Archived operational intelligence briefing
Russia conducted a massive combined air attack across Ukraine on April 24, involving more than 200 air targets (missiles, including ballistic and cruise, and drones). This resulted in severe damage to critical and civilian infrastructure in numerous regions, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Poltava, Khmelnytskyi, Zhytomyr, Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia. Ukrainian air defense forces effectively intercepted 112 aerial targets, demonstrating capability against a wide variety of threats, including ballistic and cruise missiles and a significant number of Shahed-type drones. Ukrainian Air Force tactical aviation, including F-16 and Mirage platforms, contributed to interceptions. Despite significant efforts, a considerable number of targets penetrated defenses, highlighting Ukraine's critical need for continued supply of interceptors and systems to counter such large-scale attacks. Initial Ukrainian reporting indicated approximately 70 missiles and 145 drones were used.
A Ukrainian military source identified one of the missiles that struck Kyiv, causing 8 fatalities, as a North Korean KN-23 short-range ballistic missile, confirming Russia's continued use of North Korean munitions.
Russian Ministry of Defence claimed the April 24 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 milbloggers claimed specific targets included the Artem plant in Kyiv, Malyshev plant in Kharkiv, and Pavlohrad chemical plant, along with railway infrastructure. Russia justified the continuation of strikes by claiming the Easter ceasefire had ended due to alleged Ukrainian violations.
Ongoing air threats include KAB launches, particularly on Donetsk, Sumy, Dnipropetrovsk, and Zaporizhzhia regions, and tactical aviation activity posing air weapons threats on northeastern and eastern directions. Russian milbloggers claimed the use of heavy air bombs on the Krasny Lyman direction.
Satellite imagery analysis confirmed the complete destruction of the central part of the Russian 51st GRAU arsenal near Kirzhach following an incident on April 22, indicating a significant logistical and capability loss for Russia.
Previous large-scale attacks included a Russian strike on April 23 involving 134 aerial objects (67 strike UAVs, 47 imitator drones, 3 missiles), resulting in civilian impacts across multiple oblasts. Ukraine intercepted 67 strike UAVs and neutralized 47 imitator drones in this attack.
Ukraine confirmed a successful long-range strike on a plant producing strike UAVs in the Yelabuga district of Tatarstan on April 23, claiming damage to the final assembly workshop.
High-intensity combat persists across all active axes, with 168 combat clashes reported over the past 24 hours (GSh April 24).
The Pokrovsk Axis remains the area of highest intensity, with Ukrainian defenders stopping 56 Russian assault actions on April 24. Intense fighting is reported around Kotlyne, Shevchenko, Hrodivka, Novohrodivka, and Novoyelyzavetivka. Russian sources claim advances and expanded control zones in this area, with significant RU losses reported by Ukraine (349 personnel, 7 vehicles on April 24).
The Toretsk Axis saw 25 Russian attacks on April 24. Russian forces claim continued advances southwest of Toretsk, entering Novospasskoye (Petrovka) and advancing in areas including Sukha Balka and Dyliivka. DeepState reported enemy success southwest of Toretsk, occupying Panteleymonivka, Valentynivka, almost all of Sukha Balka, and assaulting Romanivka, noting an attempted flanking maneuver around Shcherbynivka. RU MoD claimed control over Sukha Balka (confirmed in earlier reporting).
The Kursk/Sumy Border Zone continues with high intensity, with Ukrainian forces repelling 26 Russian assaults on April 24. Russian forces conducted 20 airstrikes and 423 shellings over the past day. Fierce battles are ongoing for Hornal (Kursk), with Russian sources claiming units continue pushing Ukrainian forces from Kursk region and achieved a flanking maneuver, compressing remaining UA forces. Ukrainian SSO reported the destruction of a platoon of 25 North Korean military personnel in close combat in Kursk Oblast last month (video documentation released recently).
The Novopavlivsk Axis recorded 15 Russian offensive actions stopped by Ukrainian units on April 24. Russian sources noted force accumulation in this area for a potential large offensive and claimed advances towards Bohatyr/Otradne, supported by effective FPV drone operations against Ukrainian logistics and personnel concentrations.
Increased Russian assault activity is reported on the Orikhiv Axis, with occupiers attempting to advance three times on April 24. Positional fighting and Ukrainian counterattacks are ongoing. Ukrainian intelligence assesses troop transfers for expected intensification from Crimea and Russia.
The Kharkiv Direction saw 4 Russian attacks repelled near Vovchansk and Vovchanski Khutory on April 24, with the situation described as complex but controlled. Russian forces continue air strikes and shelling. RU sources claim assault groups are actively pushing into Ukrainian defenses near Vovchansk and Lyptsi.
The Lyman Axis recorded 20 Russian attacks on April 24, while the Siversk Axis saw 12 Russian offensive actions stopped on April 24, particularly near Bilohorivka and Verkhnokamyanske.
The Kramatorsk Axis recorded one combat clash near Klishchiivka on April 24. The Huliaipole Axis recorded no ground clashes. The Prydniprovskyi Axis (Kherson) had one unsuccessful enemy attempt to advance.
Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that in active actions by the "Tsentr" Group of Forces, the settlement of Bogdanivka in the Donetsk People's Republic was liberated. Russian sources also reported soldiers complaining about premature reporting of village liberation in the Kursk region (Oleshnya/Gornal), stating battles are still ongoing, impacting morale and tasks.
The large-scale Russian combined attack on April 24 resulted in severe civilian casualties and damage across multiple regions. In Kyiv, 8 fatalities were confirmed, including two children (a brother and sister aged 21 and 19). 90 individuals sought medical help, with 44 hospitalized (including 6 children and a pregnant woman). Damage occurred across 5 districts, impacting residential buildings, non-residential buildings, and infrastructure. The Minister of Internal Affairs stated the attack hit a dense residential area and a school with no military objects nearby. Kyiv declared April 25 a Day of Mourning.
In Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast, Russian forces conducted 4 Smerch MLRS strikes targeting the private sector on April 24, killing 2 civilians (a 12-year-old girl and a woman) and injuring 2 others.
Kharkiv experienced impacts damaging private houses, multi-story buildings, a clinic, school, production enterprises, and a hotel, with 6 injured reported in the region (including a 14-year-old girl). Kyiv Oblast had 2 women suffering acute stress reaction and damage to residential buildings. In Zhytomyr Oblast, combined attacks caused damage and fires, with a repeat strike injuring one rescuer and damaging emergency equipment. Sumy Oblast (Nedryhailivska community) had a drone strike causing 2 injuries and damage. Poltava Oblast reported debris from a downed missile damaging property with no casualties. Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Pavlohrad) saw damage to multi-story buildings and infrastructure; no casualties reported specifically from this attack update. Zaporizhzhia city had a Shahed attack damaging an administrative building and nearby windows; no casualties reported specifically from this attack update. Previous attacks caused significant civilian casualties, including the Marhanets bus attack (April 23) resulting in 9 killed and 54 wounded.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal stated that since the start of the full-scale war, Russia has killed 13,000 civilians, including 618 children.
A woman was killed in the village of Mokraya Orlovka, Belgorod Oblast, by an alleged FPV drone attack according to the governor.
Ukrainian forces demonstrated effective Air Defense capabilities, intercepting a large proportion and variety of Russian missiles and drones, including ballistic missiles, in the April 24 attack. The involvement of F-16 and Mirage tactical aviation pilots was noted. However, the scale of the attack highlighted the critical need for continued supply of interceptors and systems.
The government has simplified the import of explosives and components for ammunition production for private manufacturers without state contracts, aiming to accelerate domestic output.
Ukrainian SSO unit "Ranger" 6th regiment successfully destroyed a platoon of 25 North Korean military personnel in Kursk Oblast last month, indicating effective special operations capabilities and the confirmed presence of North Korean personnel supporting Russian forces. Ukrainian units continue to utilize drones for targeted destruction, including logistics interdiction at night.
The structure of Ukrainian Air Assault Forces (DShV) includes the 7th Corps and the newly formed 8th Corps, indicating adaptation in force structure. The 15th Separate Support Regiment of the Ukrainian Marine Corps is actively improving skills in modern CBRN defense, reflecting a focus on preparedness for hazardous environments. Recruitment is active for specialized units like the 429th Separate UAV Battalion "Achilles" and the 44th Separate Artillery Brigade, indicating specific personnel needs across combat, technical, and support roles (gunners, drivers, engineers, medics, etc.).
Meetings of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War with families of specific units (e.g., 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade, 501st Marine Battalion) highlight ongoing issues related to limited official confirmation by the ICRC, undelivered letters, searching for the missing, body repatriation, DNA analysis, potential exchanges, and tracking detention locations, underscoring the human cost and logistical challenges.
Russian forces continue employing large-scale combined air attacks and active tactical aviation, claiming destruction of Ukrainian aviation, industry, logistics, and C2 nodes. Russian sources discussed potential modernization of the ZU-23 anti-aircraft gun for drone defense and volunteer/regional efforts supplying equipment.
A significant internal Russian military development is the conviction of General-Major Ivan Popov to 5 years imprisonment for fraud and forgery, and stripping of his rank. This is widely interpreted as politically motivated and linked to his previous public criticism of General Staff leadership. This event highlights potential internal friction and suppression of dissent which could impact morale and leadership stability. Russian sources reported soldiers complaining about premature reporting of gains in the Kursk region, also impacting morale.
International military cooperation continues, with joint Franco-British urban combat exercises taking place in France incorporating lessons from Ukraine. Denmark is preparing to send instructors and active personnel to Ukraine for training by June 2025. Ukraine reportedly sent UAV instructors to the UK.
Russian Ministry of Defence proposed extending the 400,000 ruble payment for SVO participants to include military personnel in the Bryansk, Belgorod, and Kursk border regions, indicating efforts to incentivize service in these high-risk areas.
Potential discussions and pressure regarding peace negotiations continue. European nations warned the United States that they will not recognize annexed Crimea as Russian territory. Reports indicate 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, in South Africa. Zelenskyy stated he gave Ramaphosa a list of 400 Ukrainian children currently held in Russia against their will, hoping for assistance in their return, and linked the large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine during the conference to Russian pressure. Zelenskyy commented on the London talks (April 23), stating they were constructive but not easy. He reiterated that Ukraine is only ready for talks after a full ceasefire and that anything contradicting Ukraine's constitution (implying territorial concessions) cannot be part of any agreements. He stated a new document following the London meeting has been presented to "Trump's table." Responding to remarks about potential US patience running out, Zelenskyy stressed that Ukrainians' patience is the one being tested by constant attacks, calling for greater pressure on Russia. Ramaphosa reportedly stated that territorial concessions by Ukraine could be a "prerequisite for peace," but emphasized focusing on the willingness for an unconditional ceasefire first.
Statements attributed to Donald Trump on April 24, 2025, criticizing Russian strikes on Kyiv, calling on Putin to "STOP!", citing high weekly casualties ("5000 soldiers"), and advocating for a "Peace Deal" were widely reported and amplified by both Ukrainian and Russian sources.
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, justifying continued strikes on "military and near-military targets." Russian sources dismissed Western reports of readiness to freeze the conflict, emphasizing controlling "new regions" and framing the London talks downgrade as due to Ukrainian inflexibility. Sergey Naryshkin, Head of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service, speculated on "various options" regarding Zelenskyy's fate or plans, seen as an information operation.
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. Kyiv declared April 25 a Day of Mourning, emphasizing the human cost.
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. Russian propaganda actively links the current conflict to the victory in World War II, using symbols and commemorations. An ASTRA report noted newborns in a Russian hospital being dressed in miniature military uniforms, raising ethical concerns about militarization of childhood.
A report attributed to Polish President Andrzej Duda suggesting Ukraine may need to make concessions in peace talks with Russia was reported and amplified by Russian sources, potentially influencing strategic calculus by indicating potential evolving perspectives among international partners on terms for ending the conflict.
Ukraine reportedly summoned the Chinese envoy to provide evidence of Chinese company support for the Russian VPK, stating it contradicts Beijing's neutrality claims.
A joint operation by Ukrainian OGP/SBU Cyber Department and Czech Police NCTEKK SKPV successfully halted a hacker group developing and selling malware used to steal personal data/crypto keys, also used by Russian hackers, highlighting 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. Russian Duma is planning legislation to seize funds from "foreign agents." Russian authorities reported detaining members of a terrorist community in Dagestan. The ASTRA platform reported that the FSB detained a human rights activist in occupied Donetsk and subsequently accessed his Telegram account remotely from a device located in Vilnius, Lithuania, implying advanced surveillance capabilities and the use of remote access tools. Roskomnadzor reportedly forced the Russian outlet BAZA to delete publications, including reports on the Prigozhin mutiny and mobilized personnel, citing "discreditation" of the Russian armed forces, highlighting state information control measures relevant to information assurance. In Ukraine, a death of an inmate in the Kyiv SIZO in December 2024 is under investigation. Ukraine's Prosecutor General's office announced sentences up to 15 years for four Ukrainian citizens convicted of state treason and collaboration for fighting on the side of the occupiers.
Temporary mobile internet restrictions were confirmed in the Rostov and Astrakhan regions, citing resident safety and countering terrorist threats. This likely serves as an operational security measure to hinder adversary intelligence, communication, and attack coordination (e.g., drone strikes) in critical rear areas.
Ukrainian Air Assault Forces have organized into a corps system, including the newly formed 8th Corps, indicating adaptation in force structure. The 15th Separate Support Regiment of the Marine Corps is focusing on improving modern CBRN defense skills, suggesting preparedness for specific environmental or enemy threats. Ukrainian units are increasingly utilizing drones for targeted destruction, including logistics at night, demonstrating adaptation in tactics and reliance on technological solutions. The establishment and recruitment efforts for the 429th Separate UAV Battalion "Achilles" and the 44th Separate Artillery Brigade further highlight the strategic importance and operational status of specialized units, adapting to the terrain and environmental challenges (severe mud, low visibility) that impact ground mobility. Kharkiv Oblast Council initiatives supporting veterans and their families indicate adaptation to the long-term societal impact of the conflict. The Ukrainian government's simplification of importing explosives for private manufacturers shows adaptation aimed at increasing domestic ammunition production based on wartime needs. Ukraine reportedly sent UAV instructors to the UK to train British military personnel, leveraging combat experience.
Russian milbloggers are discussing the potential modernization of the ZU-23 anti-aircraft gun for drone defense, indicating recognition of the evolving threat environment and potential adaptations of existing equipment. Russian forces' claimed focus on disrupting Ukrainian logistics and command/control nodes reflects adaptation in targeting priorities. Russian units claiming success against enemy heavy drones indicates adaptation in countering specific UAV threats. Russian MoD proposing SVO payments for border personnel suggests adaptation in personnel incentives. Soldiers complaining about premature reporting of gains also indicates adaptation in information flow issues.
Ukraine is focusing on domestic ammunition production by simplifying import rules and appealing for drone donations (e.g., a raffle for FPV drones for specific brigades). The organization of DShV into Corps is a structural change impacting personnel and equipment allocation. Support programs for veterans and their families reflect long-term resource commitment to personnel welfare. Recruitment efforts highlight specific personnel needs.
Russia's proposal for SVO payments for border personnel aims to incentivize service in high-risk areas. Russian milbloggers' reports on volunteer initiatives providing equipment (armored trucks, drones) and appeals for donations highlight areas where central supply may be insufficient, while reports of receiving electric carts and EW amplifiers from volunteer/crowdfunding efforts indicate supply needs being met through external support. RU claimed focus on targeting UA logistics and C2 nodes indicates resource allocation towards specific interdiction efforts, including successful targeting of UA logistics and personnel concentrations on the Southern Donetsk direction using FPV drones and drops. The sentencing of General Popov for fraud related to fortification materials may indicate issues with logistics or resource accountability within the Russian system. Reports of soldiers complaining about premature reporting also touch upon resource management issues.
The report details communication between command levels through operational reports and orders. Joint operations (e.g., UA OGP/SBU with Czech Police on cybercrime, implied joint DBR/military operations) demonstrate coordination. Diplomatic engagements (Zelenskyy with Ramaphosa, reported discussions in London, statements attributed to Trump and Macron, UA summoning China envoy) highlight coordination efforts at the political/diplomatic level, as well as differing perspectives on negotiation terms. RU claims of combined strikes imply significant internal coordination. The meeting of the Coordination Headquarters with families illustrates communication structures addressing the human cost and logistical challenges related to POWs and MIAs.
The severe human cost of the conflict is consistently highlighted through reports of civilian casualties from Russian strikes (Kyiv, Kostiantynivka, Kharkiv, Marhanets, etc.), including specific tragic details (children killed, pregnant woman injured, elderly wounded). The framing of these attacks as terrorism by Ukrainian officials underscores the ethical concerns regarding deliberate targeting of civilian areas. The forced deportation of children is a significant humanitarian concern raised by Zelenskyy. Support initiatives for those affected by the conflict (veterans, families, captivity survivors, people with disabilities) show efforts to address the humanitarian consequences. The ASTRA report on newborns being dressed in military uniforms in Russia raises ethical concerns about the militarization of childhood as propaganda. The confirmed death of a civilian woman by an alleged UA drone strike in Belgorod Oblast also underscores the civilian risk in border areas. The investigation into the inmate's death in Kyiv SIZO highlights the need for accountability and oversight within state institutions. Ukraine's prosecution of collaborators and traitors highlights efforts to enforce law and order during conflict.
The report consistently details actions by human commanders (repelling assaults, attempting advances, directing strikes), reflecting the continued human element in tactical decision-making. The structure of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces into Corps implies a tiered command structure with human oversight. Discussions around peace negotiations, territorial concessions, and ceasefires involve high-level political leaders making critical strategic decisions. The investigation into the inmate's death in Kyiv SIZO involving suspected employee negligence and cover-up highlights the need for accountability and oversight within state institutions. The sentencing of Russian General Popov, linked to his previous criticism of leadership, underscores the political control and potential consequences faced by military commanders for dissent, impacting the dynamics of authority and decision-making within the Russian military. Soldiers complaining about premature reporting of gains also indicates potential issues with command reporting and oversight.
The report demonstrates the operational workflow: data is collected from diverse sources (GSh reports, milbloggers, official statements, satellite imagery analysis, human reports from press conferences, ASTRA, SIZO investigation report, OVA updates, image analyses), analyzed (comparing claims, identifying trends in attacks/movements, assessing casualties, noting capabilities, interpreting images), and reported (structured into sections with detailed findings). Feedback loops are present through reporting on responses to events (AD actions, rescue operations), adjustments in tactics or force structure (formation of DShV Corps, CBRN training focus), and communication between command levels and support structures (Coordination Headquarters meetings). The inclusion of fundraising appeals suggests a feedback loop where identified needs at the unit level are communicated. Investigation and prosecution of individuals fighting for the enemy (Prosecutor General's announcement) also represents a workflow of identifying threats, gathering evidence, and applying legal process.
A significant successful operation involving Ukrainian OGP/SBU Cyber Department and Czech Police halting a hacker group and seizing equipment demonstrates ongoing efforts to combat cyber threats and protect sensitive data/systems in coordination with international partners.
In Russia, Roskomnadzor's action forcing the BAZA outlet to delete publications related to sensitive military topics underscores pervasive state control over information and censorship, impacting information assurance. ASTRA's report on the FSB potentially accessing an activist's Telegram account remotely from Lithuania suggests advanced surveillance capabilities and raises concerns about information security for individuals operating in or reporting on occupied territories or critical of the Russian government. Temporary mobile internet restrictions in Rostov and Astrakhan regions are an operational security measure reflecting concern over information leakage and coordination of attacks facilitated by communication systems, directly impacting information assurance in critical rear areas. The sale of Prigozhin's asset to structures linked to a friend of the SVR head also touches upon information security and insider influence.
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