Updated Analysis of the Military Situation in Ukraine - January 24, 2025, 16:08 UTC
Strategic Overview
The military situation in Ukraine remains highly dynamic, with intense fighting concentrated in the Donetsk region, particularly around Velyka Novosilka, Pokrovsk, and Chasiv Yar. Russian forces have made significant advances, notably encircling Velyka Novosilka and advancing near Pokrovsk and Chasiv Yar. Ukrainian defenses are under immense pressure, with reports of heavy casualties and challenging conditions. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 117 combat clashes in the past 24 hours. Drone warfare continues to be a dominant feature, with extensive activity across multiple regions and confirmed attacks deep inside Russian territory.
Major Updates
Velyka Novosilka
Encirclement and Capture: Russian forces have completed the encirclement of Velyka Novosilka, with Ukrainian troops blocked in the north and south. The Ukrainian command acknowledges the risk of an operational encirclement. Russian assault units have captured the center of the town, and Ukrainian forces have reportedly retreated from the settlement entirely. The 110th Mechanized Brigade is reportedly trapped between the Kashlagach and Mokrye Yaly rivers.
Evacuation Efforts: Reports indicate that Russian forces are organizing an evacuation of Ukrainian forces from Velyka Novosilka. While the Russian forces are attempting to facilitate a withdrawal, they are also facing challenges in maintaining communication, supplies, and evacuation routes due to the ongoing fighting. The Ukrainian 1st Presidential Brigade of the National Guard is reportedly being prioritized for evacuation, while regular infantry units from the 110th Mechanized Brigade are left to "hold the line" without adequate support.
Continued Fighting: Despite the encirclement, fighting continues on the outskirts, with Russian forces using artillery and airstrikes to target Ukrainian positions. Ukrainian forces are attempting to prevent the encirclement by focusing on positions north and south of Novy Komar. Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces using mortars, "Baba Yaga" drones, and tanks to destroy Russian forces and equipment. Russian forces are reportedly within 3 km of the administrative border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and have cut off one of the two routes from Krasnoarmiisk (Pokrovsk) to Dnipro, specifically the road through Mezhova.
New Russian Advances: Russian forces have reportedly entered Dmytriv and are advancing to the west and north of the settlement, as well as having severed the railway line and highway. They also claim to have entered Urozhaine and Novosergiyivka and to have liberated Slovyanka and Yasenove. Russian forces have begun storming the southern, eastern, and western parts of Velyka Novosilka.
Heavy Shelling and Airstrikes: Russian forces are using Grad MLRS to target Velyka Novosilka at night and are reportedly encircling the Ukrainian garrison in the center of the town. Russian forces conducted airstrikes with guided bombs near several settlements. Video evidence shows Russian forces from the "Vostok" group destroying a Ukrainian command post near Velyka Novosilka. Over 150 Ukrainian soldiers were reportedly killed, and the remaining forces are trapped.
Russian Ministry of Defense stated that Russian troops have hacked the defense of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Velyka Novosilka.
Russian troops are clearing buildings, basements, and strongholds of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Velyka Novosilka.
Video evidence shows that Russian assault groups are advancing in Velyka Novosilka, with some Ukrainian soldiers surrendering while others remain in strongholds.
Pokrovsk
Russian Advance: Russian troops are advancing towards the Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka road and are reportedly less than 10 kilometers from the city. They are consolidating positions after capturing Kotlyno (Dmytrovo) and mine No. 2, and severing the penultimate railway line to the city. Russian forces are within 5-7 km of the administrative border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, intensifying efforts to encircle this strategically vital city.
Ukrainian Defense: Ukrainian forces are attempting to bypass Pokrovsk from the west, and reports indicate a plan to cover the city from the southwest. The speaker of the operational-strategic group "Khortytsia" denies the city is under threat of encirclement. Ukrainian MP Marianna Bezugla claims that Russian forces have entered Pokrovsk. However, this claim is disputed by other Ukrainian sources, including the operational-strategic group "Khortytsia," which states that fierce battles are ongoing on the outskirts but denies Russian presence in the city.
Heavy Shelling: Heavy shelling is reported in Krasnoarmiisk (Pokrovsk). Russian artillery destroyed Ukrainian positions in Krasnoarmiisk (Pokrovsk), including two FH70 howitzers, one M777 howitzer, and 17 soldiers. In Gryshino, Russian airstrikes destroyed a temporary deployment point and a stabilization point of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in a local school, killing at least 30 soldiers.
Logistical Challenges: Reports of the Ukrainian metallurgical holding "Metinvest" potentially ceasing operations after the loss of the "Pokrovskoe" mine. Retreating Ukrainian forces blew up the Belitskaya mine in the Krasnoarmeysk direction.
Russian forces are advancing on the south-west of Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk).
Chasiv Yar
Russian Advances: Russian forces are approaching the western outskirts from the north side of the railway. They have captured about half of the city's urban area, including the Novyi district, and are fighting in the Severnyi district. Russian forces have cleared the forest area south of the Novyi microdistrict and advanced another 800 meters. The basements and workshops of the refractory plant have been completely cleared.
Ukrainian Defense: The 18th Brigade of the Ukrainian National Guard is reportedly targeting Russian infantry in the central part of Chasiv Yar. The 10th Mountain Assault Brigade "Edelweiss" shows the destruction of Russian forces, including four dozen "motorpikes" who launched an assault north of Vesele.
Continued Fighting: Video evidence shows Russian forces fighting for a high-rise building near a refractory plant, and fighters from the "Española" brigade, alongside the 98th Airborne Division and the 200th Motorized Rifle Brigade, engaging in combat. A group of Ukrainian soldiers has reportedly become trapped in a "fire pocket" near a refractory plant.
Other Key Locations in Donetsk Region
Kurakhove: Most of Kurakhove has been captured by Russian forces, with fighting ongoing for strongholds near Hryshyno. Active combat operations are reported, with 14 enemy attacks repelled. Russian forces are advancing from Kurakhove towards Dnipropetrovsk, liberating extensive territories.
Toretsk: Ukrainian defenses have nearly collapsed, with less than 15% of the city under their control. Russian forces have entered Petrivka and are pushing Ukrainian troops out. Video evidence shows the 2nd Mechanized Battalion fighting on the ruins of Toretsk, engaging in close-quarters combat.
Kramatorsk: A powerful explosion was reported in the industrial zone of Kramatorsk. Russian forces reportedly using the "Uragan" MLRS to destroy enemy positions.
Zverevo: The fighting in Zverevo continues, with Russian forces gradually pushing Ukrainian forces along Gagarin Street and Sazonov's Gully.
Solene: Reportedly liberated by Russian forces.
Uspenivka: Russian forces are engaged in battles near Uspenivka, advancing towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
Luhansk Region
Russian Advances: Russian forces have captured Zakhidne and Ivanovka, 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.
Borova Direction: Ukrainian forces have established positions northeast and east of Zelenyi Hai.
Svatove-Kremenna Direction: Russian forces advanced on three fronts, extending control near Terny and securing new positions near Yampolivka. Clashes were reported near Kopanky, Terny, and Kolodyazi.
Kursk Region
Intense Fighting: The Ukrainian counteroffensive has stalled, with Russian forces regaining territory and neutralizing Ukrainian units. Heavy fighting continues, with Ukrainian forces launching constant counterattacks, slowing Russian progress.
Drone Warfare: Ukrainian forces used drones to record the bodies of North Korean and Russian troops in Kursk Oblast. Russian forces are using drones to target Ukrainian positions and equipment. Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces using drones to destroy a column of Russian armored vehicles near the border between Kursk and Sumy regions.
Casualties: British intelligence reports that approximately 4,000 North Korean soldiers were killed in the Kursk region. From the beginning of the day, there were 15 combat clashes in the Kursk direction; all attacks have already been repulsed. The enemy launched ten air strikes using 15 KABs and carried out more than 300 shellings.
Russian Advances: Russian forces report the capture of Cherkasskoye Porechnoye and Malaya Loknya. Russian forces report that they are finishing taking the remaining Ukrainian positions in Kurilovka.
Damage and Losses: The Ukrainian Armed Forces have inflicted damage in the Kursk region amounting to 750 billion rubles. Since the beginning of hostilities in Kursk region, the AFU losses amounted to more than 52,870 troops, 304 tanks, 232 infantry fighting vehicles, 174 armored personnel carriers, 1,572 armored fighting vehicles, 1,508 motor vehicles, 377 artillery guns, 44 MLRS launchers, including 13 of HIMARS and six of MLRS made by the USA, 16 anti-aircraft missile launchers, eight transport-loading vehicles, 93 EW stations, 13 counter-battery warfare radars, four air defence radars, 30 units of engineering and other materiel, including 13 counterobstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, eight armoured recovery vehicles, and one command post vehicle.
Video evidence shows that Russian forces destroy Abrams and other tanks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the Kursk front.
47th Mechanized Brigade reports that in two days, their FPV drones destroyed or damaged 5 BMPs, a communications antenna, and a dugout in the Kursk area.
Kharkiv Region
Russian troops destroyed another tank of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the border area of the Kharkiv region.
The Ukrainian Air Force reports a threat of Russian drone attacks in the Kharkiv Oblast.
A Russian drone reportedly attacked the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv, injuring one person.
New: An explosion was heard in Kharkiv. The governor of the region, Sinegubov, reports a drone attack in the private sector of the Osnovyansky district of Kharkiv. No casualties have been reported.
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. Putin called his relations with Trump trusting and pragmatic.
Potential Trump-Putin Meeting: US President-elect Donald Trump has reportedly instructed to organize a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin after the inauguration. The purpose of the call is reportedly to discuss a personal meeting in the coming months to try to stop the war in Ukraine.
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. Gaspar stated that the endless story of helping Ukraine should end.
NATO Activity: A NATO flotilla is assembling near the coast of Estonia to protect European underwater cables and pipelines in the Baltic Sea. A Dutch frigate, a naval research vessel, and a German minesweeper have arrived in Tallinn, with a French minesweeper and additional NATO ships expected.
New Sanctions Against Russia: The new US president, Donald Trump, has allowed for new sanctions against Russia if Putin refuses to negotiate. 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.
New US Restrictions: The new US president, Donald Trump, has banned the use of LGBT and BLM flags on government buildings, embassies, and military bases around the world. The State Department decree states that only the US flag and some military symbols are now allowed to be displayed on government buildings. Under Biden, other flags such as LGBT and BLM were often added to them. Earlier, Trump issued a decree that only two genders are recognized in the US - male and female.
Zelenskyy-Herzog Meeting: President Zelenskyy also met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to discuss important issues of Ukrainian-Israeli cooperation. They discussed common challenges, interaction primarily in the security sphere, and ways to achieve a just peace for Ukraine. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the return of people who were held captive.
Russian Readiness for Negotiations: Putin expressed Russia's readiness for negotiations regarding Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach. However, he also pointed out the obstacles posed by the Ukrainian government's stance and the influence of external sponsors.
Trump's Alleged Plans: Reports suggest that former US President Donald Trump intends to engage in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon after his inauguration, with the aim of potentially ending the conflict in Ukraine. This has sparked speculation and debate about the possible implications of such a move.
Putin stated that the decision of Zelensky to ban dialogue with Russia makes possible negotiations illegitimate.
Putin stated that the sponsors of the Kyiv regime should force Zelensky to cancel the ban on negotiations with Russia.
Head of the EU diplomacy Kaja Kallas invited the new US Secretary of State to a meeting with EU representatives.
Other Developments
Drone Warfare: Drone attacks inside Russian territory have been confirmed, targeting oil depots, industrial facilities, and military infrastructure, including Almetyevsk, Voronezh, Tula, Smolensk, and Tatarstan. Airports in Penza, Ulyanovsk, Kazan, and Saratov are closed due to drone attacks. New explosions have been reported in Kazan, Russia, affecting several districts.
Drone Activity: Reports of numerous drones across various regions, including Chernihiv, Poltava, Kharkiv, Kyiv, Zhytomyr, Sumy, and Odesa. New groups of attack drones are reported, with specific movements and directions.
Fundraising for Russian Special Forces: A fundraising campaign is ongoing to support a Russian special forces unit operating in the Donetsk direction, with requests for donations of quadcopters, parts, and body armor.
Propaganda and Disinformation: Both sides are actively engaged in propaganda efforts, with Russia highlighting its military successes and Ukraine emphasizing the brutality of Russian forces and the need for international support.
Humanitarian Concerns: The ongoing conflict continues to raise concerns about the humanitarian situation, particularly in areas experiencing heavy fighting. The impact on civilians, including casualties, displacement, and access to essential services, remains a significant issue.
Economic Impact: The war continues to have a profound impact on the economies of both Ukraine and Russia, as well as global markets. Sanctions, disruptions to trade and supply chains, and the cost of military operations are all contributing to economic instability.
In Nizhyn, Chernihiv region, Russian troops struck a long-range UAV launch site, destroying a radar station, a satellite communication complex, and an automated flight control system.
Key Updates from Previous Situation (6h-3d old)
Velyka Novosilka: The encirclement is now complete, with all roads under Russian fire control. 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.
Drone Warfare: Extensive activity across multiple regions, with confirmed attacks deep inside Russian territory. New reports of drone movements near Kyiv and continued attacks deep inside Russian territory, including Voronezh where several UAVs were reportedly destroyed. Airports in Kazan, Nizhnekamsk, Penza, Samara, and Saratov have introduced restrictions. Russian forces have made advances near Dvurichna, depriving Ukrainian forces of advantageous lines and positions.
Geopolitical Developments: US President Donald Trump is threatening additional sanctions on Russia (while also stating he does not want to impose them) and seeking China's assistance in ending the war.
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 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.
Russian troops destroyed another tank of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the border area of the Kharkiv region.
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.
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.
Russian motorized rifle units have demonstrated captured Western-made weapons from the liberated village of Russkoe Porechnoe.
Recommendations
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 these cities to prevent further Russian advances in the Donetsk region.
Secure Velyka Novosilka: The situation in Velyka Novosilka is critical. Focus on evacuating remaining troops and civilians if possible. Conduct rearguard actions to slow the Russian advance and inflict maximum casualties. Given the complete encirclement, consider using unconventional tactics to break out or disrupt Russian forces.
Enhance Counter-Drone Capabilities: Deploy advanced counter-drone systems and electronic warfare capabilities to neutralize Russian drones, particularly in the Donetsk, Kursk, and Kharkiv regions. Prioritize the protection of critical infrastructure and military assets. Develop and implement counter-drone strategies to mitigate the threat posed by Russian drones, such as the ones used by the 9th Brigade of the 51st Guards Army. This could involve deploying electronic warfare systems, training troops in counter-drone tactics, and improving intelligence gathering on drone operations.
Strengthen Air Defenses: Deploy additional air defense systems, including short-range and medium-range systems, to protect cities and critical infrastructure from drone and missile attacks. Focus on areas currently under air raid alerts, including Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Poltava, Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, Mykolaiv, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Engels, Saratov, Tatarstan, and Samara Oblast regions. Urgently protect Starokostiantyniv from the incoming Shahed drones. Protect Lviv from the incoming drone. 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.
Improve Ammunition Quality Control: Address the reported issues with the consistency and quality of Russian artillery ammunition. Implement stricter quality control measures and improve storage conditions to ensure the effectiveness of artillery operations.
Verify Intelligence on Putin's Motorcade: Investigate the claim of Ukrainian drones targeting Putin's motorcade. If true, assess the implications for the security of high-value targets and adjust security protocols accordingly.
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, including long-range strike capabilities and air defense systems, to counter Russian advances and drone attacks. 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. Counter calls for halting arms supplies to Ukraine by highlighting the importance of continued support for Ukrainian defense. Engage with China to encourage them to play a more active role in promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict, while also addressing their concerns about the situation.
Information Warfare: Counter Russian disinformation and propaganda 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. Address the claim of Ukrainian drones targeting Putin's motorcade, either confirming or debunking it with credible information.
Prepare for Protracted Conflict: Given the continued Russian advances and the escalation in drone warfare, prepare for a potentially protracted conflict. Focus on building a sustainable defense industry, securing long-term military and financial aid, and developing strategies to counter Russian tactics.
Address Drone Threat in Saratov, Engels, Tatarstan, and Samara Oblast Regions: Given the declared air alerts and reported drone attacks in the Saratov, Engels, Tatarstan, and Samara Oblast regions, deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to detect and intercept incoming drones. Protect critical infrastructure and population centers in these regions.
Protect Kyiv from Drone Attacks: Given the air alert in Kyiv and the reported movement of Shahed drones towards the city, strengthen air defenses around the capital. Deploy additional air defense systems and utilize electronic warfare to counter the drone threat. Ensure the safety of civilians and critical infrastructure. Address the reported fire in a high-rise building in Glevakha, Kyiv Oblast, and provide assistance to affected residents.
Monitor and Respond to Drone Movements: Continuously monitor drone movements, particularly the reported movements in Poltava, Cherkasy, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Kirovohrad, Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Uman, Fastiv, Brovary, Vinnytsia, and Boryspil regions. Deploy rapid response units to intercept drones and protect vulnerable areas.
Assess and Mitigate Damage in Ryazan and Bryansk: Conduct a thorough assessment of the damage to the Ryazan oil refinery, the residential building, and the "Kremniy El" factory in Bryansk. Provide assistance to affected civilians and repair critical infrastructure. Enhance air defenses in these regions to prevent further attacks.
Investigate Attacks on Bryansk and Engels: Conduct thorough investigations of the reported attacks on the "Kremniy El" microelectronics factory in Bryansk and the oil depot in Engels. Assess the damage to these facilities and their impact on the production of components for the Russian military-industrial complex and fuel supplies. Enhance security at similar facilities to prevent future attacks.
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. Counter calls for halting arms supplies to Ukraine by highlighting the importance of continued support for Ukrainian defense. Engage with China to encourage them to play a more active role in promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict, while also addressing their concerns about the situation.
Protect Brovary, Uman, Cherkasy, Fastiv, Vinnytsia, and Boryspil: Given the reported drone movements towards these areas, deploy additional air defense systems and alert local authorities to the potential threat. Ensure that early warning systems are operational and that civilians are aware of the necessary safety precautions.
Address Air Threat in Ramenskoye: Although the air threat in Ramenskoye has been lifted, maintain a state of readiness and continue to monitor the situation closely. Ensure that air defense systems are operational and prepared to respond to any future threats.
Verify and Respond to Explosions in Kyiv: Investigate the reports of explosions in Kyiv and determine their cause. If confirmed as attacks, assess the damage and provide assistance to any affected civilians. Enhance security measures and air defenses in the capital to prevent further attacks.
Engage with China on Ukrainian Conflict: Following Trump's comments on expecting Beijing's assistance in resolving the Ukrainian conflict, engage with Chinese officials to explore potential avenues for cooperation. Emphasize the importance of a peaceful resolution and encourage China to use its influence to promote dialogue between the warring parties.
Monitor Potential Shifts in US Policy: Keep a close eye on developments in the US Senate regarding the confirmation of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense. Assess the potential implications of his appointment on US foreign policy and military strategy, particularly concerning the conflict in Ukraine. Prepare to adapt Ukraine's diplomatic and military strategies accordingly.
Prepare for Drone Attacks in Tatarstan and Samara Oblast: Given the newly declared air raid alerts in Tatarstan and Samara Oblast, deploy air defense systems and establish early warning mechanisms to counter the threat of drone attacks. Coordinate with local authorities to ensure the safety of civilians and critical infrastructure in these regions.
Investigate Black Market Organ Trade Allegations: Conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations made by Maria Zakharova regarding a black market organ transplant scheme in Ukraine. If evidence is found, take appropriate action to address the issue and hold those responsible accountable.
Counter Russian Advances near Dachne, Udachne, Novoelizavetivka, Makiivka, Tabaivka, and Zapadne: Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to these areas to counter the recent Russian advances. Prioritize the defense of these locations to prevent further Russian progress and protect Ukrainian-held territory.
Address Drone Threat West of Kyiv and in Vinnytsia Oblast: Given the reported drone movements west of Kyiv and in the north of Vinnytsia Oblast, deploy additional air defense systems and early warning radars to these areas. Focus on protecting critical infrastructure and population centers from potential drone attacks.
Monitor Situation near Uman: Given the reported drone activity near Uman, maintain a heightened state of alert in the area. Deploy air defense systems and monitor drone movements to intercept any potential threats to the region.
Address Flight Delays in Penza: Investigate the cause of the flight delay from Sochi to Penza and take appropriate measures to address any issues related to the threat of drone attacks in the neighboring Saratov Oblast. Ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
Assess ISW Reports: Analyze the updated maps and reports from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) regarding the situation in the Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Toretsk, Pokrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson directions. Use this information to inform strategic decision-making and adapt military operations accordingly.
Counter Russian Advances near Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and in Kursk Oblast: Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to these areas to counter the recent Russian advances reported by the ISW. Prioritize the defense of these locations to prevent further Russian progress and protect Ukrainian-held territory.
Monitor Situation in Neighboring Oblasts: Maintain a state of readiness in neighboring oblasts, such as Dnipropetrovsk, and monitor the situation closely. Deploy air defense systems and be prepared to respond to any potential threats.
Address Allegations of Black Market Organ Trade: Investigate the allegations made by Maria Zakharova regarding a black market organ trade in Ukraine. If evidence is found, take appropriate action to address the issue and hold those responsible accountable.
Protect Zhytomyr Oblast: Given the reported drone movements towards Zhytomyr Oblast, deploy additional air defense systems and alert local authorities to the potential threat. Ensure that early warning systems are operational and that civilians are aware of the necessary safety precautions.
Monitor Situation in Western Vinnytsia Oblast: Given the reported drone movements in western Vinnytsia Oblast, maintain a heightened state of alert in the area. Deploy air defense systems and monitor drone movements to intercept any potential threats to the region.
Address Drone Threat near Uman: Given the reported movement of three drones near Uman towards Vinnytsia Oblast, deploy additional air defense systems and alert local authorities to the potential threat. Ensure that early warning systems are operational and that civilians are aware of the necessary safety precautions.
Counter Russian Advances near Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and in Kursk Oblast: Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to these areas to counter the recent Russian advances reported by the ISW. Prioritize the defense of these locations to prevent further Russian progress and protect Ukrainian-held territory.
Assess and Respond to Drone Threat: Analyze the reported drone movements and air raid alerts across various regions, including Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Poltava, Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, Mykolaiv, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Engels, Saratov, Tatarstan, and Samara Oblast. Deploy air defense systems and rapid response units to counter the threat and protect vulnerable areas.
Address Geopolitical Developments: Develop a comprehensive strategy to address the evolving geopolitical landscape, including Trump's threats of new sanctions against Russia, his call for China's assistance, and the potential shift in US policy. Engage with international partners to maintain support for Ukraine and counter any negative consequences arising from these developments.
Counter Russian Advances: Deploy additional troops, anti-tank weapons, and air defense systems to areas where Russian forces are making advances, such as Velyka Novosilka, near Dachne, Udachne, Novoelizavetivka, Makiivka, Tabaivka, and Zapadne. Prioritize the defense of these locations to prevent further Russian progress and protect Ukrainian-held territory.
Enhance Intelligence Gathering: Improve intelligence gathering efforts to better understand the situation on the ground, including Russian troop movements, drone activity, and potential targets. This will help inform strategic decision-making and enable more effective countermeasures.
Strengthen International Partnerships: Continue to engage with international partners, particularly the US and EU, to secure additional military and financial aid. Emphasize the need for advanced weaponry, including long-range strike capabilities and air defense systems, to counter Russian advances and drone attacks.
Adapt to Evolving Situation: Continuously adapt tactics and strategies in response to the evolving situation on the ground. Utilize innovative technologies and develop new countermeasures to address emerging threats, such as the increasing use of drones by both sides.
Prepare for Long-Term Conflict: Given the continued Russian advances and the escalation in drone warfare, prepare for a potentially protracted conflict. Focus on building a sustainable defense industry, securing long-term military and financial aid, and developing strategies to counter Russian tactics.
Address Humanitarian Concerns: Provide assistance to civilians affected by the conflict, particularly in areas experiencing heavy fighting or under threat of attack. Ensure access to essential resources, such as food, water, shelter, and medical care.
Counter Disinformation: Address and counter any false or misleading information being spread about the conflict, including allegations of black market organ trade or other unsubstantiated claims. Provide accurate and timely information to the public and international community.
Maintain Military Readiness: Ensure that Ukrainian forces remain well-equipped, well-trained, and prepared to respond to any potential threats or attacks. Conduct regular training exercises and maintain a high state of readiness to counter Russian advances and protect Ukrainian territory.
Address Drone Threat near Zhytomyr, Starokostiantyniv, and Shepetivka: Given the reported drone movements near Zhytomyr and south of Shepetivka, and a group of Shahed drones heading towards Starokostiantyniv, deploy additional air defense systems and alert local authorities to the potential threat. Ensure that early warning systems are operational and that civilians are aware of the necessary safety precautions.
Monitor Drone Movements in Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Chernihiv Oblasts: Continuously monitor drone movements in these regions, particularly the reported movements of several drone groups from Kyiv Oblast to Zhytomyr Oblast, from Vinnytsia Oblast to Khmelnytskyi Oblast, and east of Chernihiv. Deploy rapid response units to intercept drones and protect vulnerable areas.
Investigate Drone Movements to Belarus: Investigate the reports of drones moving from Ukrainian territory to Belarus. Assess the potential threat and coordinate with relevant authorities to address any security concerns.
Address Syrsky's Call for Censorship: Carefully consider the implications of imposing wartime censorship, as suggested by the commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Syrsky. Balance the need for operational security with the importance of maintaining transparency and freedom of information.
Analyze Video Evidence: Thoroughly analyze the video evidence provided, including the footage of Russian assault groups advancing in Velyka Novosilka.
Respond to Drone Attacks in Kharkiv: Given the reports of a massive drone attack on Kharkiv and a confirmed hit in the Osnovyansky district, deploy additional air defense systems and alert local authorities to the potential threat. Ensure that early warning systems are operational and that civilians are aware of the necessary safety precautions. Assess the damage and provide assistance to any affected civilians.
The new messages bring the following changes:
Drone Attack on Kharkiv: Confirmed drone attack on Kharkiv, with a hit in the Osnovyansky district. This requires immediate attention and deployment of air defense systems to protect the city.
Drone Movements: Reports of drone movements in Chernihiv and Sumy regions, requiring heightened alert and deployment of air defense systems.
Fundraising for Ukrainian Forces: A call for donations to support the 82nd Airborne Assault Brigade's efforts to destroy Russian equipment.
Russian Propoganda: A Russian economist predicts that if Trump wins, the Ukrainians will be used to fight immigrants and quell dissatisfaction in Europe.
These updates necessitate a continued focus on air defense, particularly in Kharkiv, Chernihiv, and Sumy regions, as well as ongoing efforts to counter Russian propaganda and secure financial support for Ukrainian forces.
