Archived operational intelligence briefing
The military situation in Ukraine remains highly dynamic and complex. Russian forces are making significant advances in the Donetsk region, particularly around Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Kurakhove, while Ukrainian forces are facing significant challenges in maintaining their defensive lines. The renewed Russian offensive in the Kursk region signifies a shift in momentum, with heavy fighting reported near Pogrebki, and the US has officially supported the Ukrainian offensive in the region. The intensification of drone warfare underscores the evolving nature of the conflict, with both sides utilizing drones for reconnaissance, targeting, and attacks. The confirmed drone attack on an industrial facility in Engels, deep inside Russian territory, represents a significant development and a potential turning point in Ukraine's ability to strike strategic targets.
The geopolitical landscape is increasingly complex, with potential shifts in US and European support for Ukraine. The closure of the Polish Consulate in St. Petersburg further reflects the strained relations between Russia and Western countries. The new information regarding the Ukrainian strike on the Russian command post, the ongoing drone attacks, and the geopolitical developments further emphasize the complexity and volatility of the situation.
The new messages also highlight a statement from Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, who claims that Ukraine's termination of Russian gas transit to Europe is unacceptable and contradicts its intentions to join the European Union. This statement further emphasizes the geopolitical tensions surrounding energy supplies and the potential impact on relations between Ukraine, Russia, and the EU. The new messages also highlight that Ukrainian forces are continuing their drone attacks, with reports of a drone being shot down over the Bryansk region of Russia and an attack on the village of Rzhevka in the Belgorod region.
The new messages also highlight a video reportedly showing Ukrainian soldiers distributing food to civilians in Niger. The video, shared by the Rybar Telegram channel, is presented as evidence of the positive role of Ukrainian forces in Africa. However, the report also mentions that local authorities expressed dissatisfaction with the incident, and that the soldiers were reprimanded by their command for their unauthorized actions. This incident underscores the complexities of operating in foreign environments and the importance of coordinating with local authorities. It also highlights the potential for such actions to be misinterpreted or used for propaganda purposes by opposing sides.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the Russian Ministry of Defense, reportedly showing Russian troops undergoing training in the rear area of the Zaporizhzhia region. The video, which focuses on countering enemy drones, underscores the importance of training and adapting to the evolving nature of warfare. The emphasis on counter-drone measures highlights the growing threat posed by unmanned aerial systems and the need for effective countermeasures.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the Russian Ministry of Defense, reportedly showing Russian helicopters engaging Ukrainian positions in the Kursk region border area. The video, which features Mi-28nm, Ka-52m, and Mi-8PSG helicopters, demonstrates the continued use of air power by Russian forces in the conflict. The reported rocket strike on Ukrainian manpower and materiel underscores the ongoing fighting in the region and the use of air assets to support ground operations.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the Colonelcassad Telegram channel, reportedly showing two captured Ukrainian soldiers who were trapped in a bunker near Kurakhove. The video, which features the soldiers thanking Russian forces for their rescue and urging an end to the conflict, is likely intended for propaganda purposes. The release of such videos by Russian sources aims to portray a humane image of their forces and potentially influence public opinion.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны" Telegram channel, reportedly showing Russian forces engaging Ukrainian infantry on the Kurakhiv direction. The video, which features drone footage of strikes on Ukrainian positions, underscores the continued fighting in the region and the use of drones for reconnaissance and targeting. The reported involvement of the 255th regiment highlights the specific units involved in the operations.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the ASTRA Telegram channel, reportedly showing a drone attack on a car in the Belgorod region, resulting in injuries to a civilian couple. This incident further emphasizes the use of drones in the conflict and the potential for civilian casualties.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "Повітряні Сили ЗС України" Telegram channel, reporting the movement of enemy attack drones in the eastern part of the Kharkiv region, heading west. This information underscores the continued threat posed by Russian drones and the need for vigilance and air defense measures.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the "РБК-Україна" Telegram channel, reporting that the number of deaths resulting from the Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia has risen to 13, with 32 people injured. The report emphasizes that most of the victims were on the street and in public transport at the time of the Russian airstrikes. This incident underscores the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians and the indiscriminate nature of the attacks.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS" Telegram channel, reportedly showing a North Korean soldier engaging a Ukrainian drone. The video, which is presented as evidence of North Korean involvement in the conflict, highlights the potential for foreign fighters to participate in the war and the use of drones for reconnaissance and combat.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the "РБК-Україна" Telegram channel, reporting on the diary of a killed North Korean special forces soldier, Gyeong Hong Jong, who was reportedly killed in the Kursk region. The report claims that the soldier was a thief and had stolen from Russian soldiers. This information, if confirmed, could shed light on the presence of North Korean forces in the conflict and their relationship with Russian troops.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "РБК-Україна" Telegram channel, featuring a statement from the head of the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen. Valtonen asserts that Ukraine's accession to NATO does not pose a threat to other countries and criticizes Trump's recent statement about understanding Russia's reasons for attacking Ukraine. This statement underscores the geopolitical tensions surrounding the conflict and the differing perspectives on NATO's role.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "Дневник Десантника" Telegram channel, reportedly showing a Russian aviation strike on an industrial zone in Zaporizhzhia. The report claims that the strike targeted the Motor Sich defense plant, which was allegedly used by Ukrainian forces for military purposes. This incident highlights the ongoing targeting of industrial facilities in the conflict and the potential impact on Ukraine's defense industry.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the "Оперативний ЗСУ" Telegram channel, reporting on the deaths of eight pilots during the New Year period. The report claims that three combat vehicles were lost, including two Mi-8s and one Mi-28. This information, if accurate, underscores the risks faced by military personnel and the potential for significant losses in the conflict.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the "Дневник Десантника" Telegram channel, showing a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft. The image, which features the Russian paratrooper emblem, suggests ongoing close air support and ground attack missions by Russian forces, potentially involving the Airborne Forces. This implies a Russian offensive is in progress in a strategically important area, suggesting an escalation of military activities.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "Дневник Десантника" Telegram channel, reportedly showing a military transport aircraft flying overhead. The video, which is presented from a ground perspective, suggests the ongoing movement of troops or supplies and implies a level of air superiority for Russian forces in the area.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "Новости Москвы" Telegram channel, showing Russian tourists celebrating in Courchevel, France. The video, which features Russian flags and a caption suggesting the "surrender" of the French, is likely intended as propaganda and highlights the ongoing information war between Russia and the West.
The new messages also highlight a statement from the Prime Minister of Finland, who has announced that the border with Russia will remain closed. The Prime Minister cited the unchanged threat assessment of the eastern border and the "shadow fleet of Russia" in the Baltic Sea as reasons for the decision. This development underscores the ongoing tensions between Finland and Russia and the perceived threat posed by Russian activities in the region.
The new messages also highlight a report from the "Голос Америки" Telegram channel, stating that the last aid package to Ukraine from the Biden administration will be $500 million. This leaves about $3.8 billion unused, despite promises from the White House to spend the entire amount before the end of Biden's term. These funds will be transferred to the Trump administration after his inauguration on January 20, according to the Pentagon. This development raises questions about the future of US military aid to Ukraine and the potential impact of the upcoming change in administration.
The new messages also highlight a video and a photo shared by the "БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС" Telegram channel, reportedly showing the aftermath of a battle in the Kursk region. The video features a Russian soldier walking along a snow-covered road among the bodies of fallen comrades, while the photo provides a text message describing the scene. The report claims that soldiers from the Korean People's Army, Russian marines, and the "Redut" private military company had unsuccessfully attacked in the area, resulting in heavy casualties. This information, if accurate, underscores the intensity of the fighting in the Kursk region and the involvement of various military units, including foreign fighters.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the ASTRA Telegram channel, reporting that Russia struck Zaporizhzhia with two guided aerial bombs, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine. The report states that the number of wounded has risen to 32, with most of the victims being on the street and in public transport at the time of the attack. This incident further emphasizes the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians and the use of aerial bombs in populated areas.
The new messages also highlight four additional photos shared by the ASTRA Telegram channel, showing the aftermath of the attack in Zaporizhzhia. The images depict a burning building, emergency responders assisting a casualty, police and military personnel at the scene, and damage to a bus or trolley. These photos provide further visual evidence of the impact of the attack and the ongoing emergency response efforts.
The new messages also highlight a statement from the official Telegram channel of President Zelensky, reporting on a conversation with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Zelensky thanked Qatar for its participation in the Peace Summit and its role in the return of 53 Ukrainian children who were forcibly taken to Russia. They also discussed cooperation in supporting Syria, with Ukraine sending 500 tons of wheat flour to the country. Zelensky invited Qatar to support the Food from Ukraine humanitarian initiative. This development underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts related to the conflict and the humanitarian consequences of the war.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the "Рыбарь" Telegram channel, providing a map and analysis of the situation on the Vremivka direction. The report claims that Russian forces have achieved significant success in several areas, including expanding the zone of control near Novy Komar, clearing fields east of Velyka Novosilka, and occupying a large fortified area. The analysis suggests that fighting may soon break out for the settlement of Neskuchne or that Ukrainian forces may abandon it. The report also mentions attacks in the fields west of Velyka Novosilka and Vremivka to expand the breakthrough and worsen the supply situation for Ukrainian forces in Velyka Novosilka. This information, if accurate, indicates a significant shift in the balance of power in the Vremivka direction and the potential for further Russian advances.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the Russian Ministry of Defense, showcasing the successful cooperation between tank crews of the Yug Group of Forces and a reconnaissance UAV team. The video, reportedly from the Chasov Yar direction, shows a direct hit on a concealed enemy artillery gun at a range of over three kilometers. This incident demonstrates the effectiveness of combined arms operations and the use of UAVs for artillery spotting in modern warfare.
The new messages also highlight a photo and analysis from the Colonelcassad Telegram channel, based on a map from Rybar, focusing on the Kurakhiv direction. The report claims that Russian forces, specifically the 114th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade, have liberated Shevchenko and partially occupied two strongholds north of the settlement. The analysis also mentions advances near Slavyanka and fighting for Dachne west of Kurakhiv. The report suggests that the loss of Kurakhiv and field fortifications by Ukrainian forces could lead to further Russian advances in the region. This information, if accurate, indicates a significant deterioration of the Ukrainian position in the Kurakhiv direction and the potential for further Russian gains.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the Colonelcassad Telegram channel, reportedly showing a scene from occupied Odesa. The video, which features individuals in military or tactical clothing running across a crosswalk, is presented with a caption suggesting a "race for survival." This incident, while not directly related to military operations, could be interpreted as a reflection of the tense situation in Odesa and the potential for further conflict in the region.
The new messages also include a briefing by the head of the city's Defense Council, Oleksandr Vilkul, summarizing the events of January 8, 2025. Vilkul reported on the situation on the Kryvyi Rih front, stating that Ukrainian forces continue to inflict losses on Russian troops. He also mentioned enemy attacks on the Nikopol district, resulting in damage to infrastructure and private homes. In Kryvyi Rih, Vilkul highlighted the implementation of projects to repair hospitals and shelters, as well as the creation of a modern rehabilitation center for Ukrainian soldiers. He also noted the recognition of a local shooting coach, Oleksiy Vylyvaniy, among the top 10 trainers in the Dnipropetrovsk region. This briefing provides a glimpse into the local situation in Kryvyi Rih and the ongoing efforts to support both military personnel and civilians.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the Kotsnews Telegram channel, featuring a poll regarding the actions of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The poll suggests that 51% of respondents believe Aliyev is demonstrating his political weight to the West. The caption also mentions Aliyev's attempts to balance between the West and the East, possibly influenced by Turkish President Erdogan. This development, while not directly related to the military situation in Ukraine, reflects the broader geopolitical context and the complex relationships between regional actors.
The new messages also highlight a photo and analysis shared by the "Два майора" Telegram channel, discussing the integration of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) into the US Navy. The report mentions the modernization of the USS Santa Barbara, a Freedom-class littoral combat ship, with an anti-mine module that includes a USV produced by Textron. The analysis notes that Textron has been actively involved in the conflict in Ukraine, supplying components and samples for the assembly of USVs. The report suggests that the use of USVs, along with UAVs, is a key change in the nature of armed conflicts and that the US is logically moving towards integrating these technologies into its fleet. This development underscores the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare and the potential for their use in future conflicts.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the "Оперативний ЗСУ" Telegram channel, reporting that the death toll from the Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia has risen to 13, with 32 people injured. The report emphasizes that the number of victims may still change and that most of the injured were on the street and in public transport at the time of the attack. This incident further highlights the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians and the use of airstrikes in populated areas.
The new messages also highlight a photo shared by the "Оперативний ЗСУ" Telegram channel, reporting on the conversation between President Zelensky and the Emir of Qatar. Zelensky thanked Qatar for its participation in the Peace Summit and its role in the return of 53 Ukrainian children who were forcibly taken to Russia. They also discussed cooperation in supporting Syria, with Ukraine sending 500 tons of wheat flour to the country. Zelensky invited Qatar to support the Food from Ukraine humanitarian initiative. This development underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts related to the conflict and the humanitarian consequences of the war.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the "Повітряні Сили ЗС України" Telegram channel, reporting the movement of enemy attack drones in the eastern part of the Kharkiv region, heading west. This information underscores the continued threat posed by Russian drones and the need for vigilance and air defense measures.
The new messages also highlight a statement from the "АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА Z" Telegram channel, reporting that the Biden administration is preparing a "final gift" for Kyiv, with a couple of billion dollars expected to go towards arming Ukraine. The report also mentions that the Pentagon will leave a couple of billion dollars from the funds approved by Congress for Ukraine at the disposal of the future Trump administration. This development raises further questions about the future of US military aid to Ukraine and the potential impact of the upcoming change in administration.
The new messages also highlight a video shared by the ASTRA Telegram channel, reporting on a Russian soldier who committed suicide on a train after returning from a military hospital in Chechnya. The soldier, who was wounded, reportedly cut his veins on the "Moscow-Vladivostok" train on December 30, 2024. This incident, while not directly related to military operations, highlights the psychological toll of the conflict on individual soldiers and the potential for personal tragedies.
The new messages also highlight an analysis of an image from the ASTRA Telegram channel, depicting a train sleeping compartment. The analysis suggests that the scene indicates a mode of transportation often used
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