Major Military Situation Updates - December 23, 2024, 01:25 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, leveraging a combination of ground assaults, aerial attacks, and drone warfare. Ukrainian forces are heavily relying on drone warfare to counter Russian movements and target infrastructure but are facing challenges due to troop desertions, manpower shortages, and ammunition supply issues. The strategic situation is marked by a complex interplay of ground offensives, aerial attacks, and logistical challenges, with both sides adapting to the evolving nature of the battlefield.
Key Developments
Donetsk Oblast
Kurakhove:
Russian forces control approximately 80% of Kurakhove. They have liberated Konstantinopolskoe (Ostrovskoe), Zelenovka, and are pushing Ukrainian forces out of high-rise buildings in the center of Kurakhove. The city of Kurakhovo itself is almost completely liberated.
Intense fighting continues in the industrial zone and for Yantarnoye. Ukrainian forces are still holding out in high-rise buildings in the northern part of Kurakhove.
Russian forces started battles for the liberation of Yantarnoye, south of Kurakhovo.
Russian forces have almost completely pushed the Ukrainian forces out of the center of Kurakhove.
Drone operators disrupted a Ukrainian unit's rotation in the Kurakhovo direction.
Ukrainian forces report that Russian forces used drones to target the positions of the 33rd Mechanized Brigade in the Kurakhovo direction.
Video footage from the drone of the Security Service of Ukraine shows the destruction of a Russian ammunition depot near Markine.
At Kurakhivka axis clashes reported near Dachne, Sontsivka, Stari Terny, Kurakhove and Yantarne.
Russian forces are also advancing south of Pokrovsk towards Ukrainka and have reportedly entered Pisky.
Russian forces have reportedly broken through to Yantarne and are completing the assault on Kurakhove. South of Zelenivka, Russian units have occupied several forest belts on a 2.5 km wide and 1.2 km deep area.
High-intensity battles are reported in the areas of northern Shevchenko, Peschanoye, Novovasilevka, Novooleenovka, Ukrainka, Slavyanka, Petropavlovka, and southern Shevchenko.
Video shows a Ukrainian drone striking a Russian observation post.
Video shows a Ukrainian drone striking a Russian soldier.
Video shows a Ukrainian drone striking a Russian position, causing it to burn.
Video shows the aftermath of a drone attack on Zaporizhzhia, with four people injured, including a 12-year-old boy. The blast wave and debris damaged windows in a nine-story building.
Video shows a drone strike on a convoy of vehicles. The vehicles appear to be civilian models, possibly indicating their use in a military or paramilitary capacity due to the context. The use of civilian vehicles could be a tactic to blend in with civilian traffic or to overcome shortages of military vehicles. The presence of smoke from one of the vehicles suggests it has been hit and is either on fire or severely damaged. The drone footage suggests the convoy was under surveillance and then targeted. This indicates a capability for precision strikes, which is common in modern warfare where drones are used for both reconnaissance and attack. The attack on the convoy is likely to disrupt the movement of troops or supplies. The success of such strikes can degrade the enemy's logistical capabilities and morale. The use of drones to both monitor and strike targets is a cost-effective way to engage enemy forces, reducing the risk to manned aircraft and ground troops. The video may also be used for propaganda purposes, to demonstrate the effectiveness of drone warfare and to showcase military successes.
Video shows a drone observation of Russian forces ambushing and engaging enemy personnel in a wooded area. The footage depicts a rapid advance by the Russian battalion and confirms that at least two of the enemy combatants were incapacitated. The video shows the importance of surveillance and the potential for heavy losses in combat operations.
Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement, likely in a wooded area near a road. The imagery includes soldiers, some lying prone, others moving about. The uniforms and equipment suggest they are involved in active combat operations. The area is characterized by trees, undergrowth, and what appears to be trenches or fighting positions. The video shows troop movements, including individuals trying to find cover and those who appear to be injured. There is a red box on the upper left of the video saying "Kurakhovskoe Napravlenie" which translates to "Kurakhovo Direction." Additionally, there are Russian text annotations stating, "The work of the fighters of the 68th tank regiment," and that the "battalion took the enemy's position and caught enemy reinforcements by surprise." The presence of crosshairs on the screen indicates that this video is likely a recording of a drone's targeting system. At the time mark of 0:18 a black box with white text that states “N activated normal mode” appears on the screen. At the end of the video there are multiple explosions seen in the bushes. The video is labeled as from the "Kurakhovo Direction". This is likely a reference to a sector in the ongoing conflict where fighting is taking place near Kurakhove, Ukraine. The video captures elements of a dynamic battlefield situation. A Russian battalion reportedly took enemy position and also caught enemy reinforcements by surprise. The activity of soldiers suggests a close-quarters engagement and an attempt to clear a defended position. The usage of a drone for surveillance and possibly targeting suggests a sophisticated level of tactical capability. The crosshairs overlay indicates the footage is from the drone's targeting system, which has potential for both surveillance and direct attack. The video may serve as propaganda, highlighting the success of the attacking Russian troops. The drone footage could be used in analysis to improve future combat tactics. The appearance of the “N activated normal mode” text indicates the switching between different drone modes, and reveals potential tactical information if the switching is connected to a specific strategic decision. The nature of the engagement, namely the surprise of enemy reinforcements, can inform future counter-offensive tactics. The video depicts a close-range military engagement, most likely part of the operations near Kurakhove, Ukraine, where soldiers from the 68th tank regiment are shown to have successfully advanced, taking enemy position and surprising reinforcements. The use of drone surveillance and targeting systems is a key feature of the operation. The recorded footage could be used to improve tactics and serve as a morale booster for the Russian side.
Under Pokrovsk Russian forces are storming Novooleenovka from the north and east.
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.
At Pokrovsk axis clashes reported near Myrolubivka, Promin, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zelene, Novovasylivka, Chumatske and Novoolenivka.
An image was released that appears to be taken from an aerial perspective, possibly from a drone. It shows a convoy of vehicles moving along a dirt road. The setting appears to be rural or semi-rural with bare trees and a relatively flat landscape. The visibility is clear. A mix of civilian-style vehicles (cars, vans) and at least one military vehicle, likely a tank. The tank's presence indicates this isn't a typical civilian movement, suggesting a military or paramilitary convoy. The vehicles are closely grouped together which could be a tactic to protect the military vehicle from small arms fire from the flanks. The vehicles appear to be moving in the same direction, suggesting an organized formation. The presence of a yellow targeting box, indicating active surveillance and possible intent to engage. There is smoke or light dust near the bottom left of the image, which might indicate recent activity, such as vehicle movement, impact, or a recently extinguished fire. The "SBEF-30" marking in the lower left might be an identifier for a particular drone unit, or possibly a watermark. There is a sun icon on the bottom right of the targeting box, that may indicate the drone is taking into consideration the position of the sun. The clustering of vehicles makes this convoy a potential target for engagement, particularly with artillery, precision-guided munitions, or drone attacks. The convoy's presence suggests an ongoing supply movement or troop redeployment. If the convoy is disrupted, it could impede the operations of the side which controls it. The targeting system indicates the presence of a party that has the ability to use technology to their advantage in warfare, possibly indicating asymmetric warfare tactics. The image depicts a military or paramilitary convoy on a dirt road, currently under observation by a drone or other surveillance system. The presence of a tank, civilian-style vehicles, and a targeting box all suggest an ongoing military operation. The convoy's composition and direction of travel, along with the presence of recent activity (smoke/dust) provides actionable intelligence that can be used in strategic and tactical planning. The targeting system might also indicate a potential attack if it is not already in progress.
Russian forces are storming Novooleenovka from the north and east, and have advanced west of Zarya to a depth of 500 meters in the direction of Slavyanka. This is not only a movement towards Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) but also an advance towards the enemy's Yasenevoe-Konstantinopol road, which should finally deprive the Ukrainian Armed Forces of the ability to maneuver northwest of Kurakhovo.
Russian forces are actively attacking Krasnoarmiisk.
Video shows a Russian drone striking a Ukrainian tank near Solone, south of Pokrovsk.
Russian forces struck a power substation west of Kurakhove near Dachne.
Under Pokrovsk Russian forces are storming Novooleenovka from the north and east.
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.
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.
FPV Drones are being actively used by Russian forces in Toretsk. Operators, working directly with assault troops, are targeting enemy firing positions.
Russian forces evacuated civilians from Toretsk (Dzerzhinsk).
Russian forces continue attacks in the southern part of the Забалка (Kulatsky Khutor) district, in the direction of Koksovaya Street (through the passage between the spoil tips), along Svetlaya Street, and in the direction of the Toretskaya mine.
Clashes reported near Toretsk, Krymske, and Dyliivka.
Ukrainian forces report that "predators" are active near Toretsk.
A Ukrainian command post and personnel concentration near the Toretsk mine were destroyed.
Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy a Russian command post near the Toretsk mine.
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. Ukrainian units are regrouping to prevent further Russian advances.
Vremivka Direction:
Clashes are reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil, and Novodarivka.
In the north of the Vremivka direction, Russian forces raised a flag in Novyi Komar, with Ukrainian forces remaining to the southwest of the village.
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.
At Vremivka axis clashes reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil and Novodarivka.
Russian forces advancing southwest of Velyka Novosilka, reaching Storozheve and Neskuchne, and forming a new "pocket."
Active combat is taking place near Velyka Novosilka.
An attack by Russian forces in Blahodatne resulted in a cleanup of Ukrainian positions in the northern part of the settlement.
Russian forces have reportedly advanced more than 800 meters towards Velyka Novosilka.
Near Velyka Novosilka, Russian forces are attacking from both sides, attempting to reach the Velyka Novosilka-Huliaipole road.
Ukrainian forces withdrawn from "Uspenivka pocket" with fewer losses than anticipated.
Russian forces have captured Storozheve, south of Velyka Novosilka.
Other Developments:
The 57th Motorized Rifle Regiment has reportedly liberated Elizavetovka. A video shows how the 57th regiment liberated Elizavetovka, advancing towards Kurakhovo.
Russian forces reportedly liquidated a unit of Colombian mercenaries near the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR).
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. The encirclement and subsequent surrender indicates the loss of a fortified position for the Ukrainian forces. This likely required the reallocation of resources from other areas of the front. This event may be part of a broader Russian offensive push. The loss of soldiers and their surrender has immediate tactical effects by reducing the number of active troops, while also having a psychological impact on both sides. The video footage, combined with the captions, is clearly created to support a Ukrainian information campaign aimed at documenting potential war crimes committed by the Russian forces. The captured soldiers are shown in a vulnerable situation, which emphasizes the gravity of the conflict. Both the imagery and captions appear to be intended for consumption by the Ukrainian population, international audience, and potentially internal consumption within the opposing force. The video shows a real-time event of Ukrainian troops surrendering after being surrounded by Russian forces. The drone footage provides a view of the tactical defeat, and the language of the captions points to the Ukrainian side seeing this event as a failure, a loss of valuable soldiers, and an indication of Russian crimes. This video is likely part of a larger Ukrainian information campaign aimed at highlighting both the cost of war and Russian war crimes. It is also meant to influence the morale of troops on both sides. From a tactical perspective, this footage could inform military decision-making regarding the re-evaluation of the safety of isolated positions, and the effectiveness of surrounding forces.
Russian forces destroyed a bridge over the Volchya River between Konstantinopol and Andreevka, further degrading Ukrainian logistics to the west of Kurakhovo.
Sontsovka has been renamed Krasnoye.
Attacks are being made towards Ulakly, Kostyantynopil, Bohatyr, and Otradne. Fighting is ongoing to break through the Ukrainian fortified area northeast of Andriivka.
Donetsk scouts identify positions, equipment, command posts, and observation posts of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and then destroy them.
The liberation of Uspenovka has been completed, its capture completed the work of the Russian Army to clean up the "pocket" in which several villages were located along the Sukhiye Yaly River.
Russian forces are developing an offensive towards Dimitrov.
In the central part of Shevchenko, Russian forces destroyed a camouflaged enemy antenna. 425 ОШБ "Скала" conducted drone strike operation in Shevchenko.
Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian crossing near Novoocheretuvate.
Near Novoocheretuvate, Ukrainian forces repelled a Russian attack involving 5 units of equipment.
Russian forces improved their tactical position, resulting in significant Ukrainian losses, including 145 soldiers in the past 24 hours.
Russian forces are solidifying positions east of highway M-30, pushing towards Novoukrainka, attacking towards Dachnoye and Zelenoye, and advancing near Novotroitskoye and south of Voznesenka.
Ongoing battles are reported near Shevchenko, Pischane, Novotroyitske, Novooleksiyivka, Novyy Trud, Dachenske, Lysivka, Myrolubivka, Promin, and Pokrovsk itself.
Russian forces advanced approximately 2 kilometers near Pushkino, reached its outskirts, and liberated Veselyi Gai.
The Russian advance on the southern approach to Krasnoarmeisk has extended over 700 meters, reaching the central part of Lysivka.
Russian aviation conducted airstrikes at Serhiyivka, Terny, Ivanivka, Fedorivka, Riznykivka, Vyyimka, Serebryanka, Vasukivka, Pazeno, Romanivka, Velyka Novosilka of Donetsk region.
MoD Briefing (08:37:20 UTC): "Center" group inflicted up to 520 casualties on Ukrainian forces.
Launches of guided air bombs by Russian tactical aviation against Konstantinovka and Chasov Yar.
On the Donetsk front, there are reports of four Ukrainian soldiers being executed by Russian forces after surrendering. This incident is under investigation as a potential war crime.
Under Pokrovsk Russian forces are storming Novooleenovka from the north and east.
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.
A map depicts the military situation in the Svatove direction as of December 22, 2024. It's likely related to the conflict in Ukraine, showing the control zones of Russian (ВС РФ) and Ukrainian (ВСУ) forces. The map also shows fortifications, such as 'dragon teeth' obstacles and trenches. The majority of the area shown is under the control of Russian forces (red color). A smaller area to the west is controlled by Ukrainian forces (blue color). There are areas where Russian forces have recently gained control (pink circles), indicating an ongoing offensive. Several settlements are either under Russian or Ukrainian control with very few being in a grey zone. Russian-Controlled: Kolesnikovka, Kruglyakovka, Peschanoye, Berestovoe, Stelmakhovka, Artemovka, Rozovka and Vishnevoye. Ukrainian-Controlled: Senskovo, Lesnaya Stenka, Boguslavka, Novoplatonovka, Borovskaya Andreevka, and Zelenyy Gai. Grey Zone: Zagryzovo and Lozovaya. There are blue lines depicting fortifications. Yellow lines indicate 'dragon teeth' obstacles. Orange lines represent trenches or ravines. The area where Russian forces have recently gained ground (pink color) indicates Russian progress in a Western direction. The line of contact between Russian and Ukrainian forces is relatively close in the areas of Lozovaya, Borovskaya Andreevka and Zelenyy Gai, suggesting that these sectors are vulnerable to direct conflict. The recent territorial gains by Russian forces suggest they are likely mounting an offensive in this area. The Ukrainian forces are heavily fortified in their areas, indicating they are concentrating their efforts on defense. The control of settlements is of strategic importance, as they can be used as staging points or strongpoints for operations and are also valuable objectives in their own right. The western part of Russian-controlled territory is very vulnerable to Ukrainian offensive operations. The map shows that Russian forces are pushing westward in the Svatove direction, having recently gained ground in several areas. Ukrainian forces are concentrated in defensive positions to the west of the Russian controlled territory. The proximity of forces along the front line suggests an ongoing and potentially intense conflict. The presence of fortifications indicates the likelihood of positional warfare in this area.
A map depicts the "Svatove Direction" of a conflict, likely the war in Ukraine, with a stated date of December 22, 2024. The key elements are terrain, settlements, and control indicators for the Russian Armed Forces (BC РФ) and Ukrainian Armed Forces (ВСУ), along with defensive infrastructure. The map uses a color-coded elevation model, with red and orange indicating higher ground. There are noticeable ridges running in a generally north-south direction, and rivers/water features. This terrain affects movement and defensive positions. The map highlights a number of settlements, including Колесниковка, Сеньково, Кругляковка, Загрызово, Лесная Стенка, Богуславка, Новоплатоновка, Боровская, Андреевка, Зеленый Гай, Лозовая, Стельмаховка, Артемовка, Розовка, Вишнёвое. These are marked with different symbols representing the controlling party. Red Circle: "Территория контроля ВС РФ" indicates areas controlled by Russian forces. Orange Circle: "Территория перешла под контроль ВС РФ" suggests recent advances by the Russian forces in those areas. Downward Red Triangle: "Населённый пункт под контролем ВС РФ" shows towns under Russian control. Downward Blue Triangle: "Населённый пункт под контролем ВСУ" indicates towns controlled by Ukrainian forces. Downward Gray Triangle: "Населённый пункт в серой зоне" depicts areas in dispute or contested. Blue Lines: Represent "Укрепления" or fortifications/entrenchments. Yellow Lines: Represent "Зубы дракона" - dragon's teeth anti-tank obstacles. Orange Lines: Represent "Рвы" - trenches or ditches. The area near Загрызово and Лесная Стенка appears heavily contested, with multiple villages under different control. This suggests ongoing fighting and a potential focus of effort by both sides. The orange circles in the northeast indicate Russian progress in this direction and potential future movement south, towards places like Лозовая. The concentration of fortifications around Лозовая and to the southwest of it suggests a key defensive line for the Ukrainian forces, with a need for defensive fortifications and anti-tank obstacles. The ridge lines, with their higher elevation, likely offer strategic advantage, influencing observation and potential lines of attack. The map appears to show the greatest density of defenses to the South. It would make sense that both Russian and Ukrainian forces would be looking for areas that are lightly defended. The map depicts a dynamic situation along the Svatove direction, with Russian forces making some advances. The area around Загрызово is contested, while Лозовая appears to be a key defensive point for the Ukrainian forces, with a visible concentration of fortifications. Terrain and control of high ground likely play an important role in shaping the battle lines and further operations. It would not be unreasonable to expect more fighting in and around Загрызово, as well as increased focus on areas that are not well fortified.
A map depicts a portion of the Svatove (Сватовское) direction, likely in eastern Ukraine. The map includes several small villages or settlements. The map is dated December 22, 2024, providing a specific snapshot in time. Red Areas: Show territory under the control of the Russian Armed Forces (ВС РФ). Pink Outlined Areas: Indicate territory that has recently transitioned to Russian control. Red Down Triangles: Mark settlements controlled by Russian forces. Blue Down Triangles: Mark settlements controlled by Ukrainian forces (ВСУ). Grey Down Triangles: Indicate settlements within a contested or "grey" zone. Blue Lines: Represent various fortifications. Yellow Dashed Lines: Appear to indicate "dragon's teeth," anti-tank obstacles. Orange Lines: Mark ruts or trenches. Villages like Snykovo, Zagryzovo, Bohuslavka, Lozova, and others are labeled, highlighting areas of contention. The map is produced by a group called “Z-Komitet.” The map clearly shows a dynamic frontline, with Russian forces making gains (pink outlined areas) in the Svatove direction. This implies ongoing offensive or counteroffensive operations. The presence of multiple "grey" zones indicates active fighting and a lack of clear territorial control. These are potential areas for future clashes. The presence of fortifications and "dragon's teeth" suggests that both sides are establishing defensive lines, and fighting will be intense. The blue lines and yellow dashed lines indicate where these fortifications are more concentrated. The orange lines likely indicate trenches or foxholes. The focus on settlements indicates potential tactical objectives. These may be strategic points controlling roads, rivers, or hills, or areas of strategic importance. As the map is issued by a pro-Russian entity ("Z-Komitet"), it may be used as a propaganda piece, showcasing advancements in the conflict. For both Russian and Ukrainian forces, this image (and others like it) serves as intelligence data, informing tactical and strategic decision-making. This map provides a snapshot of the battlefield in the Svatove area on December 22, 2024. It shows that Russian forces are actively attempting to advance, with some territorial gains made. However, the presence of grey zones and fortifications suggests fierce resistance from Ukrainian forces. The dynamic nature of the frontlines, as reflected in the transition of control over certain territories, implies a continued active conflict in the area. The map is likely a propaganda tool for its creator but also a source of intelligence about the situation.
Russian forces are successfully storming Zahryzove, pushing through enemy defenses near Lozova (which the Russian Ministry of Defense previously announced as liberated) and Zelenyi Hai, moving towards Borova. They have also made progress from Pervomaiske towards Cheneshchyna.
Kyiv is transferring reserves to Lozova in Kharkiv Oblast to save the Ukrainian forces from the fire bag formed by Russian forces.
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. Russian forces are advancing east from Kruglenkogo, capturing 1km of territory. North of Kruhlenky, Russian forces dislodged Ukrainian forces for 2 km. Russian forces are pushing along the Gluboky Yar gully, clearing forest areas. Russian forces are clearing Russkoye Porechnoye. Russian forces advanced to Cherkasskoye Porechnoye.
Paratroopers of the 76th division of the Airborne Forces are storming the positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces near Mykolaivka.
HIMARS Strike: Ukrainian forces reportedly used two HIMARS missiles with cluster munitions against groups of North Korean special forces near Mala Loknia and Kruhlenke, resulting in heavy losses.
The Russian Army is conducting a powerful offensive on the Kursk front, storming Kruglenkoye, advancing towards Sudzha, Martynovka, and Cherkasskaya Konopelka. Marines, paratroopers, and infantry of the "North" group are attacking from all directions.
The Ministry of Defense reports that Russian troops defeated formations of 5 mechanized, 3 airborne assault brigades, a marine brigade, and 4 territorial defense brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces near Aleksandria, Viktorovka, Kositsa, Kurilovka, Lebedevka, Leonidovo, Malaya Loknya, Martynovka, Nikolaevka, Nikolaevo-Daryino, Novaya Sorochina, Russkoye Porechnoye, Sverdlikovo, and Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
Three counterattacks by enemy assault groups were repelled. As a result of air strikes and artillery fire, Ukrainian manpower and equipment were destroyed near Guyevo, Kruglenkoye, Melovoy, Nikolsky, and Staraya Sorochina, as well as Basovka, Belovody, Vodolagi, and Zhuravka in the Sumy region.
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. 32 combat clashes, 19 in Kursk region. Ukrainian forces repelled 42 Russian assaults, 19 as of 16:00 UTC.
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. Ka-52M helicopters reportedly disrupted a rotation of Ukrainian units in the border area.
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. The soldier explains his orders were to conduct surveillance and report on everything observed for KSP in the Kursk Oblast region. This is consistent with reconnaissance or border security operations. He indicates an order to fire on what appears to be anyone not identified as their side. He then specifies they are to shoot civilians. He also admits that he shot civilians. He goes on to discuss a plan to surrender but later reports he and others refused this. He describes Russian soldiers who entered villages and shoot civilians, and shoot Russian soldiers who refuse to fire. He states that these are the fourth, fifth, and third companies. He describes his own team as being "meat." The soldier claims that Russian soldiers and civilians were also being killed, that more than 500 Russian soldiers died in the region within a week. The soldier reveals that any soldier who refused to kill civilians or soldiers was taken and "beaten with sticks" or shot. He states that his team refused to surrender because they feared they would also be shot by their own side. He goes on to describe situations where soldiers are being "thrown into" position and shot at from behind by other Russian soldiers, and that these soldiers are also being attacked by their own drones. The information gleaned from this soldier can be valuable for intelligence. This information could provide: Information on the location of enemy units, capabilities and rules of engagement in the Kursk Oblast region. Indicators of Russian forces morale, discipline, or cohesion. The soldier's testimonies could be used to further damage Russian military morale, and encourage desertion by demonstrating the lack of concern for the troops. The soldier's testimony, if proven credible, may be used to support investigations into rules of warfare violations. The video provides evidence of Russian soldiers conducting surveillance operations and killing civilians. There is evidence of internal issues with Russian command structure, and high casualties on both sides, including Russian troops being killed by their own forces. This information can inform intelligence gathering, psychological operations, and investigations into potential war crimes. A captured Russian soldier discussed his interactions with North Korean troops in the Kursk region, describing them as ruthless, operating independently, and even firing on Russian drones. He also mentioned that they had better food and took better care of their dead than the Russian commanders did.
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. A pregnant woman was injured in the shelling. The Russian MoD claims this large-scale drone attack is retaliation for Ukraine's prior use of ATACMS missiles near Taganrog, suggesting a potential cycle of escalation. Russia states that the massive strike on Ukrainian infrastructure on December 17th was a response to the Ukrainian use of ATACMS missiles near Taganrog. The town of Rylsk came under heavy shelling, reportedly from ATACMS missiles with cluster munitions. At least six were killed, including a child, and up to 30 injured. A 13-year-old child is among the injured. Significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including the Church of the Ascension. The Russian MoD reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces lost 225 troops, one tank, three infantry fighting vehicles, and five armored fighting vehicles in the Kursk direction in the past 24 hours. Russia states that the response to the shelling of Rylsk will not be long in coming. A gas pipe was damaged in Rylsk, disrupting gas supplies to several houses. Heat supply has been disrupted in 88 houses due to the shelling. Alexander Khinshtein опроверг информацию о массовых пожарах в городе Рыльск после обстрела ВСУ. There are no critical problems with energy supply in Rylsk following the Ukrainian Armed Forces attack, according to Khinshtein. Electricity was cut off by power engineers solely in areas where firefighting and demining operations were taking place. Hotlines have been established for affected residents of Rylsk, according to acting governor Alexander Khinshtein. 17 objects of cultural heritage in Rylsk were damaged as a result of the shelling. The death of a child in Rylsk was not confirmed, as a result of the attack of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, five people were killed. 14 residents of Rylsk are being treated in the Kursk Regional Clinical Hospital, with minor injuries. All the debris after the missile attack of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on Rylsk has been cleared.
