Situation Report

Updated Analysis of the Military Situation in Ukraine - December 28, 2024, 03:05 UTC

Key Military Developments

Drone Warfare

• Mykolaiv Region:
  • Ukrainian air defense systems actively engaged Russian drones. Reports indicate "first drones shot down" in the region.
  • One drone confirmed circling near Nechaiane, with previous drones in the area either shot down or suppressed by electronic warfare.
  • One drone confirmed near Ochakiv.
  • One drone reported in the Nechaiane area, with the course shifting towards Odesa Oblast.
  • Air raid alerts were in effect for Mykolaiv due to the ongoing drone threat but have since been lifted.
  • Explosions reported in Mykolaiv amidst the drone attack.
  • A group of drones moving south of Mykolaiv towards the city, with a call for residents to take shelter.
  • Two new drones approaching Velyka Korenykha, with potential for anti-drone operations to be heard in the city.
  • One drone still circling west of Mykolaiv.
  • Explosions heard again in Mykolaiv.
  • A multi-story building in Mykolaiv was on fire due to a drone attack, with the roof damaged and windows broken. The fire has been extinguished, and no casualties are reported. Damage was also reported in the Inhulskyi district.
  • Russian drones launched from the territory of Crimea.
  • A new report indicates damage to a house in Mykolaiv from a "Shahed" drone attack, with no significant damage and ongoing assessment of the surrounding area.
  • Ukrainian forces report a Russian drone strike on the central market in Nikopol, causing damage and injuring 8 civilians.
  • Ukrainian forces report shooting down two more Russian drones over the Belgorod region.
  • Ukrainian forces report destroying a Russian Baba Yaga drone.
  • A Ukrainian drone "Vampir" remotely mined Russian logistics routes near Zoria, Donetsk Oblast.
  • Russian forces are using FPV drones to target Ukrainian positions in the Kurakhove direction.
  • Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Ukrainian T-64BV tank near Kupyansk.
  • Russian operators destroyed a Ukrainian "Baba Yaga" drone near Kupyansk and an armored vehicle in the Kharkiv region.
  • A Russian attack drone unit successfully eliminated Ukrainian troops in a forested area in the Kharkiv region.
  • Russian forces reportedly used drones to eliminate a Ukrainian special forces group near Kupyansk.
  • Russian forces have used drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a wooded area.
  • Russian forces have used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a forest.
  • Pilots of the "ACHILLES" battalion of the 92nd brigade are reported to have destroyed enemy personnel and a truck in the Kharkiv region.
  • Operators of drones from the BARS-3 "Rodina" unit destroyed a Polish self-propelled gun "Krab" on the Kupyansk front. The drone identified the target, and artillery subsequently destroyed it.
  • Operators of drones from the 95th Air Assault Brigade repelled an attack by North Koreans in the Kursk region.
  • Ukrainian forces conducted a successful drone operation in the Kursk region, targeting a Russian T-90 tank and an ammunition depot.
  • A video shows drone footage of a Russian soldier loading a modified drone with grenades and deploying it.
• Donetsk Oblast:
  • Two civilians injured in Horlivka due to a Ukrainian attack.
  • Fighting continues in the Dzerzhinsk area, with reports of a Russian soldier targeted by Ukrainian forces near the 12th microdistrict. Russian forces reportedly advancing towards the northern outskirts of Dzerzhinsk.
  • Ukrainian forces conducted four attacks on populated areas of the Donetsk region, resulting in casualties.
  • Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian drone control center near Velyka Novosilka.
  • Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian stronghold and a mortar position in the Kurakhove direction.
  • Russian forces report that operators of drones from the 110th Brigade, operating in the Kurakhove direction, spotted moving Ukrainian soldiers and dropped a munition, killing one.
  • An attack by a Ukrainian drone on the Makeevsky Machine-Building Plant in the Donetsk People's Republic was prevented by the "Dome of Donbas" air defense system.
• Voronezh Region:
  • Over 10 drones were reportedly detected and destroyed in the suburbs of Voronezh and several districts of the region. Debris from the downed drones caused damage to railway infrastructure, leading to train delays.
• Belgorod Region:
  • Two civilians were injured in the Krasnogvardeisky district due to a Ukrainian drone attack. Damage was reported to power lines and houses in several villages.
  • Several villages in the Grayvoron district were left without electricity after a Ukrainian drone attack.
• Rostov Oblast:
  • 17 Ukrainian drones were destroyed and suppressed overnight above Rostov Oblast. No casualties have been reported. The drones were destroyed and suppressed by air defense systems in Kamensk, Novoshakhtinsk, Rodionovo-Nesvetaysky, Ust-Donetsk, and Krasnosulinsky districts.

Geopolitical Developments

• United States:
  • A report from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development indicates a record number of homeless people, with over 771,000 on the streets in January 2024, compared to over 650,000 in January 2023.
  • The US administration expects to reach the ceiling of the US national debt between January 14 and 23. Authorities will be forced to take emergency measures to prevent default, according to a letter from Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.
  • Internal US discussions reveal a complex strategic dilemma regarding the war in Ukraine. The Biden administration is reportedly grappling with the threat of Russian nuclear escalation, influencing their approach to military aid and support for Ukraine.
• Humanitarian Aid: American and Moscow communists collaborating to deliver humanitarian aid to the Donbas region.
• Slovakia: Slovak Prime Minister Fico stated that the Ukrainian leadership is leading the country to disaster and that Kyiv will pay for this "adventure" with territorial losses and the presence of foreign troops. Slovakia has also expressed its readiness to host peace talks on Ukraine.
• Baltic Sea:
  • A Russian tanker, "Eagle S," detained in the Baltic Sea for allegedly damaging the Estlink-2 cable, was reportedly carrying espionage equipment used to track NATO ships and aircraft.
  • NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced that NATO will increase its military presence in the Baltic Sea due to "possible sabotage against underwater cables."
• Israel: The Israeli military reportedly used a US-supplied THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system to intercept a ballistic missile launched from Yemen.
• BRICS: Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan are set to join BRICS as partner countries starting January 1, 2025. Four additional countries have also been invited.
• Denmark: Reports that the Prime Minister of Denmark has stocked up on canned goods due to fears of a Russian attack.

Other Developments

• Fundraising:
  • Ongoing fundraising campaign for Russian paratroopers, with appeals for support from businesses and ordinary citizens. The campaign faces challenges due to the holiday season. Organizers emphasize the need for Mavic drones, describing them as essential in current offensive operations.
• Nuclear Provocations: Reports suggest Kyiv may be preparing provocations at nuclear facilities in Ukraine or at Russian nuclear power plants. This is based on news reports and intelligence data, including information about Ukrainian delegations visiting a US national laboratory in Idaho for a course on nuclear forensics.
• Sabotage: Ukrainian sabotage groups are setting fire to post offices in Ukraine, reportedly used for mobilization purposes.
• Media Registration: Over 135,000 applications for registration have been received from owners of channels and social media pages with an audience exceeding 10,000 users. Roskomnadzor has already registered over 49,000 such pages.
• Financial Savings: Almost half (47%) of surveyed Russians were able to save money from their salaries in the past year. Popular savings goals include vacations and travel (24%), home repairs (24%), gifts for loved ones and medical treatment (19% each), and investments (13%).
• Legal Proceedings: A court case is underway regarding the theft of Anatoly Chubais' property by his former business partners. Chubais has reportedly reduced his claims by 5 million rubles but maintains his demand for criminal prosecution of the accused.
• Military Equipment: Reports indicate that equipment from Japan and Germany is being used in the production of the "Oreshnik" missile.
• Russian Propaganda: A Russian propaganda video is circulating, depicting the Russian air defense shooting down Santa Claus over the Kremlin.
• Aviation Incidents:
  • A video shows the aftermath of a plane crash in an arid field, with emergency responders present. A passenger claims survival due to divine intervention, while speculation arises about potential financial influence on the investigation.
  • An image allegedly depicts the aftermath of a plane crash in Kazakhstan, with claims that the plane was shot down by the "Akhmat" unit. This claim should be treated with caution and requires further verification.
  • Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended flights to several Russian cities for safety reasons.
  • Azerbaijan Airlines states that the preliminary cause of the plane crash near Aktau was "physical and technical external impact."
  • The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for a fair investigation into the plane crash in Kazakhstan, suggesting possible damage from a Russian anti-aircraft system.
  • Flydubai has canceled flights from Sochi and Minvod to Dubai from December 28 to January 5, citing security threats.
  • The Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan, Rashad Nabiyev, commented on the plane crash near Aktau, stating that the preliminary cause was "external interference" and that the debris and witness accounts support this theory.
• Alleged War Crimes in Selydove: A video interview with Margarita Viktorovna Burlaka, a resident of Selydove, alleges that Ukrainian forces killed a civilian woman. The video is presented as part of a "tribunal" for crimes of "Ukrainian Neo-Nazis," aligning with Russian narratives. The testimony describes Ukrainian soldiers taking refuge in a basement and a subsequent shooting incident. Burlaka claims to have witnessed the event through binoculars. The video includes footage of Burlaka pointing out the location of the alleged incident.
• Education in Russia: Over 79% of applicants to Russian vocational schools and 84% of their parents believe the prestige of such education has increased in recent years. This is partly attributed to the "Professionalitet" project. The Russian Minister of Education reported an increase in college graduate employment from 58% to 81% over four years.

Analysis of Changes

Drone Activity

• Continued reports of drone activity in the Mykolaiv region and successful engagements by Ukrainian air defenses demonstrate the persistent threat posed by Russian drone operations. The all-clear signal indicates a temporary reduction in the immediate threat, but the situation remains volatile.
• The shifting course of one drone towards Odesa Oblast suggests a potential expansion of the drone attacks beyond Mykolaiv.
• New reports of drones approaching Mykolaiv from the south and near Velyka Korenykha indicate an intensification of the drone attack on the city.
• A multi-story building was on fire in Mykolaiv due to a drone attack, indicating damage to civilian infrastructure. The fire is now extinguished, highlighting the effectiveness of emergency response but also the continued risk to civilian areas.
• Russian drones launched from Crimea, confirming the origin of the attacks.
• The reported destruction of over 10 drones in the Voronezh region, along with damage to railway infrastructure, suggests an escalation in drone attacks targeting Russian territory. This is a significant development, indicating a potential expansion of the conflict zone and highlighting the vulnerability of Russian infrastructure.
• The reported drone attacks in the Belgorod region, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, further demonstrate the expanding scope of the conflict and the increasing threat to Russian territories.
• The new report of damage to a house in Mykolaiv from a "Shahed" drone attack further underscores the ongoing threat to civilian areas.
• Ukrainian forces report a Russian drone strike on the central market in Nikopol, causing damage and injuring 8 civilians, further highlighting the impact on civilian populations.
• Reports of Ukrainian and Russian forces destroying each other's drones, including the advanced "Baba Yaga" model, demonstrate the ongoing technological arms race and the importance of drone warfare in the conflict.
• The remote mining of Russian logistics routes by a Ukrainian drone near Zoria, Donetsk Oblast, showcases the innovative use of drones to disrupt enemy operations.
• The destruction of a Ukrainian T-64BV tank near Kupyansk by a Ukrainian FPV drone highlights the threat posed by drones even to armored vehicles.
• The destruction of a Polish self-propelled gun "Krab" on the Kupyansk front by a Russian drone, followed by artillery fire, demonstrates the effectiveness of combined drone and artillery operations.
• The video of a Russian soldier deploying a modified drone with grenades provides insight into the tactical use of drones on the battlefield.
• The continued use of drones by both sides for reconnaissance, targeting, and attacks, as evidenced by numerous reports, underscores the central role of drone warfare in the conflict.
• The successful prevention of a Ukrainian drone attack on the Makeevsky Machine-Building Plant in the Donetsk People's Republic by the "Dome of Donbas" air defense system highlights the effectiveness of Russian air defense capabilities in protecting critical infrastructure.
• The destruction and suppression of 17 Ukrainian drones over Rostov Oblast overnight, with no reported casualties, demonstrates the effectiveness of Russian air defense and electronic warfare systems in countering drone threats. This also indicates an escalation in Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Russian territory.

Military Situation in Donetsk Oblast

• The reported targeting of a Russian soldier near Dzerzhinsk and continued fighting in the area indicate ongoing hostilities near Horlivka.
• The reported advance of Russian forces towards the northern outskirts of Dzerzhinsk suggests a gradual shift in the frontline in this area.
• Reported Ukrainian attacks on populated areas in the Donetsk region, resulting in casualties, highlight the continued intensity of the conflict in this area.
• Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian drone control center near Velyka Novosilka.
• Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian stronghold and a mortar position in the Kurakhove direction.
• Russian forces report that operators of drones from the 110th Brigade, operating in the Kurakhove direction, spotted moving Ukrainian soldiers and dropped a munition, killing one, showcasing the tactical use of drones in identifying and engaging enemy personnel.
• The new allegations of war crimes committed by Ukrainian forces in Selydove, as presented in the video interview, add a layer of complexity to the conflict in the Donetsk Oblast. While these allegations are presented from a pro-Russian perspective and require independent verification, they highlight the potential for human rights abuses and the need for accountability. The specific details provided in the testimony, including the location and the use of binoculars, add a degree of credibility to the account, but the overall context and potential biases must be considered.

Military Situation in Kharkiv Oblast

• Ukrainian forces have practically abandoned the settlement of Zelenyi Hai in Kharkiv Oblast, turning it into a "gray zone," according to Andrey Marochko. This indicates a shift in the frontline and a potential withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from this area.

Geopolitical and Economic Situation

• The report on the increasing number of homeless people in the US, while not directly related to the conflict in Ukraine, provides context on the domestic challenges faced by one of the key actors supporting Ukraine.
• The US administration's expectation of reaching the national debt ceiling in January highlights potential economic constraints that could impact US policy, including its ability to provide aid to Ukraine.
• The internal US discussions regarding the war in Ukraine reveal a complex strategic dilemma, with concerns about Russian nuclear escalation influencing their approach to military aid and support for Ukraine. This suggests a cautious approach, aiming to avoid a direct confrontation with Russia while still supporting Ukraine.
• Slovak Prime Minister Fico's statement reflects a critical view of Ukraine's leadership and suggests potential consequences for Ukraine's actions.
• The report of a Russian tanker carrying espionage equipment adds a new dimension to the conflict, suggesting increased intelligence activities and potential sabotage operations in the Baltic Sea. This could lead to heightened tensions with NATO countries.
• The reported use of a US-supplied THAAD system by Israel to intercept a missile from Yemen demonstrates the continued relevance of advanced air defense systems in modern warfare and the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
• The expansion of BRICS to include new partner countries, including Belarus, potentially strengthens Russia's international partnerships and could have implications for the geopolitical landscape.
• The reported concerns of the Danish Prime Minister about a potential Russian attack, while speculative, reflect the heightened tensions and perceived threat from Russia in Europe.
• The information on the increasing prestige of vocational education in Russia, while not directly related to the military situation, provides insight into Russia's domestic priorities and potential efforts to strengthen its workforce, including in industries relevant to the war effort.

Other Developments

• Reports of potential nuclear provocations by Kyiv introduce a new and dangerous element to the conflict, raising concerns about escalation and the potential use of nuclear materials.
• Reports of sabotage against post offices in Ukraine highlight internal resistance and potential disruptions to Ukrainian mobilization efforts.
• The significant number of media registrations with Roskomnadzor indicates a tightening of control over information dissemination in Russia.
• The data on Russians' savings habits provides insight into the economic situation and public sentiment within Russia, although its direct impact on the conflict is limited.
• The ongoing legal proceedings against Anatoly Chubais' former business partners, while not directly related to the military situation, highlight internal Russian affairs and potential shifts in power dynamics.
• The reports on the use of Japanese and German equipment in the production of Russian missiles highlight the potential circumvention of sanctions and the challenges of controlling the flow of dual-use technologies.
• The Russian propaganda video depicting the shooting down of Santa Claus over the Kremlin, while absurd, is a noteworthy example of the ongoing information war and attempts to shape public perception.
• The various aviation incidents, including plane crashes and flight suspensions, raise concerns about safety and potential sabotage, adding another layer of complexity to the conflict.
• The Ukrainian military official's statement about Russia's missile stockpile and production capacity, as well as the increasing use of drones, provides valuable intelligence on Russia's military capabilities and strategy. It highlights the importance of air defense and the need for Ukraine to adapt to the evolving threat.
• The call by a Ukrainian fighter for the preparation of teenagers for war reflects the dire situation and the perceived need for long-term mobilization, although it is met with resistance from the Zelensky administration.

Updated Situation - December 28, 2024, 03:05 UTC

The conflict in Ukraine continues with significant military activity and strategic developments. Russian forces maintain operational tempo, particularly in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, with confirmed captures of Ivanivka, Zahryzove, Novyi Trud, and Lozova. Intense fighting is reported across multiple fronts, especially in Kurakhove, Pokrovsk, and the Vremivka direction. In Vremivka, Russian forces have reportedly cut off the last paved road supplying the Ukrainian garrison in Velyka Novosilka. Following the liberation of Zahryzove in the Kharkiv region, Russian forces are reportedly advancing towards Bohuslavka, located approximately 3 kilometers away. Ukrainian forces have practically abandoned the settlement of Zelenyi Hai in Kharkiv Oblast, turning it into a "gray zone."

Drone warfare remains a dominant feature, with both sides utilizing drones for reconnaissance, targeting, and attacks. Ukrainian forces report destroying Russian equipment and personnel with drones, while also highlighting the need for more advanced electronic warfare capabilities to counter Russian drones. The Russian Ministry of Defense released a video showcasing a ZALA UAV assisting in the destruction of a Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system. Ukrainian drone operators conducted a mass drone attack on Russian positions in the Pokrovsk direction. Ukrainian forces report that their drones can strike targets up to 2000 km away. New drone threats are reported, with drones approaching from the Tendra Spit towards Odesa/Pivdenne. Mykolaiv Oblast is under threat of enemy drone attacks, and air raid alerts have been issued in the region due to the threat of "Shahed" drones. Enemy drones are moving from the Black Sea towards Chornomorske/Pivdenne (Odesa Oblast), and drones are also reported in Mykolaiv Oblast, approaching from the south. Two drones are reported near Kobleve, and two more are moving from the Tendra Spit towards Ochakiv. Enemy drones are reportedly heading towards Mykolaiv Oblast from the south, with a call for residents of Ochakiv to take shelter. Odesa Oblast is also under threat of enemy drone attacks. Ukrainian air defense systems are actively engaging Russian drones, with reports of "first drones shot down" in the Mykolaiv region. Three drones are confirmed to be moving through Kutsurub in a northerly direction. One drone is reported near the Korabelnyi district of Mykolaiv, with potential for loud noise. One drone is reported in the Halytsynove area. Two drones are circling near the Kosa area. One drone is flying from Velyka Korenykha towards the Zavodskyi/Centralnyi district of Mykolaiv, with active engagement reported. One drone is confirmed to be circling near Nechaiane, with previous drones in the area either shot down or suppressed by electronic warfare. One drone is confirmed near Ochakiv. One drone is reported in the Nechaiane area, with the course shifting towards Odesa Oblast. A group of drones is moving south of Mykolaiv towards the city, with a call for residents to take shelter. Two new drones are approaching Velyka Korenykha, with potential for anti-drone operations to be heard in the city. One drone is still circling west of Mykolaiv. Explosions were heard again in Mykolaiv. A multi-story building in Mykolaiv was on fire, with the roof damaged and windows broken due to a drone attack. The fire has now been put out, but a new fire has been reported. A new report indicates damage to a house in Mykolaiv from a "Shahed" drone attack, with no significant damage and ongoing assessment of the surrounding area. Russian drones launched from the territory of Crimea. Over 10 drones were reportedly detected and destroyed in the suburbs of Voronezh and several districts of the region, causing damage to railway infrastructure and leading to train delays. Two civilians were injured in the Krasnogvardeisky district of the Belgorod region due to a Ukrainian drone attack. Damage was reported to power lines and houses in several villages. Several villages in the Grayvoron district of Belgorod Oblast were left without electricity after a Ukrainian drone attack. Ukrainian forces report a Russian drone strike on the central market in Nikopol, causing damage and injuring 8 civilians. Ukrainian forces report shooting down two more Russian drones over the Belgorod region. Ukrainian forces report destroying a Russian Baba Yaga drone. A Ukrainian drone "Vampir" remotely mined Russian logistics routes near Zoria, Donetsk Oblast. Russian forces are using FPV drones to target Ukrainian positions in the Kurakhove direction. Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Ukrainian T-64BV tank near Kupyansk. Russian operators destroyed a Ukrainian "Baba Yaga" drone near Kupyansk and an armored vehicle in the Kharkiv region. A Russian attack drone unit successfully eliminated Ukrainian troops in a forested area in the Kharkiv region. Russian forces reportedly used drones to eliminate a Ukrainian special forces group near Kupyansk. Russian forces have used drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a wooded area. Russian forces have used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a forest. Pilots of the "ACHILLES" battalion of the 92nd brigade are reported to have destroyed enemy personnel and a truck in the Kharkiv region. Operators of drones from the BARS-3 "Rodina" unit destroyed a Polish self-propelled gun "Krab" on the Kupyansk front. The drone identified the target, and artillery subsequently destroyed it. Operators of drones from the 95th Air Assault Brigade repelled an attack by North Koreans in the Kursk region. Ukrainian forces conducted a successful drone operation in the Kursk region, targeting a Russian T-90 tank and an ammunition depot. A video shows drone footage of a Russian soldier loading a modified drone with grenades and deploying it. An attack by a Ukrainian drone on the Makeevsky Machine-Building Plant in the Donetsk People's Republic was prevented by the "Dome of Donbas" air defense system. 17 Ukrainian drones were destroyed and suppressed overnight above Rostov Oblast. No casualties have been reported. The drones were destroyed and suppressed by air defense systems in Kamensk, Novoshakhtinsk, Rodionovo-Nesvetaysky, Ust-Donetsk, and Krasnosulinsky districts.

The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with civilian casualties and infrastructure damage reported, particularly in the Nikopol and Zaporizhzhia regions. Coordinated missile and drone strikes targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. Two civilians were injured in Horlivka due to a Ukrainian attack. Ukrainian forces conducted four attacks on populated areas of the Donetsk region, resulting in casualties. Allegations of war crimes committed by Ukrainian forces in Selydove have surfaced, adding another layer of complexity to the humanitarian crisis. A video interview with a resident of Selydove alleges that Ukrainian forces killed a civilian woman. The video is presented as part of a "tribunal" for crimes of "Ukrainian Neo-Nazis," aligning with Russian narratives. The testimony describes Ukrainian soldiers taking refuge in a basement and a subsequent shooting incident. The resident claims to have witnessed the event through binoculars. The video includes footage of the resident pointing out the location of the alleged incident.

The US continues to provide military aid to Ukraine, with another package expected to be announced soon, reportedly worth $1.25 billion. The package will include munitions, Stinger man-portable air defense systems, and rockets for HAWK and NASAMS air defense systems. The Pentagon has refused to comment on reports of a downed F-16 over Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The White House claims to have "primary evidence" that the Baku-Grozny flight was shot down by Russian air defense. Internal US discussions reveal a complex strategic dilemma regarding the war in Ukraine, with concerns about Russian nuclear escalation influencing their approach to military aid and support for Ukraine.

Diplomatic efforts continue, with Ukrainian President Zelensky expressing condolences to Azerbaijan regarding the plane crash and calling for international pressure on Russia to establish the truth. Slovakia has expressed its readiness to host peace talks on Ukraine. The Slovak Prime Minister, Robert Fico, threatened to stop supplying electricity to Ukraine in response to Ukraine's refusal to transit Russian gas to Europe after 2024. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established contact with the new Syrian government and expressed readiness to restore diplomatic relations. Slovak Prime Minister Fico stated that the Ukrainian leadership is leading the country to disaster and that Kyiv will pay for this "adventure" with territorial losses and the presence of foreign troops. A Russian tanker, "Eagle S," detained in the Baltic Sea for allegedly damaging the Estlink-2 cable, was reportedly carrying espionage equipment used to track NATO ships and aircraft. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced that NATO will increase its military presence in the Baltic Sea due to "possible sabotage against underwater cables."

The involvement of North Korean troops on the Russian side adds complexity to the conflict, with reports of high casualties and suicides among them.

The strategic landscape is further complicated by the potential Russia-Iran pact, ongoing US military aid to Ukraine, and internal political developments in Georgia and Belarus.

The reported deployment of new Russian self-propelled artillery units with extended range and the destruction of Ukrainian military equipment underscore the ongoing arms race and the evolving nature of the conflict.

The Ukrainian military continues to demonstrate resilience, with reports of successful defensive actions and the use of drones to target Russian forces. However, the need for continued international support, particularly in the form of advanced weaponry and electronic warfare capabilities, remains critical.

The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides adapting their strategies and tactics in response to the evolving battlefield dynamics. The conflict's impact on civilians, the extensive use of drone warfare, and the involvement of international actors underscore the complex and multifaceted nature of the ongoing hostilities.

Video and photographic evidence confirm the liberation of Lozova by Russian forces, with the 27th Motorized Rifle Brigade of the 1st Guards Tank Army raising the Russian flag in the center of the village.

A report from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development indicates a record number of homeless people in the country.

A fundraising campaign for Russian paratroopers is ongoing.

There are reports suggesting that Kyiv may be preparing provocations at nuclear facilities in Ukraine or at Russian nuclear power plants. This is based on news reports and intelligence data, including information about Ukrainian delegations visiting a US national laboratory in Idaho for a course on nuclear forensics.

Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian drone control center near Velyka Novosilka. Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian stronghold and a mortar position in the Kurakhove direction. Ukrainian sabotage groups are setting fire to post offices in Ukraine, reportedly used for mobilization purposes. Over 135,000 applications for registration have been received from owners of channels and social media pages with an audience exceeding 10,000 users. Roskomnadzor has already registered over 49,000 such pages. Almost half (47%) of surveyed Russians were able to save money from their salaries in the past year. Popular savings goals include vacations and travel (24%), home repairs (24%), gifts for loved ones and medical treatment (19% each), and investments (13%). A court case is underway regarding the theft of Anatoly Chubais' property by his former business partners. Chubais has reportedly reduced his claims by 5 million rubles but maintains his demand for criminal prosecution of the accused. Reports indicate that equipment from Japan and Germany is being used in the production of the "Oreshnik" missile. A Russian propaganda video is circulating, depicting the Russian air defense shooting down Santa Claus over the Kremlin. Reports that the Prime Minister of Denmark has stocked up on canned goods due to fears of a Russian attack. A video shows the aftermath of a plane crash in an arid field, with emergency responders present. A passenger claims survival due to divine intervention, while speculation arises about potential financial influence on the investigation. An image allegedly depicts the aftermath of a plane crash in Kazakhstan, with claims that the plane was shot down by the "Akhmat" unit. This claim should be treated with caution and requires further verification. Reports of increased security at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport. Reports that Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended flights to several Russian cities for safety reasons. Azerbaijan Airlines states that the preliminary cause of the plane crash near Aktau was "physical and technical external impact." The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for a fair investigation into the plane crash in Kazakhstan, suggesting possible damage from a Russian anti-aircraft system. Flydubai has canceled flights from Sochi and Minvod to Dubai from December 28 to January 5, citing security threats. The Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan, Rashad Nabiyev, commented on the plane crash near Aktau, stating that the preliminary cause was "external interference" and that the debris and witness accounts support this theory. Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan are set to join BRICS as partner countries starting January 1, 2025. Four additional countries have also been invited. Russian forces report that operators of drones from the 110th Brigade, operating in the Kurakhove direction, spotted moving Ukrainian soldiers and dropped a munition, killing one. A Ukrainian fighter from the "Wolves of Da Vinci" battalion called for the preparation of Ukrainian teenagers for war, stating that "18-year-olds and 15-year-olds should realize that they will most likely have to fight." He advocated for changes in the education system to prepare them for "tough and brutal" warfare. However, the Office of the President of Ukraine has so far rejected US proposals to lower the mobilization age to 18. According to the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), Russia has approximately 1,400 long-range missiles in its arsenal, including around 350 "Kalibr" cruise missiles, 500 "Oniks" missiles, over 50 "Kinzhal" missiles, over 130 "Iskander" missiles, and over 400 "Kh-101," "Kh-55," and "Kh-35" missiles. The HUR representative, Andrii Yusov, noted that Russia is now paying more attention to planning and reconnaissance and is not operating as indiscriminately as it did in the early stages of the full-scale invasion. He also stated that Russia is capable of producing 120-150 "Iskander," "Kalibr," and "Kh-101" missiles per month. Over 79% of applicants to Russian vocational schools and 84% of their parents believe the prestige of such education has increased in recent years. This is partly attributed to the "Professionalitet" project. The Russian Minister of Education reported an increase in college graduate employment from 58% to 81% over four years.

The overall situation remains highly volatile, with both sides adapting their strategies and tactics in response to the evolving battlefield dynamics. The conflict's impact on civilians, the extensive use of drone warfare, and the involvement of international actors underscore the complex and multifaceted nature of the ongoing hostilities.