Major Military Situation Updates - December 23, 2024, 20:20 UTC
Donetsk Oblast
Velyka Novosilka
Russian forces destroyed a bridge over the Mokri Yaly river, disrupting Ukrainian logistics.
Russian forces are attacking from both sides, attempting to reach the Velyka Novosilka-Huliaipole road.
Russian forces reportedly encircled Ukrainian forces in Makarivka, south of Velyka Novosilka. The information about the encirclement of Ukrainian forces in Makarivka is officially denied by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
In Velyka Novosilka, a group of foreign mercenaries who tried to leave the settlement were destroyed.
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.
Makarivka was reportedly liberated by Russian forces in November, but new information suggests fighting continues in the area.
Video shows drone footage of the aftermath of fighting in Makarivka, with destroyed buildings and casualties visible.
Russian forces liberated Makarivka.
Russian forces have captured Storozheve, south of Velyka Novosilka.
Active combat is taking place near Velyka Novosilka.
Near Velyka Novosilka, Russian forces are attacking from both sides, attempting to reach the Velyka Novosilka-Huliaipole road.
Russian forces are advancing southwest of Velyka Novosilka, reaching Storozheve and Neskuchne, and forming a new "pocket."
At Vremivka axis clashes reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil and Novodarivka.
Russian forces achieved success in Novyi Komar and launched attacks near Velyka Novosilka and Storozheve.
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.
Clashes are reported near Kostyantynopolske, Sukhi Yaly, Storozheve, Novosilky, Temyrivka, Novopil, and Novodarivka.
December 23, 2024: Active combat operations reported near Velyka Novosilka. Russian forces launched an attack with armored columns along the western bank of the Mokri Yaly River and on the Storozheve-Rivnopil line. The advance reached the northern part of Storozheve and the vicinity of height 178.3 ("Babya Gora"), expanding the control zone to the west by over 2.5 km.
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.
New: A 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.
Kurakhove
Russian forces are consolidating their control over approximately 80% of the city. Ukrainian forces are reportedly leaving the city.
A Russian drone strike hit a power substation west of Kurakhove near Dachne. Video footage from a drone shows a strike on the power substation.
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 shows a drone recording of a military engagement in the Kurakhovo direction where soldiers from the 68th tank regiment are shown to have successfully advanced, taking enemy position and surprising reinforcements.
Video footage from the drone of the Security Service of Ukraine shows the destruction of a Russian ammunition depot near Markine.
Snipers from the 5th Brigade are reportedly targeting Ukrainian forces in Kurakhove.
Russian forces have almost completely pushed the Ukrainian forces out of the center of Kurakhove.
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.
The city of Kurakhovo itself is almost completely liberated.
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.
At Kurakhivka axis clashes reported near Dachne, Sontsivka, Stari Terny, Kurakhove and Yantarne.
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.
Storozheve
The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed the liberation of Storozheve.
Russian forces captured Storozheve and advanced towards Velyka Novosilka, forming a new "pocket" and capturing Novyi Komar.
Toretsk
Street fighting divides the city.
Two Ukrainian soldiers captured five Russian soldiers during a drone-supported assault near Toretsk.
Ukrainian forces, specifically pilots and infantrymen of the 5th Rifle Battalion of the 28th OMBr, used drones to force five Russian soldiers to surrender near Toretsk.
Russian forces are consolidating control in Toretsk, advancing near Dzerzhinsk.
Civilians were evacuated from Toretsk (Dzerzhinsk).
Russian forces advanced in Khomkolonka microdistrict of Toretsk.
In Toretsk, in southern part of "Central" mine, Russian fighters captured two objects on outskirts of spoil heap.
Russian forces advanced towards small mine No. 10 spoil heap near Toretsk.
Assault troops advanced 500 meters west in Khimkolonka area, occupied new positions in private sector.
Clashes reported near Toretsk, Krymske, Dyliivka.
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.
FPV Drones are being actively used by Russian forces in Toretsk. Operators, working directly with assault troops, are targeting enemy firing positions.
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 advanced towards the small mine No. 10 spoil heap near Toretsk.
Fighting continues on the northern and western edge of the Fire-Resistant Compound in Chasov Yar.
Russian forces advanced in the Khomkolonka microdistrict of Toretsk.
Street fighting has persisted for two months, effectively dividing Toretsk in half.
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.
Ukrainian forces report that "predators" are active near Toretsk.
Chasov Yar
Russian forces reportedly control over half of the city.
Fighting continues on northern and western edge of Fire-Resistant Compound in Chasov Yar.
Russian forces partially dislodged Ukrainian forces from fire-resistant compound in Chasov Yar.
Assault on Chasov Yar continues with some success, including advances and use of heavy weaponry.
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.
Fighting in Chasov Yar: Russian forces have partially dislodged Ukrainian forces from the fire-resistant compound in Chasov Yar.
Pokrovsk
Russian forces are advancing south of Pokrovsk towards Ukrainka.
Aerial reconnaissance from the "Mad Dogs" brigade detected a night raid by Ukrainian forces from the 32nd Brigade. A Russian FPV drone operator, "Dolgiy," reportedly destroyed four Ukrainian soldiers and wounded two during this raid in the Pokrovsk direction.
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.
Russian forces are actively attacking Krasnoarmeisk.
The Russian advance on the southern approach to Krasnoarmeisk has extended over 700 meters, reaching the central part of Lysivka.
Video shows a Russian drone striking a Ukrainian tank near Solone, south of Pokrovsk.
The situation on the Pokrovsk front remains difficult, with continued Russian assaults.
The "Baltic Group" of the 59th Motorized Brigade used drones to target and destroy a Russian BMP, 5 soldiers, a motorcycle, and a pickup truck.
Russian forces are storming Novooleenovka from the north and east.
Russian forces have advanced west of Zarya to a depth of 500 meters in the direction of Slavyanka.
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.
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.
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.
High-intensity battles are reported in the areas of northern Shevchenko, Peschanoye, Novovasilevka, Novooleenovka, Ukrainka, Slavyanka, Petropavlovka, and southern Shevchenko.
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 ongoing near several settlements, including Novooleenovka, which Russian forces are storming.
At Pokrovsk axis clashes reported near Myrolubivka, Promin, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zelene, Novovasylivka, Chumatske and Novoolenivka.
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.
Russian forces struck a power substation west of Kurakhove near Dachne.
Under Pokrovsk Russian forces are storming Novooleenovka from the north and east.
Russian forces are advancing south of Pokrovsk towards Ukrainka and have reportedly entered Pisky.
Other Key Developments in Donetsk Oblast
Russian aviation conducted airstrikes at multiple locations in the Donetsk region, including Serhiyivka, Terny, Ivanivka, Fedorivka, Riznykivka, Vyyimka, Serebryanka, Vasukivka, Pazeno, Romanivka, and Velyka Novosilka.
A Ukrainian command post and personnel concentration near the Toretsk mine were destroyed.
Russian forces destroyed a bridge over the Volchya River between Konstantinopol and Andreevka, further degrading Ukrainian logistics to the west of Kurakhovo.
The liberation of Uspenovka has been completed.
Russian forces are developing an offensive towards Dimitrov.
Russian forces improved their tactical position, resulting in significant Ukrainian losses, including 145 soldiers in the past 24 hours.
High-intensity battles are reported in the areas of northern Shevchenko, Peschanoye, Novovasilevka, Novooleenovka, Ukrainka, Slavyanka, Petropavlovka, and southern Shevchenko.
Russian forces advanced approximately 2 kilometers near Pushkino, reached its outskirts, and liberated Veselyi Gai.
Video evidence suggests a Russian soldier was targeted and killed by Ukrainian forces using a thermal-scoped weapon, likely a drone-dropped munition, during a nighttime operation. The location and involved units are not specified.
A Russian soldier was reportedly targeted by Ukrainian forces on the eastern outskirts of Novovasilivka.
Residents of the liberated village of Ostrovskoe in the DPR reported instances of abuse by Ukrainian forces.
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 a compilation of nighttime operations conducted by operators of the 39th Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade, using drones to target and destroy enemy infantry and equipment in the vicinity of the Sukhi Yaly River.
Video shows Ukrainian forces targeting Russian positions with a thermal-scoped drone.
Ukrainian forces report the destruction of a Russian BMP with its crew in Petropavlivka, Kharkiv Oblast.
Ukrainian forces report the destruction of a Russian BMP with its crew near Petropavlivka, Kharkiv Oblast.
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.
Donetsk scouts identify positions, equipment, command posts, and observation posts of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and then destroy them.
Attacks are being made towards Ulakly, Kostyantynopil, Bohatyr, and Otradne. Fighting is ongoing to break through the Ukrainian fortified area northeast of Andriivka.
Russian forces destroyed a bridge over the Volchya River between Konstantinopol and Andreevka, further degrading Ukrainian logistics to the west of Kurakhovo.
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 reportedly liquidated a unit of Colombian mercenaries near the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR).
The 57th Motorized Rifle Regiment has reportedly liberated Elizavetovka. A video shows how the 57th regiment liberated Elizavetovka, advancing towards Kurakhovo.
Launches of guided air bombs by Russian tactical aviation against Konstantinovka and Chasov Yar.
MoD Briefing (08:37:20 UTC): "Center" group inflicted up to 520 casualties on Ukrainian forces.
Russian aviation conducted airstrikes at Serhiyivka, Terny, Ivanivka, Fedorivka, Riznykivka, Vyyimka, Serebryanka, Vasukivka, Pazeno, Romanivka, Velyka Novosilka of Donetsk region.
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.
In the central part of Shevchenko, Russian forces destroyed a camouflaged enemy antenna. 425 ОШБ "Скала" conducted drone strike operation in Shevchenko.
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.
New: In the Lyman direction, the enemy attacked 20 times. He tried to advance near Zeleny Gai, Grekivka, Nadiya, Terny and Ivanivka.
New: Using aviation in the Siversk direction, the enemy attacked twice in the direction of Verkhnyokamyansky and Білогорівка.
New: In the Kramatorsk direction, the occupiers carried out two assaults near Stupochki.
New: In the Pokrovsk direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled 29 offensive actions of the aggressor near Myrolyubivka, Promenya, Lysivka, Zeleny, Novy Trud, Dachenske and Novovasilivka. The enemy actively used aviation.
New: In the Kurakhiv direction, the Defense Forces repelled 15 attacks in the areas of Stary Terny, Kurakhove and Dachne.
New: In the Vremivka direction, according to updated information, the enemy carried out 47 attacks on Ukrainian positions near Uspenivka, Yantarne, Kostyantynopil, Novosilky, Blagodatne and in the direction of Rozlyv and Odradne.
New: Over the past day, in the Orihiv direction, Ukrainian positions were attacked seven times near Novoandriivka and Pyatykhatky.
New: In the Prydniprovskyi direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled five assault actions, the enemy was unsuccessful.
Kremennaya-Terny
Active combat operations near Kremennaya.
Russian forces advanced in Terny and expanded their control, pushing towards Borova.
Kyiv is transferring reserves to Lozova in Kharkiv Oblast.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 forces liberated Novoivanovka and made advances in the northern Sudzha district and near Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
Ukrainian reserves transferred to the Kursk region were reportedly destroyed in the Sumy region.
Heavy fighting continues along the front line. The hottest point was Kursk, with 57 clashes.
Ka-52M helicopters reportedly disrupted a rotation of Ukrainian units in the border area.
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 "Sever" group of forces is engaged in fierce battles along the entire front line.
Russian assault groups are advancing in Kruhlenke and have made progress in Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
Russian Defense Ministry reports that over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces lost over 300 troops, two tanks (including one U.S.-made Abrams), three infantry fighting vehicles (including one U.S.-made Bradley, one German-made Marder, and one Swedish-made CV-90), three armored fighting vehicles (including one U.S.-made Stryker and two M113s), three armored fighting vehicles, one artillery gun, four mortars, one U.S.-made M88 armored recovery vehicle, and eight motor vehicles in the Kursk direction.
Ukrainian forces conducted a successful drone operation in the Kursk region, targeting a Russian T-90 tank and an ammunition depot. The operation involved a group of attack drones, including "Baba Yaga" heavy bombers and FPV drones. The T-90 tank was destroyed by a direct hit from an FPV drone, while the ammunition depot was destroyed by a "Baba Yaga" drone. The operation was carried out by the 3rd Company of the "Achilles" strike drone battalion, 92nd Separate Mechanized Brigade. The operation resulted in the destruction of a significant amount of Russian military equipment and ammunition. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense confirmed the operation and praised the effectiveness of the Ukrainian drone units.
Active combat operations reported near Sudzha, with Russian forces attacking in the direction of Viktorivka and advancing up to 2 km.
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.
The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained for embezzling over 173 million rubles during the construction of fortifications.
Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.
Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha. The Bradley was destroyed by a direct hit from an FPV drone.
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 "
