Updated Analysis of the Military Situation in Ukraine (January 9, 2025, 18:33 UTC)

Strategic Overview

The military situation in Ukraine remains critical, particularly in the Donetsk and Kursk regions. Russian forces maintain offensive operations in Donetsk, achieving significant gains around Kurakhove (now fully captured), Toretsk, and Pokrovsk. The Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kursk region has stalled, suffering heavy casualties, while a renewed Russian offensive is gaining ground near Nikolaevka, Staraya Sorochina, and Sudzha. Drone warfare is intensifying, with both sides employing extensive drone operations for reconnaissance, targeting, and attacks, and new reports detailing Ukrainian successes, including the destruction of a Russian logistics convoy in the Luhansk region. Ukrainian forces successfully shot down four Russian reconnaissance drones near Chasiv Yar. The use of drones connected to fiber-optic cables by Russian forces, as reported by ISW, signifies a technological advancement aimed at countering electronic warfare.

Key Developments

Donetsk Region

• Fall of Kurakhove: Russian forces fully control Kurakhove. Video evidence shows Russian special forces capturing a stronghold of the 46th Airmobile Brigade, killing dozens of Ukrainian soldiers and capturing six.
• Critical Situation in Toretsk: Less than 15% of Toretsk remains under Ukrainian control. The 12th "Azov" Brigade reported repelling a Russian mechanized assault, destroying several armored vehicles. A video from the brigade "Azov" shows a successful repulsion of a Russian assault near New York (formerly Novhorodske), with the destruction of multiple Russian armored vehicles, including BMPs and MT-LBs.
• Russian Advances Towards Pokrovsk: Russian forces are intensifying attacks near Pokrovsk, with progress in Novovasylivka, Yelyzavetivka, and Baranovka. Video evidence shows the destruction of enemy defenses by the 35th Brigade near Pokrovsk.
• Shevchenko and Ivanivka Captured: Russian forces have captured Shevchenko and Ivanivka and are engaged in battles for the dominant height near Kolodezi.
• Other Advances: Further Russian gains near Vozdvyzhenka, Baranivka, Solone, Slovyanka, Petropavlivka, Novoelizavetivka, Kurakhove, Pisky, Dachne, Udalny, Kotlyne, Zverevo, Zelene, Lysovka, and Mirolyubovka.
• Intense Fighting: The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports 192 combat clashes since the beginning of the day, particularly in the Pokrovsky and Kurakhiv directions.
• Chasiv Yar: Video evidence of a successful Russian "Lancet" drone strike on a Ukrainian BMP. Ukrainian forces reported shooting down four Russian reconnaissance drones near Chasiv Yar, including a Granat-2, Supercam S450, and two Orlan-30s.
• New: Video footage shows a Ukrainian FPV drone targeting a Russian Ka-52 helicopter (unsuccessful).
• New: Video evidence shows a Russian soldier filming the aftermath of a Ukrainian FPV drone strike on a Russian vehicle, indicating casualties among the Russian assault group.
• New: Video shows a quad bike driving through a destroyed Russian column on the Pokrovsk direction.
• New: Video evidence of Russian forces destroying Ukrainian infantry with a drone near Dachne.
• New: Russian forces are reportedly advancing near Slovyanka and Petropavlivka.

Kursk Region

• Stalled Ukrainian Counteroffensive: The Ukrainian counteroffensive has stalled, with reports of heavy losses (estimated up to 48,000 casualties). Zelensky stated that the Kursk operation was one of the main victories, not only last year, but throughout the war.
• Renewed Russian Offensive: Russian forces have resumed offensive operations near Nikolaevka and Staraya Sorochina, with advances near Novaya Sorochina. Russian forces report that the counterattacking potential of Ukrainian forces has waned and that they are now being pushed back from their positions near Kruglenkoye.
• Intense Fighting: Intense fighting is reported in Pogrebki, Orlovka, Staraya Sorochina, and Novaya Sorochina, with Ukrainian forces deploying reserves.
• Artillery & Drones: Russian artillery and drone operations are proving effective, with the destruction of Ukrainian artillery pieces. Calculation of FPV drones of the Rubikon center destroyed the Ukrainian self-propelled guns in the Kursk direction.
• New Russian Advances: Russian forces are making advances in the area between Guyevo and Kurilovka and the forested areas of the Sudzha border region. Russian forces have captured Russkoye Porechnoye and are currently assaulting Cherkasskoye Porechnoye. Russian forces, specifically paratroopers from the 106th Airborne Division, are conducting active assault operations in the forests near Sverdlikovo and Lebedevka.
• Reinforcements: Over 350 enemy personnel, including special operations forces and the 132nd Separate Reconnaissance Battalion, have reportedly arrived in the region.
• Enemy Reserves: Intelligence suggests a concentration of enemy forces near Pogrebki and the presence of Ukrainian reserves in the Sumy region. Ukrainian reserves are reportedly being brought into Lebedevka and Sverdlikovo.
• Makhnovka: Heavy oncoming battles are taking place, with the enemy putting up fierce resistance.
• New: The Russian Ministry of Defense published a video showing the destruction of Ukrainian military equipment.
• New: The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports that in Kurshchyna today, Ukrainian defenders repelled 16 enemy attacks, six combat clashes continue.
• New: A civilian from a village in the Kursk region reported that soldiers from western Ukraine burned houses in his village.
• New: The Russian Ministry of Defense reports that the enemy lost up to 190 fighters, an ammunition depot, an infantry fighting vehicle and an armored personnel carrier in the Kursk region during the day.
• New: The Russian Ministry of Defense reports that since the beginning of hostilities in the Kursk region, the AFU has lost more than 50,310 troops, 294 tanks, 218 infantry fighting vehicles, 161 armored personnel carriers, 1,517 armored fighting vehicles, 1,435 vehicles, 348 artillery guns, 44 MLRS launchers, including 13 HIMARS and 6 MLRS made by the USA, 16 anti-aircraft missile launchers, eight transport-loading vehicles, 90 EW stations, 13 counter-battery warfare radars, four air defense radars, 29 units of engineering and other materiel, including 15 counter-obstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, seven armored recovery vehicles, and one command post vehicle.
• New: A German Leopard 2A6 tank was destroyed.
• New: Video evidence of Russian forces capturing 13 Ukrainian soldiers from the 82nd Brigade.
• New: "АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА Z" reports that enemy groups attempted to infiltrate from Cherkasskoye Porechnoye but were repelled by artillery fire.
• New: Russian forces report that they have cleared Berdin of Ukrainian forces and that Ukrainian forces are retreating to the forests.
• New: Russian forces report that they are continuing to storm Pogrebki and that both sides are present in the village. Russian forces also report that they are conducting an offensive west of Novaya Sorochina.
• New: Russian forces report that they control most of Russkoye Porechnoye and are concentrating reserves southwest of Kozino.

Kharkiv Region

• Russian Advances: Russian forces report advances towards Lozova in the Izyum area and in Dvurichna. They have reportedly expanded their bridgehead up to 5 km south of Dvorechnaya and penetrated the Ukrainian defense up to 1.5 km in some areas.
• New: Ukrainian forces have reportedly stabilized the situation near Kruhliakivka and Kolisnykivka, preventing further Russian advances along the Oskil River.
• New: DeepState denies reports of the occupation of Lozova.
• New: The 3rd Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces is reportedly engaging Russian forces on the outskirts of Kharkiv.
• New: FPV drone team of Sever Group of Forces reportedly wipes out AFU buggy.
• New: On the Kupyansk direction, fighters from the 1st Tank Army disrupted an enemy rotation and hit an American M113 armored personnel carrier with infantry.
• New: Russian forces repelled a Ukrainian attack on the Kupyansk direction, destroying a US-supplied M113 armored personnel carrier.

Luhansk Region

• Russian Advances: On the Krasnolimansk direction, units of the Russian Army are developing success in Ivanovka (right bank of the Zherebets River). They are attempting to capture heights beyond Ivanovka near Terny and are storming Zahryzove. Following the liberation of Ivanovka, Russian troops continued their advance southward along the opposite bank of the Zherebets River from Terny.
• New: Russian forces have successfully repelled over 30 Ukrainian attempts to infiltrate the Luhansk People's Republic in the past week, resulting in significant Ukrainian losses.
• New: Russian forces are advancing near Makeevka, according to pro-Russian sources.
• New: Russian forces report that they have expanded their zone of control on the right bank of the Zherebets River and are advancing towards the western border of the Luhansk People's Republic.

Drone Warfare

• Extensive Activity: Widespread drone activity reported across multiple regions. Ukrainian air defense forces are actively engaging hostile drones.
• Confirmed Attack in Engels: A Ukrainian drone attack on an industrial facility in Engels has been confirmed, with the fire still burning.
• New Drone Technology: ISW reports that Russian forces are increasingly using drones connected to fiber-optic cables, resistant to electronic warfare.
• New Drone Activity: Reports of drone movements across multiple oblasts, including Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Chernihiv, Poltava, Sumy, Cherkasy, Kyiv, Kirovohrad, Odesa, Mykolaiv, Zhytomyr, Vinnytsia, and Kherson. The threat of enemy attack drones has been deactivated across all regions.
• Air Defense Engagements: 15 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight over the Belgorod, Bryansk regions, and Krasnodar Territory. Five drones were shot down in the Rostov region of Russia.
• New: The Ukrainian Air Force reports continued drone threats across multiple regions, with specific warnings for cities like Dnipro, Poltava, Kremenchuk, and Sumy.
• New: 340 additional drones have been procured by Ukrainian forces thanks to donations. Overnight, Ukrainian air defense forces shot down 10 Russian drones over Cherkasy Oblast.
• New: Ukrainian forces report a 19-fold increase in the supply of drones to their units in 2024.
• New: Ukrainian forces successfully employed a drone to eliminate a single Russian soldier.
• New: Ukrainian border guards reportedly struck a Russian drone launch site in Vovchansk using drones.
• New: Overnight drone attacks on Russian territory: 11 enemy drones were shot down over Saratov overnight, 4 over Kursk and Rostov, 3 over Belgorod and Bryansk, 2 over Krasnodar, 1 over Volgograd, and 4 over the Azov Sea.
• New: In Cherkasy region 5 drones were shot down.
• New: The Ukrainian Air Force reports activity of Russian drones in the Chernihiv region.
• New: Video evidence of Ukrainian forces using drones equipped with shotguns to effectively shoot down Russian drones.
• New: A video shows the elimination of a group of Russian soldiers using FPV drones by the 110th Mechanized Brigade.
• New: Ukrainian forces conducted a successful drone operation, targeting a Russian T-90 tank and an ammunition depot.
• New: Ukrainian forces report destroying 3 Russian BTRs.
• New: Russian FPV drone operators from the "Aida" group reportedly hit two Ukrainian armored fighting vehicles.
• New: Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces targeting Russian positions with drones, resulting in multiple explosions and fires.
• New: 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.
• New: Ukrainian forces are continuing their drone attacks, with new videos showing the fire at the oil depot in Engels from various perspectives. The videos confirm that the fire is still burning and that new explosions are occurring.
• New: Ukrainian forces report that they used two kamikaze drones of the Darts type with 3 kg combined munitions and three FPV Babay-Heavy drones with 1.5 kg cumulative rounds to destroy a Russian cannon position in the Zaporizhzhia region.
• New: The Ukrainian Air Force, stating that there is a threat of enemy tactical aviation activity in the north-eastern direction.
• New: An air raid alert was declared in Kamensk-Shakhtinsky, Rostov region, followed by a column of smoke rising near military-technical property warehouses. The warehouses are reportedly combined with the production facility of FKP "Kombinat "Kamensky", which has previously been attacked.
• New: Video evidence shows a Ukrainian drone targeting and destroying a Russian logistics convoy in the Luhansk region, consisting of 5 KAMAZ trucks and 2 URAL trucks.
• New: Video evidence shows a Ukrainian drone operator targeting a Russian 2S7 Pion self-propelled howitzer with three separate strikes.
• New: A video from the 25th Airborne Brigade shows a Ukrainian soldier placing an explosive charge on the roof of a dugout where enemy soldiers are hiding.
• New: A video shows a night-time drone strike on enemy positions by a Ukrainian "Vampire" drone.
• New: A new drone attack on Kharkiv, hitting a civilian enterprise in the Nemyshlyansky district, has been reported. A 65-year-old man suffered an acute stress reaction due to the attack.
• New: Video evidence shows a Ukrainian drone operator targeting a Russian soldier. The soldier initially attempts to shoot down the drone, then tries to hide before being hit. The soldier is seen moving after the hit, indicating he is wounded but alive.
• New: Video from "STERNENKO" shows Ukrainian forces from the Flying Skull drone unit targeting Russian positions in the Kursk region. At least 9 Russian soldiers were targeted, and 5 golf carts were hit.
• New: Video from "Оперативний ЗСУ" shows a Ukrainian FPV drone targeting Russian infantry in the Kharkiv region. One soldier was killed and another wounded.
• New: Video evidence of an aerial battle between two Ukrainian "Mavic" drones (one reconnaissance and one bomber) and a Russian "Baba Yaga" drone on the Seversk direction. The reconnaissance drone rammed the "Baba Yaga", causing it to crash. The bomber drone then targeted the crashed drone, destroying it.
• New: Video from the "Syndicate Air Assassins" group shows the use of FPV drones to target Russian infantry and vehicles in various locations. The video includes a counter of destroyed targets and a call for donations to support the group's activities.
• New: Video from "ua_reg" shows a Ukrainian drone targeting and destroying multiple Russian vehicles, including a Humvee.
• New: Ukrainian forces report that they have destroyed a Russian BTR-82A, two infantry fighting vehicles, and a T-72 tank using FPV drones.
• New: Ukrainian forces report that they have successfully repelled a Russian attack near Kupyansk, destroying a US-supplied M113 armored personnel carrier.
• New: Ukrainian forces report that they have destroyed a Russian Tor-M2 air defense system using a drone.

Geopolitical Developments

• Potential Meeting Between Scholz and Putin: Reports suggest a possible meeting before February 23rd.
• Shifting Alliances: Potential shifts in US and European support for Ukraine.
• US Aid: A new US military aid package for Ukraine is expected to be announced soon. The US has imposed sanctions on Antal Rogán, the head of the Hungarian Prime Minister's Office.
• New: President Zelensky has signed a law creating a list of terrorist organizations in Ukraine.
• New: Zelensky indicates a willingness to limit the scope of potential NATO membership to Ukrainian-controlled territory and expressed openness to attending Trump's inauguration if invited.
• New: The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has stated that Ukraine is ready to take Hungary's place in the EU and NATO if Hungary decides to leave.
• New: The closure of the Polish Consulate in St. Petersburg has been officially closed.
• New: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has called on the European Commission to take strong measures against Elon Musk.
• New: An EU spokesperson urged respect for the sovereignty of countries after Trump's statements on Greenland.
• New: The Polish Defense Minister suggests that the current Ramstein format for coordinating military aid to Ukraine may be the last of its kind.
• New: The EU, through French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, has stated that it will not tolerate any attacks on its sovereign borders, in response to reports of US ambitions in Greenland. Germany claims that the US cannot simply take and change the borders of one of the EU countries by annexing Greenland to itself.
• New: Amid statements from Trump about a possible takeover of Greenland, the Prime Minister of Greenland is scheduled to meet with the King of Denmark.
• New: A TASS representative from the entourage of the next American leader said that Trump's transition team believes it is possible for Russia and the United States to reach a major security deal after the upcoming change of power in Washington.
• New: The Armenian government has approved a draft law to begin the process of joining the EU.
• New: Leaders of the "Ramstein" Contact Group on Ukraine's defense are reportedly set to approve "roadmaps" for each of the eight areas of cooperation, outlining strategic goals and key military aid needs until at least the end of 2027.
• New: Reports indicate that Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia, has commented on Donald Trump's potential actions during a second term, suggesting that Trump is starting his potential presidency "not boringly."
• New: Reports that the "Ramstein" format for coordinating military aid to Ukraine may be concluding, with the upcoming meeting potentially being the last.
• New: The Ukrainian Parliament has voted in favor of a bill on basic military training. The bill allows for men turning 18 abroad to register for military service without returning to Ukraine. Women's participation in the training and military registration remains voluntary.
• New: In Georgia, former President Zurabishvili has opened a new office in Tbilisi, claiming to continue presidential functions there.
• New: Reports suggest the US has reached an agreement with Egypt to participate in attacks against Yemen.
• New: Hungary will block Ukraine's intention to join the EU due to the termination of Russian gas and oil transit.
• New: A Polish presidential candidate, supported by the "PiS" party, stated that he does not see Ukraine in the EU and NATO until "civilizational issues" important to Poles are resolved, referring to the Volhyn tragedy.
• New: President of Lebanon is now the army commander supported by the US.
• New: It was reported that the new Prime Minister of Canada will likely be announced in February-March 2025.
• New: During the "Ramstein" meeting, UK Defense Minister John Healey and Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds announced that the UK will provide Ukraine with 30,000 drones, together with NATO allies.
• New: Germany "in the shortest possible time" will transfer additional missiles to Ukraine for Iris-T air defense systems, according to the Minister of Defense Pistorius. 48 missiles are involved.
• New: The Ukrainian Air Force reports that the enemy attacked the city of Kryvyi Rih with three "Iskander-K" ground-based cruise missiles at 2:10 PM on January 9, 2025. All three missiles were shot down by units of the Air Command "East" of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
• New: As part of the "Ramstein" meeting, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss support for Ukraine.
• New: There is information that Russia is blackmailing Armenia with energy and food prices, as well as a 70-80% reduction in exports if Armenia withdraws from the CSTO.
• New: A bill on joining the European Union puts Yerevan before a choice, the CSTO and the EU are incompatible.
• New: Ukrainian Minister of Defense Umerov met with his Italian counterpart to discuss military aid. Umerov requested additional air defense missiles and armored personnel carriers, emphasizing Italy's role in the "Armored Vehicle Coalition."
• New: Zelensky is currently in Italy and is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Meloni today and with President Mattarella tomorrow.
• New: A poll conducted by "Kotsnews" indicates that 69% of respondents believe that Russia can handle the situation in Ukraine without Trump's peace initiatives.
• New: Trump's team is reportedly reviewing its approach to ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, according to the Financial Times. This could mean that support for Ukraine will continue after the inauguration of the elected US president.
• New: US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that he does not know whether the meetings of the Western contact group coordinating arms supplies to Kyiv will continue under Trump, calling it a decision for the Trump administration.

Other Significant Developments

• Weather Forecast: A warming trend is forecasted for Ukraine.
• Casualties in Zaporizhzhia: The number of wounded in the Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia has increased to thirty.
• Internal Political Maneuvering in Ukraine: Reported internal political maneuvering within Ukraine, particularly regarding Zelensky and Zaluzhnyi.
• Arrest of Mercenaries in Venezuela: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced the arrest of seven foreign "mercenaries," including three Ukrainian citizens.
• New: Ukrainian MP Shevchenko will remain under arrest until March 7, 2025, without the right to post bail.
• New: Rheinmetall IFV to be tested in Ukraine.
• New: At least 19 people killed in attack on Chad's presidential palace.
• New: A former FBI informant on Biden has been sentenced to six years in prison.
• New: During storms, Russia lost almost half of the barriers made of barges near the Crimean Bridge and is not trying to restore them.
• New: Russian State Secretary Blinken reported that US intelligence had data that Putin was considering a nuclear strike scenario, but China likely restrained him.
• New: Video evidence shows a Russian soldier winning a hand-to-hand fight against a Ukrainian soldier, who subsequently detonated a grenade
• New: 82 residents of Perm, Russia, have been poisoned after consuming products from a local bakery.
• New: Nationalist groups in Russia are threatening a State Duma deputy for his support of multi-ethnic policies.
• New: The European Flight Safety Agency recommended that airlines stop flights to Moscow, St. Petersburg and other Russian cities due to the war in Ukraine. The recommendation applies to foreign carriers authorized by the agency and is valid until July 31, 2025.

Updated Situation

The military situation in Ukraine remains highly volatile, with intense fighting concentrated in the Donetsk and Kursk regions. Russian forces continue their offensive in Donetsk, achieving significant gains, notably the capture of Kurakhove and a substantial portion of Toretsk. They are advancing towards Pokrovsk and along the Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka highway. The Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kursk region has stalled, with Russian forces regaining territory and making advances in the Sudzha area. Drone warfare remains a dominant feature, with reports of new Russian drones equipped with fiber-optic control systems, resistant to electronic warfare, and widespread drone activity across multiple regions. Ukrainian forces are actively using drones for reconnaissance and targeted strikes, with new reports highlighting their effectiveness in destroying a Russian logistics convoy. The Ukrainian General Staff reports a difficult situation along the entire frontline and forced retreats to new defensive lines in the Dnipropetrovsk region. Geopolitical developments indicate potential shifts in US and European support for Ukraine, with reports of a possible meeting between German Chancellor Scholz and Russian President Putin before February 23rd. The US has imposed sanctions on a Hungarian official, and there are reports of increasing pressure from Russia on Armenia. The potential impact of the upcoming US election on the conflict is highlighted by reports that Trump's team is reviewing its approach to ending the war, and by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's statement that he does not know whether the meetings of the Western contact group coordinating arms supplies to Kyiv will continue under Trump. Polling data suggests that a majority of Russians believe they can handle the situation in Ukraine without Trump's peace initiatives.

Recommendations

1. Reinforce Toretsk and Pokrovsk: Urgently deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to counter the Russian advance. Prioritize the deployment of anti-tank weapons and units capable of countering armored thrusts.
2. Enhance Counter-Drone Capabilities: Deploy advanced counter-drone systems, including those capable of countering fiber-optic controlled drones. Continue to invest in and develop drone technology for precision strikes.
3. Strengthen Air Defense: Prioritize the strengthening of air defense capabilities, particularly in areas under threat of Russian air attacks. Seek further assistance from international partners in obtaining advanced air defense systems.
4. Secure Critical Infrastructure: Enhance the protection of critical infrastructure, particularly in light of the continued threat of drone attacks.
5. Address Troop Mobilization and Morale: Address any shortcomings in troop mobilization efforts and take steps to maintain and boost troop morale. Implement programs to support returning veterans and address their physical and mental health needs.
6. Strengthen International Support: Continue to seek further military and financial assistance from international partners. Emphasize the need for advanced weapons systems, long-range missiles, air defense systems, and counter-drone technology.
7. Counter Russian Information Operations: Counter Russian disinformation and propaganda efforts by providing accurate and timely information. Highlight Ukrainian successes and Russian losses.
8. Prepare for Potential Escalation: Given the renewed Russian offensive in the Kursk region and the increasing use of drones, prepare for the possibility of further escalation and develop contingency plans accordingly.
9. Monitor and Respond to Geopolitical Developments: Closely monitor the evolving geopolitical landscape and any potential shifts in international support. Maintain open communication channels with allies and partners.
10. Exploit Russian Weaknesses: Capitalize on any internal disagreements or conflicting narratives within Russian media to sow confusion and undermine morale.
11. Enhance Intelligence Gathering: Enhance intelligence-gathering capabilities to monitor Russian troop movements, identify potential threats, and anticipate future actions. Utilize all available sources, including satellite imagery, signals intelligence, and human intelligence.
12. Training and Adaptation: Continuously train troops on the latest tactics and technologies, with a particular focus on drone warfare and counter-drone measures. Adapt strategies and tactics based on the evolving nature of the conflict.
13. Address Humanitarian Needs: Prepare for a potential humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict. Coordinate with international organizations and NGOs to provide assistance to affected populations.
14. Maintain Operational Security: Emphasize the importance of operational security to prevent Russian forces from gaining intelligence on Ukrainian troop movements, deployments, and intentions.
15. Develop a Clear Strategic Vision: Ensure that all military operations are aligned with a clear strategic vision and long-term objectives. Regularly assess the effectiveness of current strategies and make adjustments as needed.
16. Foster Innovation: Encourage innovation and the development of new technologies and tactics to counter emerging threats and maintain a competitive advantage. Invest in research and development, particularly in drone warfare, counter-drone measures, and electronic warfare.
17. Exploit Russian vulnerabilities in Vremivka direction: Explore opportunities to exploit any vulnerabilities in Russian positions and conduct counteroffensives to regain lost territory.
18. Address potential impact of Turkish naval developments: Assess the potential impact on the regional balance of power, particularly in the Black Sea. Develop strategies to counter any potential threats and strengthen cooperation with other regional partners.
19. Address potential economic consequences: Develop strategies to mitigate any potential economic consequences for Ukraine. Seek international support to address any potential economic challenges.
20. Counter the narrative of a "bad" peace deal: Develop a communication strategy to counter the narrative of a "bad" peace deal that could weaken Ukraine and embolden Russia. Emphasize the importance of a strong and just peace that ensures Ukraine's security and territorial integrity.
21. Address the reported destruction in Toretsk: Assess the humanitarian needs of the civilian population and provide necessary assistance.
22. Leverage the "Ramstein" format: Utilize the upcoming "Ramstein" meeting to secure further military aid commitments from international partners. Advocate for the provision of advanced weapons systems, including air defense systems and long-range missiles.
23. Monitor and counter Russian drone activity: Enhance efforts to monitor and counter Russian drone activity, particularly in areas where Ukrainian forces are conducting operations. Deploy additional counter-drone systems and develop tactics to mitigate the effectiveness of Russian drones.
24. Strengthen defenses in vulnerable areas: Reinforce defenses in areas identified as vulnerable to Russian advances, such as the Kharkiv and Luhansk regions. Deploy additional troops, fortifications, and anti-tank weapons as needed.
25. Prepare for potential negotiations: While maintaining a strong military posture, remain open to the possibility of future negotiations with Russia. Develop a clear set of objectives and principles for any peace talks, and coordinate with international partners to ensure a united front.
26. Address internal political maneuvering: Address any internal political maneuvering within Ukraine that could impact the country's leadership and decision-making during the conflict. Maintain unity of command and ensure that all actions are aligned with the national interest.
27. Monitor and respond to developments in other regions: Continue to monitor the situation in other regions, such as Zaporizhzhia, and be prepared to adjust strategies and redeploy forces as needed.
28. Counter Russian propaganda: Develop a comprehensive strategy to counter Russian propaganda efforts, both domestically and internationally. Utilize various communication channels to disseminate accurate information and highlight Ukrainian successes.
29. Enhance cybersecurity measures: Strengthen cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure, communication networks, and sensitive data from cyber attacks and espionage.
30. Prepare for potential shifts in Russian strategy: Anticipate any potential shifts in Russian strategy or tactics. Monitor troop movements and deployments to identify any changes in their approach to the conflict.
31. Address the reported increase in casualties: Investigate the reasons behind the reported increase in casualties and take steps to mitigate further losses. Provide necessary medical support and ensure that troops are adequately equipped and trained.
32. Maintain diplomatic efforts: Continue to engage with international partners to maintain diplomatic pressure on Russia and secure support for Ukraine.
33. Monitor and respond to Russian naval activity: Pay close attention to Russian naval activity in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, particularly in light of the reported loss of barriers near the Crimean Bridge.
34. Address the issue of Ukrainian citizens abroad: Clarify the requirements for Ukrainian citizens turning 18 abroad to register for military service. Provide clear guidance and support to those affected.
35. Counter Russian influence operations: Develop strategies to counter Russian influence operations, such as the reported blackmail of Armenia. Work with international partners to expose and condemn such actions.
36. Prepare for potential escalation in drone warfare: Anticipate further escalation in drone warfare. Invest in counter-drone technologies and develop tactics to counter the threat posed by enemy drones.
37. Address the reported use of fiber-optic controlled drones: Develop countermeasures to address the threat posed by Russian drones equipped with fiber-optic control systems.
38. Exploit opportunities for counteroffensives: Identify and exploit opportunities for counteroffensives to regain lost territory and disrupt Russian operations.
39. Maintain pressure on Russian forces: Continue to exert pressure on Russian forces through a combination of offensive and defensive operations.
40. Strengthen cooperation with international partners: Enhance cooperation with international partners, particularly in the areas of intelligence sharing, military training, and the provision of military aid.
41. Monitor and respond to Russian air attacks: Maintain a high level of vigilance against Russian air attacks, particularly in areas where civilian infrastructure has been targeted. Deploy air defense systems and issue timely warnings to the population.
42. Address the reported use of guided aerial bombs: Develop tactics and deploy countermeasures to address the threat posed by Russian guided aerial bombs.
43. Counter Russian disinformation: Develop a proactive strategy to counter Russian disinformation campaigns. Utilize various communication channels to disseminate accurate information and debunk false narratives.
44. Maintain focus on long-term objectives: Ensure that all military operations are aligned with Ukraine's long-term strategic objectives, including the restoration of territorial integrity and the establishment of a lasting peace.
45. Address the reported use of prisoners in the Kursk region: Investigate the reports of Ukrainian prisoners being used in the Kursk region and take steps to address any potential human rights violations.
46. Monitor and respond to Russian advances in the Kharkiv region: Reinforce defenses and deploy additional troops to counter Russian advances in the Kharkiv region. Conduct reconnaissance missions to identify Russian troop concentrations and potential targets.
47. Address the reported closure of the Polish Consulate in St. Petersburg: Assess the potential impact of the closure of the Polish Consulate in St. Petersburg on diplomatic relations and consular services.
48. Monitor and respond to Russian advances in the Luhansk region: Strengthen defenses and deploy additional troops to counter Russian advances in the Luhansk region. Conduct reconnaissance missions to identify Russian troop concentrations and potential targets.
49. Address the reported drone attack on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant: Investigate the reported drone attack on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and take steps to enhance the security of the facility.
50. Monitor and respond to developments in the Kursk region: Continue to monitor the situation in the Kursk region, particularly in areas where Russian forces are making advances. Be prepared to adjust strategies and redeploy forces as needed.
51. Address the reported use of guided aerial bombs in the Dnipropetrovsk region: Deploy air defense systems and issue timely warnings to the population to counter the threat posed by Russian guided aerial bombs in the Dnipropetrovsk region.
52. Exploit the reported destruction of a Ukrainian S-300 air defense system: Investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported destruction of a Ukrainian S-300 air defense system near Malaya Loknya and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
53. Address the reported use of FAB-3000 bombs with UMPK: Develop tactics and deploy countermeasures to address the threat posed by Russian FAB-3000 bombs with UMPK.
54. Monitor and respond to developments in the Zaporizhzhia region: Continue to monitor the situation in the Zaporizhzhia region, particularly in areas where Russian forces are conducting offensive operations. Be prepared to adjust strategies and redeploy forces as needed.
55. Address the reported increase in casualties in Zaporizhzhia: Investigate the reasons behind the reported increase in casualties in Zaporizhzhia and take steps to mitigate further losses. Provide necessary medical support and ensure that troops are adequately equipped and trained