Major Updates on the Military Situation in Ukraine: December 25, 2024, 14:30 UTC
Donetsk Oblast
Kurakhove
Russian forces control approximately 80% of Kurakhove, continuing to clear high-rise buildings and the private sector.
Ukrainian forces are reportedly withdrawing from Kurakhove.
Russian forces liberated Konstantinopolskoe (Ostrovskoe), Zelenovka, and are advancing towards Yantarnoye.
A bridge over the Volchya River between Konstantinopol and Andreevka was destroyed, degrading Ukrainian logistics.
Intense clashes are ongoing near Kurakhove, Petropavlivka, Sontsivka, Stari Terny, Dachne, Kostyantynopil, and Andriivka.
Russian forces are advancing up to 3km west of the Kurakhovskoe reservoir towards Shevchenko.
Russian forces took a number of AFU positions in Kurakhovo, in the area of Dachne, west of Dalne, Yantarne, north of Ostrovske, in the direction of Konstantinople and Ulakla, Rozlyv.
South of Kurakhove, Russian forces have advanced 1 km west of Dalne and expelled Ukrainian forces from nearby forest belts.
South and north of Krasnohorivka, Russian forces advanced 1.7 km and are attacking Petropavlivka.
Russian forces have expanded their control in areas surrounding Kurakhove, including advances near Shevchenko and to the south towards Dalne.
Footage from December 25 shows Ukrainian drone operators targeting Russian positions and personnel in the Kurakhove direction.
Russian assault groups have reportedly secured new positions in the Kurakhivka axis, with heavy fighting reported near several settlements.
Ukrainian 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.
Russian forces started battles for the liberation of Yantarnoye, south of Kurakhovo.
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.
Video shows a Ukrainian drone striking a Russian observation post, a Russian soldier, and a Russian position, causing it to burn.
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 drone observation of Russian forces ambushing and engaging enemy personnel in a wooded area.
The 57th Motorized Rifle Regiment has reportedly liberated Elizavetovka. A video shows how the 57th regiment liberated Elizavetovka, advancing towards 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.
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.
Ongoing battles are reported near Shevchenko, Pischane, Novotroyitske, Novooleksiyivka, Novyy Trud, Dachenske, Lysivka, Myrolubivka, Promin, and Pokrovsk itself.
Russian aviation conducted airstrikes at Serhiyivka, Terny, Ivanivka, Fedorivka, Riznykivka, Vyyimka, Serebryanka, Vasukivka, Pazeno, Romanivka, Velyka Novosilka of Donetsk region.
Launches of guided air bombs by Russian tactical aviation against Konstantinovka and Chasov Yar.
Russian forces, having liberated Novopustynka, repelled multiple enemy attempts to retake the village and captured 10 Ukrainian soldiers.
Russian FPV-drone struck a Ukrainian forces' deployment point on the right bank of the Dnieper.
New: Russian troops liberated more than 5 square kilometers of the territory of the DPR and advanced from the settlement of Zarya towards Yasenev, Rogov told TASS.
Vremivka Direction
Russian forces captured Storozheve, forming a new "pocket" near Velyka Novosilka, and liberated Uspenovka and Novyi Komar.
Ukrainian forces are reportedly encircled in Makarivka, though this is officially denied by the Ukrainian Armed Forces on December 25th.
Clashes are ongoing near Novodarivka, Kostyantynopilske, Rozlyv, Rozdolne, Storozheve, Velyka Novosilka, Novyi Komar, and Novosilka.
Russian forces are advancing towards Velyka Novosilka, with reports of over 800 meters gained.
A bridge over the Mokri Yaly river was destroyed, disrupting Ukrainian logistics.
Russian forces reportedly liberated Makarivka on December 16th and gained control of the road between Huliaipole and Velyka Novosilka.
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.
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.
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.
The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed the liberation of Storozheve.
Neskuchne: Rogov reported the beginning of battles for the liberation of Neskuchne in DPR. He also reported the advance of the Russian Armed Forces "from Storozheve towards the road leading to Huliaipole".
Toretsk
Street fighting continues, with Russian forces consolidating control and advancing near Dzerzhinsk.
Russian forces captured two objects on the outskirts of the "Central" mine spoil heap and made gains in the Khomkolonka microdistrict.
Clashes are ongoing near Toretsk, Dyliyivka, Dachne, Bila Hora, and Scherbynivka.
Russian forces are advancing behind New York, having taken the center of Shcherbinovka.
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.
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.
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.
Chasiv Yar
Russian forces control over half of the city.
Ukrainian units are regrouping to prevent further Russian advances.
Russian forces retook positions at the fire-resistant compound, partially dislodging Ukrainian forces.
Clashes are reported near Stupochky and Predtechyne.
Ukrainian forces have retaken positions at the fire-resistant compound in Chasiv Yar. There are currently about 150 Ukrainian soldiers at the plant.
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.
Fighting continues on the northern and western edge of the Fire-Resistant Compound in Chasov Yar.
Pokrovsk
Russian forces are advancing south towards Ukrainka, reportedly entering Pisky.
Russian forces are storming Novooleenovka and advancing towards Slavyanka.
High-intensity battles are ongoing near Myrolubivka, Promin, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zelene, Novovasylivka, Chumatske, Novyy Trud, Novotroyitske, Novoyelyzavetivka, Novoolenivka, Novopustynka, and Vozdvyzhenka.
Russian forces advanced approximately 2 kilometers near Pushkino, reaching its outskirts and liberating Veselyi Gai.
Russian forces are actively attacking Krasnoarmiisk.
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 advance on the southern approach to Krasnoarmeisk has extended over 700 meters, reaching the central part of Lysivka.
Russian forces liberated the settlement of Novyi Trud.
A video from December 25th shows the results of an attack on Ukrainian positions in the Pokrovsk area by the 414th Separate Brigade "Birds of Magyar," including the destruction of a motorcycle with Russian military personnel on it.
Russian forces are developing success from the southwest, attacking from the side of Dachenske.
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.
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.
Other Key Developments in Donetsk Oblast
Guided aerial bombs were launched in the southern part of the region.
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 LPR.
The "Center" group inflicted up to 520 casualties on Ukrainian forces.
Reports of four Ukrainian soldiers executed after surrendering are under investigation as a potential war crime.
Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian crossing near Novoocheretuvate.
Ukrainian forces repelled a Russian attack near Novoocheretuvate involving 5 units of equipment.
Russian forces improved their tactical position, resulting in significant Ukrainian losses (145 soldiers in 24 hours).
Residents of Ostrovskoe reported instances of abuse by Ukrainian forces.
Russian forces successfully targeted a Ukrainian YPR-765 armored personnel carrier near the Kurakhovskaya TPP.
Ukrainian forces are preparing the Pokrovskoe mine for defense.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that Russian forces liberated Novyi Trud in the DPR.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the Ukrainian forces lost up to 245 troops in the area of responsibility of the "South" group of forces.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that as a result of decisive offensive actions, the Tsentr Group of Forces' units liberated Novy Trud (Donetsk People's Republic).
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the Vostok Group of Forces' units continued advancing into the depth of the enemy's defenses.
On December 25th, Russian sources claimed further advances towards Dimitrov and the liberation of Veselyi Gai.
Heavy fighting continues around several settlements, including Shevchenko, Pischane, and Novotroyitske, with Russian forces making incremental gains.
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.
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.
MoD Briefing (08:37:20 UTC): "Center" group inflicted up to 520 casualties on Ukrainian forces.
Kremennaya-Terny
Active Combat: Ongoing near Kremennaya.
Russian forces are advancing in Terny, expanding control towards Borova.
Kyiv is transferring reserves to Lozova (Kharkiv Oblast).
Russian forces are storming Zahryzove, pushing through defenses near Lozova and Zelenyi Hai, and moving towards Borova. They are also making progress from Pervomaiske towards Cheneshchyna.
An attack by a Russian infantry unit was reported in Terny.
Russian forces advanced in the central part of Terny, expanding control by up to 400 meters.
On the Liman axis, 26 attacks were reported towards Grekivka, Novoegorivka, Zeleny Gay, Nova Kruglyakivka, Tverdokhlibovo, Nadiya, Novosergiyivka, Terniv, Shyikivka, Sergiyivka, Makiyivka, and Ivanivka.
A map analysis from December 23rd detailed the military situation in the Svatove direction, highlighting contested areas and fortifications.
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.
Kursk Region
Russian forces liberated Novoivanovka.
Advances were made 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, particularly in Kursk (57 clashes).
Ka-52M helicopters reportedly disrupted a rotation of Ukrainian units in the border area. A video shows the crew of a Ka-52M helicopter destroying a Ukrainian stronghold in the Kursk border area.
Paratroopers of the 76th division are storming Ukrainian positions near Mykolaivka.
Ukrainian forces reportedly used HIMARS with cluster munitions against North Korean special forces near Mala Loknia and Kruhlenke, causing heavy losses. A later report states that Ukrainian forces struck Lgov, resulting in the deaths of four civilians and injuries to five others. The attack damaged residential buildings, a gas pipeline, and other civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian military claims the target was a command post of the 810th Marine Brigade, but Russian sources dispute this. Three women were killed in the attack, and at least six rockets fell on the streets of the city. A penal colony with captured Ukrainian Armed Forces soldiers is located in Lgov, and they could have been the target of the attack.
The "Sever" group of forces is engaged in fierce battles along the entire front line.
Russian assault groups are advancing in Kruhlenke and making progress in Cherkasskaya Konopelka.
Over 300 troops, two tanks (including one U.S.-made Abrams), three IFVs (including one U.S.-made Bradley, one German-made Marder, and one Swedish-made CV-90), three AFVs (including one U.S.-made Stryker and two M113s), three armored fighting vehicles, one artillery gun, four mortars, one U.S.-made M88 ARV, and eight motor vehicles were reported lost by Ukrainian forces.
Active combat near Sudzha: Russian forces are attacking towards Viktorivka, advancing up to 2 km.
Atrocities Allegations: A captured Ukrainian soldier confessed to killing civilians. Another reported orders to shoot civilians if necessary. A Brazilian mercenary admitted to killing two Russian soldiers.
Corruption: The head of the Development Corporation of the Kursk region was detained for embezzling over 173 million rubles during fortification construction.
Casualties: Over 3,000 wounded and killed North Korean soldiers were reported in the Kursk region.
Ukrainian Defense: Ukrainian defenders repelled 46 enemy attacks, with 374 artillery strikes (9 from MLRS).
Paratrooper Advance: Units of the Don Cossack Guards Airborne Assault Regiment from Feodosia liberated a settlement in the Sudzha district.
Airstrikes: Russian airstrikes targeted Ukrainian forces in Gornal and Malaya Loknya.
Captured Soldier's Account: A captured Russian soldier discussed his interactions with North Korean troops, describing them as ruthless and operating independently.
Russian Military Claims: Russian sources claim advances near Kamyshovka and Russkoye Porechnoye.
Continued Shelling: Explosions were reported in Kyiv-controlled Kherson.
Drone Strike: A video allegedly shows a Ukrainian drone strike on a command post of the 810th Marine Brigade at the Lgov sugar factory.
Alleged Terrorist Plot Foiled: FSB reportedly prevented a terrorist attack in the Moscow region targeting a defense industry executive. Seven individuals were detained, including three minors. The attack was allegedly coordinated by Ukrainian special services.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that Ukrainian forces lost more than 230 troops and two tanks in the Kursk direction.
Russian Ministry of Defense reports that since the beginning of hostilities in the Kursk region, the AFU losses amounted to more than 43,740 troops, 255 tanks, 194 infantry fighting vehicles, 136 armored personnel carriers, 1,318 armored fighting vehicles, 1,182 motor vehicles, 324 artillery guns, 42 MLRS launchers, including 11 of HIMARS and six of MLRS made by the USA, 13 anti-aircraft missile launchers, seven transport-loading vehicles, 80 EW stations, 13 counter-battery warfare radars, four air defence radars, 28 units of engineering and other materiel, including 13 counterobstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, seven armoured recovery vehicles, and one command post vehicle.
South of Kruhlenke, Russian forces advanced 1.6 km towards Viktorivka and cleared a forest belt. They are also attacking Leonidovo from the west.
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.
Operators of drones from the 95th Air Assault Brigade repelled an attack by North Koreans in the Kursk region.
Code 9.2 unit drops "goodies" on communists and Jucheists in the Kursk region.
On December 25th, a Russian soldier was reported missing in action in the Kursk region.
Ukrainian drone units reported successful strikes on a Russian armored vehicle in the Sumy region, near the Kursk border.
Heavy fighting continues, with reports of drone attacks and artillery strikes by both sides.
Russian forces 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 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.
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.
Russian forces destroyed a concentration of Ukrainian military equipment with the use of a "Malka" artillery system.
Calculations of the MLRS "Grad" group of troops "North" destroyed strongholds and infantry of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the Kursk
