Major Military Situation Updates - December 22, 2024, 12:25 UTC

Overview

The conflict in Ukraine remains highly dynamic, with intense fighting reported across multiple fronts. Russian forces are making significant advances, particularly in the Donetsk and Kursk regions. Ukrainian forces are heavily relying on drone warfare to counter Russian movements and target infrastructure. The strategic situation is marked by a complex interplay of ground offensives, aerial attacks, and logistical challenges.

Key Developments

Donetsk Oblast

• Russian Advances:
  • Russian forces continue to push forward in the Donetsk region, with notable progress around Kurakhove, Pokrovsk, and Toretsk.
  • Kurakhove: Russian forces now control approximately 80% of Kurakhove. They have reportedly liberated Konstantinopolskoe (Ostrovskoe) and Zelenovka, pushing Ukrainian forces out of high-rise buildings in the center of Kurakhove. Intense fighting continues in the industrial zone and for Yantarnoye.
  • Pokrovsk: Russian forces are advancing south of Pokrovsk towards Ukrainka and have reportedly entered Pisky. High-intensity battles are ongoing near several settlements, including Novooleenovka, which Russian forces are storming. They are also advancing towards Slavyanka.
  • Toretsk: Russian forces are consolidating control in Toretsk and advancing near Dzerzhinsk. They have made gains in the Khomkolonka microdistrict and near the small mine No. 10 spoil heap. Street fighting has persisted for two months, effectively dividing Toretsk in half.
  • Guided Bomb Strikes: Russian tactical aviation launched guided bomb strikes in the Donetsk region.
• Chasov Yar:
  • Fighting in Chasov Yar: Russian forces have partially dislodged Ukrainian forces from the fire-resistant compound in Chasov Yar. Russian paratroopers reportedly discovered a concentration of enemy troops and destroyed them with drone strikes. Russian forces now control over half of Chasov Yar.
• Vremivka Direction:
  • Clashes are reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil, and Novodarivka. In the northern part of the Vremivka direction, Russian forces raised a flag in Novyi Komar, with Ukrainian forces remaining to the southwest of the village.
• Other Developments:
  • The 57th Motorized Rifle Regiment has reportedly liberated Elizavetovka.
  • Russian forces reportedly liquidated a unit of Colombian mercenaries near the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR).
  • A Ukrainian command post and personnel concentration near the Toretsk mine were destroyed.
  • The 110th Brigade released footage of the shooting of Ukrainian POWs. The video consists of thermal drone footage showing a group of soldiers, which are labeled as Ukrainian in the video, surrounded by what are assumed to be Russian forces during what is likely nighttime combat operations. The footage shows the Ukrainian troops, who are initially holed up in a structure, exiting individually and surrendering. The video ends with the Ukrainian troops being escorted away from the location. The locations of the Russian forces are marked by Russian flag icons in the video.
  • Russian forces destroyed a bridge over the Volchya River, further degrading Ukrainian logistics to the west of Kurakhovo.
  • Sontsovka has been renamed Krasnoye.
• Kremennaya-Terny:
  • Active combat operations are ongoing in the vicinity of Kremennaya.
  • An attack by a Russian infantry unit was reported in the village of Terny.
  • Shelling of a Russian assault group by Ukrainian forces was observed.
  • Russian forces advanced in the central part of Terny and expanded their territorial control by up to 400 meters.

Kursk Region

• Russian Advances:
  • Russian forces have fully 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 reportedly liberated Daryino and Novoivanovka in the Sudzha district, and took a Ukrainian position in Plekhovo.
  • Russian forces attacked Ukrainian positions west of Nechaev in the direction of Russkogo Porechnogo using large infantry units, resulting in Ukrainian forces losing their strongholds in the forest belt.
  • Russian assault groups are advancing in Kruhlenke and have made progress in Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
• Intense Fighting:
  • Heavy fighting continues along the front line, with 55 engagements reported and 25 ongoing. The hottest point was Kursk, with 57 clashes. Paratroopers are pushing Ukrainian units back from the Kursk region. Units of the Don Cossack Guards Airborne Assault Regiment from Feodosia liberated a settlement in the Sudzha district. Active combat is ongoing in the Sudzha area.
  • The "Sever" group of forces is engaged in fierce battles along the entire front line.
• Other Developments:
  • Disrupted Rotation and Mine-Laying: Russian forces disrupted a Ukrainian troop rotation and used drones to disrupt Ukrainian mine-laying operations.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • VSU Losses: The Ukrainian Armed Forces (VSU) reportedly lost up to 260 military personnel, and one Leopard 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.
  • Russian forces are advancing east from Kruglenkogo, capturing 1km of territory.

Kharkiv Region

• In the Kharkiv direction, the enemy unsuccessfully stormed the positions of our units six times in the areas of Kozacha Lopan, Vysokaya Yaruga and Vovchansk.
• On the Kupyansk direction, four enemy attacks took place during the day. The Defense Forces repelled the enemy's assault actions near Petropavlivka and Kruhlyakivka.
• Kyiv is transferring reserves to Lozova in Kharkiv Oblast.
• Russian forces liberated Lozovaya.
• Ukrainian forces repelled a powerful Russian assault in the Kupyansk direction, destroying 5 armored vehicles. The video begins with a drone view of a column of five armored vehicles, identified with Russian flags. They are moving slowly and in a linear formation through an open, partially wooded area. The drone briefly switches to a view of vehicles traveling along a road. It's possible these vehicles are also Russian, but this isn't explicitly confirmed. Later scenes show the same or similar vehicles moving along a narrow path through a wooded area, suggesting a change in tactics or a reaction to the situation. Multiple clips show heavy strikes against the vehicles. These strikes cause significant explosions and fires. Some vehicles are completely destroyed. In the infrared mode, soldiers are identified among the trees. There are also infrared shots where the explosions occurred targeting the infantry. A close-up, pixelated image appears to conceal an individual lying on the ground. There is also a close-up on a soldier on the ground, seemingly wounded. There's an infrared split-screen view, showcasing both the visible spectrum and thermal data, highlighting the heat signatures of the vehicles. The drone returns to a wider shot to survey the damage and confirms the obliteration of all vehicles and personnel.

Zaporizhzhia Region

• Drone attacks on Zaporizhzhia and Kharkiv have resulted in casualties. In Zaporizhzhia, a 12-year-old boy and three women were injured.
• 4 people were injured in Zaporizhzhia as a result of a Russian attack, including a 12-year-old boy. 1 person was injured in the Pologovsky district, and 2 people were injured in the Vasilievsky district.
• Ukrainian forces repelled 14 Russian assaults in the region.
• Positional fighting continues in Kamenskoye.

Southern Front: Kherson

• 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 eighteen injured reported in Kherson due to increased shelling.
• Sabotage and Reconnaissance: 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.
• Preparations for Offensive: Russian forces are reportedly preparing for an offensive on Kherson, while Ukrainian forces are preparing to repel a potential Russian attack.
• Drone Activity: Ukrainian forces report a high level of enemy drone activity near the Antonovsky bridge.
• Ukrainian Counteroffensive: Ukrainian forces are reportedly attacking the right bank of the Dnipro River near the bridge in Kherson.
• Attempted Landing near Antonovsky Bridge: On the Kherson direction, Russians made an attempt to land a sabotage and reconnaissance group (DRG) on the right bank of the Dnipro River near the Antonovsky Bridge. The DRG was reportedly detected and destroyed by Ukrainian forces.
• High Drone Activity: Ukrainian forces report a high level of enemy drone activity near the Antonovsky bridge.
• Russian DRGs are attempting to storm the island zone of the Dnipro River on a daily basis.

Aerial Warfare

Extensive Drone Warfare

• Widespread Drone Attacks: Both Ukrainian and Russian forces are utilizing drones extensively across multiple regions. Ukrainian drones targeted Russian positions, equipment, and infrastructure, including a fuel depot in the Oryol region and military vehicles in the Kursk region. Russian drones targeted Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, with reports of attacks in numerous locations, including Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Poltava, and others.
• Escalation in Drone Warfare: Increased use of drones by both sides, with more detailed reports of specific incidents and targets.
• Air Defense Interceptions:
  • Russian air defense systems intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones overnight across multiple regions, including Belgorod, Voronezh, Kursk, Krasnodar, Rostov, Bryansk, Lipetsk, and the Black Sea.
  • Ukrainian air defense forces successfully detected and neutralized about ten hostile drones near Kyiv.
  • Germany is transferring a new batch of Songbird 150 reconnaissance drones to Ukraine.
• Drone Attacks in Russia:
  • Kazan, Tatarstan: Multiple drone attacks reported, with at least eight impacts, including six on residential buildings. Fires reported in multiple districts. Evacuations underway.
  • Sochi: A series of explosions were reported over Sochi, with local residents hearing 7-10 blasts. Preliminary reports indicate Russian air defense systems were active.
  • Voronezh Oblast: Russian air defense systems intercepted several Ukrainian drones.
  • Oryol Oblast: 20 Ukrainian drones were shot down, and a fire broke out at a fuel infrastructure facility due to a drone attack.
  • Rostov Oblast: 8 Ukrainian drones were shot down. The Russian MoD claims this large-scale drone attack is retaliation for Ukraine's prior use of ATACMS missiles near Taganrog, suggesting a potential cycle of escalation.
  • Tula Oblast: The threat of a drone attack has been lifted.

Ukraine

• Extensive Drone Activity: Widespread drone activity is reported across multiple regions, including Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Poltava, Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, Vinnytsia, Kherson, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Zhytomyr, Chernihiv, Khmelnytskyi, Ternopil, Tatarbunary, Bila Tserkva, Belyayevka, Borispil, Kryvyi Rih, Myrhorod, Shostka, Pryluky, Kremenchuk, Okhtyrka, Shepetivka, Smila, Kamianske, Izium, and Ukrainka.
• Multiple Drone Groups: Several groups of attack drones are moving in the northern part of Sumy Oblast, in the direction of Chernihiv Oblast. New groups are entering Sumy Oblast from the Kursk region, moving west/southwest. Another group of drones is moving through the central part of Poltava Oblast.
• Air Raid Alerts: Air raid alerts have been issued and subsequently lifted in several regions, including Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia. A new alert was issued for Sumy Oblast due to drone activity.
• A Ukrainian drone hit a civilian man walking down the street in Kupyansk.
• Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian armored group in the Kupyansk direction.

Russia

• Drone Attacks: Multiple drone attacks were reported in Kazan, Tatarstan, with at least six impacts. Fires were reported in multiple districts, leading to evacuations. Russian air defense systems reportedly intercepted numerous Ukrainian drones across various regions.
• Taganrog: Residents reported explosions.

Naval Activity

• Black Sea: 3 Russian ships, carrying up to 24 "Kalibr" missiles.
• Azov Sea: No Russian ships present.
• Mediterranean Sea: 6 Russian ships, 3 carrying up to 25 "Kalibr" missiles.
• Kerch Strait Passage (past 24 hours):
  • To Black Sea: 3 ships, 1 continued to Bosporus.
  • To Azov Sea: 4 ships, 2 from Bosporus.
• A ship with a crew from Syria and Egypt was moored near Kerch.

Other Significant Developments

• North Korean Involvement: Reports indicate North Korean troops are suffering heavy losses, with at least 100 killed and 1,000 wounded, though evidence of their involvement remains weak.
• US Cruiser Mistakenly Shoots Down F/A-18: A US Navy cruiser mistakenly shot down an F/A-18 fighter jet over the Red Sea.
• Negotiations: 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 to Coordinate Military Aid to Ukraine: NATO has reportedly taken over the coordination of military aid to Ukraine from the US.
• Assassination of a Russian General: Ukrainian sources claim responsibility for the assassination of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, head of the Russian Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Protection troops in Moscow. US officials stated they were not aware and were not involved.
• Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine: A Russian lieutenant general has been charged with ordering the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. The deputy chief of the Russian general staff has been charged with organizing a missile strike on a hotel in Kramatorsk that killed a Reuters journalist.
• First Fully Robotized Attack: Ukrainian forces conducted a fully robotized attack using only ground and FPV drones in the Lipstsi area, Kharkiv.
• Explosions Near Military Objects in Murmansk: Two explosions occurred near military objects in Murmansk.
• 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,
• IMF Prediction: The IMF released a negative scenario for Ukraine, predicting that the war will last until mid-2026, with an economic shock starting in the first quarter of 2025. The IMF predicts that the war will end in Ukraine's defeat.
• New Drone and Missile Attacks: New drone attacks were reported in the Oryol region. Russian tactical aviation launched guided bomb strikes in the Donetsk region.
• Increased Border Crossings: The pre-Christmas period has led to a record number of border crossings, with 150,000 people crossing the border in the last 24 hours.
• Attacks on Financial Institutions: The number of attacks on bank offices and ATMs has increased by 30% ahead of the holidays.
• Putin's Statement on "Oreshnik": Putin called the release of "Oreshnik" a historical event in the rocket and space industry and stated that Russia should have prepared for hostilities earlier and acted more decisively.
• Shooting of Iranian Diplomat in Syria: The deputy ambassador of Iran to Syria was shot and killed in Damascus.
• Proposal to Ban Fireworks: State Duma deputy Artem Kiryanov proposed to tighten control over pyrotechnics and possibly ban the sale of fireworks during the holiday period.
• 155th Mechanized Brigade Receives Drones: After reports of a complete lack of drone supplies, the 155th Mechanized Brigade received 17 million hryvnias for drone procurement.
• Reports of Arson: There has been an increase in arson attacks across Russia, with reports of attacks on administrative buildings and banks, as well as Sberbank ATMs.
• Helicopter Crash in Turkey: A helicopter crashed into a hospital in Turkey, killing 4 people.
• 47th Mechanized Brigade: The medical evacuation unit of the 47th Mechanized Brigade is requesting assistance for vehicle repairs. The video shows a Ukrainian soldier, presumably with the 47th brigade, standing in front of a modified van. The van appears to be an ambulance or transport vehicle, with additional lights mounted on the roof. The soldier states they are located at one of the most contested parts of the front line. The video cuts to an external view of the van's side mirror, which is shattered and damaged. The camera quickly goes to the interior of the van, with a hole torn into the ceiling. This reveals the vehicle has experienced heavy damage, likely from shrapnel or an explosion. The soldier reappears stating that they use these vehicles for combat missions, but they break down due to poor road conditions and the ongoing conflict. Footage of a severely damaged armored vehicle. There is a large dent on the front and the windshield is cracked. There is an interior shot of a very beat up interior of another armored vehicle. The seats look covered in mud and other debris. An armored vehicle, with a flat tire, is shown moving down a road with other traffic. The soldier asks for assistance with the fundraising effort to repair their vehicles. He explains how these vehicles assist in life-saving operations. The video cuts to a view from inside a damaged vehicle, showing a shattered front windshield, damage to the side mirror, and a beat up dashboard. The soldier reappears and explains that they are proceeding slowly to their destination. Another interior shot of the vehicle showing the hole in the ceiling. The soldier thanks people for support and calls for victory. The video ends with the 47th brigade’s emblem.
• 96th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade: Released footage of a soldier choosing to detonate a grenade rather than receive medical assistance. The video shows thermal imaging, likely from a drone or another aerial surveillance platform. This means it's capturing heat signatures, which can reveal the presence of people, vehicles, or recent activity, even under camouflage or in low light. The footage focuses on a small area, possibly an entranceway to a building or some other type of fortification. Initially, there's the blurry image of what appears to be a group of people moving around in the targeted area. Their heat signatures are bright against the cooler background. A burst of bright light indicates an explosive impact followed by a rapid spread of heat. The area is now obscured by heat and debris, but after the debris begins to settle, some residual heat signatures remain of personnel and objects present before the engagement. The heat signature of the targeted area is now significantly different. The crosshairs are overlaid on the video, which indicates that the operators could have been choosing where to strike. The video displays two unit insignias, possibly Ukrainian, along with a note regarding “secret mode.” This would suggest the unit using night vision tech or thermals for clandestine operations. The footage may be an example of intelligence collection and targeting, to be used by those units. The end card of the video displays the Ukrainian Armed Forces emblem along with the website, suggesting Ukrainian propaganda.
• Opening of Airports and Highways: Putin opened new airports in Magadan, Cheboksary, and Stavropol. He also opened a new four-lane highway connecting the Crimean Bridge and the M-4 "Don" highway, bypassing Krasnodar. The M-12 "Vostok" highway will be extended to Tyumen by 2026.
• ISS Orbit Raised: The orbit of the International Space Station (ISS) has been raised by 2.3 km in preparation for the launch of the "Soyuz MS-27" manned spacecraft.
• Fundraising for ASTRA: The independent Russian-language publication ASTRA is seeking donations to pay its staff salaries. ASTRA was recently labeled a "foreign agent" by Russian authorities.
• Day of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Russian Armed Forces: December 22 is the Day of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Russian Armed Forces.
• Zelensky's Speech to Ukrainian Diplomats: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed Ukrainian diplomats, emphasizing the need for continued efforts toward achieving a just peace for Ukraine. He acknowledged recent administrative changes in the U.S. and impending elections in key European countries as potential sources of shifts in international affairs. He emphasized the need for consistent global pressure on Russia, particularly through sanctions.
• Fundraising for Drones: Serhiy Sternenko announced that 325 drones were purchased and delivered to Ukrainian forces thanks to donations. He also announced a raffle for a knife, with donations of 300 hryvnias or more qualifying for entry.
• 9-Year-Old Girl Raises Funds for Ukrainian Military: A 9-year-old girl named Solomiya has raised over 350,000 hryvnias for the Ukrainian military by playing the flute on the streets of Dnipro.
• Arrested Russian Woman Appeals to Putin: Kira Koroleva, a Russian woman arrested in Australia along with her husband, has appealed to Putin for help in returning to Russia.
• Captured Russians Report on North Korean Soldiers: Russian prisoners of war have reportedly provided information about the behavior and combat effectiveness of North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces.
• Russian Military Destroys Ukrainian Armored Vehicle with FPV Drone: Russian forces reportedly used an FPV drone to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in the border area of the Kursk region.
• Russian Military Continues to Advance on Kurakhovo and Bogatyrsk Directions: The "Vostok" group of forces continued to advance in the Kurakhovo and Bogatyrsk directions, expanding control over territory in the direction of Razliv, Ulakly, Konstantynopol, and Otradny.
• New Merchandise from "Archangel of Special Forces Z" and "Land of Warriors": New merchandise, including hoodies and sweatshirts featuring military-themed designs, is available for purchase on Ozon.
• Putin Promises "Devastating Response" to Drone Attack on Kazan: Russian President Vladimir Putin has promised a "devastating response" to the recent drone attack on Kazan.

Analysis

The current situation reflects a dynamic and multi-faceted conflict. Russian forces are making tangible gains on the ground, particularly in the Donetsk and Kursk regions, suggesting a concerted effort to achieve strategic objectives in these areas. The advances around Kurakhove, Pokrovsk, and Toretsk indicate a potential breakthrough that could significantly alter the balance of power in the Donbas region. The liberation of Lozovaya and Sontsovka by Russian forces, confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Defense, further solidifies Russian advances in the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions.

The extensive use of drones by both sides underscores the evolving nature of warfare, with unmanned aerial vehicles playing a crucial role in reconnaissance, targeting, and direct attacks. The drone attacks on infrastructure targets, such as the fuel depot in the Oryol region, highlight the vulnerability of critical assets and the potential for long-range strikes to disrupt logistics and operations. The reported increase in arson attacks across Russia, possibly linked to anti-war sentiment or criminal activity, adds another layer of complexity to the internal security situation.

The reported involvement of North Korean troops, although still lacking strong evidence, adds another layer of complexity to the conflict. If confirmed, it would represent a significant international dimension and could potentially escalate tensions further.

The humanitarian situation remains dire, with continued shelling of civilian areas, such as Kherson and Rylsk, resulting in casualties and damage to infrastructure. The reported atrocities in Selidovo and the alleged liquidation of Colombian mercenaries, if confirmed, would constitute serious violations of international law and further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. The footage released by the 110th Brigade, showing the shooting of Ukrainian POWs, underscores the brutality of the conflict and the urgent need for adherence to international humanitarian law.

The ongoing negotiations between US and Ukrainian officials suggest a desire to find a diplomatic solution to the conflict. However, the statements by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan regarding Ukraine's weakened position in potential negotiations with Russia highlight the challenges of achieving a lasting peace agreement.

The cyberattack on Ukraine's state registry systems underscores the importance of cybersecurity in modern warfare, with digital infrastructure becoming a key target for disruption and espionage.

The IMF's prediction of a protracted conflict lasting until mid-2026, with a negative economic outlook for Ukraine, highlights the long-term challenges facing the country. The economic shock anticipated in 2025 could further destabilize Ukraine and make it more reliant on external aid.

The increase in border crossings during the pre-Christmas period reflects the ongoing displacement of people due to the conflict. This places additional strain on neighboring countries and humanitarian organizations.

The attacks on financial institutions in Russia, along with Putin's statements on the "Oreshnik" missile system, suggest internal tensions and a focus on military preparedness within Russia. The proposal to ban fireworks further indicates a tightening of security measures.

The reported shooting of an Iranian diplomat in Syria adds another dimension to the regional instability and could potentially escalate tensions between Iran and other actors in the region.

The allocation of funds for drone procurement by the 155th Mechanized Brigade, following reports of shortages, demonstrates the importance of addressing logistical challenges and ensuring adequate supplies for Ukrainian forces.

The destruction of the bridge over the Volchya River by Russian forces, coupled with the ongoing fighting around Kurakhove, indicates a concerted effort to isolate Ukrainian forces and disrupt their supply lines. The reported request for assistance by the 47th Mechanized Brigade's medical evacuation unit underscores the strain on Ukrainian resources and the need for continued support from allies. The video released by the 96th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, showing a soldier detonating a grenade, highlights the psychological toll of the conflict and the desperate circumstances faced by some combatants.

Putin's recent statements regarding the need to have acted earlier and more decisively in the conflict suggest a possible reassessment of past strategies and a potential shift towards more aggressive tactics in the future. The reported discussion of a potential peace mission by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, as mentioned by a member of the Bundestag, offers a glimmer of hope for a diplomatic resolution, although the feasibility and timing of such a mission remain uncertain.

Overall, the situation in Ukraine remains highly volatile and complex. The ongoing fighting, coupled with the evolving tactics, international involvement, and humanitarian crisis, presents significant challenges for all parties involved. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the conflict and the prospects for a resolution.

Changes from Previous Situation (6 hours ago):

• Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces lost over 260 military personnel and a Leopard tank in the Kursk direction.
• The IMF released a negative scenario for Ukraine, predicting that the war will last until mid-2026 and result in Ukraine's defeat.
• The pre-Christmas period has led to a record number of border crossings, with 150,000 people crossing the border in the last 24 hours.
• The number of attacks on bank offices and ATMs has increased by 30% ahead of the holidays.
• Putin called the release of "Oreshnik" a historical event in the rocket and space industry and stated that Russia should have prepared for hostilities earlier and acted more decisively.
• A helicopter crashed into a hospital in Turkey, killing 4 people.
• The medical evacuation unit of the 47th Mechanized Brigade is requesting assistance for vehicle repairs.
• The 96th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade released footage of a soldier choosing to detonate a grenade rather than receive medical assistance.
• Russian forces destroyed a bridge over the Volchya River between Konstantinopol and Andreevka, further degrading Ukrainian logistics to the west of Kurakhovo.
• In the Kharkiv direction, the enemy unsuccessfully stormed the positions of our units six times in the areas of Kozacha Lopan, Vysokaya Yaruga and Vovchansk.
• On the Kupyansk direction, four enemy attacks took place during the day. The Defense Forces repelled the enemy's assault actions near Petropavlivka and Kruhlyakivka.
• Kyiv is transferring reserves to Lozova in Kharkiv Oblast.
• Ukrainian forces repelled a powerful Russian assault in the Kupyansk direction, destroying 5 armored vehicles.
• Drone attacks on Zaporizhzhia and Kharkiv have resulted in casualties. In Zaporizhzhia, a 12-year-old boy and three women were injured.
• 4 people were injured in Zaporizhzhia as a result of a Russian attack, including a 12-year-old boy. 1 person was injured in the Pologovsky district, and 2 people were injured in the Vasilievsky district.
• Ukrainian forces repelled 14 Russian assaults in the region.
• Positional fighting continues in Kamenskoye.
• Casualties: One killed and eighteen injured reported in Kherson due to increased shelling.
• Sabotage and Reconnaissance: 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.
• Preparations for Offensive: Russian forces are reportedly preparing for an offensive on Kherson, while Ukrainian forces are preparing to repel a potential Russian attack.
• Attempted Landing near Antonovsky Bridge: On the Kherson direction, Russians made an attempt to land a sabotage and reconnaissance group (DRG) on the right bank of the Dnipro River near the Antonovsky Bridge. The DRG was reportedly detected and destroyed by Ukrainian forces.
• High Drone Activity: Ukrainian forces report a high level of enemy drone activity near the Antonovsky bridge.
• Russian DRGs are attempting to storm the island zone of the Dnipro River on a daily basis.
• Escalation in Drone Warfare: Increased use of drones by both sides, with more detailed reports of specific incidents and targets.
• Air Defense Interceptions:
  • Ukrainian air defense forces successfully detected and neutralized about ten hostile drones near Kyiv.
• Drone Attacks in Russia:
  • Kazan, Tatarstan: Multiple drone attacks reported, with at least eight impacts, including six on residential buildings. Fires reported in multiple districts. Evacuations underway.
  • Sochi: A series of explosions were reported over Sochi, with local residents hearing 7-10 blasts. Preliminary reports indicate Russian air defense systems were active.
  • Voronezh Oblast: Russian air defense systems intercepted several Ukrainian drones.
• A Ukrainian drone hit a civilian man walking down the street in Kupyansk.
• Black Sea: 3 Russian ships, carrying up to 24 "Kalibr" missiles.
• Azov Sea: No Russian ships present.
• Mediterranean Sea: 6 Russian ships, 3 carrying up to 25 "Kalibr" missiles.
• A ship with a crew from Syria and Egypt was moored near Kerch.
• US Cruiser Mistakenly Shoots Down F/A-18: A US Navy cruiser mistakenly shot down an F/A-18 fighter jet over the Red Sea.
• NATO to Coordinate Military Aid to Ukraine: NATO has reportedly taken over the coordination of military aid to Ukraine from the US.
• Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine: A Russian lieutenant general has been charged with ordering the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. The deputy chief of the Russian general staff has been charged with organizing a missile strike on a hotel in Kramatorsk that killed a Reuters journalist.
• First Fully Robotized Attack: Ukrainian forces conducted a fully robotized attack using only ground and FPV drones in the Lipstsi area, Kharkiv.
• Explosions Near Military Objects in Murmansk: Two explosions occurred near military objects in Murmansk.
• 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.
• Putin opened new airports in Magadan, Cheboksary, and Stavropol.
• Putin also opened a new four-lane highway connecting the Crimean Bridge and the M-4 "Don" highway, bypassing Krasnodar.
• The M-12 "Vostok" highway will be extended to Tyumen by 2026.
• The orbit of the International Space Station (ISS) has been raised by 2.3 km in preparation for the launch of the "Soyuz MS-27" manned spacecraft.
• The independent Russian-language publication ASTRA is seeking donations to pay its staff salaries. ASTRA was recently labeled a "foreign agent" by Russian authorities.
• December 22 is the Day of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Russian Armed Forces.
• Zelensky addressed Ukrainian diplomats, emphasizing the need for continued efforts toward achieving a just peace for Ukraine.
• 325 drones were purchased and delivered to Ukrainian forces thanks to donations.
• A raffle for a knife was announced, with donations of 300 hryvnias or more qualifying for entry.
• A 9-year-old girl named Solomiya has raised over 350,000 hryvnias for the Ukrainian military by playing the flute on the streets of Dnipro