Updated Analysis of the Military Situation in Ukraine - January 23, 2025, 05:38 UTC

Strategic Overview

The military situation in Ukraine remains critical, with Russian forces maintaining offensive momentum across multiple fronts. Intense fighting is concentrated in the Donetsk region, particularly around Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Velyka Novosilka. Russian forces have captured several key locations, severely hampering Ukrainian logistics and defenses. The capture of Vremivka is a significant development, effectively cutting off Ukrainian forces in Velyka Novosilka and creating a cauldron. A Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Kursk region has stalled, resulting in heavy losses, while Russian forces have regained territory and are advancing in the Sudzha area. In the Luhansk region, Russian forces have made significant gains, capturing Ivanovka, Novoyehorivka and advancing towards the western border of the Luhansk People's Republic. Russian forces are forming an "operational cauldron" around Ukrainian forces near Novoyehorivka. Drone warfare remains a dominant feature, with extensive activity across multiple regions and confirmed attacks deep inside Russian territory. The situation in Zaporizhzhia is particularly concerning, with repeated attacks and reports of people trapped under rubble and an increasing number of wounded, currently at 24. A 47-year-old man was killed in the attacks. Russian forces have reportedly begun an operation to neutralize Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region. About a platoon of Ukrainian forces are reportedly trapped near Chasiv Yar due to Russian advances.

Key Developments

Donetsk Region

• Velyka Novosilka: The encirclement of Velyka Novosilka is nearing completion, with Russian forces blocking Ukrainian troops in the northern and southern parts of the city and nearly dividing the garrison in two. All roads are reportedly under Russian fire control. This marks a significant strategic loss for Ukraine, as Velyka Novosilka is a major stronghold in southern Donetsk. Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces using drones to target Russian troops near Velyka Novosilka, with Russian forces approximately 4.5 km from the borders of the Dnipropetrovsk region. The distance between advancing Russian units is reported to be between 2.2 and 3.7 km, indicating that the pocket is completely under fire control by Russian forces.
• Pokrovsk: Russian forces are advancing towards Pokrovsk, having reportedly reached the outskirts and are now less than 10 kilometers from the city. Heavy fighting continues, with reports of a motorized rifle attack on the Novovasylivka - Novoelizavetovka line. Fighting is ongoing in the areas of Shevchenko, Udachne, Baranivka, Kotlyne, Zverevo, Uspenivka, Slovyanka, and Petropavlivka. Russian assault troops have reportedly captured a ventilation shaft of a mine west of Kotlyne. Russian forces have reportedly begun fighting in Zverevo. Russian forces are reportedly forcibly evacuating children from Pokrovsk.
• Chasiv Yar: Heavy fighting continues, with Russian forces reportedly seizing the initiative and pushing Ukrainian troops back. Russian forces have almost completely liberated Solenoye and are continuing to fight for Udachnoye and in the Kotlino area. Video evidence shows Russian forces fighting for a high-rise building near a refractory plant in Chasiv Yar. The basements and workshops of the refractory plant in Chasiv Yar have been completely cleared.
• Kurakhove: Fierce battles are ongoing near several settlements, with 14 enemy attacks repelled. Active combat operations are reported near Kurakhove.
• Other: Russian forces report advances in Dmytriv, Urozhaine, Novosergiyivka, Slovyanka, and Yasenove.

Kursk Region

• Stalled Ukrainian Counteroffensive: The Ukrainian counteroffensive has stalled, resulting in heavy losses. Russian forces have regained territory, making a 10-kilometer breakthrough and liberating several settlements. A new statement suggests that Ukrainian forces will attempt to hold their occupied portion of the Kursk region for 100 days. Russian forces have reportedly begun an operation to neutralize Ukrainian forces in the region.
• Drone Warfare: Extensive drone activity is reported, with both sides using drones for reconnaissance and attacks. Video evidence shows Russian troops using an FPV drone to strike a Ukrainian group advancing at night near Makhnovka. A destroyed armored "Буханка" called "Коналю-2963" was reported in the Kursk region. Depending on the design, the armor of this van protected either only from pistol bullets and hunting rifles (2nd class), or from 5.45 and 7.62-mm Kalashnikov assault rifles with a PS bullet (3rd class). This is not an MRAP, but still noticeably better than a regular "Буханка" or any other civilian unarmored vehicle, which are now increasingly appearing on the front line.
• Other: Russian forces have established a flag on the southern outskirts of Nikolaevo-Daryino and have knocked Ukrainian forces out of the western approaches of Malaya Loknya. Commissions are beginning work to assess the destruction in the border area of the Kursk region. About 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed in the Kursk region while fighting against Ukraine. Russian motorized rifle units have demonstrated captured Western-made weapons from the liberated village of Russkoe Porechnoe.
• New Russian Advances: In the area of Kruhlenke/Viktorivka, Russian assault units have entered Viktorivka and are attempting to establish a foothold. Offensive actions are being conducted towards the settlement of Nikolske.

Kharkiv Region

• Explosions in Kharkiv: Explosions were reported in Kharkiv, specifically in the Kharkiv and Chuhuiv districts. The head of the Kharkiv Regional State Administration, Oleg Sinegubov, reported a threat of enemy drone attacks across the Kharkiv region, with reports of explosions and air defense activity.
• Drone Attacks: The Ukrainian Air Force reports a threat of Russian drone attacks in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts.
• Russian Advances: Ukrainian forces have reportedly been trapped by Russian forces near Nova Kruhliakivka.

Luhansk Region

• Borova Direction: Ukrainian forces have established positions northeast and east of Zelenyi Hai, covering an area up to 3.85 km wide and 2.35 km deep.
• Russian Advances: North of Kupiansk on the right bank of the Oskil River, units of the "West" group have liberated the settlement of Zakhidne, with a wedge into the enemy's defenses measuring 4.5 km in depth from the Oskil River to the west.

Drone Warfare

• Extensive Activity: The Ukrainian Air Force reports the movement of attack drones in various regions, including Chernihiv, Poltava, and Sumy. New drone threats are also reported for Rivne, Khmelnytskyi, and Zhytomyr oblasts. Reports of explosions in Ryazan and Kazan, Russia, due to drone attacks and air defense activity. Video evidence shows operators of FPV drones of the Russian Armed Forces attacking enemy shelters on the Kherson direction. In the Luhansk region, the production of UAVs from trophy equipment has been mastered, the head of the center "Warriors of the Archangel Michael" with the call sign Doc said. Four Ukrainian drones were reportedly shot down over Belgorod overnight.
• New Drone Technology: Reports indicate that Russian forces are increasingly 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. Preliminary reports indicate the target is the Yartsevo oil refinery.
• New Drone Activity: The Ukrainian Air Force reports a drone in the Dnipropetrovsk region heading towards Zaporizhzhia. A drone has been reported in the south of Chernihiv region, heading south. Drones are also reported in Poltava region, heading west. Reports of drones on the outskirts of Kyiv and moving through Kyiv oblast.
• Drone as a Weapon: Russian forces are reportedly attaching "hawk claws" to drones to hunt enemy drones. These drones are equipped with spokes that pierce enemy copters. In good weather, Russian operators can reportedly destroy up to a dozen Ukrainian drones.

Zaporizhzhia

• Continued Attacks: Zaporizhzhia has been subjected to repeated attacks, with at least four explosions reported. Video evidence shows the aftermath of a nighttime enemy strike on Zaporizhzhia. A residential building was hit by a Russian missile.
• Casualties: There are preliminary reports of people trapped under rubble, with emergency services responding. The number of wounded from previous attacks has risen to 24. Five people are in critical condition, and five are in moderate condition, including two emergency services personnel. Others will be treated on an outpatient basis. Among the injured is a two-month-old child who has been taken to the hospital. A 47-year-old man was killed in the attacks.
• Enerhodar: The satellite city of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Enerhodar, was attacked by four drones, targeting civilian infrastructure.

Geopolitical Developments

• US-Russia Relations: Newly elected US President Donald Trump stated he will impose additional sanctions on Russia if Putin does not agree to peace talks. He also called on Chinese leader Xi Jinping to help end the war in Ukraine and confirmed his intention to speak with Putin soon. Trump also stated that he will leave the investigation into Joe Biden to the discretion of the US Congress.
• Potential Trump-Putin Meeting: US President-elect Donald Trump has reportedly instructed to organize a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin after the inauguration. 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.
• Shifting European Approach to Ukraine: Slovak Parliament Vice-Speaker Tibor Gaspar stated that Europe's approach to the Ukrainian issue is changing and that the coming weeks will be decisive. Gaspar accused NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte of using Russia as a scare tactic for Europeans.
• New Sanctions Against Russia: The new US president, Donald Trump, has allowed for new sanctions against Russia if Putin refuses to negotiate. He also called on Xi Jinping to help end the war, stating, "He hasn't done much for this. He has a lot... of power, just like we have a lot of power. I said, 'You have to solve this.' We discussed it." When asked about further military aid to Ukraine, Trump said he would consider this issue and stressed that the EU should increase its contribution to the level of the US.
• The US National Security Council has reportedly sent home dozens of officials responsible for Ukraine, Iran, and North Korea, suspending them from their duties, according to the Washington Post.
• Ukrainian authorities expect the fighting to end this year, according to an interview with the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of Ukraine, Yulia Svyrydenko, on the Polish radio station RMF FM.
• Donald Trump is preparing to send 10,000 troops to the US-Mexico border, according to The Washington Post.
• US Secretary of State Antony Blinken plans to visit Panama next week amid Trump's statements about control over the Panama Canal, Bloomberg reports.
• The seized firearms during the search of the house of former Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov are legal and officially registered in his name. This was stated in an interview with a TASS correspondent by one of his defenders, Denis Baluev.
• New US Appointments: The agent who defended Trump during an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, Sean Curran, has been appointed head of the Secret Service, as announced by the US president on his Truth Social page.

Changes from Previous Situation

• Luhansk Region: Russian forces have captured Novoyehorivka. Russian forces are forming an "operational cauldron" around Ukrainian forces near Novoyehorivka.
• Zaporizhzhia Attacks: New attacks have been reported in Zaporizhzhia, with at least four explosions and preliminary reports of people trapped under rubble. The number of wounded has increased to 24, including four emergency services personnel. Updated reports indicate five people are in critical condition, and five are in moderate condition, including two emergency services personnel. Others will be treated on an outpatient basis. A two-month-old child is among the injured. A 47-year-old man was killed in the attacks.
• Drone Warfare: New information about Russian use of captured and modified Ukrainian drones in the Luhansk region. Ukrainian Air Force reports drone activity in Chernihiv region heading towards Kyiv. A new tactic of using drones with "hawk claws" to hunt enemy drones has been reported. Four Ukrainian drones were reportedly shot down over Belgorod overnight.
• Geopolitical Developments: US Secretary of State plans to visit Panama. Information about the legality of firearms seized from former Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov. Donald Trump will leave the investigation into Joe Biden to the discretion of the US Congress. A new US Secret Service head has been appointed.
• New Technology: The Republic of Buryatia is ready to supply large batches of the "Courier" ground robotic complex (НРТК) to the troops, which is capable of autonomous fire. This was announced by the Deputy Prime Minister of Buryatia, Ivan Alheev.
• New Military Updates: Reports of heavy flamethrower systems TOS-1A "Solntsepek" crews destroying strongholds of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in a border area of the Kursk region.
• New Russian Advances: In the area of Kruhlenke/Viktorivka, Russian assault units have entered Viktorivka and are attempting to establish a foothold. Offensive actions are being conducted towards the settlement of Nikolske. North of Kupiansk on the right bank of the Oskil River, units of the "West" group have liberated the settlement of Zakhidne, with a wedge into the enemy's defenses measuring 4.5 km in depth from the Oskil River to the west. Ukrainian forces have reportedly been trapped by Russian forces near Nova Kruhliakivka.
• New Messages: A Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia has resulted in the death of a 47-year-old man, with 24 people wounded, including a two-month-old infant. An air raid alert has been issued in Kyiv, indicating a potential threat to the capital. Reports of drones on the outskirts of Kyiv and moving through Kyiv oblast. Russian forces are reportedly forcibly evacuating children from Pokrovsk.

Updated Situation

The military situation in Ukraine remains dynamic and challenging for Ukrainian forces. The continued Russian advances, particularly in the Donetsk and Luhansk region, coupled with the ongoing drone warfare and geopolitical tensions, suggest that the conflict is far from over. The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining the future course of the conflict, with both sides likely to adapt their strategies in response to the evolving situation on the ground. The encirclement of Velyka Novosilka is a major setback for Ukraine and could have significant implications for the future of the conflict in the Donetsk region. The new reports of drone movements towards Poltava and Sumy regions indicate a potential escalation in drone attacks, requiring increased vigilance and air defense readiness. The new report of a drone over Zaporizhzhia further emphasizes the immediate threat to the city and the need for heightened air defense measures. The new geopolitical developments, particularly the actions taken by the US National Security Council and the statement from Ukrainian authorities about ending the fighting this year, add further complexity to the situation and could potentially impact the future course of the conflict. The report of North Korean casualties in the Kursk region highlights the international dimension of the conflict and the potential for further escalation. The new geopolitical developments involving Trump's actions regarding the Houthis and the US-Mexico border, as well as his statement about Biden, add further complexity to the situation and could potentially impact the future course of the conflict in Ukraine. The latest announcement regarding Trump's plan to deploy 10,000 troops to the US-Mexico border further underscores the potential shift in US priorities and resources, which could have significant implications for Ukraine. The reduction in Japan-Russia trade turnover adds another layer to the economic and geopolitical pressures on Russia, potentially affecting its ability to sustain the conflict in Ukraine. The new reports of drone movements in Sumy and Chernihiv regions, as well as the south of Sumy region, indicate a continued and widespread drone threat across multiple regions, requiring ongoing vigilance and air defense readiness. The Ukrainian Air Force's alerts underscore the ongoing danger and the need for constant monitoring. The new allegations of corruption within the Ukrainian military could further damage morale and potentially impact recruitment efforts. The explosion in Zaporizhzhia highlights the continued threat to the city and the need for heightened security measures. The repeated attacks on Zaporizhzhia and reports of people trapped under rubble underscore the severity of the situation and the urgent need for defensive measures and humanitarian assistance. The new information about Russian use of captured and modified Ukrainian drones in Luhansk region indicates a tactical adaptation by Russian forces, potentially increasing the threat to Ukrainian troops. The planned visit of the US Secretary of State to Panama amid Trump's statements about control over the Panama Canal adds another layer to the geopolitical complexities surrounding the conflict. The information about the legality of firearms seized from former Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov provides a minor update on a peripheral issue. The air raid alerts being lifted in Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia is a positive development, but the situation remains tense. The report of 212 bodies being recovered from under the rubble in Gaza is a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict. The introduction of the "Courier" ground robotic complex by Russia represents a significant technological advancement in the conflict. The deployment of these autonomous systems could mark a shift in the tactics and strategies employed on the battlefield, potentially increasing the effectiveness of Russian operations while reducing the risk to personnel. The new tactic of using drones with "hawk claws" to hunt enemy drones demonstrates the ongoing innovation and adaptation in drone warfare. This development highlights the increasing importance of counter-drone measures and the potential for an escalation in the use of drones as weapons. The appointment of Sean Curran as head of the Secret Service is a minor geopolitical development that is unlikely to have a direct impact on the conflict in Ukraine. The report from the Fighterbomber Telegram channel, showing a helicopter flying over a landscape at sunrise or sunset, is likely intended to boost morale and project an image of strength. However, it does not provide any significant new information about the military situation. The latest reports from the "Два майора" Telegram channel provide a detailed overview of the current military situation across multiple fronts. The continued Russian advances in the Kursk and Kharkiv regions, particularly the reported entry into Viktorivka and the liberation of Zakhidne, represent significant tactical victories for Russia. The situation in Velyka Novosilka remains critical for Ukrainian forces, with the encirclement nearing completion and the pocket completely under fire control by Russian forces. The attacks on Enerhodar and the ongoing fighting in the Donetsk region further underscore the intensity of the conflict. The reported casualties in the Donetsk People's Republic highlight the human cost of the fighting. The new video evidence of the aftermath of the attack on Zaporizhzhia further emphasizes the devastating impact of the conflict on civilian infrastructure and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. The reports of Ukrainian forces being trapped near Nova Kruhliakivka in the Kharkiv region indicate a significant development in the ongoing fighting. This could potentially lead to a further loss of territory for Ukraine and a shift in the balance of power in the region. The appointment of Sean Curran as the head of the US Secret Service is a significant development in US politics, but it is unlikely to have a direct impact on the conflict in Ukraine.

Recommendations

1. Reinforce Pokrovsk and Toretsk: 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.
2. 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 and the "hawk claw" equipped drones. Deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming drones in Sumy, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Vinnytsia, Zhytomyr, Khmelnytskyi, Rivne, Poltava, and Sloviansk regions.
3. Secure Velyka Novosilka: Urgently reinforce Velyka Novosilka and attempt to break the encirclement. Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to the area. Focus on securing the remaining supply routes and preventing further Russian advances. Conduct counterattacks to push back Russian forces and regain control of lost territory.
4. Monitor Drone Activity: Continuously monitor and track drone movements, particularly in the Chernihiv, Poltava, and Sumy regions. Deploy air defense systems and utilize electronic warfare to counter the drone threat.
5. Strengthen Air Defenses in Zaporizhzhia: Given the recent drone attacks on Zaporizhzhia, deploy additional air defense systems to the city and surrounding areas to intercept incoming drones and protect critical infrastructure. Immediately address the situation in Zaporizhzhia, rescuing those trapped under rubble and providing medical assistance to the wounded, including the two-month-old child. Deploy additional air defense systems and emergency response teams to the city.
6. Utilize Western Aid: Maximize the use of the recently announced 35 billion euro financial aid package from the EU to procure necessary military equipment, including air defense systems, anti-tank weapons, and ammunition.
7. International Support: Continue to engage with international partners, particularly the US and EU, to secure additional military and financial aid. Emphasize the need for advanced weaponry and air defense systems to counter Russian advances and drone attacks.
8. Information Warfare: Counter Russian propaganda and disinformation campaigns by providing accurate and timely information about the situation on the ground. Highlight Ukrainian successes and Russian losses to maintain morale and international support.
9. Adapt and Innovate: Continuously adapt tactics and strategies in response to the evolving situation on the ground. Utilize innovative technologies, such as the new DJI Matrice 4T drone and the "hawk claw" equipped drones, to enhance reconnaissance and targeting capabilities.
10. Prepare for Long-Term Conflict: Given the continued Russian advances and the geopolitical tensions, prepare for a potentially protracted conflict. Focus on building a sustainable defense industry and securing long-term military and financial aid from international partners.
11. Address Potential Escalation: Be prepared for potential escalation in drone attacks, particularly in the Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, Poltava, and Chernihiv regions. Strengthen air defenses and deploy rapid response units to counter these threats.
12. Defend Nikopol: Given the reports of drones near Nikopol, strengthen air defenses and deploy rapid response units to the area to protect against potential attacks.
13. Monitor Kirovohrad, Mykolaiv, and Kharkiv Regions: Given the new reports of drone activity in these regions, deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming drones.
14. Geopolitical Strategy: Develop a diplomatic strategy to address the potential shift in US policy under Trump, particularly regarding aid to Ukraine. Engage with other international partners to compensate for any potential reduction in US support.
15. Address Potential Impact of US Border Closure: Analyze the potential impact of the US border closure on Ukraine's situation, particularly regarding the availability of US military aid and resources. Develop contingency plans to address any potential negative consequences.
16. Monitor Hurivka: Given the new report of a drone flying through Hurivka, deploy air defense systems and early warning radars to the area to detect and intercept incoming drones.
17. Monitor Odesa, Mykolaiv, and Kirovohrad Regions: Given the new reports of drone activity in these regions, deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming drones.
18. Counter Russian Advances in Pokrovsk Direction: Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to counter Russian advances in Zverevo, towards Pershe Travnia (Leontovychi), Novosergievka, and Lysivka.
19. Investigate Allegations of Corruption: Conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the allegations of corruption within the Ukrainian military, as reported by Colonelcassad. Take appropriate action against any individuals found guilty of such crimes. This is crucial to maintain morale and public trust in the military.
20. Secure Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia: Given the air raid alerts in Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, reinforce air defenses in these cities and ensure that early warning systems are functioning properly. Prepare for potential attacks and ensure that civilian populations are aware of safety protocols.
21. Address Potential Threat from Tactical Aviation: Given the reported activity of enemy tactical aviation on the eastern front, deploy additional air defense systems and fighter jets to counter this threat. Monitor airspace closely and be prepared to intercept any hostile aircraft.
22. Counter Drone Strategy: Develop a specific strategy to counter the Russian use of captured and modified Ukrainian drones, including electronic warfare and cyber warfare measures. Also, develop countermeasures against the new "hawk claw" equipped drones.
23. Diplomatic Efforts: Engage with international partners to address the issue of North Korean involvement in the conflict and seek their support in condemning such actions.
24. Monitor Panama Situation: Keep a close eye on the situation in Panama following the US Secretary of State's planned visit and Trump's statements about control over the Panama Canal.
25. Internal Investigations: Conduct internal investigations into the legality of weapons seized from Russian officials to ensure transparency and accountability.
26. Provide Aid to Zaporizhzhia: Ensure that the wounded in Zaporizhzhia, including the two-month-old child, receive the necessary medical care and that those affected by the attacks have access to shelter and other essential resources.
27. Disseminate Information: Share the contact information for the Zaporizhzhia city call center and the regional administration's hotline widely to ensure that those in need can access assistance.
28. Counter Disinformation: Address the claims made in the video about the alleged attack in Selidovo. Provide accurate information about the incident and counter any false narratives being spread.
29. Investigate Corruption Allegations: Investigate the allegations of bribery against the former deputy head of the Kirov Military Medical Academy. Take appropriate action if the allegations are found to be true.
30. Support Gaza: Acknowledge the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and consider providing support or assistance if possible.
31. Monitor Drone Activity near Kyiv: Given the report of a drone near Kyiv, reinforce air defenses in the region and ensure that early warning systems are functioning properly. Prepare for potential attacks and ensure that civilian populations are aware of safety protocols.
32. Study and Counter New Russian Technology: Conduct a thorough analysis of the "Courier" ground robotic complex's capabilities and develop countermeasures. This may involve developing similar technologies or acquiring systems capable of neutralizing such threats.
33. Enhance Intelligence Gathering on New Technologies: Increase efforts to gather intelligence on new military technologies being developed and deployed by Russia. This will help Ukraine anticipate and prepare for new threats on the battlefield.
34. Break Encirclement near Nova Kruhliakivka: Deploy additional forces to the Kharkiv region to address the situation near Nova Kruhliakivka and attempt to break the encirclement of Ukrainian forces. Provide immediate support to the trapped troops and conduct counterattacks to regain lost ground.
35. Counter Russian Advances in Kursk and Kharkiv Regions: Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to counter Russian advances in the Kursk and Kharkiv regions. Focus on halting the Russian advance in Viktorivka and preventing further progress towards Nikolske. Reinforce defenses around Zakhidne to counter any potential Ukrainian attempts to retake the settlement.
36. Address Humanitarian Situation in Affected Areas: Provide immediate humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by the recent attacks in Zaporizhzhia and other areas. Ensure access to medical care, shelter, food, and other essential resources.
37. Assess Impact of New US Leadership: Analyze the potential impact of the new US Secret Service head on US-Ukraine relations and the ongoing conflict. Develop a strategy to address any potential changes in US policy or support.
38. Exploit Russian Tactical Adaptations: Analyze the Russian tactic of using "hawk claw" equipped drones and develop countermeasures. This could involve developing similar technologies or deploying electronic warfare systems to disrupt the operation of these drones.
39. Maintain Information Warfare Advantage: Continue to disseminate information about the conflict, highlighting Ukrainian successes and Russian losses. Counter Russian propaganda and disinformation campaigns to maintain morale and international support.
40. Prepare for Potential Escalation: Given the continued Russian advances and the increasing use of drones, prepare for a potential escalation of the conflict. Develop contingency plans to address various scenarios, including increased attacks on civilian infrastructure and the potential use of new weapons systems.
41. Monitor Russian Troop Movements: Continuously monitor Russian troop movements and deployments, particularly in the Kursk and Kharkiv regions. Utilize all available intelligence assets to gather information on Russian intentions and potential targets.
42. Enhance Air Defense Capabilities: Prioritize the enhancement of air defense capabilities across Ukraine, with a particular focus on areas facing increased drone and missile threats. Deploy advanced air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming threats.
43. Secure Critical Infrastructure: Strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure, including power plants, water treatment facilities, and transportation hubs, to mitigate the impact of Russian attacks.
44. Develop Counter-Offensive Plans: Develop and prepare counter-offensive plans to regain lost territory and push back Russian forces. Focus on areas where Ukrainian forces have a strategic advantage or where Russian defenses are weak.
45. Coordinate with International Partners: Maintain close coordination with international partners, particularly the US and EU, to ensure continued military and financial support. Share intelligence and coordinate military operations to maximize effectiveness.
46. Address Potential Internal Threats: Address potential internal threats, such as collaborators and spies, to ensure the security of Ukrainian forces and prevent the leakage of sensitive information to the enemy.
47. Train and Equip New Recruits: Continue to train and equip new recruits to bolster Ukrainian forces and prepare for a potentially protracted conflict. Focus on providing training in key areas, such as urban warfare, drone operations, and counter-drone measures.
48. Maintain Public Morale: Implement measures to maintain public morale and support for the war effort. Provide regular updates on the situation on the ground, highlight Ukrainian successes, and address public concerns.
49. Prepare for Potential Negotiations: While continuing to defend against Russian aggression, prepare for potential negotiations to end the conflict. Develop a clear set of objectives and a strategy for engaging in negotiations on favorable terms.
50. Document Potential War Crimes: Continue to document potential war crimes committed by Russian forces, including attacks on civilian infrastructure and the use of prohibited weapons. Gather evidence and build a strong case for potential future legal action.
51. Address Potential Impact of US-Panama Relations: Analyze the potential impact of the evolving US-Panama relations on the conflict in Ukraine. Monitor the situation closely and develop a strategy to address any potential changes in US policy or support.
52. Counter Russian Information Warfare: Develop a comprehensive strategy to counter Russian information warfare and propaganda. Disseminate accurate information about the conflict, expose Russian disinformation campaigns, and promote Ukrainian narratives.
53. Enhance Cyber Warfare Capabilities: Continue to enhance Ukraine's cyber warfare capabilities to disrupt Russian military communications, command and control systems, and critical infrastructure.
54. Exploit Russian Weaknesses: Identify and exploit Russian weaknesses, such as logistical challenges, internal conflicts, and morale problems. Conduct operations to disrupt Russian supply lines, target key infrastructure, and undermine the morale of Russian troops.
55. Prepare for Potential Use of Chemical or Biological Weapons: Given the unpredictable nature of the conflict, prepare for the potential use of chemical or biological weapons by Russian forces. Stockpile necessary protective equipment and train specialized units to respond to such attacks.
56. Enhance Intelligence Sharing with Allies: Strengthen intelligence sharing with allies, particularly the US and NATO member states, to improve situational awareness and coordinate military operations. Share information on Russian troop movements, new technologies, and potential targets.
57. Develop Long-Term Defense Strategy: Develop a long-term defense strategy to ensure Ukraine's security and deter future aggression. Focus on building a strong and modern military, strengthening alliances, and investing in advanced defense technologies.
58. Address Potential Refugee Crisis: Prepare for a potential increase in the number of refugees fleeing the conflict. Coordinate with neighboring countries and international organizations to provide humanitarian assistance and support to those displaced by the fighting.
59. Maintain Economic Stability: Implement measures to maintain economic stability and minimize the impact of the conflict on the Ukrainian economy. Seek financial assistance from international partners and implement economic reforms to support long-term growth.
60. Promote National Unity: Foster national unity and solidarity among the Ukrainian population. Address any internal divisions and promote a shared sense of purpose in defending the country against Russian aggression.
61. Engage in Diplomatic Efforts: Continue to engage in diplomatic efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Maintain open channels of communication with international partners and explore all possible avenues for ending the fighting on favorable terms.
62. Prepare for Post-Conflict Recovery: Begin planning for post-conflict recovery and reconstruction. Assess the damage caused by the conflict, develop plans for rebuilding infrastructure, and seek international assistance for long-term development.
63. Address Potential Impact of US Political Changes: Analyze the potential impact of the recent changes in US leadership and policy on the conflict in Ukraine. Develop a strategy to address any potential reduction in US support and engage with other international partners to fill any gaps.
64. Monitor and Counter Russian Naval Activity: Monitor and counter Russian naval activity in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. Deploy naval assets and coastal defense systems to protect Ukrainian ports and prevent any potential amphibious landings.
65. Enhance Border Security: Strengthen border security to prevent the infiltration of Russian forces and the smuggling of weapons and equipment. Deploy additional border guards and utilize advanced surveillance technologies to monitor the border areas.
66. Address Potential for Increased Russian Air Activity: Prepare for a potential increase in Russian air activity, including the use of fighter jets and bombers. Deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming threats.
67. Develop Countermeasures against TOS-1A "Solntsepek": Given the reported use of TOS-1A "Solntsepek" heavy flamethrower systems by Russian forces, develop countermeasures to mitigate their effectiveness. This may involve deploying anti-tank weapons, utilizing drones for reconnaissance and targeting, and employing tactics to avoid concentrated fire.
68. Protect Civilian Population: Implement measures to protect the civilian population from the ongoing fighting, particularly in areas close to the front lines. This may involve establishing evacuation corridors, providing shelters, and ensuring access to essential services.
69. Counter Russian Propaganda: Develop a comprehensive strategy to counter Russian propaganda and disinformation campaigns. Disseminate accurate information about the conflict, expose Russian lies, and promote Ukrainian narratives through various media channels.
70. Maintain International Attention: Continue to engage with international media and organizations to maintain international attention on the conflict in Ukraine. Highlight the ongoing Russian aggression, the humanitarian crisis, and the need for continued international support.
71. Prepare for Potential Cyber Attacks: Given the increasing use of cyber warfare in modern conflicts, prepare for potential cyber attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, government institutions, and military networks. Strengthen cyber defenses and develop contingency plans to mitigate the impact of such attacks.
72. Address Potential for Increased Espionage: Be prepared for a potential increase in Russian espionage activities within Ukraine. Strengthen counterintelligence capabilities to identify and neutralize Russian spies and collaborators.
73. Monitor and Counter Russian Electronic Warfare: Monitor and counter Russian electronic warfare activities, which could disrupt Ukrainian communications, drone operations, and other military systems. Deploy