Major Updates on the Military Situation in Ukraine

Strategic Overview

As of January 28, 2025, the military situation in Ukraine remains extremely volatile and unfavorable for Ukrainian forces. Russian forces continue to make significant gains, particularly in the Donetsk region, with the confirmed capture of Velyka Novosilka representing a major setback for Ukraine. The escalating drone warfare, with increased activity across multiple regions, confirmed attacks inside Russia, and a massive overnight attack, adds another layer of complexity to the conflict.

Key Developments

Donetsk Region

Velyka Novosilka: Confirmed to be under complete Russian control by the Russian Ministry of Defense and multiple sources. The 5th Guards Tank Brigade, the 40th Guards Marine Brigade, and the 37th Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade are credited with the capture. Russian forces have pushed Ukrainian forces out of the settlement entirely. Russian troops have liberated Velyka Novosilka, which was the largest logistics hub for Ukrainian forces in the south of the Donetsk People's Republic.
Pokrovsk: Russian forces are within 10 kilometers and advancing, having severed the penultimate railway line. Positional fighting continues, with Russian forces advancing towards Novohrodivka and expanding control along the railway line. 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. Ukrainian military sources indicate Russian forces are advancing on both sides of Pokrovsk to cut off supply routes and encircle the city. One woman was killed due to a Russian attack on the city of Pokrovsk, according to the regional prosecutor's office. Ukrainian forces are shelling Krasnoarmiisk (Pokrovsk) from within the city limits.
Chasiv Yar: Russian forces control approximately 20% of the refractory plant and have captured about half of the city's urban area, including the Novyi district. Fighting in the Severnyi district. Russian forces are approaching the western outskirts from the north side of the railway and have launched an offensive south of the railway station. Units of "Akhmat" and "Wagner" have reportedly appeared near Chasiv Yar. The situation in the area is described as difficult, with Russian forces attempting to advance. The press service of the 24th Mechanized Brigade reports that the situation in Chasiv Yar is difficult, with Russian forces deploying units of "Akhmat" and former "Wagner" fighters to reinforce their assault groups.
Kurakhove: Most of Kurakhove has been captured, with fighting ongoing near Hryshyno. Russian forces are advancing from Kurakhove towards Dnipropetrovsk, liberating extensive territories. Fighting is reported near Dachnoe. A Russian infantry attack was repelled. Russian forces have extended their control zone by 400 meters along the Kurakhove-Dachnoe road. Russian forces are advancing near Petropavlivka, Dachnoe, and Sukhykh Yal. Russian forces are conducting assault operations in the Kurakhove direction, with the support of the "Southern" troop grouping.
Toretsk: Ukrainian defenses have nearly collapsed, with less than 15% of the city remaining under their control. Russian forces have reportedly advanced 300 meters, taking control of the Toretska mine. In Petrivka, they advanced 600 meters. Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces from the 120th Separate Reconnaissance Battalion capturing a Russian soldier in Toretsk.
Other Locations:
- Kramatorsk: A powerful explosion was reported in the industrial zone.
- Zverevo: Fighting continues, with Russian forces gradually pushing Ukrainian forces.
- Solone: Reportedly liberated by Russian forces.
- Uspenivka: Russian forces are engaged in battles, advancing towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Luhansk Region

Russian forces are making advances near Nadiivka and Petropavlivka.
Russian forces have captured Zakhidne and Ivanivka, advancing towards the western border of the Luhansk People's Republic.
They have also advanced 2 km northwest of Makiivka.
Borova Direction: Ukrainian forces have established positions northeast and east of Zelenyi Hai.
In the direction of Hrekivka Russian forces are developing an offensive from Makiivka, with an advance of 400m.
Near Kolodyazi there are active assault operations.
Russian forces are advancing on the western bank of the Zherebets River near Makiivka, Ivanivka, and Novosadove.
Russian forces are forming an "operational cauldron" around Ukrainian forces near Novoyehorivka.

Kursk Region

The Ukrainian counteroffensive has stalled, with Russian forces regaining territory.
Russian forces report the capture of several settlements, including Nikolaevo-Daryino, Cherkasskoye Porechnoye, and Malaya Loknya.
Russian forces report that an attempted Ukrainian counterattack to retake Kruhlenke failed.
Russian forces report that they are finishing taking the remaining Ukrainian positions in Kurylivka.
Russian forces report that there is heavy fighting in Makhnivka.
In the area of Kruhlenke/Viktorivka, Russian assault units have entered Viktorivka and are attempting to establish a foothold.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces have inflicted damage in the Kursk region amounting to 750 billion rubles.
About 1,000 North Korean soldiers have reportedly been killed in the region while fighting against Ukraine.
British intelligence reports that approximately 4,000 North Korean soldiers were killed in the region.
From the beginning of the day, there were 15 combat clashes in the Kursk direction.
Russian forces have reportedly fully liberated Nikolayevo-Daryino.
Ukrainian forces are reportedly increasing their presence in the Sudzha border area.
A coordination council has been created in the Kursk region to address the problems of residents in the border areas.
Ukrainian servicemen of the "Chernomorskaya Sech" battalion are accused of committing terrorist acts in the region.
Ukrainian forces from the 47th Mechanized Brigade repelled a massive Russian assault in the Viktorivka area near Malaya Loknya.
Heavy fighting continues near the village of Nikolsky.
Refugees from the Kursk region are protesting and demanding a meeting with the acting governor.
A new statement suggests that Ukrainian forces will attempt to hold their occupied portion of the Kursk region for 100 days.
North Korea has announced an increase in military spending for 2025.
The acting governor of the Kursk region met with refugees from areas occupied by Ukrainian forces.
Battles are ongoing near Pohrebky, with the 34th Brigade continuing to destroy enemy equipment and personnel.
In the area of Sudzha, the enemy is transferring elite units of the Special Operations Forces from the Sumy region.
Russian forces are bypassing Sudzha from the south, fighting is going on near Kurylivka.
Reports indicate that over 360 Ukrainian troops were killed in the region in the past 24 hours, with five surrendering.
Western officials cited by the BBC report that about 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed in the Kursk region.
South Korean intelligence reports 300 North Korean soldiers killed in the region.
A message from "STERNENKO" reports that North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region have killed 5 Russian marines and fled.
Reports of an American mercenary known as "Doctor Death" being captured by Russian forces in the Kursk region.
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.
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, over the past 24 hours, Russian forces in the Kursk direction have neutralized over 180 Ukrainian troops, a US-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, four armored fighting vehicles, ten motor vehicles, a self-propelled artillery unit, two towed howitzers, a mortar, three electronic warfare stations, two UAV control points, and an ammunition depot.
Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian assault force during an attempted landing near Tetkino in the Kursk region, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense.
Russian forces repelled a Ukrainian attempt to land troops near Tetkino in the Kursk region. FPV drones and artillery were used to neutralize the Ukrainian forces.
Ukrainian forces from the 154th Territorial Defense Brigade are reportedly using drones to destroy Russian equipment in the Kursk region.
North Korean soldiers are withdrawing from the front line in the Kursk region, but with the possibility of returning.

Kharkiv Region

Drone Attacks: The Ukrainian Air Force reports that the city of Kharkiv is under threat from a Russian drone approaching from the northeast. The Ukrainian Air Force reports repeat launches of guided aerial bombs by enemy tactical aviation in Sumy and the east of Kharkiv region.
Russian Advance: Russian forces have reportedly expanded their bridgehead up to 5 km south of Dvorichna. They have occupied the forest near Zapadne and advanced significantly in the center of Dvurichna. The Russian Ministry of Defense's announcement of the liberation of Dvurechnaya in the Kharkiv region marks a significant advance for Russian forces. The capture of this town, along with the previously liberated village of Zapadnoye, creates a bridgehead on the western bank of the Oskil River, potentially paving the way for an offensive towards Kupiansk, a crucial logistics hub.
On the right bank of the Oskol, Russian forces are continuing to push through Ukrainian defenses, expanding their control zone towards the western part of Dvurichna in the direction of Sahunivka.
Fighting continues in the area of Zelenyi Hai, with Ukrainian forces attempting to improve their tactical position by attacking from Borova Andriivka.
Explosions: Reported in Kharkiv and Chuhuiv districts. A fire broke out in a two-story building in the Vysochansk community due to a Russian attack.
Kupiansk is under renewed heavy shelling, with reports of deteriorating security conditions. Russian forces report that they are beginning to storm Kupyansk and have taken the initiative. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are reportedly suffering heavy losses. Russian forces struck an infrastructure facility in Kharkiv with drones. Enemy is intensely shelling Kupyansk with KABs, according to OVA. At least four private houses and power lines were damaged. An 86-year-old woman was injured in Kupiansk due to Russian shelling. Russian forces are shelling Kupyansk with guided aerial bombs, damaging at least four private houses and power lines, according to the regional military administration.
Russian forces have reportedly destroyed the main Ukrainian forces in Zahryzove and initiated battles in Bohuslavka.
In the Kharkiv region, a Russian soldier reportedly destroyed a group of 8 Ukrainian Armed Forces soldiers with mines.
They have reportedly reduced the distance to Ukrainian positions in Petrovske (Hrekivka) to 2km.

Other Regions

Drone Activity: New alerts for Mykolaiv, Vinnytsia, Zhytomyr, Kirovohrad, Cherkasy, Boryspil, and Vasylkiv areas, as well as confirmed drone movements and attacks. The Ukrainian Air Force reports that 15 drones did not reach their targets and were "lost on location." Ukrainian forces report repelling a drone attack in the Rostov region. Ukrainian forces used drones to attack oil refineries in Saratov, Kazan, Engels and military and energy facilities in Bryansk and Rostov. Seven Ukrainian drones were destroyed over the Belgorod region and Crimea in the past two hours, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense.
Sevastopol:
- Colonelcassad reports an air raid alert in Sevastopol, with maritime transport halted.
- "Оперативний ЗСУ" Telegram channel shares an image showing messages from "Чп / Севастополь" warning of ballistic missile launches from the Mykolaiv region towards western and northwestern Crimea, specifically Tarkhankut.
- STERNENKO Telegram channel reports on missile danger in occupied Crimea.
Dnipropetrovsk:
- Ukrainian forces report destroying over 500 enemy aerial targets in the past week, including 2 guided missiles, 375 "Shahed" drones, 71 reconnaissance drones, and 59 other types of drones.
- Russian forces attacked Nikopolshchyna more than 10 times during the day, using FPV drones and heavy artillery. A private house and two buses were damaged. A transport company was also damaged. A power line and an agricultural enterprise were damaged due to a previous attack in Synelnykivshchyna.
Russian forces report the destruction of a Ukrainian UAV control point and ammunition depot near Seversk.

Military Equipment

"Орешник" system:
- Lukashenko stated that the "Орешник" system will be deployed in Belarus closer to Smolensk.
- Lukashenko stated that the next "Орешник" installation will be delivered to Belarus even earlier than to Russia.
- Colonelcassad speculates about the possibility of Belarus receiving an ocean fleet and "Poseidon."
- The Russian state news agency TASS reported Lukashenko's statement about the "Орешник" system.
- A photo caption from "Дневник Десантника" states that "NATO Death - Oreshnik" will be delivered to Belarus any day now.
- Alex Parker Returns questions the purpose of Belarus's militarization and whether this military potential can be reversed later.
- Alex Parker Returns expresses concern about the possibility of a hostile regime change in Belarus in the future, potentially creating a nuclear state on Russia's borders.
- Alex Parker Returns criticizes the policy of demilitarizing Russia while militarizing Belarus under the "multi-vector" Lukashenko.
- Belarusian President Lukashenko announced that the hypersonic missile complex "Орешник" will be deployed in Belarus "any day now," even before it is delivered to Russia.
FPV drones:
- Video evidence shows Russian forces using FPV drones to target Ukrainian positions and vehicles in various locations.
- Video evidence shows Russian FPV drones, equipped with fiber optics, destroying a Ukrainian Leopard tank and a stronghold.
- "Butusov Plus" Telegram channel reports on the destruction of Russian ATVs, trucks, mortars, and infantry by the FPV group of the 3rd Assault Brigade.
- "Оперативний ЗСУ" Telegram channel shows a video of an FPV drone strike on a hidden Russian tank, resulting in an epic detonation.
- "Бутусов Плюс" Telegram channel shares a video of a Russian commander berating a subordinate for communication failures, highlighting issues with discipline and morale within Russian units.
UAVs:
- Ukrainian forces from the 141st Mechanized Brigade are targeting enemy positions in the Zaporizhzhia region with drones.
- Video evidence shows the aftermath of a Ukrainian drone attack in the Kyiv region, with two multi-story buildings and six cars damaged. A fire also broke out at an enterprise, covering an area of 600 square meters.
- "Rybar" reports on where the Ukrainian Armed Forces are preparing drones for launches against Russia. Ukrainian specialists have reportedly set up production using 3D printers, with parts supplied from the West and assembly taking place at factories in and around Kyiv. After assembly, drones were previously sent to Boryspil airport and the Antonov flight test base. However, due to increased Russian strikes on Kyiv, testing has been moved to a less noticeable airfield near Buzova, west of Kyiv. The location is convenient due to its proximity to a major highway, railway line, and a large wasteland for test flights. Another advantage of Buzova is the proximity of the Korostelevka airfield in the neighboring Zhytomyr region, where a UAV operator training center has been established
Video evidence confirms that a Russian Krasukha electronic warfare system was destroyed in Vasylivka, Kherson region.
Ukrainian forces are using long-range attack UAVs An-196 "Lyutyy," reportedly with a range of 2000 km.
Video evidence shows a soldier walking along a path while being tracked by a drone. The soldier drops several antipersonnel mines before being targeted and killed by a drone strike. The video is presented by the "Butusov Plus" Telegram channel as an example of the effectiveness of Ukrainian drone operations.
France's commitment to deliver Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of the first quarter of 2025 represents a significant boost to Ukraine's air capabilities.
The mention of a new Ukrainian AI platform for UAVs, Clarity, capable of detecting even camouflaged military equipment, highlights the increasing role of advanced technology in the conflict.
Vladivostok customs seized 9,800 tactical unloading vests, 5,800 tactical vests, and 18,900 armor plates due to violations of temporary storage rules. These items have been sent to the front lines.
The Ukrainian Air Force shared a video of a successful interception of an enemy projectile, likely a missile, by an air defense system.
Video evidence shows operators from the 14th Guards Special Forces Brigade of the "Vostok" group using FPV drones to target and destroy a Ukrainian self-propelled artillery unit near the Sukhyi Yaly River.

Geopolitical Developments

Former US President Trump has threatened to use $330 billion of frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine in purchasing American weapons.
The US is preparing to deploy nuclear weapons in the UK for the first time in 15 years.
European allies are pushing for US involvement in peacekeeping in Ukraine, with Zelensky requesting a direct US presence.
Trump's administration does not intend to participate in the reconstruction of Ukraine after the end of the conflict.
Bloomberg reports that European allies agree that the US should provide troops for any future peacekeeping force in Ukraine.
Hungarian Prime Minister Orban demands Ukraine restore Russian gas transit to continue EU sanctions against Russia.
The Vice-Speaker of the Slovak Parliament compared Biden and Zelensky to "dying horses" and stated only Putin and Trump can resolve the Ukrainian issue.
Zelensky began copying Trump, according to Le Monde.
Marco Rubio stated that Ukraine and Russia must "give up something" to end the war.
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 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.
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.
Zelensky stated that US peacekeepers should be sent to Ukraine.
Zelensky said he is confident that Xi Jinping can push Putin to peace.
Putin is ready for a conversation with Trump, according to Peskov.
The Polish Foreign Minister has stated that Putin must earn a meeting with Trump, and that he is not the same Putin Trump knew during his first term.
Preparation for direct negotiations between "Putin" and US President Donald Trump on a possible truce in the war between Russia and Ukraine is the only topic of discussion within the Politburo.
Part of the Russian leadership put forward a claim to the "Russian city of Narva" on the agenda of the negotiations.
Representatives of the Politburo were told that Trump intends to block all opportunities for Russia to bypass sanctions and "put an end to the gray fleet" that transports Russian oil products.
A telephone conversation between "Putin" and Trump could take place in the next three days.
The agreement on Ukraine was not reached because Zelensky wanted to fight.
Trump administration does not intend to participate in the reconstruction of Ukraine after the end of the conflict.
China has reiterated its position in favor of dialogue on Ukraine, as stated by the press secretary of the Chinese Embassy in the US, Liu Pengyu, in response to Trump's comments on expecting Beijing's assistance in resolving the Ukrainian conflict.
The EU has called the presidential elections in Belarus a "complete fake".
Saudi Arabia responded to Trump's proposal to collapse oil prices by stating that Riyadh is focused on "long-term stability of the oil market."
China responded to Trump's request for assistance in ending the war in Ukraine, stating that they are "ready to see all sides play a constructive role and create conditions for de-escalation and a political settlement of the crisis."
The heads of foreign affairs of 27 EU countries will discuss on January 27th the 16th package of sanctions against Russia and the use of its frozen assets, according to an EU representative.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs sharply responded to Russia's demand for Ukraine to refuse to join NATO, stating that the architecture of European security is built on protection from Russia and that Russia has no say in this matter.
US Secretary of State Blinken removed the official statement on the non-recognition of the future presidential elections in Belarus.
NATO plans to share classified data on military production with the EU and defense industry representatives, according to Bloomberg.
Trump reportedly plans to hold a phone call with Putin in late January or early February, followed by discussions with Ukrainian authorities.
A potential meeting between Trump, Zelensky, and Putin is proposed for February-early March 2025 to agree on the main parameters of a peace plan.
A ceasefire is proposed from April 20, 2025, with the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the Kursk region.
An International Peace Conference is proposed for late April 2025 to formalize an agreement between Ukraine and Russia, mediated by the US, China, select European countries, and "Global South" nations.
A prisoner exchange "all for all" is proposed for late April 2025.
A declaration on ending the war in Ukraine is proposed for May 9, 2025, with Ukraine not extending martial law or mobilization afterward.
Presidential elections in Ukraine are proposed for late August 2025, with parliamentary and local elections in late October 2025.
Ukraine would not join NATO and declare neutrality, with a NATO summit decision to prohibit Ukraine's entry.
Ukraine would join the EU by 2030, with the EU committing to post-war reconstruction.
Ukraine would not reduce its army size, and the US would continue supporting its modernization.
Ukraine would not recognize Russian sovereignty over occupied territories but would also refrain from military or diplomatic attempts to regain them.
Some sanctions against Russia would be lifted immediately after the agreement, others over three years based on compliance.
Restrictions on Russian energy imports to the EU would be removed, but subject to a special duty to fund Ukraine's reconstruction.
Parties supporting the Russian language and peaceful coexistence with Russia would be allowed in Ukrainian elections. Actions against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the Russian language would cease.
The issue of a European peacekeeping contingent is highlighted as problematic, with Ukraine demanding it and Russia opposing it.
Europe is reportedly preparing for the "most extreme" military scenario due to concerns about a potential "Trump-Putin 2.0" alliance, according to NBC News.
European governments fear that Russia may target them after Ukraine, especially if the US under a new administration does not provide support.
Lithuania plans to mine bridges leading to Russia and is prepared to destroy them if Russian tanks attempt to cross. They have also stockpiled "dragon's teeth" anti-tank obstacles.
NATO ships are reportedly searching the Baltic Sea for Russia's "shadow fleet," accused of cutting underwater communication cables.
Plans are underway to build a large-scale anti-missile defense system in Europe, similar to Israel's "Iron Dome."
Norway has updated its emergency preparedness brochure for citizens, outlining how much water, food, and other supplies to stockpile in case of "military action."
Germany has allocated around 100 million euros to restore public sirens that were dismantled after the fall of the "Iron Curtain."
Swedish church authorities, at the direction of the armed forces, have begun searching for additional cemetery space in case the conflict reaches their shores.
Concerns are widespread that a new US president might not defend historic NATO allies if they are attacked by Russia.
Turkey intends to help the EU replace gas transit through Ukraine, according to the Turkish ambassador to the EU, Faruk Kaymakcı. He stated that Turkey has the Southern Gas Corridor with 18 billion cubic meters of gas, mostly from Azerbaijan, and that it can be easily expanded by connecting it to Mediterranean gas.
Reports indicate a potential shift in the political landscape of Belarus, with incumbent President Lukashenko claiming a landslide victory in the recent elections, securing 87.6% of the vote according to exit polls.
There is speculation about a potential "100-day plan" for Ukraine, attributed to former US President Trump, which has been published in the media.
Europe is reportedly preparing for a potential escalation of the conflict, with concerns about a possible "Trump-Putin 2.0" alliance and a reduction in US support under a new administration.
Turkey has expressed its intention to assist the EU in replacing gas transit through Ukraine, potentially utilizing the Southern Gas Corridor and connecting it to Mediterranean gas sources.
The Wall Street Journal reports that US officials are shocked by Trump's suspension of foreign aid, fearing it could allow China and other rivals to gain influence.
The EU is considering a UN-mandated peacekeeping mission, potentially involving troops from outside Europe, though skepticism exists regarding the feasibility of such a plan.
Hungary's Minister of Foreign Affairs has signaled that the EU may "rape" European principles of unanimity if there is no consensus on the continuation of anti-Russian sanctions.
NATO will reportedly share confidential military production data with the EU and defense industry representatives to foster "common thinking."
A new "100-day plan" by former US President Trump for a settlement in Ukraine has surfaced in the media, though its authenticity is unconfirmed.
Prime Minister of Serbia, Miloš Vučević, is resigning amidst student protests.
🇩🇰Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is touring European capitals to rally support for the defense of Greenland, particularly in light of perceived threats from former US President Donald Trump. This initiative is part of a broader plan to bolster patrols in North Atlantic waters. Denmark has allocated $2 billion for the defense of the Arctic island and is urging European allies to downplay Trump's rhetoric to avoid escalating tensions.

Updated Situation

The military situation in Ukraine remains extremely volatile and unfavorable for Ukrainian forces. Russian forces are making significant advances in the Donetsk region, particularly around Velyka Novosilka, Pokrovsk, and Chasiv Yar. The encirclement of Velyka Novosilka is complete, with Russian forces now in full control of the settlement. The Russian Ministry of Defense has officially confirmed the liberation of Velyka Novosilka, and Russian flags have been raised over all districts of the town. This marks a significant strategic victory for Russian forces, as Velyka Novosilka was a key Ukrainian stronghold in the region. Russian forces are pushing towards Pokrovsk and Chasiv Yar with increased intensity. The situation in Pokrovsk is particularly concerning, with Russian forces within 3 kilometers of the administrative border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and advancing on both sides of the city to cut off supply routes. Ukrainian defenses in Toretsk are reportedly collapsing, with less than 15% of the city remaining under their control. The reported advances near Ulakly, Konstantinopol, Nadiivka, Petropavlivka, Kotlyne, and Sloviansk further complicate the situation for Ukrainian forces, indicating a widening of the Russian offensive front.

In the Kursk region, the Ukrainian counteroffensive has stalled, and Russian forces, reportedly supported by North Korean soldiers, are regaining territory. The presence of North Korean troops, if confirmed, would mark a significant escalation in the conflict. The reported involvement of an American mercenary, known as "Doctor Death," fighting on the Ukrainian side, further adds to the complexity of the situation in the Kursk region.

Drone warfare remains a significant aspect of the conflict, with both sides employing drones for reconnaissance, targeting, and attacks. Ukrainian drone attacks are continuing to target strategic locations deep inside Russia. The confirmed downing of drones over Ryazan Oblast and the reports of a new wave of drone attacks across multiple regions indicate the persistent threat and widespread use of drone technology in the conflict.

The geopolitical landscape is becoming increasingly complex, with the US aid suspension, President Trump's statements, and the potential for a shift in US policy towards Ukraine and Russia. The EU is considering various options, including a UN-mandated peacekeeping mission, but faces internal divisions and skepticism about the feasibility of such plans. The potential for a "Trump-Putin 2.0" alliance is causing significant concern in Europe, with countries like Lithuania taking steps to prepare for potential Russian aggression.

The new messages bring the following changes and updates to the situation:

The Russian Ministry of Defense has provided an update on the progress of the special military operation, detailing losses inflicted on Ukrainian forces and the liberation of Dvurechnaya in the Kharkiv region.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reports on the progress of the special military operation, detailing losses inflicted on Ukrainian forces and territorial gains in the Kharkiv, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia regions.
The Russian Ministry of Defense detailed the following losses inflicted on Ukrainian forces:
- Kharkov Direction: Up to 25 troops, one armored fighting vehicle, two motor vehicles, two field artillery guns, and one ammunition depot.
- Zapad Group of Forces: Up to 330 troops, four armored fighting vehicles (including two U.S.-made M113 armored personnel carriers), six motor vehicles, four field artillery guns (including three of Western-made), two electronic warfare stations, and two ammunition depots.
- Yug Group of Forces: Up to 220 troops, two American HMMWV armored fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 105-mm M119 gun, and one ammunition depot.
- Tsentr Group of Forces: Up to 600 troops, two tanks, two armored fighting vehicles (including one U.S.-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicle), seven motor vehicles, and one field artillery gun.
- Vostok Group of Forces: More than 115 troops, one tank, two motor vehicles, and four field artillery guns (including one manufactured by Western countries).
- Dnepr Group of Forces: More than 40 troops and three motor vehicles.
Operational-Tactical Aviation, strike UAVs, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged the infrastructure of military airfields, drones and uncrewed surface vehicles manufacturing workshops and depots as well as clusters of enemy manpower and hardware in 152 areas.
Air defence systems have shot down 15 U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles and 64 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles.
In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 652 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 41,635 unmanned aerial vehicles, 590 anti-aircraft missile systems, 20,870 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,510 MLRS combat vehicles, 21,022 field artillery guns and mortars, and 30,853 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised.
A German Bundestag member has criticized EU sanctions against Russia, highlighting the continued reliance of US nuclear power plants on Russian uranium.
France is reportedly set to deliver Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of the first quarter of 2025, bolstering Ukraine's air capabilities.
The acting head of the Rostov-on-Don administration has been appointed amidst a 3.2 billion ruble embezzlement scandal, suggesting internal political tensions in Russia.
The Russian Ministry of Defense has confirmed the liberation of Dvurechnaya in the Kharkiv region, opening a potential path towards Kupiansk.
A volunteer from the "Army of Beauties" named Nadin Geisler has been charged with treason, marking her third criminal case for allegedly calling for donations to the Ukrainian army.
US President Trump has reportedly ordered Google Maps to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for US users.
The Russian Minister of Defense has congratulated the 25th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade for the liberation of Dvurechnaya.
An employee of the Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support (TCC) in Odesa is reportedly selling conscription notices for $1,000 each, highlighting potential corruption within the Ukrainian military recruitment system.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine shared information about a conference in Jūrmala, Latvia, where Ukrainian officials shared their experiences in strategic and crisis communication with Latvian military and government experts. The presentation of the documentary film "Operation Kursk" further highlights Ukraine's efforts in information warfare.
A video shared by the Ukrainian Air Force shows the interception of an enemy projectile by an air defense system.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reports on the progress of the special military operation, highlighting the liberation of Dvurechnaya and detailing Ukrainian losses across multiple fronts.
A member of the German Bundestag has criticized EU sanctions against Russia as "a shot in the foot," noting that US nuclear power plants continue to rely on Russian uranium.
The head of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that France will deliver Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
The acting head of the Rostov-on-Don administration has been appointed amidst a 3.2 billion ruble embezzlement scandal.
Russian military forces have liberated Dvurechnaya in the Kharkiv region, opening a potential path towards Kupiansk.
A volunteer named Nadin Geisler has been charged with treason in Russia for allegedly calling for donations to the Ukrainian army.
US President Trump has reportedly ordered Google Maps to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for US users.
The Russian Minister of Defense congratulated

Situation Report