants: A graphic shows various Type 212 submarine variants operated by Germany, Italy, and Norway, highlighting the strategic importance of AIP technology and regional naval power dynamics.
Video on German Political Situation: A video discusses the political situation in Germany, questioning the future of the country and the potential delivery of Taurus missiles to Kyiv.
Stabbing Incident at Military Polygon: A stabbing incident occurred at a military polygon in the Chelyabinsk region, involving an artilleryman and a UAV operator. The argument was reportedly over which branch of service was more effective.
Artillery Operations in Kursk Region: Video footage shows ongoing artillery operations by Russian forces in the Kursk region, targeting Ukrainian defense lines.
Drone Operations in South Donetsk Direction: Video footage shows drone operators from the 5th Separate Guards Tank Brigade of the Russian Armed Forces targeting Ukrainian infantry in the South Donetsk direction.
Court Arrests Journalist in Absentia: A Moscow court arrested journalist Tatyana Felgenhauer in absentia for violating the law on foreign agents.
Bulgarian Prime Minister Delays Security Agreement with Ukraine: Bulgarian Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev unexpectedly delayed signing a security cooperation agreement with Ukraine, citing the need for parliamentary discussion. This hesitation may be influenced by differing views within the Bulgarian government and the recent visit of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Germany and Norway Increase Submarine Orders: Germany and Norway are increasing their orders for Type 212CD submarines from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), signaling a strengthening of NATO's northern flank. The new submarines will enhance the navies' capabilities, particularly in the context of national and allied defense on NATO's northern flank.
Video of Stylized German Cityscape: A video presents a stylized, propaganda-tinged view of Germany, highlighting key infrastructure and potential political issues. The visuals and narrative suggest a context of possible conflict, disruption, and an attempt to manipulate public perception.
Image of Borissov with Headline: An image features Bulgarian politician Borissov with a headline indicating his withdrawal of support for a Ukrainian security deal, expecting impending peace. The presence of a pro-Russian watermark suggests a potential propaganda opportunity for Russia.
Casualty Report from Rylsk Attack: Five adults and one child were killed, and ten others were injured, including a 13-year-old, in a missile attack on Rylsk.
Footage of Damaged Buildings in Rylsk: Images show the aftermath of an attack in Rylsk, with damaged buildings and a smoke plume, indicating recent combat activity.
Video of Burning Vehicles: A video shows multiple vehicles on fire, suggesting a military attack or conflict in the region.
Video of Aftermath of Attack in Urban Area: A video shows the aftermath of a recent attack in an urban area, with extensive damage to buildings and debris scattered on the street.
Video of Interior with LED Light Panel: A video showcases an interior space with a focus on a bright LED light panel, with no apparent signs of military activities.
Video of Office Likely Associated with Palestinian Authority: A video shows a well-maintained office likely associated with the Palestinian Authority, with no indication of it being a military command center.
Video of Damaged Interior: A video depicts a damaged interior with a collapsed section of ceiling in a hallway, likely in a civilian building, suggesting collateral effects of military activity.
Video of Damaged Interior with Security Features: A video shows a damaged interior space with security features like a metal detector, indicating a potentially compromised secure location used for organizational activities.
Video of Interior with Improvised Window Covering: A video shows an interior space with an improvised window covering, suggesting a hasty modification for protection against an external threat.
Statement on Russian Gas Transit: Ukraine will cease the transit of Russian gas starting January 1st due to the expiration of the five-year contract.
High Alert in Rostov-on-Don: A high alert has been issued in Rostov-on-Don due to the risk of air attacks.
Hotline in Kursk Region: A hotline has been established in the Kursk region to address citizens' concerns in Rylsk following the attack.
US Claims ISIS Leader Eliminated: The US claimed to have eliminated ISIS leader Abu Yusuf in Syria.
Reports of VSU Leaving Kurakhovo: Enemy channels report that Ukrainian forces are leaving Kurakhovo.
Journalist Felgenhauer Declared Wanted: Journalist Tatyana Felgenhauer, recognized as a foreign agent in Russia, has been declared wanted for violating the law on foreign agents.
Image of News Presenter in Studio: An image shows a news presenter in a studio setting, with the "XO" media outlet likely playing a strategic role in information control and dissemination related to military operations.
Video of Russian Tank Destruction: A video from the Russian Ministry of Defense shows the destruction of a Ukrainian T-72 tank in the Kharkov region by attack drone operators of the Zapad Group of Forces.
Speculation on Current Military Strategy: There is speculation that Russia has shifted its focus to preparing for the New Year and the potential election of a new US president, leading to a perceived lull in military operations.
Announcement of Phygital Games 2025 in Nizhny Novgorod: The Phygital Games 2025 will be held in Nizhny Novgorod, with competitions in five disciplines.
Image of Stadium in Nizhny Novgorod: An image shows a modern stadium in Nizhny Novgorod, highlighting its potential strategic importance in a military scenario due to its size, location, and infrastructure.
Damage to Diplomatic Missions in Kyiv: The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a video showing damage to diplomatic missions in Kyiv following a Russian attack. The affected missions include those of Albania, Argentina, Palestine, North Macedonia, Portugal, and Montenegro.
Drone Operators Target Enemy in Kursk Region: Ukrainian drone operators continue to target and destroy enemy forces in the Kursk region
