Updated Analysis of the Military Situation in Ukraine - January 21, 2025, 15:38 UTC

Strategic Overview

The military situation in Ukraine remains highly dynamic and volatile, with Russian forces maintaining offensive pressure across multiple fronts. The Donetsk region continues to be the focal point of intense fighting, with Russian forces making incremental gains around Pokrovsk and Velyka Novosilka. The situation in Toretsk is particularly critical, with unconfirmed reports suggesting a complete Russian victory, although this requires verification. The stalled Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kursk region, coupled with ongoing drone warfare, including attacks deep inside Russia, further complicates the situation. The Ukrainian Air Force reports continued launches of guided aerial bombs by Russian tactical aviation towards the Kherson, Donetsk, and Sumy regions, as well as repeated ballistic missile launches towards Kryvyi Rih. Reports of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announcing the start of a military operation called "Iron Wall" in Jenin, West Bank, and the resignation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, Herzi Halevi, and the Commander of the Southern Military District, Yaron Finkelman, following the Hamas attack on October 7, add a new layer of complexity to the geopolitical landscape.

Key Developments

Donetsk Region

Toretsk: The situation remains highly fluid, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that the last stronghold of Ukrainian forces in Toretsk has fallen. However, these reports require verification. If confirmed, the loss of Toretsk would mark a significant Russian advance.
Pokrovsk: Russian forces are within 10 kilometers of the city and continue efforts to encircle it. They have reportedly cut the penultimate railway line to Pokrovsk. The city hospital is being relocated to Kryvyi Rih, suggesting preparations for a potential siege. Ukrainian forces are attempting to use drones to target Russian troops in a ruined structure in an effort to save Pokrovsk.
Kurakhove: Most of Kurakhove is reportedly under Russian control, with fighting ongoing near Hryshyno. Russian forces continue clearing operations in liberated territory on the Kurakhove direction. Russian forces report destroying a group of Ukrainian forces during a retreat using drones.
Velyka Novosilka: Russian forces are closing in on the city from three directions, with the last supply road under their control. Ukrainian forces in the area face a difficult situation. A video was shared showing drone footage of multiple explosions in a rural area near Velyka Novosilka, with the caption indicating that the "Smuglyanka" unit is adjusting strikes and guiding pilots.
Chasiv Yar: Russian forces have captured around half of the city's urban area, including the Novyi district, and are engaged in fighting in the Severnyi district. They have also cleared the basements and workshops of the Chasiv Yar Refractory Plant and control approximately 20% of its territory.
Kramatorsk: The city experienced a powerful explosion in the industrial zone, with the number of casualties rising to eight. Kramatorsk is also experiencing power outages.
Zaporizhzhia: A drone was reported flying towards Zaporizhzhia from Dnipropetrovsk, but an air raid alert has been lifted.
The Ukrainian Air Force reports a threat of guided aerial bombs (KAB) in the direction of Kostiantynivka (Donetsk region).

Kursk Region

Stalled Counteroffensive: The Ukrainian counteroffensive has stalled, resulting in heavy losses.
Russian Advances: Russian forces have liberated several settlements and are advancing in the Sudzha area. They report capturing Nikolayevo-Daryino.
Intense Fighting: Reports indicate ongoing active fighting, with Ukrainian forces concentrating significant resources in the Sudzha area.
Heavy Losses: Ukrainian forces have suffered heavy casualties, estimated at up to 48,000.
Drone Warfare: Ukrainian forces used drones to record the bodies of North Korean and Russian troops in Kursk Oblast. Video evidence shows a Russian drone operator targeting and destroying a hidden NATO armored vehicle during an assault on Cherkasskoye Porechnoye. Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces using drones to clear an area of Russian soldiers near Glubokoye. Video evidence shows Russian drone pilots engaging a target in the border area. Ukrainian forces, particularly the 47th Mechanized Brigade "Magura" in collaboration with the 82nd Airborne Assault Brigade, repelled a major mechanized assault by Russian forces in the region. Russian forces report that they are continuing to neutralize a Ukrainian group that entered Russian territory. Ukrainian forces report destroying a Russian column of armored vehicles near the border between Kursk and Sumy regions using drones. A video was shared showing drone footage of multiple explosions in a rural area, with the caption indicating that the "Smuglyanka" unit is adjusting strikes and guiding pilots. An image was shared showing a military patch with the word "СКАЛА" (ROCK) and a drone silhouette.
North Korean Involvement: South Korean intelligence reports that 300 North Korean soldiers have been killed in the Kursk region. Ukrainian forces report the capture of a North Korean soldier.
Russian forces report finding the mutilated bodies of elderly people in Russkoe Porechnoe. Refugees from the Kursk region are protesting and demanding a meeting with the acting governor.
Russian forces report attacking actions and advances towards Nikolsky and Kurilovka.

Kharkiv Region

Clashes and Airstrikes: Clashes are reported along the Kharkiv axis, with Russian airstrikes targeting several settlements.
Drone Attacks: The Ukrainian Air Force reports a threat of Russian drone attacks in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts. A Russian drone reportedly attacked the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv, injuring one person.
Explosions in Kharkiv: Explosions were reported in Kharkiv and Chuhuiv districts. A fire broke out in a two-story building in the Vysochansk community due to a Russian attack.
Russian Advance: Russian forces report advances towards Lozova and in Dvurichna.
The Ukrainian Air Force reports that the city of Borova in the Kharkiv region is under threat of a guided aerial bomb (KAB) attack, and that enemy tactical aviation is launching guided aerial bombs in Sumy and the east of Kharkiv region.
Kupiansk is under renewed heavy shelling, with reports of deteriorating security conditions. The enemy is using various weapons, including drones and multiple rocket launchers.
The Kharkiv region is among the top three regions in Ukraine in terms of participation in the "National Cashback" program.

Luhansk Region

Russian Advances: Russian forces have captured Ivanovka and are advancing towards the western border of the Luhansk People's Republic. They have also advanced northwest of Makiivka. Russian forces have reportedly taken the heights behind Makiivka (LPR).
Borova Direction: Ukrainian forces have established positions northeast and east of Zelenyi Hai.
Encirclement Attempt: Russian forces are reportedly attempting to encircle a Ukrainian grouping near Nadiia.
Russian forces have dislodged Ukrainian units from a strategic height near Makiivka in the LPR.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reports that units of the "West" group have liberated Novoyehorivka in the LPR.

Drone Warfare

Extensive Activity: Reports of numerous drone attacks across various regions, with new groups of attack drones reported and specific movements detailed. Video evidence shows Russian FPV drones, equipped with fiber optics, destroying a Ukrainian Leopard tank and a stronghold. Ukrainian forces report using drones to hunt Russian infantry near Kupyansk.
New Drone Technology: Reports indicate that Russian forces are using drones connected to fiber-optic cables, which are more resistant to electronic warfare.
Smolensk Under Attack: Multiple sources report a series of explosions in Smolensk, with at least seven powerful explosions reported. The target is believed to be the Yartsevo oil refinery. Ukrainian drones reportedly attacked the Smolensk Aviation Plant.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reports that over the past day, air defense systems intercepted 17 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in various regions, including LPR, DPR, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that air defense forces shot down three Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over the Black Sea off the coast of the Crimean Peninsula.
Ukrainian forces utilized drones to target and destroy Russian military equipment and personnel.
Ukrainian forces report using drones to destroy Russian drones.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported the end of the threat of airstrikes in the southern regions.

Missile Attacks

Reports of a new guided aviation missile heading towards Lebedyn and Poltava.
Reports of repeated ballistic missile launches towards Kryvyi Rih.

Geopolitical Developments

The US State Department claims that new sanctions against Russia are more effective than recognizing it as a state sponsor of terrorism.
The Vice-Speaker of the Slovak Parliament compared Biden and Zelensky to "dying horses" and stated that only Putin and Trump can resolve the Ukrainian issue.
A TASS report states that an agreement between Russia and Iran includes aspects of defense and security.
Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that Ukraine no longer exists without Western financial support.
President of Panama, Jose Raul Mulino, states that the Panama Canal belongs to Panama and will remain under Panamanian control.
Zelensky met with the speaker of the Lithuanian parliament to discuss continued support for Ukraine.
Supporters of Donald Trump gathered near the Capitol to show their support. The center of Washington is cordoned off by police and the National Guard.
Donald Trump has stated his intention to pardon many of those convicted for participating in the storming of the Capitol.
The US Senate confirmed Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.
Trump will cancel the freeze on the supply of powerful bombs to Israel, according to media reports.
Zelensky is ready for a deal to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, said Donald Trump.
Marco Rubio stated that Ukraine and Russia must "give up something" to end the war.
Senator Marco Rubio was officially approved as head of the US State Department.
Donald Trump said he plans to meet with Vladimir Putin, but did not specify a date.
Donald Trump said the US has a right to half of TikTok.
Donald Trump signed a decree to create a structure in the US headed by Elon Musk to improve the efficiency of the government.
Donald Trump, in the Oval Office, told reporters that he plans to meet with Vladimir Putin after the relevant negotiations are established, adding that the process is already underway. He also expressed his intention to achieve an end to the Russian-Ukrainian war.
Trump signed a law to stop aid to foreign countries for 90 days. This law also affects Ukraine.
Trump signed a decree to abolish birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants.
Donald Trump began the first day of his presidency by signing decrees on energy, immigration policy, and national security, canceling a number of decisions of the Joe Biden administration.
The US has officially exited the WHO and the Paris Climate Agreement.
French President Macron stated that the conflict in Ukraine will not end in the near future and that Europe must be at the negotiating table. He also called for increased recruitment of volunteers into the French army.
Russia expects that Trump and the leadership of Panama, during discussions, will respect the current international legal regime of the Panama Canal, stated Ryabkov to TASS.
The flag above the US Embassy in Moscow was raised by order of Trump.
Trump has suspended US aid to other countries for 90 days to conduct checks to determine whether they are in line with his political goals.
Armenia has no intention of leaving the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), as participation in the organization provides economic benefits, stated the Speaker of the Parliament, Alen Simonyan.
BRICS is strong enough to withstand the threats of the new US President, stated the Russian Ambassador to Indonesia.
Putin and Xi Jinping held a video conference. This is their second contact in the last few days.
The Russian Foreign Ministry reports that Russia and China have reached an unprecedented level of relations and are ready to cooperate to create a more just multipolar world order.
Negotiations between Putin and Xi Jinping are ongoing, Peskov told TASS.
Lavrov will meet with the State Duma Committee on International Affairs before the government hour with the participation of the Minister, stated the head of the committee, Leonid Slutsky, to TASS.
The State Duma is considering imposing harsher penalties for extremism, with criminal liability potentially applying even for first-time offenses committed online, possibly leading to up to five years in prison.
The Russian Ministry of Justice's proposal to toughen penalties for "extremism" has been approved by the government commission.
The US is preparing to deploy nuclear weapons in the UK for the first time in 15 years, according to The Telegraph.
Lavrov is visiting Armenia.
US President Trump signed a decree to reinstate the death penalty at the federal level in the US and ordered all states to be provided with a sufficient amount of the drug for lethal injections.
On the US border, migrants are no longer allowed to enter. Immediately after taking the oath, Donald Trump ordered the shutdown of the CBP One border crossing application, which allowed migrants to legally enter the United States and obtain work permits.
Putin and Xi Jinping had an extensive and friendly conversation, which lasted 1 hour 35 minutes, Ushakov said. They discussed the situation around Ukraine and the countries' relations with the United States, taking into account Trump's coming to power.
Negotiations with the United States will take place when the Trump administration receives appropriate signals, said the aide to the Russian president.
China invited Putin to celebrate in Beijing in September 2025 the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japan and the end of World War II, Ushakov said.
A Ukrainian parliament member from the "Servant of the People" party, Ruslan Horbenko, stated that Ukraine may lose the Donetsk region by the end of 2027 if the level of support from partners remains the same. He also mentioned that Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions could be under threat if the pace of the enemy's advance does not change.
Ukrainian and US officials are reportedly planning to hold talks in early February during a "Ukrainian Week" event in Washington, D.C. The leader of the "Servant of the People" faction, Davyd Arakhamia, stated that these talks will involve discussions with the new Trump team.
A phone call between Zelensky and Trump may take place within a week, according to Ukrainian sources.
EU will continue economic sanctions against Russia for another 6 months.
Zelensky stated that Europe needs to be more active and do more long-term work to ensure true energy independence, and that it is wrong to continue buying gas from Moscow while expecting security guarantees, assistance, and support from the Americans.
Zelensky stated that Europe should have a place at the table when agreements on war and peace are made, not just be an observer.
Zelensky stated that there are currently 608,000 Russian troops in Ukraine, three times more than at the beginning of 2022. He also mentioned that 40% of the aid to Ukrainian troops on the battlefield is Ukrainian production, about 40% is from the US, and a little less than the US is from Europe.
Zelensky stated that Putin will demand a fivefold reduction in the Ukrainian army, but Ukraine will not allow this. He also believes that Putin will pressure the US to ensure Ukraine does not join NATO and pressure all allies to pressure Kyiv.
Zelensky named Ukraine's strategy on the path to peace, emphasizing the need for strong security guarantees that would prevent Putin from returning with war.
Head of the Russian General Staff, Valery Gerasimov, visited a tank division and a motorized rifle brigade of the "Center" group of forces in the Krasnoarmeysk direction, presented state awards, and received reports from commanders.
The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported that a course on operational law was organized for representatives of the legal service of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Reports of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announcing the start of a military operation called "Iron Wall" in Jenin, West Bank.
Reports of the resignation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, Herzi Halevi, and the Commander of the Southern Military District, Yaron Finkelman, following the Hamas attack on October 7.
The Moldovan authorities are actively building a new military base near the village of Bacioi, close to the airport and the capital, Chisinau. The base is expected to be completed by 2028, with major structures operational by the end of 2025. The project is worth 17.6 million euros, with 9.2 million euros already allocated for 2024-2025. The base is located 25 km from the border with Transnistria.
An image was shared depicting the militarization of Moldova, with the construction of a new military base near Chisinau.
Russian President Putin expressed condolences to Turkish President Erdogan in connection with a fire at a ski resort.
A report questioned the source of information about Russia's alleged one million deaths in the conflict, citing Trump's inconsistent statements.
Reports that the Bryansk Chemical Plant is still functioning.
Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that Europe must take a seat at the table when agreements on war and peace are made, not just post on social media after the fact.
Russian forces have reportedly taken the heights behind Makiivka (LPR).
Reports of the killing of elderly civilians in the Kursk region, with calls for the perpetrators to be found and punished.
A survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KMIS) showed that 32% of Ukrainians have a xenophobic attitude towards Russian citizens and 17% towards Russian-speaking people.
The former deputy head of the Investigative Committee for the Investigation of Organized Crime, Izbenko, is accused of embezzling funds during the investigation of the Tu-134 crash near Petrozavodsk. He partially admitted his guilt.
An image was shared of President Zelensky speaking at the World Economic Forum.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov, visited a tank division and a motorized rifle brigade of the "Center" group of forces in the Krasnoarmeysk direction.
An image was shared of an advanced training course on operational law for representatives of the legal service of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Images were shared of a presentation on operational law.
An image was shared of President Zelensky speaking at the World Economic Forum, with the caption stating that there are currently 608,000 Russian troops in Ukraine.
Israel has reportedly begun a new military operation on the West Bank, called "Iron Wall."
An image was shared of a map of the Levant region, with a red pin marker in the West Bank.
A video was shared showing heavy machinery operating in an urban environment.
A video was shared showing Ukrainian forces targeting Russian troops in a ruined structure using a drone.
A video was shared showing drone footage of multiple explosions in a rural area.
An image was shared of the Oval Office, with two different views showing the seating area and the main desk.
A video was shared showing a Russian airstrike on a target in Martynovka, reportedly hitting a temporary deployment point and equipment hangar.
Cuba has been returned to the list of state sponsors of terrorism by the US.
Reports of atrocities committed by Ukrainian forces against civilians in Russkoye Porechnoye.
Reports of an attack on the Bryansk chemical plant.
Another image was shared of President Zelensky speaking at the World Economic Forum.
Reports of the murder of civilians in the Kursk region being called a genocide.
A video was shared of refugees from the Kursk region protesting and demanding a meeting with the acting governor.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported the end of the threat of airstrikes in the southern regions.
Oleksandr Kots reported that Zelensky expressed doubt that Europe would participate in peace talks on Ukraine and criticized the US for not worrying about whether Europe would remain an ally.
A video was shared of Zelensky in Davos stating that Putin will return with an army ten times larger for the full occupation of all former Soviet countries if security is not ensured now.
Reports of two officials from a municipal enterprise in Dnipro being exposed for embezzling over 2 million UAH from the budget.
An image was shared showing a person handling documents in an office, with the National Police logo visible.
Another image was shared showing a group of people in a hallway, with one person holding a firearm.
A video was shared of Semyon Pegov and a Donetsk banya master, Georgievich.
Reports that the Kharkiv region is among the top three regions in Ukraine in terms of participation in the "National Cashback" program.
An image was shared showing data on the number of manufacturing and seller enterprises in the Kharkiv region.
A video was shared showing a group of people protesting in Kursk, demanding a meeting with the acting governor.
A video was shared showing drone footage of multiple explosions in a rural area, with the caption indicating that the "Smuglyanka" unit is adjusting strikes and guiding pilots.
An image was shared showing a military patch with the word "СКАЛА" (ROCK) and a drone silhouette.
A video was shared showing drone footage of an individual being targeted by indirect fire in an open area.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported launches of guided aerial bombs by enemy tactical aviation towards the Kherson region and the city of Kherson.
Another image was shared of President Zelensky speaking at the World Economic Forum, stating that Putin will demand a fivefold reduction of the Ukrainian army.
A video was shared allegedly showing soldiers from a battalion of the 20th Guards Combined Arms Army being sent to the front lines with serious injuries.
An image was shared promoting a live stream with Yuriy Butusov on how to save Pokrovsk and Pavlograd.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported continued launches of guided aerial bombs by enemy tactical aviation towards Donetsk and Sumy regions.
Another image was shared of President Zelensky speaking at the World Economic Forum, discussing Ukraine's strategy on the path to peace.
A video was shared of President Zelensky speaking at the World Economic Forum, discussing the need for strong security guarantees for Ukraine.
A video was shared showing drone footage of Russian forces reportedly clearing liberated territory on the Kurakhove direction.
A video from "Радіо Свобода" shows satellite images of an oil depot in the Tula region that was hit by a drone on the night of January 18. At least one fuel tank was damaged.

Updated Situation

The military situation in Ukraine remains highly volatile, with Russian forces maintaining offensive pressure across multiple fronts. The Donetsk region remains the focal point of intense fighting, with Russian forces making incremental gains around Pokrovsk and Velyka Novosilka. The situation in Toretsk is particularly critical, with unconfirmed reports suggesting a complete Russian victory. The stalled Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kursk region and the ongoing drone warfare, including attacks deep inside Russia, further complicate the situation. The potential meeting between Trump and Putin adds another layer of uncertainty to the conflict's future. Ukrainian forces continue to resist, inflicting significant losses on Russian troops and equipment, but the overall situation remains challenging. The reported Ukrainian losses of 1690 personnel, 10 tanks, 42 armored vehicles, 19 artillery systems, 3 air defense systems, 153 UAVs, 87 vehicles, and 6 units of special equipment highlight the intensity of the fighting. The reported destruction of Ukrainian air defense systems (two Buk-M3 and two Tor-M2) in the south is also a significant development. The involvement of North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region, as reported by South Korean intelligence and Ukrainian sources, adds a new dimension to the conflict, suggesting a potential expansion of foreign involvement on the Russian side. The geopolitical developments, particularly the comments from the Slovak Parliament's Vice-Speaker, highlight the increasingly complex international landscape surrounding the conflict. The new reports of drone movements, especially in the Zhytomyr, Vinnytsia, Chernihiv, Cherkasy, Poltava, and Sumy regions, indicate a continued threat to these areas. The Ukrainian Air Force's alerts highlight the ongoing danger posed by these drones. The new reports about Putin's conversation with Xi Jinping and his potential meeting with Trump, as well as China's invitation to Putin to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japan, are significant geopolitical developments. The new statements from Ukrainian officials about potential territorial losses and upcoming talks with the Trump team underscore the urgency and uncertainty facing Ukraine. The reported repelling of a major Russian assault in the Kursk region by Ukrainian forces, particularly the 47th Mechanized Brigade and the 82nd Airborne Assault Brigade, is a significant tactical victory for Ukraine. This successful defense, involving the destruction of numerous enemy vehicles and personnel, demonstrates the effectiveness of Ukrainian forces in utilizing combined arms tactics, particularly the integration of artillery, infantry, and drones. The renewed heavy shelling of Kupiansk and the reported worsening security situation there are concerning developments. The use of various weapons, including drones and multiple rocket launchers, highlights the intensity of the Russian attacks in the area. The new video from "Радіо Свобода" showing satellite images of an oil depot in the Tula region that was hit by a drone on the night of January 18 is significant. The report that at least one fuel tank was damaged indicates a successful Ukrainian strike deep inside Russian territory. This attack further demonstrates Ukraine's ability to target critical infrastructure far beyond the front lines.

Recommendations

Reinforce Pokrovsk and Toretsk: Urgently deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to Pokrovsk and Toretsk to counter the Russian advance. Prioritize the defense of Pokrovsk to prevent further Russian advances in the Donetsk region. Given the unconfirmed reports of a Russian victory in Toretsk, a thorough assessment of the situation on the ground is needed before determining the appropriate course of action. If Toretsk has indeed fallen, focus should shift to reinforcing Pokrovsk and establishing new defensive lines.
Enhance Counter-Drone Capabilities: Prioritize the deployment of advanced counter-drone systems and develop tactics to mitigate the effectiveness of Russian FPV drones, including the new fiber-optic-controlled drones. Deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming drones in Sumy, Chernihiv, and Poltava Oblasts.
Secure Critical Infrastructure: Enhance the protection of critical infrastructure, particularly energy facilities and gas storage facilities, to prevent potential catastrophic incidents.
Strengthen International Support: Seek further military and financial assistance from international partners to sustain the war effort. Emphasize the need for advanced weapons systems, including long-range missiles, air defense systems, and counter-drone technology.
Counter Russian Information Operations: Counter Russian disinformation and propaganda efforts by providing accurate and timely information to the public.
Address the Situation in Kursk: Given the significant losses and stalled counteroffensive, reassess the strategy in the Kursk region. Consider redeploying forces to more critical areas if necessary.
Verify North Korean Involvement: Investigate the reports of captured North Korean soldiers and gather intelligence on the extent of North Korean involvement in the conflict.
Prepare for Increased Missile Attacks: Enhance air defense systems and early warning capabilities to counter the threat of Russian ballistic and cruise missile attacks.
Address the Psychological Impact on Children: Develop programs and initiatives to address the psychological impact of the conflict on children, particularly in areas close to the front lines.
Exploit Russian Weaknesses: Capitalize on any internal disagreements or conflicting narratives within Russian media, as well as the reported issues with Russian logistics and vehicle maintenance.
Counter New Russian Tactics in Kursk: Given the reported shift in Russian tactics to using larger groups for assaults in the Kursk region, adjust Ukrainian defenses accordingly. Deploy additional infantry units, anti-tank weapons, and machine gun nests to counter these massed attacks. Utilize artillery and HIMARS to target troop concentrations and disrupt Russian advances.
Stabilize the Front: Address the issues highlighted regarding the difficulties in stabilizing the front. Improve coordination between units, particularly the newly formed brigades, and ensure that defensive positions are strategically advantageous.
Protect Civilian Infrastructure: Given the repeated targeting of civilian infrastructure, enhance measures to protect these areas. Deploy additional air defense systems around major cities and critical infrastructure to mitigate the impact of Russian airstrikes and drone attacks.
Increase Diplomatic Efforts: Continue engaging with international partners to secure additional military and financial aid. Highlight the need for advanced weaponry, particularly air defense systems, to counter Russian air superiority and protect civilian populations.
Enhance Reconnaissance and Intelligence: Improve reconnaissance capabilities to better anticipate Russian movements and intentions. Utilize drones and other surveillance technologies to monitor enemy positions and movements, particularly in the Donetsk and Kursk regions.
Address Logistical Challenges: Ensure that supply lines remain open and secure, particularly for fuel, ammunition, and medical supplies. Address the reported issues with vehicle maintenance and repair.
Address the Desertion Crisis: Investigate the reasons behind the high desertion rates and take immediate steps to address the underlying issues. This may involve improving conditions for soldiers, addressing morale problems, and ensuring effective leadership.
Improve Communication and Training: Address the captured soldier's concerns about poor communication and training within the Ukrainian military. Implement measures to improve communication channels and provide better training to soldiers, particularly new recruits.
Counter the Drone Threat: Develop strategies to counter drone attacks on Russian territory and protect Ukrainian territory from similar attacks. This may involve deploying additional air defense systems, improving early warning capabilities, and enhancing electronic warfare capabilities to jam or intercept incoming drones.
Prepare for Further Drone Attacks: Given the continued drone activity across multiple regions in Ukraine and the new attacks on Engels, maintain a high level of readiness and ensure that air defense systems are operational and prepared to engage incoming drones.
Enhance Cooperation with International Partners: Share information about the drone attacks with international partners and seek their assistance in developing counter-drone technologies and strategies.
Diplomatic Pressure: Increase diplomatic efforts to highlight the complexities of the conflict and the need for a balanced approach.
Monitor and Respond to Drone Activity: Maintain vigilance and continue to monitor drone activity across all regions. Ensure that air defense systems are on high alert and prepared to engage incoming drones.
Address the Drone Threat in Chernihiv, Poltava, and Dnipropetrovsk: Deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming drones. Issue public alerts and ensure that civilians are aware of the threat and know how to respond.
Monitor North Korean Missile Tests: Pay close attention to North Korea's missile tests and assess their potential impact on the conflict in Ukraine. Coordinate with South Korea and other allies to monitor the situation and develop appropriate responses.
Assess US Political Developments: Analyze the potential implications of the proposed bill to "buy Greenland" and its impact on US foreign policy and strategic interests. Consider how this move might affect US-Russia relations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Develop a Strategy to Counter Iran's Drone Capabilities: Given the reported advancements in Iran's drone technology, develop a comprehensive strategy to counter this threat. This could involve diplomatic efforts to prevent the transfer of these drones to Russia, as well as enhancing Ukraine's own drone and counter-drone capabilities.
Prepare for Potential Escalation near Velyka Novoselka: Reinforce Ukrainian positions in the area and prepare for a possible Russian offensive. Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and artillery to the region and develop contingency plans for responding to a Russian breakthrough.
Respond to the Attacks on Engels and Kazan: Investigate the attacks on Engels and the reported fire at the "Orgsintez" plant in Kazan. Determine the extent of the damage and assess the impact on Russian military and industrial capabilities. Develop strategies to counter similar attacks in the future and enhance the protection of critical infrastructure.
Address the Humanitarian Situation: Given the reports of civilian casualties from Ukrainian attacks, provide necessary assistance to affected populations and ensure the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
Counter Drone Attacks on Russian Airports: Develop strategies to counter these attacks and protect civilian air travel. This may involve deploying additional air defense systems around airports, improving early warning capabilities, and enhancing electronic warfare capabilities to jam or intercept incoming drones.
Support the EU's Ban on Russian Gas Imports: Work with countries to develop a coordinated strategy for reducing reliance on Russian energy. Explore alternative sources of gas and accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.
Monitor the Situation in Vasylkiv: Gather intelligence on the extent of the damage and assess any potential impact on Ukrainian air operations. Deploy additional air defense systems to the area to protect against further attacks.
Analyze the Strategic Partnership between Armenia and the US: Assess the potential implications of the strategic partnership document to be signed between Armenia and the US. Consider how this agreement might affect the regional balance of power and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Prepare for Further Attacks on Engels: Reinforce defenses around the city and the industrial facility. Deploy additional air defense systems, improve early warning capabilities, and enhance electronic warfare capabilities to jam or intercept incoming drones.
Exploit Ukrainian Military Information: Utilize the information provided by the Ukrainian General Staff regarding enemy losses to inform strategic decisions. Assess the impact of these losses on the enemy's combat capabilities and adjust Ukrainian strategies accordingly.
Analyze Russian Claims: Scrutinize the claims made by Russian military sources, such as the advance in the Petrovske area and the introduction of the new ZALA "Lancet" launch system, to determine their accuracy and potential implications for Ukrainian operations.
Prepare for Guided Aerial Bomb Attacks: Given the reported use of guided aerial bombs by Russian forces, enhance Ukrainian air defenses in Sumy and Kharkiv regions to counter this threat.
Address the Capture of North Korean Soldiers: Investigate the reported capture of North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region and assess the implications of their involvement in the conflict. Determine whether this represents a broader pattern of North Korean support for Russian forces.
Counter Russian Advances in the Sudzha Area: Deploy reinforcements to the Sudzha area to halt the Russian advance and stabilize the front. Utilize artillery and air support to target Russian troop concentrations and disrupt their supply lines.
Respond to the Drone Attack on the Shevchenkivskyi District: Investigate the drone attack on the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv and assess the damage caused. Enhance air defenses in the area to prevent further attacks and protect civilian populations.
Address the Fire in the Vysochansk Community: Investigate the fire in the two-story building in the Vysochansk community and determine the cause. Provide assistance to those affected by the fire and assess the need for additional fire safety measures in the area.
Monitor Russian Advances in Lozova and Dvurichna: Increase reconnaissance efforts in these areas to track Russian movements and assess their intentions. Prepare defenses to counter potential Russian attacks and protect Ukrainian positions.
Address the Situation in Borova: Given the reported threat of a guided aerial bomb attack on Borova, deploy additional air defense systems to the area and issue alerts to the civilian population. Prepare evacuation plans if necessary.
Counter the Renewed Shelling of Kupiansk: Given the deteriorating security situation in Kupiansk, reinforce Ukrainian defenses in the area and enhance measures to protect the civilian population. Deploy additional air defense systems to counter the shelling and drone attacks.
Address the Drone Threat in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts: Deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming drones. Issue public alerts and ensure that civilians are aware of the threat

Situation Report