Sitrep 2025-01-17 07:56:32

Strategic Overview - January 17, 2025

The military situation in Ukraine remains critical, with Russian forces maintaining the offensive initiative across multiple fronts. Intense fighting is concentrated in the Donetsk region, particularly around Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Kurakhove. Russian forces have captured key locations such as Shevchenko, Yantarne, Ukrainka, Peschanoye, and most of Kurakhove. They are advancing towards Pokrovsk, having reportedly reached the outskirts and are now reportedly 5-7 km from the administrative border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. The situation in Toretsk is dire, with Ukrainian defenses nearly collapsed and less than 15% of the city remaining under Ukrainian control. Russian assault groups have infiltrated Ukrainian formations, and fighting is approaching its culmination with Russian forces establishing a flag in the northern part of the city, confirming their control over the northern part of Dzerzhynsk (Toretsk). In the Velyka Novosilka area, there are ongoing actions to encircle the enemy garrison. The zone of control is expanding near the settlement of Neskuchnoye, and battles are ongoing in the area of the settlement of Novy Komar. The last road for supplying Velyka Novosilka is practically under Russian control.

A Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kursk region has stalled, resulting in heavy losses. Russian forces have regained territory, making a 10-kilometer breakthrough, liberating several settlements including Alexandria, Leonidovo, Novoivanovka, and Kruglenkoye, and are advancing in the Sudzha area. There are reports of an impending decisive battle for the Kursk region, with Ukrainian forces concentrating significant resources in the Sudzha area.

In the Luhansk region, Russian forces have captured Ivanovka near Terny and are advancing towards the western border of the Luhansk People's Republic. They have also advanced 2 km northwest of Makiivka and have taken control of a forest area between the settlements, continuing to advance towards Hrekivka.

Drone warfare continues to be a dominant feature, with extensive activity across multiple regions. Ukrainian drone attacks deep inside Russian territory have been confirmed, targeting oil depots, industrial facilities, and military infrastructure. Russian forces are reportedly using new drones connected to fiber-optic cables, resistant to electronic warfare.

Key Developments

Donetsk Region

Fall of Kurakhove: Russian forces control most of Kurakhove, with Ukrainian forces holding the western part, including a thermal power plant.
Critical Situation in Toretsk: Less than 15% of Toretsk remains under Ukrainian control. Russian assault groups have infiltrated Ukrainian formations, and fighting is approaching its culmination. Russian forces have established a flag in the northern part of the city.
Russian Advances Towards Pokrovsk: Russian forces are intensifying attacks near Pokrovsk, with progress in Novovasylivka, Yelyzavetivka, and Baranovka. They have advanced to within 2300 meters of Udachne. The highway between Dymytrov (Myrnohrad) and Konstantinovka has been cut.
Shevchenko, Yantarne, and Peschanoye Captured: The Russian Ministry of Defense has officially confirmed the capture of Shevchenko and Yantarne. Russian forces have captured Peschanoye, confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Defense.
Ukrainka Liberated: Russian forces liberated Ukrainka.
Other Advances: Further Russian gains near Vozdvyzhenka, Baranivka, Solone, Slovyanka, Petropavlivka, Novoelizavetovka, and Kurakhove. Advances in Pisky and the eastern outskirts of Dachne. Gains are also reported near Chasiv Yar, Belogorovka, Ukrainka, Novyi Trud, Ivan-Daryevka, Slavyanka, Petropavlovka, Myrolyubivka, Vodyane Druhe, Zelene Pole, and Tymofiivka.
Intense Fighting: The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports particularly intense fighting in the Pokrovsky and Kurakhiv directions. Since the beginning of the day, there have been 118 combat clashes. Over the past day, there were 184 combat clashes, 77 of them in the Pokrovsk direction.
Chasiv Yar: A group of Ukrainian soldiers has reportedly become trapped in a "fire pocket" near a refractory plant in Chasiv Yar. Russian forces now control approximately 20% of the territory of the refractory plant.
Velyka Novosilka: Russian forces are completing the defeat of the enemy in Vremivka and are forming a cauldron around Velyka Novosilka.
Dnipropetrovsk Direction: Battles are ongoing across the entire direction, with particularly fierce battles near Novovasylivka - Uspenivka. Russian forces have cleared Novovasylivka and are engaged in battles to capture Uspenivka.
Ukrainian Resistance: Ukrainian forces are resisting the Russian advance, reporting the repulsion of an assault near Velyka Novosilka and pushing Russian forces out of the southern part of Novoielizavetivka.
Ukrainian Strike on Russian Command Post: Ukrainian General Staff reports a successful high-precision strike on a command post of the 8th Guards Combined Arms Army of the Russian Federation in Khartsyzk. Ukrainian General Staff reports another successful high-precision strike on a command post of the 2nd Guards Combined Arms Army of the Russian Federation in Novohrodivka, Donetsk Oblast. Ukrainian forces report a successful ambush by snipers of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) near Pokrovsk, eliminating a group of Russian soldiers.
Airspace Closure Near Horlivka-Yasynuvata Highway: Due to continuous attacks by Ukrainian forces, the highway between Horlivka and Yasynuvata has been temporarily closed to traffic.
Ballistic Missile Threat: Ukrainian Air Force reports a ballistic missile threat in the direction of Pavlohrad, Dnipropetrovsk region. A nationwide ballistic missile threat has been declared across Ukraine, but it has since been lifted in most regions except for Chernihiv, Poltava, and Kharkiv. Ukrainian Air Force reports missile threat to Kharkiv and Donetsk regions.
Reports of fighting near Kurakhovo and Andriivka: Ongoing active combat operations in the vicinity of Kurakhovo and Andriivka.
Powerful explosion in Kramatorsk: Reports of a powerful explosion in the industrial zone of Kramatorsk, with a large plume of smoke visible. The number of casualties from the Kramatorsk strike has increased to eight, including two children.
Zaporizhzhia: The number of wounded from a Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia has risen to two.
OSUV "Khortytsia" reports: On the Pokrovsk direction, Ukrainian warriors are противостоять the numerical superiority of the enemy and are preventing his attempts to develop an offensive. Fighting continues in Lysivka, Zelenyi, Shevchenko, and Novovasylivka. "As a result of the assault and fire, some of our positions were destroyed. Measures are being taken to prevent the deterioration of the tactical situation," the message states.

Kursk Region

Stalled Ukrainian Counteroffensive: The Ukrainian counteroffensive has stalled, with heavy losses reported. The intensity of the fighting in the Kursk region is being compared to the battles of Bakhmut and Avdiivka.
Renewed Russian Offensive: Russian forces have resumed offensive operations, making advances near Novaya Sorochina, between Guyevo and Kurilovka, and in the Sudzha border region. Russian forces have made a significant breakthrough, liberating Alexandria, Leonidovo, Novoivanovka, and Kruglenkoye, advancing up to 4 kilometers deep on a 10-kilometer wide front.
Intense Fighting: Intense fighting is reported in multiple locations, including Pogrebki, Orlovka, Staraya Sorochina, Novaya Sorochina, and the forests near Sverdlikovo and Lebedevka.
Makhnovka: Heavy fighting continues, with both sides present.
Sudzha Area: Russian forces are advancing, with reports of an infantry unit attacking Russkoye Porechnoye and reaching advanced positions near Kositsa. Russian forces have captured Russkoye Porechnoye and are currently assaulting Cherkasskoye Porechnoye.
Casualties: Significant Ukrainian losses are reported, with over 350 personnel lost during the day and over 50,000 since the beginning of hostilities, according to Russian sources.
Drone Warfare: Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces successfully employing a "Stugna-P" ATGM system against enemy vehicles in the region. A German Leopard 2A6 tank was destroyed in the Kursk region.
Alleged presence of Wagner Group: A video promoting recruitment for the Wagner Group has been circulated, offering high salaries and benefits for service in Ukraine and Africa.
Report on captured soldiers: The video features captured soldiers from various units, including the 83rd and 810th Brigades, suggesting these units have been heavily engaged in the Kursk region.
Disrupting Evacuation: Russian forces are reportedly disrupting a Ukrainian evacuation in the Kursk region.
Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region: Video evidence shows Russian forces capturing 13 Ukrainian soldiers from the 82nd Brigade.
Russian strikes on Ukrainian positions: Video of an FPV drone of the Russian group of troops "Sever" destroying a US-made Bradley BMP in the border area of the Kursk region.
Russian MoD: 14 January near the state border of the Russian Federation in the Kursk direction destroyed a Ukrainian special operations group.

Kharkiv Region

Russian Advances: Russian forces report advances towards Lozova and in Dvurichna.
Capture of Kalinovo: The Russian Ministry of Defense claims that Russian forces have captured Kalinovo near Kupyansk.
Ukrainian Counterattack: An attempted Ukrainian counterattack in the Staritsa area was unsuccessful.
Russian forces have reportedly destroyed the main Ukrainian forces in Zahryzove and initiated battles in Bohuslavka.
Drone Warfare: The Ukrainian Air Force reports activity of Russian drones in the Chernihiv region.
Guided Aerial Bomb Attacks: The Ukrainian Air Force reports that Russian forces are using guided aerial bombs (KAB) to attack targets in the Kharkiv region.
Russian Advance: Russian forces have reportedly reduced the distance to Ukrainian positions in Petrovske (Hrekivka) to 2km.
Clashes and Airstrikes: Clashes have been reported along the Kharkiv axis, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes at Veterynarne.

Luhansk Region

Russian Advances: Russian forces are making progress in Ivanovka and are attempting to capture heights near Terny. They are also storming Zahryzove.
Fighting in Lyman direction: Fighting has commenced in the Lyman direction.
Russian forces have reportedly advanced towards Kolodezi from Ivanivka on the Lyman axis.
Russian forces are advancing towards Lyman from the bridgehead on the right bank of the Zherebets River, having infiltrated Ukrainian positions near Kolodezi.
Russian forces have captured Ivanovka near Terny, marking a significant advance.
Following the liberation of Ivanovka, Russian troops continued their advance southward along the opposite bank of the Zherebets River from Terny.
Russian forces are advancing near Makeevka, according to pro-Russian sources.

Drone Warfare

Extensive Activity: Widespread drone activity is reported, with both sides using drones for reconnaissance, targeting, and attacks.
Confirmed Attack in Engels: A Ukrainian drone attack on an industrial facility in Engels, deep inside Russian territory, has been confirmed. The oil depot has been burning for 5 days.
New Drone Technology: Reports indicate that Russian forces are increasingly using drones connected to fiber-optic cables, which are resistant to electronic warfare.
New Drone Activity: Reports of drone movements across multiple oblasts, including Zhytomyr, Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Kirovohrad, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Cherkasy, Vinnytsia, Odesa, Kherson, Kursk, Zaporizhzhia, Crimea, Voronezh, Saratov, and Lipetsk Oblasts.
Air Defense Engagements: Ukrainian air defense forces are actively engaging hostile drones, with reports of activity near Kyiv and successful interceptions. Ukrainian air defenses shot down 60 out of 94 drones overnight, with 34 classified as decoys. Ukrainian air defenses report shooting down 78 out of 110 drones launched by Russian forces overnight. 31 drones were classified as "decoys" and did not reach their targets. Ukrainian air defense forces shot down 4 "Shahed" drones over Mykolaiv Oblast overnight. Debris from one of the downed drones damaged several houses in Voznesensk. Ukrainian air defense forces shot down 2 drones over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast overnight.
Drone attack on Tula Oblast: The Tula region is reportedly under a massive attack by Ukrainian drones. Air defenses are active, and preliminary reports indicate that aerial targets have been destroyed. There are no reports of casualties. The new messages detail a battle in Tula Oblast, with the Russian army repelling an enemy attack in Aleksin. 17 drones have been confirmed to have been shot down over Tula Oblast, according to the regional governor. A fire broke out in a military hospital in Tula, Russia, with reports of 57 people evacuated. The cause is unknown, but some sources suggest an electrical fault. There are conflicting reports on whether the building is a hospital or a clinic.
Iran's Drone Capabilities: A video from the "Colonelcassad" Telegram channel showcases a large number of Iranian drones, reportedly with a range of over 2000 km and stealth capabilities.
Drone Attack on Kazan Confirmed: A drone attack on Kazan has been confirmed, with reports of a large fire near the "Kazan Orgsintez" plant. The plant is a major producer of high-strength plastics. The attack reportedly targeted a liquefied gas base.
New Drone Launch System: ZALA has introduced a new compact and lightweight launch system for the "Lancet" series, specifically for the largest type, "Product 51". This system can be carried by a single operator and deployed in under a minute. It has been tested in combat and is in serial production.
Alleged Attempted Poisoning near Yaroslavl: The FSB claims to have prevented an attempt to poison employees of a defense enterprise in the Yaroslavl region.
Drone Attack on Compressor Station: The Russian Ministry of Defense claims that Ukrainian drones attacked the "Russkaya" compressor station, which supplies gas via the "Turkish Stream" pipeline.
Air Raid Alerts: Air raid alerts have been issued in multiple regions, including Kyiv, due to the threat of Russian drones and long-range bombers. Ukrainian air defenses are actively engaging these threats.
Report of Ukrainian drone attack on "Turkish Stream" infrastructure: The "Diary of the Paratrooper" Telegram channel reports that Ukrainian forces are continuing to attack the "Turkish Stream" gas pipeline infrastructure in Anapa and Novorossiysk with drones. This, if confirmed, represents a significant escalation, targeting critical infrastructure that supplies gas to Europe.
Report of Ukrainian ATACMS strike on Russian chemical plant: Open-source information suggests that Ukrainian forces used ATACMS missiles to target the Bryansk chemical plant in Seltso. The plant's primary activity is the production of weapons and ammunition, making it a legitimate military target. The distance of about 120 km from the border is within the range of ATACMS missiles.
Drone Strikes: Video evidence of a successful Russian "Lancet" drone operator from the "Sever" group targeting a Ukrainian M-113 armored personnel carrier near Yuzhnoye in the Kursk region. Ukrainian border guards reportedly struck a Russian drone launch site in Vovchansk using drones. The "Hart" brigade carried out the operation. Video evidence shows Russian troops using an FPV drone to strike a Ukrainian group advancing at night near Makhnovka. Video evidence shows a Russian drone operator targeting a Ukrainian 2S1 "Carnation" self-propelled howitzer in the Kursk region, but the operator misses the target. Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces using drones equipped with shotguns to effectively shoot down Russian drones. The "Phoenix" unit of the "Revenge" brigade repelled an assault by occupiers near Kurdyumivka in the Bakhmut area. Video evidence shows Russian FPV drone operators targeting Ukrainian positions and vehicles in various locations. Ukrainian forces targeted and damaged a Russian T-80 tank with a drone.
Drone Shootdown: The 11th Brigade of the National Guard, specifically the "Samosud" crew, reportedly shot down a Russian Zala reconnaissance drone over Mykolaiv.

Missile Attacks

The Ukrainian Air Force reports a missile threat in areas where an air raid alert has been declared.
Ballistic missiles continue their movement south in the Kharkiv region.
Enemy bombers are approaching the launch lines.
The Ukrainian Air Force reports ballistic missiles from the Belgorod region towards the Kharkiv region.
There is a threat of ballistic missiles from the Belgorod and Voronezh regions.
A group of missiles is reported in the Sumy region, moving southwest.
Pryluki is under threat.
Ballistic missiles are reported to be heading towards Pryluki.
X-101 missiles are reported in the north.
A missile is reported to be heading from the south towards Kryvyi Rih.
Several Kalibr missiles are flying towards Novyi Buh/Kazanka, likely further into the Kirovohrad region.
A group of missiles is heading from the Kherson region to the Mykolaiv region.
A group of missiles is reported in the north of the Sumy region, moving south.
Cruise missiles have been reported via Shostka towards Konotop, likely from Tu-95ms.
A cruise missile (KR) is reported from the north of the Sumy region heading towards the Chernihiv region.

Geopolitical Developments

The EU is preparing new sanctions against Russia.
NATO is planning large-scale exercises on its eastern flank, named "Steadfast Dart," from January 13th to February 26th, involving 10,000 troops from 10 countries.
The US has threatened China with "significant consequences" for aiding Russia in the conflict with Ukraine.
NATO Drone Deployment: NATO plans to deploy a fleet of drones in the Baltic Sea and reinforce its military presence in the region.
Zelenskyy's Statement on Troop Numbers: President Zelenskyy provided updated figures on Ukrainian and Russian troop numbers, highlighting the numerical advantage of Russian forces in concentrated areas.
Report on Potential Trump-Putin Meeting: Reports suggest a potential phone call between Putin and Trump after January 20th and a possible face-to-face meeting in the spring, without Zelensky's participation.
US-China Tensions: The US has threatened China with "significant consequences" for aiding Russia.
Croatian Presidential Election: Pro-Russian incumbent Zoran Milanović reportedly won the Croatian presidential election with 77.70% of the vote.
German Party's Stance: The German party "Union of Sarah Wagenknecht - For Reason and Justice" adopted an election program calling for the resumption of supplies of Russian gas and a truce in Ukraine.
Poland-Slovakia Relations: The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the refusal to allow a special Slovak aircraft to enter Russian airspace was due to incomplete documentation.
Report on Potential Hostage Release Deal in Gaza: The Times of Israel reports on a potential deal to release hostages held in Gaza, with negotiations involving Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar. Hamas has reportedly presented new demands that Israel finds unacceptable.
Diplomatic: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated that Russia is ready to discuss security guarantees for the country currently called Ukraine, but the Eurasian context will be paramount in any agreements. Lavrov also criticized Germany and Japan for their subservience to the US.
Report on Polish Stance on Sending Troops to Ukraine: Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk indicated that Poland is not currently prepared to send troops to Ukraine.
The Slovak opposition plans to announce a vote of no confidence in the government of Robert Fico.
Iranian President Arrives in Moscow: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has arrived in Moscow for an official visit. A comprehensive strategic partnership agreement is expected to be signed.
EU Reportedly Buying Record Volumes of Russian Gas: Despite the suspension of pipeline supplies, Europe is reportedly purchasing record volumes of Russian LNG, according to Politico.
US State Department: New sanctions against Russia are more effective than recognizing it as a state sponsor of terrorism.
Vice-Speaker of the Slovak Parliament: Compared Biden and Zelensky to "dying horses," stating that "We have a proverb about a horse that buries itself even more when it dies. We saw this in the example of US President Joe Biden's decisions when he decided to pardon his son and allowed the use of missiles [for strikes deep into Russia]. This is how Zelensky behaves now. He understands that this situation will not last long."
Only Putin and Trump can resolve the Ukrainian issue, stated the Vice-Speaker of the Slovak Parliament, Andrei Danko.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany: Criticized the government of Scholz for blocking additional aid to Ukraine.
Representatives of Israel, Hamas, the USA, and Qatar: Have officially signed an agreement in Doha on the exchange of hostages for prisoners and a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Other Developments

There is one enemy ship in the Black Sea, which is a carrier of Kalibr cruise missiles with a total volley of up to 4 missiles. There are no enemy ships in the Azov Sea. In the Mediterranean Sea, there are 7 enemy ships, 2 of which are carriers of Kalibr cruise missiles with a total volley of up to 22 missiles.
100-Year Partnership Agreement: Ukraine and the UK signed an agreement for a 100-year partnership, focusing on military cooperation, particularly in maritime security in the Baltic, Black, and Azov Seas, as well as scientific and technological partnerships.
UN Security Council Meeting: The UN Security Council met regarding Ukraine, underscoring the continued international attention on the conflict.
Zelensky's Meeting in Warsaw: President Zelensky met with the Ukrainian community in Warsaw, highlighting the importance of international support.
Western Weaponry: Reports confirm that approximately 70% of the weapons used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces come from Western partners.
Alleged Statement by Duma Defense Committee Head: The head of the Duma Defense Committee, Kartapolov, reportedly stated that there will be no general mobilization in the Russian Federation.
Prisoner Exchange in Gaza: While not directly related to Ukraine, a prisoner exchange deal in Gaza highlights the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and potential for further instability.
Propaganda and Disinformation: Various videos and statements are being used for propaganda purposes by both sides, including claims of successful attacks, captures of enemy soldiers, and alleged issues within the opposing military's command structure.
Airports Closed: The airports of Penza, Ulyanovsk, Kazan, and Saratov are closed due to drone attacks.
Explosions near Vasylkiv Airfield: Explosions have been reported near the Vasylkiv airfield in the Kyiv region.
Alleged Attempted Poisoning near Yaroslavl: The FSB claims to have prevented an attempt to poison employees of a defense enterprise in the Yaroslavl region.
Drone Attack on Compressor Station: The Russian Ministry of Defense claims that Ukrainian drones attacked the "Russkaya" compressor station, which supplies gas via the "Turkish Stream" pipeline.
Air Raid Alerts: Air raid alerts have been issued in multiple regions, including Kyiv, due to the threat of Russian drones and long-range bombers. Ukrainian air defenses are actively engaging these threats.
Report of Ukrainian drone attack on "Turkish Stream" infrastructure: The "Diary of the Paratrooper" Telegram channel reports that Ukrainian forces are continuing to attack the "Turkish Stream" gas pipeline infrastructure in Anapa and Novorossiysk with drones. This, if confirmed, represents a significant escalation, targeting critical infrastructure that supplies gas to Europe.
Report of Ukrainian ATACMS strike on Russian chemical plant: Open-source information suggests that Ukrainian forces used ATACMS missiles to target the Bryansk chemical plant in Seltso. The plant's primary activity is the production of weapons and ammunition, making it a legitimate military target. The distance of about 120 km from the border is within the range of ATACMS missiles.
Ukraine plans to produce chips: Ukraine plans to produce its own chips, requiring $1 billion for this purpose. The plan is to produce chips of sizes 180, 130, and 110 nanometers. The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a strategy for digital development and innovation until 2030. The main goals are to compete with China, the USA, and Europe in the field of chips for the defense, agricultural, and automotive sectors.
Friendly fire incident: A friendly fire incident occurred where a Russian Mi-8 helicopter was shot down. An investigation is ongoing, with questions about the responsibility of the operational duty officer and the procedures followed by the air defense crew.
Foreign fighters in Ukraine: Interviews with foreign fighters from Norway and Denmark who are fighting for Ukraine in the Zaporizhzhia direction. They emphasize their motivation to defend Ukraine and counter the Russian narrative of fighting against NATO.
Drone attacks: Reports of drone attacks on various locations, including a fire at a power plant in California and the evacuation of nearby areas.
Air defense operations: Ukrainian air defenses report shooting down a significant number of drones, with some drones not reaching their targets and others being classified as decoys.
Propaganda and disinformation: Various videos and statements are being used for propaganda purposes by both sides, including claims of successful attacks, captures of enemy soldiers, and alleged issues within the opposing military's command structure.
Airports Closed: The airports of Penza, Ulyanovsk, Kazan, and Saratov are closed due to drone attacks.
Explosions near Vasylkiv Airfield: Explosions have been reported near the Vasylkiv airfield in the Kyiv region.
Alleged Attempted Poisoning near Yaroslavl: The FSB claims to have prevented an attempt to poison employees of a defense enterprise in the Yaroslavl region.
Drone Attack on Compressor Station: The Russian Ministry of Defense claims that Ukrainian drones attacked the "Russkaya" compressor station, which supplies gas via the "Turkish Stream" pipeline.
Air Raid Alerts: Air raid alerts have been issued in multiple regions, including Kyiv, due to the threat of Russian drones and long-range bombers. Ukrainian air defenses are actively engaging these threats.
Report of Ukrainian drone attack on "Turkish Stream" infrastructure: The "Diary of the Paratrooper" Telegram channel reports that Ukrainian forces are continuing to attack the "Turkish Stream" gas pipeline infrastructure in Anapa and Novorossiysk with drones. This, if confirmed, represents a significant escalation, targeting critical infrastructure that supplies gas to Europe.
Report of Ukrainian ATACMS strike on Russian chemical plant: Open-source information suggests that Ukrainian forces used ATACMS missiles to target the Bryansk chemical plant in Seltso. The plant's primary activity
Personnel: Ukrainian MP Marianna Bezuglaya reported personnel from the Air Force are being transferred to the infantry.
Industrial Sabotage: Ukrainian forces confirmed a strike on a chemical plant in Bryansk, Russia.
Attempted Poisoning: Reports of an attempted poisoning of employees at a defense enterprise in the Yaroslavl region.
Oil Refinery Strike: Ukrainian forces conducted a strike on the Saratov oil refinery, causing a fire. A fire also broke out at a Lukoil oil refinery in the Volgograd region of Russia. While local authorities claim it was caused by internal issues, the incident adds to the list of recent fires at Russian energy facilities.
Air Alarm: An air alarm is active throughout Ukraine.
Poland: Poland raised combat aircraft due to a missile attack on Ukraine.
Fire at Electrical Substation in Kyiv: A fire has broken out at an electrical substation on Khreshchatyk Street in central Kyiv. This incident likely contributes to the ongoing power outages in the city and further strains Kyiv's already burdened energy infrastructure.
North Korean Missile Test: South Korean military reports that North Korea has launched several suspected short-range ballistic missiles.
US Political Developments: Allies of US President-elect Donald Trump have submitted a bill to "buy Greenland," titled "Make Greenland Again."
Confirmed Russian Airstrikes in Kursk Region: The new video from the Russian Ministry of Defense confirms that Russian forces are using Ka-52M helicopters to conduct airstrikes in the Kursk region.
Iran's Enhanced Drone Capabilities: The video showcasing Iran's large and diverse drone arsenal, with a reported range of over 2000 km and stealth capabilities, is a significant development.
Video Evidence of Russian Operations in Krasnolimansk Direction: A new video shows Russian forces from the 144th Motorized Rifle Division operating in the Krasnolimansk direction.
Development of Computerized Fire Control System: The "Kalashnikov" concern has reportedly developed a computerized fire control system with a scope for small arms.
Resettlement of Ukrainian Citizens in Russia: The Khabarovsk regional police have issued housing certificates to 22 Ukrainian citizens who have arrived in Russia for permanent residence.
Continued Drone Attacks on Russian Territory: Ukrainian drones continue to target Russian territory, with reports of 14 drones being shot down in the Rostov region and another drone being destroyed over Tula Oblast.
Nighttime "Geranium" Drones over Kharkiv Region: A video shows nighttime "Geranium" drones operating over the Kharkiv region.
Temporary Flight Restrictions in Multiple Russian Airports: Rosaviatsia reports that temporary restrictions on the arrival and departure of aircraft have been introduced at the airports of Kazan, Kaluga, Saratov, and Tambov.
Distance Learning in Saratov Schools: The governor of Saratov has announced that classes in Saratov schools will be held remotely due to the threat of drone attacks.
Arrest of South Korean President: The former president of South Korea, Yoon Suk-yeol, has been arrested. This development could potentially impact the geopolitical situation in East Asia.
Ukrainian Military Aid: Germany has updated its list of military aid provided to Ukraine, including 20 MRAP vehicles, 600 attack drones, and various reconnaissance drones. The list also includes future deliveries of BMP Marder, APCs, MRAPs, and RCH 155 howitzers.
Casualty Reports: The Ukrainian General Staff reports 170 combat clashes over the past day, with significant enemy losses: 1,580 personnel, 13 tanks, 22 armored fighting vehicles, 52 artillery systems, 2 air defense systems, 107 operational-tactical UAVs, and 204 vehicles.
Russian Media Report: The Russian publication "Военкор Котенок" reports on a new missile strike targeting military airfields and energy facilities in multiple regions of Ukraine, including Kyiv, Volyn, Rivne, Lviv, Poltava, Dnipropetrovsk, Vinnytsia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Khmelnytskyi, and Kirovohrad. Successful strikes are claimed, particularly on a military facility in Sambir, Lviv region.
Ukrainian Air Force Report: The Ukrainian Air Force reports activity of Russian tactical aviation in the eastern direction, with a threat of the use of aviation weapons for frontline areas.
Alleged Bribery Attempt by Ukrainian Intelligence: The FSB claims that Ukrainian military intelligence offered $1 million to Russian soldiers to abandon their positions near Horlivka. The FSB claims to have thwarted these plans and used the $100,000 advance payment to purchase equipment for Russian units.
Damage in Kirovohrad Region: Ukrainian authorities report damage to windows of several residential buildings in the Kirovohrad region as a result of a downed drone.
Daily Minute of Silence in Ukraine: Ukraine holds a daily minute of silence at 9:00 AM to honor those killed in the war.
Fundraising Campaign for Ukrainian Forces: A fundraising campaign is underway to purchase field cots for several Ukrainian units, including the 109th Brigade, 143rd Brigade, and the 1st Assault Battalion. The goal is to raise 572,000 hryvnias.
Damage to Ukrainian Energy Infrastructure: Ukrainian authorities confirm that energy infrastructure was targeted in the recent attacks, with emergency power outages implemented in six regions.
Air Raid Alerts Lifted in Most of Ukraine: Air raid alerts have been lifted in most regions of Ukraine, except for Zaporizhzhia.
Reports from WarGonzo, FSB, and "Дневник Десантника" confirm the Ukrainian attempt to bribe Russian soldiers near Horlivka. The FSB claims to have thwarted the plan, using the $100,000 advance payment to purchase equipment for Russian units.
The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War announced that relatives of those missing in special circumstances can now receive a deferment from mobilization. They need to obtain an extract from the Unified Register of Persons Missing in Special Circumstances.
Emergency power outages are being lifted in several regions of Ukraine, including Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Kirovohrad, and Poltava.
Internet Disruptions in Russia: Damage to a main cable in Tatarstan has led to internet speed reductions for 3.8 million Russians in 21 regions.
New Honorary Titles for Russian Cities: Putin awarded the title of "City of Labor Valor" to seven Russian cities.
Report on Potential Hostage Release Deal in Gaza: The Times of Israel reports on a potential deal to release hostages held in Gaza, with negotiations involving Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar. Hamas has reportedly presented new demands that Israel finds unacceptable.
The New York Times reported earlier that US intelligence warned the White House about Russian special services' plans to plant explosives on cargo planes bound for the US and Canada.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that Russia planned terror attacks on aircraft of various airlines around the world.
The US has imposed sanctions on about 250 individuals and legal entities for their ties to Russia, according to Secretary of State Blinken.
The US Treasury also imposed sanctions on "Voentorg" and "Barnaul Transmash," which produces engines for BMPs.
South Korea will offer Ukraine to take captured soldiers from the DPRK, if the DPRK citizens themselves express the corresponding desire.
Romanian mercenaries were reportedly killed in Kiliya, Odesa region.
France conducted military exercises to prepare for the deployment of its armed forces in Ukraine, according to Intelligence Online. The exercises, named Persee, involved 3200 troops and were held in an area with topography similar to the bend of the Dnieper River north of Kyiv

Situation Report