Archived operational intelligence briefing
Russia conducted a massive combined air attack across Ukraine on April 24 using approximately 70 missiles and 145 drones, according to initial Ukrainian reporting, with President Zelenskyy later stating the attack involved more than 200 air targets (missiles, including ballistic, and drones). Ukrainian air defense forces intercepted 112 aerial targets (ballistic, cruise, guided aviation missiles, and a significant number of Shahed/imitator drones). Ukrainian Air Force tactical aviation, including F-16 and Mirage platforms, participated in the defense, contributing to downing dozens of cruise missiles and Shaheds. Despite significant interceptions, a considerable number of targets penetrated defenses, resulting in severe damage to critical and civilian infrastructure across Kyiv, Kyiv Oblast, Kharkiv, Poltava, Khmelnytskyi, Zhytomyr, Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia. Minister of Internal Affairs Klymenko stated Ukraine lacks sufficient air defense assets for such large-scale attacks, and Air Force spokesperson Ihnat highlighted the potential devastation if all ballistic missiles had reached their targets in Kyiv, framing ballistic strikes on cities as terrorism. Zelenskyy described the attack as one of the most complex and brazen from Russia. Reuters reported that a North Korean KN-23 ballistic missile hit a residential building in Kyiv's Svyatoshynskyi district during the attack.
Russian Ministry of Defence claimed the massive strike successfully hit Ukrainian aviation, missile-space, engineering, and armored industry enterprises, as well as facilities producing rocket fuel and gunpowder, asserting all targets were engaged. Russian milblogger Rybar's analysis claimed specific targets included the Artem plant in Kyiv, Malyshev plant in Kharkiv, and Pavlohrad chemical plant, along with railway infrastructure, while also noting that AD fragments fell in civilian areas. Russian milblogger Dnevnik Desantnika specifically claimed targets in Kyiv included the Kyiv-Passenger railway station and associated logistics, locations of Western AD systems, personnel points near Lukyanivska metro station, and the Artem plant (claimed to produce air-to-air and anti-tank missiles, automated maintenance complexes, and UAV equipment). Russian sources claimed 11 Kinzhal missiles were used. Peskov stated the strikes on "military and near-military targets" continued because the Easter ceasefire had ended due to alleged Ukrainian violations.
Air threats remain active, with KAB launches noted on Donetsk and Sumy regions, and aerial weapons (presumably KABs) active on Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts. A specific threat of tactical aviation weapons use was noted for Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. A recent Russian drone attack on Zaporizhzhia city early morning on April 24 damaged two multi-story residential buildings in the Shevchenkivskyi district, affecting around 50 apartments and breaking over 100 windows (no casualties reported in this specific attack update). Satellite imagery analysis confirms the complete destruction of the central part of the Russian 51st GRAU arsenal near Kirzhach following an incident on April 22.
High-intensity combat persists across all active axes, with a reported 168 combat clashes over the past 24 hours (GSh April 24).
Intense Russian activity continues in the Kursk/Sumy Border Zone. Ukrainian forces repelled 26 Russian assaults on April 24. Russian forces conducted 20 airstrikes (41 KABs) and 423 shellings (19 MLRS) over the past day (April 24). Russian sources claim Ukrainian forces are trying to transfer reserves to Hornal (Kursk), leading to fierce battles. Russian milblogger Poddubny states fierce battles are ongoing for Hornal, UA attempts to bring in armor from Sumy are being destroyed on adjacent territory, and high UA drone intensity is affecting the speed of Russian advance. RU MoD claims inflicting damage on UA formations ("Sever" group zone) near multiple settlements in Sumy region, claiming over 45 personnel, armored vehicle, vehicles, and artillery lost. RU milblogger claims drone operations destroying UA groups near Demidovka (Belgorod border) and that UA "politically motivated" actions here yielded no result. RU sources claim combined Iskander and Tornado-S strike on a Ukrainian 47th Mechanized Brigade command post in Korovyntsi, Sumy Oblast, with significant claimed personnel and equipment losses (~25 command, ~40 comms personnel, vehicles, comms nodes/masts). RU milblogger Colonelcassad claimed a RU Forpost drone strike destroyed an AFU PVD near Novodmytrivka in Sumy Oblast.
A significant development reported by Ukrainian SSO is that warriors of the 6th regiment "Ranger" destroyed a platoon of 25 North Korean military personnel in close combat in Kursk Oblast last month. Video from drone and bodycams was released recently for operational security.
The Russian MoD claimed destroying or intercepting 87 Ukrainian UAVs over Russian regions overnight on April 24. Russian sources reported alleged Ukrainian drone attacks burning civilian homes in Bryansk Oblast.
The large-scale Russian attack on April 24 resulted in severe civilian casualties and damage across multiple regions.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal stated that since the start of the full-scale war, Russia has killed 13,000 civilians, including 618 children. He also cited 1700 attacks on schools, over 780 attacks on hospitals, and over 30 massive (and hundreds of smaller) attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The head of Zaporizhzhia OVA commented on the horror of ongoing Russian attacks and civilian deaths. CinC Syrskyi stated Russia bombs civilian cities due to lack of success on the front, acting as terrorists. Russian MoD claims regarding the April 24 attack goals were contradicted by local reports of widespread civilian casualties and damage.
The return of the body of journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, reportedly killed in Russian captivity, was confirmed, with details alleging her torture. Ukraine's OGP is investigating this as a war crime. A Russian POW reported on the suffering of families and the human cost of the war.
Support for Ukrainians who have survived captivity, torture, and sexual violence is being provided through the "Vilnyi Step" platform, offering free psychological support, medical consultations, necessary medications, and assistance with expensive examinations via NGOs.
Ukrainian forces demonstrated effective Air Defense capabilities during the April 24 attack, intercepting a large number and variety of Russian missiles and drones, including ballistic missiles. The reported involvement of F-16 and Mirage pilots underscores the high activity of multi-layered AD systems. Vadym Voroshylov, a Hero of Ukraine fighter pilot, commented on the necessity of professionalism, unity, and continuous army development, urging civilians to learn basic tactical medicine and discipline. The government has simplified the import of explosives and components for ammunition production for private manufacturers without state contracts, aiming to accelerate domestic ammo output. President Zelenskyy's directive and Minister Klymenko's statements highlight the critical need for continued supply of interceptors and systems due to insufficient current capabilities for the scale of Russian attacks. UA GUR unit "Wings" reported downing 3 RU reconnaissance UAVs. Ukrainian forces successfully used an FPV drone to cause a powerful detonation of a Russian BM-21 Grad MLRS, destroying the vehicle. The Ukrainian unit "Chorne Krylo" reported destroying a Russian ammo depot this morning and receiving a Starlink terminal. Warriors of the SSO "Ranger" 6th regiment successfully destroyed a platoon of 25 North Korean military personnel in Kursk Oblast last month, releasing drone and bodycam footage.
Recruitment for the Ukrainian 475th Separate Assault Battalion "CODE 9.2" (part of the 92nd Assault Brigade) is active, focusing on UAV components, structured training (up to 3 months), and integrating combat experience with management approaches. The battalion highlights low own losses vs high enemy damage, offers competitive salary (up to 200k UAH/month), good equipment, modern tech, and accepts those returning from AWOL. Ukrainian Basic Military Training (БЗВП) is a 49-day course with a final field exercise. Ukrainian 78th Separate Air Assault Regiment engineers are actively engaged in engineering reconnaissance, clearing and laying mines/IEDs.
The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War held a meeting with families of the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade, discussing critical issues such as limited official confirmation by the ICRC for some freed soldiers, undelivered letters, why exchanges are not from all detention colonies, search for the missing (including showing photos to released POWs), body repatriation, DNA analysis, potential "all-for-all" exchanges (including illegally convicted), and tracking detention locations.
Russian forces continue employing large-scale combined air attacks. Tactical aviation remains active, including KAB launches. Russian sources claimed use of FPV drones, reconnaissance, and strike assets. Russian milblogger commentary (Two Majors) showcased various RU equipment and capabilities including FPV drones, heavy transport trucks, well-equipped soldiers with modified rifles (optics, suppressors, lights), larger multirotor drones (octocopters) for advanced ISR or logistics, and fixed-wing ISR/utility drones operated from improvised bases. Some RU personnel appear to be using mixed equipment, including what looks like a US-made M26A1 grenade alongside a Russian-designed one. Russian milbloggers commented on the effectiveness and vulnerabilities of Ukrainian MRAPs (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicles, noting they can withstand mine and ATGM hits while protecting personnel, but including derogatory remarks. They compared MRAPs favorably to older Russian vehicles like the MT-LB. Russian Southern Military District training centers are conducting training on BMP-3 vehicles, including retraining veterans. Russian sources noted volunteer/regional efforts supplying modified armored trucks ("Frontline Armor") to medics/support in Starobelsk (LPR), highlighting the role of these initiatives. Russian reconnaissance drone operators (VDV) reported using a volunteer-supplied Mavic 3T for night reconnaissance on the front line. Russian drone operators (944th Sapper Regiment) claimed successfully coordinating artillery strike via drone to destroy a Ukrainian D-30 howitzer near Zarya. RU MoD claimed inflicting significant losses on UA formations and equipment across various axes (incl. Kirpi, M113 armored vehicles, artillery, EW stations, ammo depots, JDAM bombs, numerous UAVs). RU milblogger drone units claimed downing UA drones ("Baba Yaga", Mavic) and hitting various UA targets (PVDs, logistics vehicles, strongpoints, comms antennas).
A significant internal Russian military development is the conviction of General-Major Ivan Popov to 5 years imprisonment, a fine of 800,000 rubles, and stripping of his rank for fraud and forgery related to the sale of metal structures intended for fortifications in Zaporizhzhia. His lawyer stated he will seek acquittal. Russian milbloggers linked the conviction to his previous public criticism of General Staff leadership, comparing his fate to others who fell out of favor. Russian domestic aid to victims of the Kirzhach arsenal explosion included basic items like toilet paper, perceived by some as inadequate. The Lugansk city administration in occupied territory published a list of needed supplies that included non-standard items alongside essential goods, indicating ongoing logistical needs and potential administrative issues.
Joint Franco-British urban combat exercises are taking place in France, incorporating lessons from the Ukraine conflict, including rapid command post deployment and relocation based on drone data. Participants were stated to be ready for deployment anywhere. Denmark has also reportedly stated preparations to send instructors and active personnel to Ukraine for two-week courses on modern combat by June 2025.
Reports indicate potential discussions and pressure regarding peace negotiations. FT reported that European nations warned the United States that they will not recognize annexed Crimea as Russian territory, viewing recognition as unacceptable as it would undermine the rules-based order and potentially encourage further Russian aggression against Georgia, Moldova, and the Baltic states, risking a crisis in NATO and a split within the EU, especially over potential US sanctions lifting. Politico reported the White House is considering lifting sanctions on Nord Stream 2 as part of discussions about ending the war. The Times reported that the readiness of the UK and France to send their military as "peacekeepers" in case of a peace deal is weakening. Ukraine continues diplomatic engagements; President Zelenskyy met with the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, holding a joint press conference. Zelenskyy stated he gave Ramaphosa a list of 400 Ukrainian children currently in Russia against their will, hoping for assistance in their return, and highlighted the large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine today during the conference. Ramaphosa stated he had calls with both Putin and Trump earlier this week regarding finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The UK and Ukraine issued a joint commemorative postal stamp marking "100 years of partnership."
Russian official statements (Peskov) reiterated Russia's stance that Putin advocates for peace ensuring Russia's interests (mandatory condition), and that the Easter ceasefire ended after being violated by Kyiv, so RU forces continue tasks. Peskov stated Russia sees disagreements and "problems with bringing positions closer" among the participants of the London meeting (which was reportedly downgraded). Peskov also stated that Trump's alleged statement that Crimea's affiliation is not subject to discussion fully aligns with Russia's position. Peskov explicitly linked the cessation of the Easter ceasefire to the continuation of strikes on "military and near-military targets." Peskov also commented on the potential resumption of gas transit via Ukraine, framing it purely as a "commercial project" not to be politicized, in response to a question about potential US control over the pipeline.
Ukrainian CinC Syrskyi stated Russia bombs civilian cities due to lack of success on the front, acting as terrorists, promising punishment. UA Minister of Internal Affairs Klymenko highlighted the civilian nature of the recent Kyiv strike, directly contradicting Russian claims of targeting military/defense industry. Kyiv declared April 25 a Day of Mourning, emphasizing the human cost. Oleksiy Biloshitsky (UA National Police) echoed claims that Russian forces deliberately targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure in cities, framing it as terrorism.
Russian milbloggers commented on the April 24 attack severity, linking it to the failure of London peace talks and blaming Zelenskyy. They also used the conviction of General Popov to criticize Putin/leadership and highlight alleged injustice compared to others. Russian Duma plans to seize funds from "foreign agents" for "SVO" participants' rehabilitation and infrastructure restoration in occupied areas, potentially retroactively. Russian propaganda actively links the current conflict to the victory in World War II, using symbols like the St. George ribbon (framed by military reporter Poddubny as a "flag" and "banner") and commemorating the upcoming 80th Victory Day to mobilize patriotic support, particularly among youth (events in Bryansk). Some instances of incompetence in Russian propaganda were noted, such as using a photo of US soldiers in Afghanistan from 2001 on a Victory Day banner in Balakhna, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, which was later replaced. Russian milblogger Colonelcassad published a propaganda video with a caption suggesting Ukraine is planning to mobilize women and allow them to bring infants to the front, framing it negatively ("To the last Ukrainian"). RU milblogger commentary also framed international military exercises near Russia's borders and discussions of sending foreign troops to Ukraine as hostile and European leaders being out of touch. The incident with the bus driver dying in Makiivka was reported, providing a glimpse into daily life under occupation. The ASTRA platform reported on the Moscow court decision overturning housing for a "daughter of GULAG" descendant, highlighting domestic social/legal issues. Russia's SVR head Naryshkin speculated on "various options" regarding Zelenskyy's fate or plans, including potential escape, which can be seen as an information operation. The CSTO Secretary-General clarified Armenia's status within the organization is paused, not exited. Putin commented on Russian economic performance (inflation over 10%, 1.9% GDP growth early 2025, efforts for "soft landing," reduced bank lending offset by budget). Russian milbloggers framed the detention of Русский дом employees in Kyrgyzstan as pressure linked to alleged UA recruitment efforts.
Ukrainian sources highlighted the severe civilian consequences of the April 24 attack, promoted recruitment and training efforts, publicized successful cyber security operations (joint operation with Czech police), and released video of Ukrainian SSO destroying North Korean personnel in Kursk (delayed release). STERNENKO's report on the 18-year-old girl's successful evacuation from occupied Makiivka to Ukraine served as a narrative of resilience and return.
A joint operation by Ukrainian OGP/SBU Cyber Department and Czech Police NCTEKK SKPV halted a hacker group developing and selling malware used to steal personal data/crypto keys, which was also used by Russian hackers. Four participants were notified of suspicion (3 in Ukraine, 1 in Czech Republic), and equipment was seized. This highlights successful international cooperation against cyber threats.
In Russia, the FSB claimed to prevent a terrorist attack on a petrochemical enterprise in Nizhny Novgorod region on April 24, neutralizing two individuals from Central Asia who allegedly acted on instructions from Ukraine. A Ukrainian source dismissed this claim as staged. Another resident was reportedly detained in Nizhny Novgorod on suspicion of preparing an arson ("terrorist attack") linked to Ukraine. A Russian activist reported a search linked to a case against a gallerist accused of "fakes" about the army. Russian Duma is planning legislation to seize funds from "foreign agents." Russian authorities reported detaining members of a terrorist community in Dagestan preparing an attack on a police department. A shooting incident occurred on a parking lot in Kyiv's Podilskyi district involving two civilians; police are investigating. Oleksiy Biloshitsky (UA National Police) highlighted the role of police and emergency services in responding to the April 24th strikes, clearing rubble, providing aid, and ensuring passage of special equipment. Russian milbloggers framed the detention of Русский дом employees in Kyrgyzstan as potentially linked to Ukrainian recruitment.
Damage to railway infrastructure (Lukyanivska metro station in Kyiv - 5th time) and civil infrastructure continues. DSNS units responding to impacts face hazards like repeat strikes (Zhytomyr).
The large-scale Russian attack on April 24 resulted in significant civilian casualties across multiple regions, with confirmed fatalities in Kyiv (8), Kostiantynivka (2, including a child), and numerous injuries across Kyiv (77 sought medical help, 31 hospitalized, including 6 children and a pregnant woman; ages 1.5 to 80), Kharkiv (6 injured in region, incl. child; 2 injured confirmed in city), Kyiv Oblast (2 women with acute stress), Zhytomyr (1 injured rescuer), and Sumy (2 injured). Damage to residential buildings, civil infrastructure (clinics, schools, metro, enterprises, Marriage Palace), and emergency services equipment was widespread. A repeat strike on a DSNS unit in Zhytomyr injured a rescuer and damaged vehicles. Rescue operations are ongoing in Kyiv. Kyiv declared April 25 a Day of Mourning for the victims. A recent drone attack on Zaporizhzhia city damaged two residential high-rises. TASS reported a civilian fatality in Kamyanka-Dniprovska, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, from AFU shelling (RU reported).
The Minister of Internal Affairs stated that the attack in Kyiv's Svyatoshinskyi district hit a dense residential area and school with no military targets, directly contradicting Russian claims of hitting military/defense industry. Oleksiy Biloshitsky (UA National Police) reiterated claims of deliberate targeting of civilians and infrastructure, framing it as terrorism. CinC Syrskyi framed Russian bombing of cities as terrorism due to lack of success on the front.
President Zelenskyy stated he gave South African President Ramaphosa a list of 400 Ukrainian children allegedly in Russia against their will, highlighting the issue of forced deportations.
The return of the body of journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, reportedly killed in Russian captivity with allegations of torture, is being investigated as a war crime by Ukraine's OGP, highlighting severe humanitarian consequences for detained civilians. A Russian POW captured on the Pokrovsk axis reflected on the suffering of families and children left without fathers, expressing moral conflict with killing.
Overall civilian casualties since the start of the full-scale war are reported as 13,000 killed civilians, including 618 children. Attacks on schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure continue to inflict humanitarian costs.
Support for Ukrainians who have survived captivity, torture, and sexual violence, as well as their families, is being provided through the "Vilnyi Step" platform, offering free psychological support, medical consultations, necessary medications, and assistance with expensive examinations via NGOs, indicating ongoing needs related to the human cost of the conflict.
The death of a bus driver in Makiivka (occupied territory) highlights non-direct conflict civilian casualties in occupied areas. An 18-year-old girl successfully evacuated from occupied Makiivka to Ukraine-controlled territory, having lived under occupation since 2014 and having to hide her pro-Ukrainian views, illustrating the conditions in occupied areas.
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