Major Military Situation Updates - December 21, 2024, 17:55 UTC
Intensified Drone Warfare and Attacks Across Multiple Regions
Expanded Drone Activity
Kirovohrad, Cherkasy, Poltava, Kyiv, Chernihiv, and Sumy Oblasts: Multiple drone groups observed across these regions.
Sumy Oblast: New groups of hostile drones detected, moving southwest.
Cherkasy Oblast: 2 drones flying towards Kirovohrad Oblast.
Poltava Oblast: 8 drones flying towards Cherkasy Oblast, 5 drones are circling the north of the Oblast, and 1 drone circling the north.
Cherkasy: 2 drones reported near the city, 2 drones are north of the city, and 1 drone is circling nearby.
Pryluky: 3 drones reported near the city.
Borispil: Multiple drones approaching, 5 drones are approaching from Poltava Oblast, and 1 drone is flying past the city towards Kyiv.
Myrhorod: 7 drones north of the city, heading south.
Bila Tserkva, Boryspil, Kryvyi Rih: Drones approaching these cities.
Mykolaiv: Drone approaching from the direction of Zelenovka, 1 drone is approaching from Kirovohrad Oblast.
Tatarbunary: Large group of drones launched from the Black Sea, moving towards the city.
Khmelnytskyi, Ternopil, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Vinnytsia: Drone activity reported, posing a threat to these regions.
Kyiv Oblast: 1 drone is in the south of the Oblast.
Chernihiv Oblast: 3 drones are in the Oblasts, and 1 drone is west of Nizhyn.
Nikolaev Oblast: Air raid alert activated due to the threat of drones.
Air Raid Alerts
Kyiv City: Air raid alert lifted.
Kyiv Oblast: Air raid alert remains in effect.
Zaporizhzhia Region: Air raid alert lifted.
Attacks Inside Russia
Kazan: Confirmed Ukrainian drone attacks, targeting a 37-story residential complex ("Lazurnye Nebesa"), a 23-story residential complex ("Manhattan"), and a five-story building on Klara Tsetkin Street. Three of eight drones were aimed at military-industrial complex (MIC) objects. Reports suggest some drones carried unexploded ordnance.
St. Petersburg: Series of explosions and arson attacks reported. A Sberbank branch was targeted, and an individual was filmed setting fire to a Russian post office.
Leningrad Oblast: Arson attack on a post office.
Belgorod Region: A Ukrainian drone struck a vehicle, injuring a civilian.
Moscow and St. Petersburg: Several explosions reported, with firecrackers detonated in shopping centers.
Drone Warfare Developments
Ukrainian forces are employing drones in "snake-like" formations, indicating coordinated movements.
Russian forces are using FPV drones to destroy Ukrainian "Baba Yaga" drones and armored vehicles.
Ukrainian forces report destroying a Russian "Baba Yaga" drone near Kupyansk.
Ukrainian forces report shooting down 45 out of 85 drones launched by Russian forces, with 40 drones "locationally lost."
Britain announced a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at 286 million hryvnias, likely including drone technology.
Ground Engagements and Frontline Developments
Kursk Region
32 combat clashes reported, 19 in the Kursk region.
Intense fighting near Kruhlenke and Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
Ukrainian forces repelled 42 Russian army assaults.
Ukrainian forces reported repelling 19 Russian attacks as of 16:00 UTC.
Heavy losses reported for North Korean troops in the region.
Donetsk Region
Russian forces control approximately 80% of Kurakhove.
Advances reported in Toretsk and near Dzerzhinsk.
Russian forces partially dislodged Ukrainian forces from a fire-resistant compound in Chasov Yar.
Russian forces advancing southwest of Velyka Novosilka, reaching Storozheve and Neskuchne.
Clashes reported near Toretsk, Krymske, and Dyliivka.
Russian forces evacuated civilians from Toretsk (Dzerzhinsk).
Kharkiv Region
Explosive strikes reported in the region.
One clash occurred near Vovchansk.
Russian forces conducted 3 airstrikes with 23 unguided aerial rockets (NARs) and 27 drone strikes.
Russian forces carried out 28 shellings of Ukrainian positions.
Ukrainian forces inflicted losses on Russian forces, including 54 troops (16 killed, 38 wounded), 42 pieces of equipment destroyed or damaged, and 59 shelters destroyed.
Zaporizhzhia Region
FPV-drones of the National Guard of Ukraine "Spartan" are destroying Russians.
At Vremivka axis clashes reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil and Novodarivka.
Other Areas
Rostov Region (December 19): Massive overnight attack reported, with 84 Ukrainian drones shot down, including 36 over Rostov. Air defense systems were heavily activated. One person was injured, and houses were damaged in the Kamensk district. The Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery was set on fire due to a drone attack but the fire was later extinguished.
Eastern Front (December 19): Russian forces lost control of Trudove and Uspenovka. They advanced within 3 km of the Konstantinopol-Kurakhovo road, capturing Zelenovka, and continued expanding control near Pokrovsk, capturing Novyi Trud and advancing north of Pushkino.
Vremivka Direction (December 19): Russian forces achieved success in Novyi Komar and launched attacks near Velyka Novosilka and Storozheve. They also advanced north of Nesterianka on the Zaporizhzhia front.
Northern Front (December 19): The "Sever" group engaged in fierce battles, repelling Ukrainian counterattacks that involved NATO armored vehicles and HIMARS MLRS. Russian Aerospace Forces used airstrikes and artillery, including Tornado-S MLRS.
Kupyansk Direction: A Leopard tank was destroyed.
At Kurakhivka axis clashes reported near Dachne, Sontsivka, Stari Terny, Kurakhove and Yantarne.
At Pokrovsk axis clashes reported near Myrolubivka, Promin, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zelene, Novovasylivka, Chumatske and Novoolenivka.
At Kharkiv axis clashes reported near Vovchansk.
At Kherson axis Ukrainian forces have repelled 2 Russian army assaults.
Kupyansk area (December 21): Ukrainian forces repelled a Russian attack involving 5 units of equipment.
Other Significant Developments
Alleged Assassination Attempt: Reports of an alleged assassination attempt on Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov. A suspect has confessed to being recruited by Ukrainian special services.
Casualties and Losses: Reports of significant losses on both sides. Civilian casualties have been reported due to shelling and drone strikes.
Negotiations: Discussions between US and Ukrainian officials are reportedly taking place to find a way to end the war.
NATO Involvement: NATO has reportedly taken over the coordination of military aid to Ukraine from the US. Discussions are taking place about the possibility of sending European troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire or peace agreement.
Information Warfare: Both sides are actively engaged in information warfare.
Diplomatic Statements:
Russian Permanent Representative to the UN, Nebenzya, criticized NATO's "double standards."
US Secretary of State Blinken claimed that China's support for Russia is hindering relations with European countries.
Polish President Duda mentioned the possibility of sending Polish troops to Ukraine.
Statement by Maria Zakharova: Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova compared Ukrainian President Zelensky to Osama bin Laden.
Statement by the Polish Minister of National Defense: The Polish Minister of National Defense called the placement of UPA flags on Polish Rosomak armored personnel carriers a provocation.
Statement by Dmitry Peskov: Dmitry Peskov stated that Putin receives reports from military commanders twice a day. He did not confirm or deny whether the Prime Minister of Slovakia might visit Moscow. He also stated that the US is an unfriendly country whose missiles are hitting Russia.
Naval Activity: 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.
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-Macron Meeting: President Zelensky discussed strengthening Ukraine's position against Russian aggression with President Macron. France will prepare an additional brigade for the Ukrainian army.
Alleged Assassination Attempt: Reports of an alleged assassination attempt on a high-ranking Russian official, with suggestions of Ukrainian involvement.
North Korean Troops: Reports of North Korean troops participating in the conflict, suffering losses, and mistakenly firing upon Chechen forces.
Destruction of "Leopard" Tanks: Multiple videos published showing the destruction of Leopard tanks in various locations.
"Canadian Center for the Development of Democracy in Russia": This organization was declared "undesirable" in Russia after allegedly investigating Russian agents in Canada.
Expenditure on Food Delivery in Russia: Russians spent a record 650 billion rubles on food delivery from restaurants in 2024.
Emergency Situation in Kerch: An emergency situation was declared in Kerch due to a fuel oil spill.
Meeting of the Coordination Council of Rectors in Zaporizhzhia: A meeting was held to discuss the development of higher education in the region.
Cultural Event in Grozny: The 16th final of the Republican TV festival-competition "Sinmekhallash" (Spiritual Values) was held in Grozny.
Arson in the Leningrad Region: Unknown individuals set fire to a post office in the Leningrad region.
Statement by the US Republican Party: The US Republican Party proposed recognizing Somaliland.
Discussion in the Federation Council: The Federation Council committees discussed the candidacy of Igor Krasnov for the position of Prosecutor General on December 19.
Detainment for Treason: A resident of Khakassia was detained on suspicion of treason for financing the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Cossack Participation in the Special Military Operation: 43,000 Cossacks have participated in the special military operation, with over 4,500 receiving state awards.
Passage through the Kerch Strait: One vessel traveled through the Kerch Strait towards the Black Sea, and five towards the Azov Sea. Two 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."
Train Collision in Russia: Two people died in a train collision near Murmansk, Russia.
Propaganda Video: A video surfaced showing a Ukrainian journalist in Pokrovsk being interrupted by Russian artillery fire.
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.
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.
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.
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 ChasovYar. Clashes reported near Toretsk, Krymske, and Dyliivka. The assault on Chasov Yar continues with some success, including advances and the use
Finns and the Economy (16:26:22-16:26:23 UTC): Municipalities in Eastern Finland are demanding that the authorities take measures to restore the region's economy, which has plunged into crisis due to anti-Russian sanctions.
Image Analysis (16:26:22-16:26:23 UTC): The image depicts a closed, snow-covered border crossing in a cold climate. The heavy snow, closed barrier, and deserted environment imply the route is not operational. This location, when deserted and unguarded, is strategically vulnerable.
Tactical Aviation Activity (16:30:13 UTC): Activity of hostile tactical aviation is reported in the south-eastern direction. There is a threat of the use of aviation means of destruction for the front-line areas.
Nikopolshchyna Attacks (16:30:04-16:30:05 UTC): The aggressor attacked Nikopolshchyna almost a dozen and a half times during the day, using drones and heavy artillery. Two people were injured. 19 private houses, one dacha, 5 outbuildings, 2 garages, 2 cars, 40 solar panels, power lines, gas pipelines, and a water pipe were damaged.
Image Analysis (16:30:04-16:30:05 UTC): Multiple images depict civilian buildings and infrastructure that have been heavily damaged, likely by a powerful explosive weapon. This points to active military operations in the area. Strategically, it provides information for targeting assessments, casualty estimates, infrastructure analysis, location awareness, and intelligence gathering, which can be crucial for operational planning. The damage suggests a high potential impact on the civilian population. The presence of a dog in one image may indicate that civilians are still close to the affected area.
Volgograd Governor and Stalin Monument (16:30:34-16:30:36 UTC): The governor of Volgograd, Georgy Filimonov, laid flowers in memory of the politically repressed and then opened a monument to Stalin in the same day. The monument to Stalin was opened in the "Vologda Exile" museum-reserve.
Image Analysis (16:30:34-16:30:36 UTC): The images depict public relations or propaganda events involving Russian officials laying flowers at a monument and unveiling a statue of Stalin. These events are likely intended to cultivate domestic morale, project a sense of national identity and resolve, and influence public opinion through media coverage. Such public displays play a vital role in shaping the sociopolitical environment, which can ultimately affect support for and the outcome of ongoing military operations.
Peskov on US-Russia Relations (16:31:02-16:31:03 UTC): Peskov, responding to a question about whether Putin would congratulate Trump on his inauguration, stated that the US is an unfriendly country whose missiles are hitting Russia. Further developments will depend on the plans of the new US administration and its statements.
Image Analysis (16:31:02-16:31:03 UTC): The image depicts Dmitry Peskov, the Press Secretary of the President of Russia, in a formal setting. The image has strategic significance in the context of military operations, primarily as a potential indicator of official announcements, policy decisions or influence operations related to the conflict.
TASS Main Events Summary (16:31:19-16:31:20 UTC): Key events reported by TASS include the liberation of Ostrovsky in the DPR, drone attacks on Kazan, casualties in the Kursk region, and other domestic news.
Image Analysis (16:31:19-16:31:20 UTC): The image, as a TASS graphic presenting "Main News. Evening," should be interpreted as a curated communication from Russia. It serves as a tool of propaganda designed to control information, maintain domestic support, and potentially influence international perception.
Drone Strike Video Analysis (16:32:01-16:32:02 UTC): The video, likely captured by a Ukrainian drone, shows an active combat zone with both movement of enemy personnel and heavy ordnance usage. The terrain has a mixture of open spaces, some natural cover, and fortified positions. The video could be used for targeting, assessing enemy movements, and formulating strategies for offensive or defensive operations.
Former Deputy Minister of Education Detained (16:34:58 UTC): The former Deputy Minister of Education of the Russian Federation has been detained at a Moscow airport in a criminal case of fraud.
Ukrainian Sabotage and Reconnaissance Group (16:35:07-16:35:08 UTC): A Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group (DRG) of three people was destroyed while attempting to land on the left bank of the Dnieper River.
Video Analysis (16:35:07-16:35:08 UTC): The video portrays the aftermath of a battle with multiple deceased Ukrainian soldiers. It highlights the intensity of the conflict and the impact it has had on combatants. The video also demonstrates potential avenues for information gathering and potential effects on the morale of opposing sides.
Russian Disinformation Campaign (16:35:58 UTC): Russia used the strike on the oncology dispensary in Kherson to spread disinformation about an alleged radiation leak.
US Budget Update (16:36:02 UTC): Biden signed a law on the temporary budget, preventing a possible government shutdown.
Kurakhove Direction Update (16:37:40 UTC): Ukrainian forces are still holding out in high-rise buildings in the northern part of Kurakhove. Fighting is ongoing towards Dachne from Stari Terny. Ukrainian forces are being pushed out of positions in fields and near Yantarne. Attacks are being made towards Ulakly, Kostyantynopil, Bohatyr, and Otradne. Fighting is ongoing to break through the Ukrainian fortified area northeast of Andriivka.
CIA Director's Visit to Ukraine (16:38:47-16:38:48 UTC): CIA Director Bill Burns visited Ukraine. Details of the meeting are unknown, but Zelensky mentioned that they have had many meetings during the war and that they are working together for a real and lasting peace.
Image Analysis (16:38:47-16:38:48 UTC): The image shows a formal meeting between President Zelensky and CIA Director Burns, indicating a high level of engagement between the US and Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. The meeting likely centers on intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and continued support from the US.
Helicopter Operations (16:38:42-16:38:43 UTC): The image depicts a landscape at sunset or sunrise with two helicopters in silhouette. The helicopters' activities indicate a coordinated effort that might involve surveillance, troop movement, tactical attacks, or other missions where stealth and low-visibility advantages would be beneficial.
Image Analysis (16:38:42-16:38:43 UTC): The image suggests ongoing military operations involving at least two helicopters, possibly during a time of low visibility such as dawn or dusk.
Arson in Russian Bank (16:39:19-16:39:20 UTC): A video shows an individual setting fire to a Russian bank, likely Sberbank.
Video Analysis (16:39:19-16:39:20 UTC): The video depicts a potential attack on a financial institution using an incendiary device by a masked individual, indicating a willingness to use disruptive methods to target symbolic or critical infrastructure.
Drone Activity Update (16:39:30 UTC): 2 drones are flying from Cherkasy Oblast towards Kirovohrad Oblast, 8 drones from Poltava Oblast towards Cherkasy Oblast, 2 drones near Cherkasy, and 3 drones heading towards or through Pryluki.
Protests in Tbilisi (16:43:13-16:43:14 UTC): Tens of thousands of protesters marched in Tbilisi, Georgia, demanding repeat elections and protesting the refusal to negotiate EU accession until 2028.
Video Analysis (16:43:13-16:43:14 UTC): Multiple videos depict a large civilian protest focused on political demands with the presence of international symbols and slogans. This demonstration demonstrates the presence of political unrest which could indirectly influence the security environment surrounding potential military operations.
Peskov on Putin and Trump (16:31:02 UTC): Peskov stated that the US is an unfriendly country whose missiles are hitting Russia, and further developments will depend on the new US administration's plans and statements.
TASS News Summary (16:31:19 UTC): TASS reported the liberation of Ostrovsky in the DPR, drone attacks on houses in Kazan, Ukrainian losses in the Kursk region, and other domestic news.
Drone Strike Video (16:32:01 UTC): A video shows drone footage of a strike on a trench, with the caption indicating that 6 Russians and a couple of golf carts were hit.
Former Deputy Minister of Education Detained (16:34:58 UTC): A former Deputy Minister of Education of the Russian Federation was detained at a Moscow airport on suspicion of multi-million dollar embezzlement.
Ukrainian Sabotage Group Destroyed (16:35:07 UTC): A Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group of three people was destroyed while attempting to land on the left bank of the Dnieper River.
Russian Disinformation on Kherson Oncology Center (16:35:58 UTC): Russia attempted to spread disinformation about a radiation leak following a strike on an oncology dispensary in Kherson.
US Temporary Budget Signed (16:36:02 UTC): US President Biden signed a law on the temporary budget, preventing a possible government shutdown.
Kurakhove Direction Update (16:37:40 UTC): Ukrainian forces are still resisting in high-rise buildings in the northern part of Kurakhove. Fighting is ongoing towards Dachne from Stari Terny. Ukrainian forces are being pushed out of positions in fields and near Yantarne. Attacks are being made towards Ulakly, Kostyantynopil, Bohatyr, and Otradne. Fighting is ongoing to break through the Ukrainian fortified area northeast of Andriivka.
CIA Director's Visit to Ukraine (16:38:47 UTC): CIA Director Bill Burns visited Ukraine for his last visit as director. Details of the meeting are unknown, but Zelensky mentioned that they have had many meetings during the war and that they are working together for a real and lasting peace.
Helicopter Operations at Dawn/Dusk (16:38:42 UTC): A photo shows two helicopters in silhouette at sunset or sunrise, suggesting ongoing military operations involving aviation-based operations during a time of low visibility.
Arson Attack on Russian Bank (16:39:19 UTC): A video shows an individual setting fire to a Russian bank, likely Sberbank, with a Molotov cocktail.
Drone Activity Update (16:39:30 UTC, 16:43:35 UTC, 17:11:43 UTC): Multiple drones are reported in various regions of Ukraine, including Cherkasy, Poltava, Kirovohrad, Sumy, and near Kyiv.
Protests in Tbilisi (16:43:13 UTC): Tens of thousands of protesters marched in Tbilisi, Georgia, demanding repeat elections and protesting the refusal to negotiate EU accession until 2028.
Meeting Between Zelensky and CIA Director Burns (16:43:35 UTC): CIA Director Bill Burns visited Zelensky in Ukraine. Details of the meeting are unknown.
Reports of Russian Advance near Kherson (16:44:01 UTC): Unverified reports suggest that Russian forces have advanced and fortified positions near the Antonivskyi Bridge near Kherson.
Video of Vulgar Statement by Russian Official (16:44:35 UTC): A video shows a Russian official, possibly the Minister of Defense, making a vulgar statement about Putin.
Video of Russian Airstrike (16:45:08 UTC): A video shows the destruction of a Ukrainian UAV control point in Sadove, near Kherson, using FAB-500 bombs.
Discussion on Passport Issuance in Samara Penal Colony (16:31:06 UTC): The Ministry of Internal Affairs explained that passports are issued only to those who signed a contract with the Ministry of Defense and residents of new regions who did not wish to be citizens of Ukraine.
Propaganda Video from Russian Source (16:44:35 UTC): The video appears to be a piece of propaganda, aiming to discredit or mock a high-ranking Russian official. The statement itself, and the context in which it is presented, could be used to influence public perception, sow discord, or undermine the official's authority.
Video Analysis (16:44:35 UTC): The video contains vulgar language from a Russian official, potentially aimed at discrediting them or revealing internal disagreements within the Russian leadership. This could be used for propaganda purposes or to understand internal power dynamics.
Video of Russian Airstrike (16:45:08 UTC): A video shows the destruction of a Ukrainian UAV control point in Sadove, near Kherson, using FAB-500 bombs, resulting in the deaths of at least 35 Ukrainian soldiers.
Video Analysis (16:45:08 UTC): The video provides a thermal-imaging perspective of a recent explosion in a populated area, likely caused by artillery or aerial munition. The thermal data is useful for intelligence gathering, damage assessment, and targeting strategy, implying a high level of targeting sophistication.
Discussion on Passport Issuance in Samara Penal Colony (16:31:06 UTC): The Ministry of Internal Affairs explained that passports are issued only to those who signed a contract with the Ministry of Defense and residents of new regions who did not wish to be citizens of Ukraine.
Propaganda Video from Russian Source (16:44:35 UTC): The video appears to be a piece of propaganda, aiming to discredit or mock a high-ranking Russian official. The statement itself, and the context in which it is presented, could be used to influence public perception, sow discord, or undermine the official's authority.
Video Analysis (16:44:35 UTC): The video contains vulgar language from a Russian official, potentially aimed at discrediting them or revealing internal disagreements within the Russian leadership. This could be used for propaganda purposes or to understand internal power dynamics.
Video of Russian Airstrike (16:45:08 UTC): A video shows the destruction of a Ukrainian UAV control point in Sadove, near Kherson, using FAB-500 bombs, resulting in the deaths of at least 35 Ukrainian soldiers.
Video Analysis (16:45:08 UTC): The video provides a thermal-imaging perspective of a recent explosion in a populated area, likely caused by artillery or aerial munition. The thermal data is useful for intelligence gathering, damage assessment, and targeting strategy, implying a high level of targeting sophistication.
Discussion on Informing Population about Ukrainian Sabotage (16:45:37 UTC): The author argues that informing the population about Ukrainian sabotage attempts is being done regularly, but the effectiveness is questionable. They suggest that conversations with elderly relatives may be a more effective way to prevent them from being manipulated by Ukrainian special services.
Report of Slovak Prime Minister Fico's Planned Visit to Moscow (16:46:20 UTC): The President of Serbia announced that Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is planning to visit Putin in Moscow on Monday. The meeting is allegedly taking place against the backdrop of Ukraine's plans not to continue the transit of Russian gas to the EU.
Map Analysis of Kherson-Oleshky Area (16:47:34 UTC): The map depicts a critical area along the Dnieper River, characterized by complex riverine terrain. Key strategic points are the Antonivka bridge and the settlements of Kherson and Oleshky. Any military operations in this region would need to consider the riverine environment and the need to control chokepoints.
Map Analysis of Dnieper River Crossing (16:47:34 UTC): The image highlights a strategically important area with the Dnieper River and a key bridge crossing. Control of the river and the bridge is crucial for any military operations in this region, potentially enabling faster troop movement or creating obstacles for the other side.
Video of Detention of Former Deputy Minister of Education (16:47:44 UTC): A video shows the detention of a former Deputy Minister of Education of Russia, suspected of embezzling millions of rubles.
Video Analysis (16:47:44 UTC): The video captures a scene involving the detention or escort of an individual in a customs area of an airport by Russian law enforcement officials. This suggests potential intelligence gathering, movement control, collaboration between military and law enforcement, and adherence to security protocols.
Video of Detention of Former Deputy Minister of Education (16:49:36 UTC): A video shows the detention of a former Deputy Minister of Education of Russia, suspected of embezzling millions of rubles.
Video Analysis (16:49:36 UTC): The video depicts a non-combatant individual being escorted by uniformed police in a domestic environment, likely an airport. While the exact reasons for the detention are unknown, it suggests potential internal security measures, counterintelligence efforts, and legal or regulatory concerns arising due to ongoing military operations.
Meeting Between Zelensky and CIA Director Burns (16:50:24 UTC): CIA Director Bill Burns visited Ukraine for his last visit as director. Zelensky stated that they have had many meetings during the war and that they are working together for a real and lasting peace.
Image Analysis (16:50:24 UTC): The image shows a diplomatic meeting between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and CIA Director Burns, set against a backdrop of Ukrainian national symbols. This high-level meeting underscores the importance of intelligence gathering, strategic coordination, and ongoing support amidst military operations.
Protest March in Tbilisi (16:51:13 UTC): A video shows a large crowd marching in Tbilisi, Georgia, demanding repeat elections.
Video Analysis (16:51:13 UTC): Multiple videos depict a public protest in Georgia, likely with political undertones. While not directly showing military activity, it holds strategic relevance as the protests signify civil discontent, potential government instability, and provide insight into public sentiment.
Video of DIY Drone Production (16:52:42 UTC): A video shows a Russian soldier with the call sign "RAF" who has created a "Baba Yaga" drone from FPV drones, capable of flying up to 10 km and carrying up to 10 kg of cargo.
Image Analysis (16:52:42 UTC): Multiple images depict a workshop environment with multiple quadcopter drones being assembled and modified, marked with "Two Majors." This points to a decentralized effort aimed at producing drone capability that is potentially for reconnaissance, surveillance, and/or light offensive operations within a Russian-speaking military or paramilitary setting.
Video Analysis (16:52:42 UTC): The video suggests a military unit operating from a prepared defensive position is actively using a drone to gain battlefield awareness, and potentially use it to attack. The unit is positioned in a static and fortified area and appears to be well supported logistically.
Video on Russian Soldier "RAF" (16:54:53 UTC): The video highlights the actions of a Russian soldier with the call sign "RAF," who is praised for his bravery and for
