Major Updates on the Military Situation in Ukraine

As of January 5, 2025, 08:33 UTC

Strategic Overview

The military situation in Ukraine remains extremely volatile and unfavorable for Ukrainian forces. Russian forces maintain offensive pressure on multiple fronts, with the Donetsk region being the focal point of intense fighting. Significant Russian gains are reported near Pokrovsk, Kurakhove, and Toretsk. The capture of Kurakhove by Russian forces is a critical development, solidifying their control in the Donetsk region and potentially opening up new avenues of advance towards Pokrovsk. Drone warfare continues to be a dominant feature, with Ukrainian forces reportedly launching a significant drone attack on Taganrog and a military airfield, resulting in 24 explosions. Russian forces are intensifying their attacks on the Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka highway. The use of electric scooters by Russian forces introduces a new tactical element, enhancing their mobility and elusiveness. Reports from the Kursk and Bryansk regions indicate intensified fighting and increased use of drones by both sides. The Ukrainian General Staff reports that the 79th Air Assault Brigade has been actively targeting Russian forces in their area of responsibility. Ukrainian forces report they have successfully pushed Russian forces out of the southern part of Novoielizavetivka. The naval updates confirm the ongoing threat from the Black Sea and highlight a substantial Russian naval presence in the Mediterranean. A new US military aid package for Ukraine is expected to be announced soon, potentially bolstering Ukrainian defenses. Temporary flight restrictions were imposed at several Russian airports, including Nizhnekamsk, Izhevsk, and Perm, following earlier restrictions in Kazan, due to the perceived threat of drone attacks. These restrictions have now been lifted in Kazan and Nizhnekamsk. An air alert has been declared in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine, with a threat of ballistic missile use from the south reported by the Ukrainian Air Force.

Key Developments

Intensified Ground Operations and Russian Advances

• Donetsk Region:
  • Russian forces have reportedly fully captured Kurakhove, with assault groups raising the Russian flag on the western outskirts of the city. This marks a significant gain for Russian forces in the region. A video from "Mash na Donbasse" reportedly confirms this, showing the Russian flag being raised in the western part of the city by assault troops from the 5th Motorized Rifle Brigade and the "Grachi" special forces unit.
  • Russian troops continue their advance towards Pokrovsk, with reports of Ukrainian forces attempting to push back Russian forces from their positions near the city.
  • The liberation of Vozdvyzhenka near Pokrovsk is a critical development, bringing Russian forces closer to the strategic Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka highway.
  • Russian forces are intensifying their attacks on the Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka highway.
  • Several groups of Ukrainian soldiers were ambushed near Velyka Novosilka in the south of Donetsk, with some casualties and four soldiers captured.
  • Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a Russian ammunition depot in Shevchenko near Kurakhove.
  • Ukrainian forces report they have successfully pushed Russian forces out of the southern part of Novoielizavetivka.
  • A video from the "People's Militia of the DPR" depicts the destruction of a Ukrainian firing point on the western outskirts of Kurakhovo by a 152-mm Msta-B howitzer from the 238th Artillery Brigade, in support of the 110th and 5th Brigades.
• Kursk Region:
  • Fighting has intensified in the Kursk region, particularly near the village of Leonidovo. Russian forces are reportedly pushing Ukrainian forces on all fronts in the region.
  • Ukrainian forces are reportedly attacking in the direction of Berdin-Bolshoe Soldatskoe, with reports indicating that they are using a large amount of armored vehicles and powerful electronic warfare systems to suppress Russian drones.
  • "Dnevnik Desantnika" reports that Ukrainian forces have launched an offensive in the Bolshoe Soldatskoe area of the Kursk region, using demining trawls, tanks, and other armored vehicles, supported by strong electronic warfare systems to disrupt Russian drones.
  • "Operatsiya Z: Voenkory Russkoy Vesny" reports that Ukrainian armored vehicles are transporting large numbers of infantry, attacking Berdin in the Bolshoe Soldatskoe area of the Kursk region, with ongoing small arms fire and Russian artillery actively engaging the enemy. They also mention that Ukrainian forces demined approaches to the settlement and roads in the dark. Ukrainian aviation is reportedly supporting ground troops.
  • "Arkhangel Spetsnaza Z" reports that Ukrainian forces launched an offensive from Martynovka to Pushkarnoe in the Kursk region, using two tanks and two armored fighting vehicles. They also note increased activity near Sudzha, with Ukrainian forces working in small groups and accumulating near the border.
  • Russian forces used IMR engineering vehicles to clear roads for an offensive operation in the Kursk region. Ukrainian forces attacked from Martynovka towards Pushkarnoe with 2 tanks and 2 AFVs, while also initiating an offensive from Sudzha towards Bolshoe Soldatskoe. Russian forces, specifically BARS units, are engaging the enemy.
• Luhansk Region:
  • The Russian Ministry of Defense reports that Russian forces have liberated Nadia in the Luhansk People's Republic.

Drone Warfare and Aerial Attacks

• Extensive Drone Activity: Drone warfare continues to be a major factor in the conflict, with both sides utilizing drones for reconnaissance, targeting, and attacks.
  • Ukrainian drone units report successful strikes on Russian armored vehicles and a Starlink terminal.
  • Over the past day, 372 drones of various modifications were used by Russian forces to attack Mariivka, Kamianske, Huliaipole, Shcherbaky, Novoandriivka, Novodanylivka, Mala Tokmachka, Charivne, and Novodarivka.
  • Ten drones were destroyed over the Leningrad, Pskov, Kursk, and Voronezh regions of Russia. This marks a record number of drones destroyed over multiple oblasts for a single night and morning.
  • Four drones were destroyed over the Bryansk region of Russia.
  • Five enemy drones were shot down over the Smolensk region of Russia, with confirmed reports suggesting the target may have been the "Avangard" missile manufacturing facility.
  • St. Petersburg is under a drone attack, with reports of at least one drone being shot down. Pulkovo Airport has implemented "Plan 'Carpet'" twice today, temporarily halting flights due to an unidentified aerial object.
  • There are reports that these drones were engaged using a combination of air defense systems, electronic warfare (EW) systems, and small arms fire.
  • The head of the Zaporizhzhia Regional Military Administration reported that a daily moment of silence is being observed at 9:00 AM across the Zaporizhzhia region to honor those who have died in the war.
  • The Ukrainian Air Force reported that 61 enemy drones were shot down overnight, with another 42 drones not reaching their targets.
  • Russian sources reported that Ukrainian forces launched 103 drones overnight, with 61 being shot down and 42 not reaching their targets.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that a Russian drone control center near Velyka Novosilka was destroyed by drone operators.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian drones can strike targets up to 2,000 km away.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy a Russian command post near the Toretsk mine.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy three Russian field howitzers near Volchansk.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy a Russian communication tower and a supply depot in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used drones to target Russian positions in the Kurakhove direction.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian T-64BV tank near Kupyansk.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used FPV drones to destroy a German Leopard 1 tank.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used FPV drones to shoot down an enemy UAV.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy three Russian field howitzers near Volchansk.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used drones to record the bodies of North Korean and Russian troops in Kursk Oblast.
  • Russian sources reported that Russian forces used drones to eliminate a Ukrainian special forces group near Kupyansk.
  • Russian sources reported that Russian forces used drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a wooded area.
  • Russian sources reported that Russian forces used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a forest.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used a drone to attack a Russian position near a road, resulting in a fire.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used an FPV drone to destroy a Ukrainian T-64BV tank near Kupyansk.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces repelled a powerful Russian assault in the Kupyansk direction, destroying 5 armored vehicles.
  • Russian sources reported that Russian forces used drones to target the positions of the 33rd Mechanized Brigade in the Kurakhovo direction.
  • Russian sources reported that Russian forces used FPV drones to target Ukrainian positions in the Kurakhove direction.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that a Ukrainian drone "Vampir" of the "Hydra" unit of the 137th Separate Marine Battalion remotely mined Russian logistics routes near Zoria, Donetsk Oblast.
  • Ukrainian sources reported that Ukrainian forces used drones to record the bodies of North Korean and Russian troops in Kursk Oblast.
  • Russian sources reported that up to 10 drones and several FPV drones were involved in a recent attack.
  • Russian sources reported that Ukrainian air defense systems engaged multiple Russian drones near Nechaiane, Ochakiv, and Velyka Korenykha.
  • Russian sources reported that Russian drones were launched from Crimea.
  • Russian sources reported that up to 10 drones were reported over Ochakiv, with some shot down. One drone was reported near Parutino.
  • Russian sources reported that new enemy drone attacks were reported in Ochakiv from the Black Sea.
  • Russian sources reported that the Sever Group of Forces’ FPV drone team destroyed a camouflaged position of an AFU mortar in Sumy region.
  • Russian sources reported that operators of the FPV group "Sever" hit three Ukrainian Armed Forces dugouts with three kamikaze drones in the Kharkiv direction.
  • "Tseplienko_Ukraine" reports that 61 Ukrainian drones attacked Russian Taganrog and Millerovo airfield tonight. There is information about a UAV hit on a military airfield in Taganrog. Multiple videos from different sources are provided to corroborate the claim.
  • "Shef Hayabusa" reports that while there was activity with a car on the right bank of the Dnipro River near Kherson, there was also activity in Taganrog, with reports of 24 explosions caused by unknown drones. Several videos are provided as evidence.
• Air Defense Engagements: Ukrainian air defenses are actively countering hostile drones and guided bombs. Overnight, four enemy UAVs were shot down in the Kryvyi Rih and Nikopol regions.
• Guided Bomb Attacks: Russian tactical aviation continues to launch guided aerial bombs, particularly targeting the Sumy and Chernihiv regions. The city of Semenivka in Chernihiv Oblast suffered from airstrikes, resulting in at least seven injuries and damage to civilian infrastructure, including an administrative building, a hospital, a cafe, residential buildings, and civilian vehicles.
• Air Superiority:
  • A video showcasing a Russian Su-35S fighter jet intercepting a Ukrainian Su-25 highlights Russia's efforts to maintain air superiority. The Su-35S is depicted using air-to-air missiles, demonstrating Russia's long-range precision engagement capabilities.
• Ukrainian Air Force Activity:
  • Ukrainian Air Force reports activity of enemy tactical aviation in the northeast, with a threat of the use of air-launched weapons. Guided aerial bombs were reportedly used in Sumy region.
  • The Ukrainian Air Force reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast by Russian tactical aviation.
  • Ukrainian Air Force reports an enemy drone approaching Lubny (Poltava Oblast) from the northeast.
  • Ukrainian air defenses are preparing for a possible Russian Tu-95MS strategic bomber attack tonight.

Naval Activity

• Black Sea: One Russian missile carrier is present, but without "Kalibr" missiles on board.
• Azov Sea: No Russian warships are present.
• Mediterranean Sea: Seven Russian warships are present, including two "Kalibr" missile carriers with a total of 22 missiles.
• Kerch Strait: Seven Russian ships passed through the Kerch Strait towards the Black Sea, all continuing towards the Bosphorus. One ship passed towards the Azov Sea, not originating from the Bosphorus.

Geopolitical Developments

• Airport Restrictions: Temporary flight restrictions were imposed at Kazan airport due to a drone threat. Restrictions were also introduced at the airports of Nizhnekamsk, Izhevsk, and Perm, according to Rosaviatsia. Restrictions have now been lifted in Kazan and Nizhnekamsk. Restrictions have been lifted at the airport in Izhevsk. Restrictions at the airport in Perm have been lifted.
• Belarusian Political Prisoner: The Brest Regional Court sentenced the mother of a political prisoner to two years of restricted freedom for assisting extremist activities by giving an interview to an opposition TV channel in 2021.
• US Politics:
  • The US will not be able to provide all military aid to Ukraine before January 20th. Some deliveries may continue after that date.
  • The US will announce a new military aid package for Ukraine in the coming days. The exact date and contents of the package are yet to be disclosed.
• Chinese Military Drone Training: The Chinese military is reportedly studying the use of drones in the Ukraine conflict, as evidenced by a propaganda video showing simulated drone attacks, including FPV drone drops, from both stationary positions and moving vehicles.
• Turkish Naval Developments: Turkey has commenced the construction of an aircraft carrier (MUGEM), an air defense destroyer (TF-2000), and a submarine (MILDEN). The aircraft carrier will have three runways and be capable of carrying up to 50 aircraft, including drones. The destroyer will be equipped with advanced weaponry, including a 127-mm cannon, vertical launch systems, and anti-ship missiles. The submarine will feature an Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, enhancing its stealth and endurance.
• Potential Meeting Between Scholz and Putin: Reports suggest that German Chancellor Scholz may meet with Russian President Putin before February 23. This meeting could have significant implications for Ukraine, potentially leading to a suspension of the Paris Charter for 10-20 years. The reaction of the Ukrainian population and neighboring countries will be crucial in shaping the outcome of such a meeting.
• Apple CEO's Potential Donation to Trump's Inauguration: Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, is reportedly planning to donate $1 million to Donald Trump's inauguration. This decision highlights the ongoing relationship between Trump and Cook and could have implications for US policy towards Ukraine if Trump were to be re-elected.

Other Significant Developments

• Casualty Reports: Ukrainian sources report significant Russian casualties, with an estimated 1,730 personnel lost in the past day, along with the destruction of 7 tanks, 26 armored fighting vehicles, 25 artillery systems, 91 tactical-level UAVs, 97 automotive vehicles, and 2 units of special equipment.
• Ukrainian Military Reports: The Ukrainian General Staff reports 179 combat clashes over the past day, with Russian forces actively using aviation and artillery in the Chernihiv and Sumy regions. The Ukrainian General Staff reports that the 79th Air Assault Brigade has been actively targeting Russian forces in their area of responsibility, including troops and armored vehicles. The Ukrainian General Staff reports that Ukrainian defense forces struck another oil depot of the Russian occupiers, "Yartsevskaya" in the Smolensk region. Powerful explosions and a fire were recorded at the facility, with heavy smoke observed. 1358 people have been released as a result of 11 prisoner exchanges. The Coordination Headquarters has approved a report summarizing its work in 2024.
• Infrastructure Damage: Several infrastructure facilities were damaged in the Zaporizhzhia region, according to the head of the regional administration.
• Military Equipment: A British FV101 Scorpion light tank, modified with a 14.5-mm KPVT machine gun and equipped with communication and electronic warfare devices, was observed in service with the 1st Brigade "Bureviy" of the National Guard of Ukraine. The destruction of a Ukrainian 155-mm wheeled self-propelled gun 2S22 "Bogdan" on the chassis of a MAZ-6317 is also a notable event, as it is a rare modification.
• Fundraising for Missing Soldier: A campaign has been launched to locate a soldier named Igor, whose personal belongings, including letters from his wife and drawings from his daughters, were found in a hospital in Belgorod after an evacuation.
• Use of Electric Scooters by Russian Forces: Russian military personnel are increasingly using electric scooters, motorcycles, and ATVs to move quickly along the front line, making them elusive to Ukrainian forces, according to The New York Times.
• Air Missile Threat: "Dnevnik Desantnika" reports an air missile threat in the Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Orel, and Kaluga regions. They also warn of possible Storm Shadow missile launches in the Krasnodar and Rostov regions.
• Escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: The situation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict zone remains tense, with ongoing clashes and casualties. The conflict has broader regional implications, with potential involvement from Hezbollah and other actors. The use of ballistic missiles and drones by Yemeni Houthis adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
• Environmental Disaster in Anapa: 90% of birds rescued in Anapa died during transportation to Krasnodar due to overloading and improper handling by officials. This incident underscores the environmental consequences of the conflict and the challenges faced by rescue operations. More than 4.8 thousand birds were rescued in Anapa and the Temryuk region of the Krasnodar Territory after an oil spill.
• Report from Kharkiv Regional State Administration: The report details Russian strikes in the region on January 5, 2025, further emphasizes the ongoing threat to civilian populations and infrastructure. The use of Shahed drones and guided aerial bombs (KABs) in attacks on Krasnokutsk and areas near Kupiansk underscores the continued Russian efforts to target Ukrainian territory beyond the immediate frontlines. The death of a 74-year-old man in Kivsharivka due to mortar shelling highlights the tragic human cost of the conflict. The reported two enemy attacks near Starytsia and Vovchansk on the Kharkiv front, along with the active use of bomber aircraft, indicate that the region remains a contested area with ongoing military engagements. The four attacks reported on the Kupiansk front, with Ukrainian forces repelling assaults near Zahryzove and Petropavlivka, further illustrate the intensity of the fighting in this sector. These developments necessitate a continued focus on protecting civilian populations and reinforcing defensive positions in the Kharkiv region.
• Image from the Italian Prime Minister's meeting with the newly elected US President: The image signals a potentially significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, particularly regarding future support for Ukraine. Meloni's visit to the US President's residence and the hope that she will become his "main ally in Europe" suggest a potential strengthening of the relationship between Italy and the new US administration. This development could have implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as Italy is a member of NATO and the European Union, both of which have been key supporters of Ukraine's defense efforts.
• New images depicting damage to civilian infrastructure in Semenivka, Chernihiv region: The images underscore the devastating impact of the conflict on civilian populations. The photographs, taken at night, reveal significant destruction to residential buildings, vehicles, and other structures, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the Russian attacks. The presence of the National Police logo in the images confirms that the area is under Ukrainian control and that the authorities are investigating the incident. The reported seven injuries among civilians emphasize the human cost of the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for measures to protect non-combatants.
• New video showing the raising of a Russian flag and a skull and crossbones flag by Russian forces in Kurakhovo: The video provides further visual confirmation of the reported capture of the city by Russian troops. The footage, likely taken from a drone, depicts two soldiers displaying the flags amidst damaged buildings, indicating the aftermath of intense fighting in the area. This development underscores the significance of the Russian advance in the Donetsk region and the potential for further offensive operations towards Pokrovsk.
• New video showing a Russian ambush on a Ukrainian Humvee near Toretsk in the summer of 2024: The video highlights the ongoing and multifaceted nature of the conflict. The successful ambush underscores the persistent threat faced by Ukrainian forces, even in areas where they may believe they have freedom of movement. The use of a landmine, in particular, suggests a deliberate effort to target and disable Ukrainian vehicles, potentially disrupting their logistical and operational capabilities.
• New infographic detailing claimed enemy losses inflicted by the Ukrainian 15th Brigade of the National Guard since December 13, 2024: The infographic adds another layer to the understanding of the conflict. The infographic, attributed to the "Ghost of Khortytsia" unit, reports significant damage to Russian infrastructure, personnel, armored vehicles, and electronic warfare systems, primarily through the use of UAVs.
• Image of a silhouetted Ukrainian soldier handling a fixed-wing drone during sunset: The image adds a visual element to the ongoing narrative of drone warfare in the conflict. The photograph, taken by Oleksandr Rykhlytskyi in 2024, captures the increasing reliance on UAV technology for reconnaissance, surveillance, and potentially targeted strikes. The sunset setting suggests an operational preference for conducting drone missions during periods of reduced visibility, potentially to minimize the risk of detection by Russian forces.
• New video showing the destruction of a German Leopard 2A4 tank west of Kurakhove by two Russian FPV drones: The video adds a significant development to the ongoing conflict. The footage, claimed to be from Russian sources, depicts a successful strike on the tank, resulting in a catastrophic detonation of its ammunition. This event underscores the vulnerability of even advanced Western-supplied armor to the threat of drone warfare.
• New video showing various combat scenarios and appealing for donations to support several Ukrainian units on the frontlines: The video provides further insight into the ongoing conflict. The footage, which includes tanks firing, mortar fire from trenches, soldiers using rocket launchers and machine guns, and drone views, paints a picture of intense and multifaceted engagements across diverse terrains.
• New video calling for a daily minute of silence at 9:00 AM across Ukraine: The video serves as a powerful symbol of national unity and remembrance, reinforcing the human cost of the conflict. The video, featuring the Ukrainian flag and a countdown timer, is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices being made by Ukrainian soldiers and civilians alike.
• Image from the Ukrainian General Staff, depicting a broken candle against a backdrop of burnt-out vehicles: The image emphasizes the human cost of the war. The symbolic representation of lost lives, combined with the stark imagery of destruction, serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing conflict's impact on Ukrainian society.
• Image of a Ukrainian soldier holding a crumpled national flag: The image adds another layer to the ongoing information campaign aimed at bolstering morale and national unity. The photograph, while simple in its composition, conveys a powerful message of patriotism, resilience, and sacrifice.
• Request for material support from a Russian military unit operating in the Kursk region: The request provides a glimpse into the logistical challenges faced by Russian forces. The list of requested items, including gas canisters, cigarettes, diesel heaters and generators, power banks, tactical gloves, socks, underwear, wet wipes, wires, and mounting foam, suggests that the unit is experiencing difficulties in procuring basic supplies through official channels.
• Video from "Colonelcassad" showcasing the delivery of supplies to Ukrainian forces on the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia fronts: The video offers another perspective on the logistical efforts underpinning the conflict. The footage, featuring a volunteer named Vladimir Petrovich, highlights the role of civilian support networks in providing essential equipment to Ukrainian troops.
• Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War: The headquarters approved a report summarizing its work in 2024. In the past year, 1358 people were released, which is 356 more than in 2023. During the negotiations, it was possible to agree on the return of three times more bodies of fallen soldiers. The indicators of the headquarters' work in 2024 have significantly increased. Regional centers of the headquarters have been established in Lviv, Vinnytsia, Kharkiv, and Mykolaiv.

Updated Situation

The military situation in Ukraine remains highly dynamic and unfavorable for Ukrainian forces. The capture of Kurakhove by Russian forces is a significant development, solidifying their control in the Donetsk region and potentially opening up new avenues of advance towards Pokrovsk. The intensification of fighting in the Kursk region, particularly near Leonidovo, Martynovka, and Pushkarnoe, indicates a broadening of the conflict zone and a new Ukrainian offensive thrust. The liberation of Vozdvyzhenka near Pokrovsk brings Russian forces closer to the strategic Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka highway, a vital artery for Ukrainian logistics. Russian forces are intensifying their attacks on the Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka highway. Drone warfare continues to be a central element, with both sides adapting and innovating. Ukrainian forces are developing fiber-optic guided FPV drones to counter Russian electronic warfare, while Russian forces continue to launch drone strikes across multiple oblasts. Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian territory, particularly in Taganrog and Millerovo, targeting a military airfield, demonstrate a capacity to strike beyond the immediate frontline and a significant escalation in the conflict.

The reported destruction of a significant number of drones over the Leningrad, Pskov, Kursk, and Voronezh regions indicates the intensity of aerial engagements. The reported destruction of Ukrainian armored vehicles and the capture of Nadezhda in the Luhansk region underscore the ongoing ground battles and Russian territorial gains. The reported destruction of a Ukrainian temporary deployment point in Chasiv Yar by Russian paratroopers signifies continued pressure in that area. The new reports of Russian advances in Toretsk, Shevchenko, near Dalne, Vozdvyzhenka, and Baranivka further highlight the deteriorating situation for Ukrainian forces.

Geopolitically, the temporary flight restrictions at several Russian airports due to a drone threat suggest a potential expansion of the conflict's impact within Russia and heightened security concerns. The sentencing of the mother of a Belarusian political prisoner highlights the ongoing repression in Belarus and its connection to the broader regional context. The new reports of Russian airstrikes on Semenivka in the Chernihiv region, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, underscore the continued threat to civilian populations.

The Ukrainian General Staff's report of 179 combat clashes and significant Russian losses, along with the detailed account of Russian airstrikes and drone attacks, paints a picture of a relentless and multifaceted conflict. The use of guided aerial bombs by Russian forces, particularly in the Sumy and Chernihiv regions, indicates a continued effort to target Ukrainian defenses and civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian Defense Forces of the South report significant enemy losses, including personnel, artillery systems, armored vehicles, and electronic warfare equipment, demonstrating ongoing resistance and counterattacks.

The new video evidence of a Russian ambush on a Ukrainian Humvee near Toretsk in the summer of 2024, along with the reported use of a landmine, highlights the ongoing and multifaceted nature of the conflict. The successful ambush underscores the persistent threat faced by Ukrainian forces, even in areas where they may believe they have freedom of movement. The use of a landmine, in particular, suggests a deliberate effort to target and disable Ukrainian vehicles, potentially disrupting their logistical and operational capabilities. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by Ukrainian forces operating in contested areas. The involvement of Russian reconnaissance units in setting up the ambush further emphasizes the importance of intelligence gathering and tactical planning in the conflict. The destruction of a Ukrainian Humvee also indicates potential issues with the supply and maintenance of Ukrainian military equipment, particularly in light of the ongoing international efforts to support Ukraine's defense capabilities. Overall, the incident underscores the continued intensity of the fighting and the complex challenges faced by Ukrainian forces on the ground.

The new information about a Ukrainian military infographic showcasing claimed enemy losses inflicted by the 15th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine (BrOP NGU) since December 13, 2024, adds another layer to the understanding of the conflict. The infographic, attributed to the "Ghost of Khortytsia" unit, reports significant damage to Russian infrastructure, personnel, armored vehicles, and electronic warfare systems, primarily through the use of UAVs. The high number of reported UAV missions (2784) and the diverse range of targets suggest a concerted effort to leverage drone technology for both reconnaissance and offensive strikes. The emphasis on destroying infrastructure (335 targets) indicates a strategy aimed at weakening Russian defensive positions and disrupting their logistical capabilities. The reported personnel losses (320) and the destruction of armored vehicles (13) further underscore the intensity of the engagements and the impact of Ukrainian drone operations. The successful targeting of 2 EW systems highlights the ongoing struggle for technological superiority on the battlefield. The use of remote mining missions (65) suggests an attempt to shape the battlefield and impede Russian movement. While the infographic serves as a propaganda tool to boost morale and project a positive image of Ukrainian military successes, it also provides valuable insights into the operational tempo and tactical priorities of the 15th Brigade. The data, although potentially subject to overestimation, points to the growing importance of drone warfare and its effectiveness in targeting a wide range of enemy assets.

The report from the Kharkiv Regional State Administration, detailing Russian strikes in the region on January 5, 2025, further emphasizes the ongoing threat to civilian populations and infrastructure. The use of Shahed drones and guided aerial bombs (KABs) in attacks on Krasnokutsk and areas near Kupiansk underscores the continued Russian efforts to target Ukrainian territory beyond the immediate frontlines. The death of a 74-year-old man in Kivsharivka due to mortar shelling highlights the tragic human cost of the conflict. The reported two enemy attacks near Starytsia and Vovchansk on the Kharkiv front, along with the active use of bomber aircraft, indicate that the region remains a contested area with ongoing military engagements. The four attacks reported on the Kupiansk front, with Ukrainian forces repelling assaults near Zahryzove and Petropavlivka, further illustrate the intensity of the fighting in this sector. These developments necessitate a continued focus on protecting civilian populations and reinforcing defensive positions in the Kharkiv region. The use of guided aerial bombs and drones in these attacks suggests that Ukrainian air defenses may be facing challenges in countering these threats, potentially requiring further investment in air defense systems and countermeasures.

The image from the Italian Prime Minister's meeting with the newly elected US President does not directly bring any changes to the military situation, however, it signals a potentially significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, particularly regarding future support for Ukraine. Meloni's visit to the US President's residence and the hope that she will become his "main ally in Europe" suggest a potential strengthening of the relationship between Italy and the new US administration. This development could have implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as Italy is a member of NATO and the European Union, both of which have been key supporters of Ukraine's defense efforts. A closer alliance between Italy and the US under the new President could potentially lead to increased military and financial aid for Ukraine, depending on the new President's stance on the conflict. However, it could also signal a shift in the overall European approach to the conflict, particularly if the new US President adopts a different strategy than his predecessor. The meeting underscores the importance of international alliances and the potential for changes in these relationships to influence the course of the conflict in Ukraine.

The new images depicting damage to civilian infrastructure in Semenivka, Chernihiv region, following a Russian attack using four guided aerial bombs (KABs), further underscore the devastating impact of the conflict on civilian populations. The photographs, taken at night, reveal significant destruction to residential buildings, vehicles, and other structures, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the Russian attacks. The presence of the National Police logo in the images confirms that the area is under Ukrainian control and that the authorities are investigating the incident. The reported seven injuries among civilians emphasize the human cost of the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for measures to protect non-combatants. The use of guided aerial bombs suggests a deliberate targeting of civilian areas, potentially aimed at terrorizing the population and undermining Ukrainian morale. This incident adds to the growing body of evidence of potential war crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, further increasing the importance of international investigations and accountability efforts. The continued attacks on civilian infrastructure also highlight the need for increased humanitarian assistance and resources for reconstruction in affected areas.

The new video showing the raising of a Russian flag and a skull and crossbones flag by Russian forces in Kurakhovo provides further visual confirmation of the reported capture of the city by Russian troops. The footage, likely taken from a drone, depicts two soldiers displaying the flags amidst damaged buildings, indicating the aftermath of intense fighting in the area. This development underscores the significance of the Russian advance in the Donetsk region and the potential for further offensive operations towards Pokrovsk. The use of flags serves as a symbolic assertion of control over the territory and is likely intended for propaganda purposes, both domestically and internationally. The video also highlights the continued importance of drone warfare in the conflict, providing both sides with valuable reconnaissance capabilities and the ability to document their actions on the battlefield. The capture of Kurakhovo by Russian forces represents a tangible shift in the frontlines and necessitates a reassessment of Ukrainian defensive positions and strategies in the Donetsk region.

The new video showing a Russian ambush on a Ukrainian Humvee near Toretsk in the summer of 2024, along with the reported use of a landmine, highlights the ongoing and multifaceted nature of the conflict. The successful ambush underscores the persistent threat faced by Ukrainian forces, even in areas where they may believe they have freedom of movement. The use of a landmine, in particular, suggests a deliberate effort to target and disable Ukrainian vehicles, potentially disrupting their logistical and operational capabilities. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by Ukrainian forces operating in contested areas. The involvement of Russian reconnaissance units in setting up the ambush further emphasizes the importance of intelligence gathering and tactical planning in the conflict. The destruction of a Ukrainian Humvee also indicates potential issues with the supply and maintenance of Ukrainian military equipment, particularly in light of the ongoing international efforts to support Ukraine's defense capabilities. Overall, the incident underscores the continued intensity of the fighting and the complex challenges faced by Ukrainian forces on the ground.

The new infographic detailing claimed enemy losses inflicted by the Ukrainian 15th Brigade of the National Guard since December 13, 2024, adds another layer to the understanding of the conflict. The infographic, attributed to the "Ghost of Khortytsia" unit, reports significant damage to Russian infrastructure, personnel, armored vehicles, and electronic warfare systems, primarily through the use of UAVs. The high number of reported UAV missions (2784) and the diverse range of targets suggest a concerted effort to leverage drone technology for both reconnaissance and offensive strikes. The emphasis on destroying infrastructure (335 targets) indicates a strategy aimed at weakening Russian defensive positions and disrupting their logistical capabilities. The reported personnel losses (320) and the destruction of armored vehicles (13) further underscore the intensity of the engagements and the impact of Ukrainian drone operations. The successful targeting of 2 EW systems highlights the ongoing struggle for technological superiority on the battlefield. The use of remote mining missions (65) suggests an attempt to shape the battlefield and impede Russian movement. While the infographic serves