Archived operational intelligence briefing
Russian forces are conducting a large-scale, multi-vector UAV and missile attack across Ukraine as of the latest reports. Significant Shahed drone activity is concentrated in Kharkiv, Sumy, Poltava, Chernihiv, Kyiv, Zhytomyr, Cherkasy, and Kirovohrad Oblasts. Impacts are confirmed in Kharkiv city, including at least five strikes causing fires on enterprise territory in the Slobidskyi district and damage to several private houses, with potential casualties being clarified. Drone movements indicate southwest trajectories from Sumy towards Chernihiv and Poltava, from northern Chernihiv towards Kyiv and Zhytomyr, and from northern Poltava towards Cherkasy. Groups are also approaching Kharkiv from Belgorod, and moving from Kyiv Oblast into Zhytomyr Oblast. Tactical aviation activity is noted on the eastern direction with a threat of aviation weapon strikes, and confirmed launches of KABs are targeting Donetsk Oblast.
This follows a major Russian combined attack on April 24 involving over 200 air targets, against which the Ukrainian Air Force intercepted 112, including ballistic and cruise missiles and Shahed drones. This attack caused severe damage to critical and civilian infrastructure in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Poltava, Khmelnytskyi, Zhytomyr, Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia. Confirmed fatalities in Kyiv reached 9, with 90 injured (including children). A North Korean KN-23 ballistic missile was reportedly used in Kyiv. Russia claimed these strikes targeted Ukrainian military-industrial facilities and infrastructure.
An earlier large-scale attack on April 23 involved 134 aerial objects (67 strike UAVs, 47 imitator drones, 3 missiles), resulting in civilian impacts across multiple oblasts. Ukraine confirmed the interception of 67 strike UAVs and neutralization of 47 imitator drones.
Ukraine successfully conducted a long-range strike on a strike UAV production plant in the Yelabuga district of Tatarstan on April 23, reportedly achieving at least five hits with six aircraft carrying 250kg warheads. Satellite imagery confirms the complete destruction of the central part of the Russian 51st GRAU arsenal near Kirzhach following an incident on April 22, with ongoing detonations and extensive forest fires.
Russia maintains capabilities for sustained, multi-vector air/missile attacks using strategic aviation, Kalibr, Iskander, Tornado-S, and various UAV types. Russian Kalibr missile carriers remain active in the Black Sea, participating in current strikes, with a new group reported entering via Kherson. Two Kalibr carriers and one other warship are active in the Mediterranean Sea.
High-intensity combat continues across multiple active axes, with nearly 150 Russian attacks and over 4500 shellings reported on April 24.
The Pokrovsk axis remains the area of highest intensity, with 43 Russian attempts recorded today (April 24) following 53 yesterday. Russian forces claim resuming envelopment efforts near Selydove and the liberation of Bogdanovka (Donetsk). President Zelenskyy reported that Russians attempted ground assaults under the cover of their massive strike on April 24, aiming to exploit Ukraine's focus on air/missile defense, but these attacks were repelled. Ukrainian General Staff reports significant Russian personnel and equipment losses on this axis today (349 personnel, 7 vehicles).
On the Toretsk axis, 25 Russian attacks were reported today. Russian forces confirm control of Sukha Balka and claim advances near Tarasivka, towards Nelepivka, and entering Dachne. DeepState assesses the enemy is developing success southwest of Toretsk, occupying Panteleymonivka, Valentynivka, almost all of Sukha Balka, assaulting Romanivka, and attempting a flanking maneuver around Shcherbynivka, describing the situation as "critical". Latest reports indicate Russian units continue attacking north of Dzerzhinsk towards Dyleevka and are engaged in fighting within Dyleevka/Dachne. Ukrainian police drone video depicts successful elimination of Russian personnel in close combat.
In the Kursk/Sumy Border Zone, Ukrainian operations continue in Kursk Oblast, repelling 27 Russian assaults today (with 2 ongoing), following 23 yesterday. Russian MoD claims countering alleged Ukrainian invasion attempts and inflicting over 150 personnel losses and equipment damage today. DeepState reports ongoing fierce battles for Hornal and Oleshnya in the Kursk region and increased Russian activity in Sumy Oblast, including consolidation/accumulation and attempts near Basivka, Loknia, and Bilovody. Ukrainian SSO reported releasing archived video documentation of destroying a platoon of 25 North Korean military personnel in close combat in Kursk Oblast "last month."
Other active axes on April 24 included Lyman (20 attacks, 4 ongoing), Siversk (9 attempts stopped, 3 ongoing), Novopavlivsk (13 actions stopped today, 1 ongoing), and Zaporizhzhia (3 attempts today, 1 ongoing). Increased Russian assault activity is reported on the Zaporizhzhia axis, with Ukrainian intelligence assessing troop transfers for expected intensification. Russian forces are utilizing UAVs (including incendiary) and coordinating ground assaults with drone support. Confirmed launches of KABs on Donetsk Oblast are likely in support of ground operations.
The ongoing Russian UAV and missile attack is causing significant civilian casualties and damage. In Kharkiv, multiple Shahed impacts have occurred tonight, causing damage to private and multi-story homes and a production enterprise, with at least five impacts confirmed in the Slobidskyi district resulting in fires on enterprise territory and damage to several private houses; information regarding casualties is being clarified.
This follows the severe impact of the April 24 combined attack. In Kyiv, 9 fatalities and 90 injured (including children) were confirmed, with extensive damage to residential buildings and infrastructure across multiple districts. Kyiv declared April 25 a Day of Mourning. In Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast, Russian Smerch MLRS strikes on April 24 killed 2 civilians (a 12-year-old girl and a woman) and injured 2 others.
Previous mass casualty events included the attack in Marhanets (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast) with 9 killed and 54 injured (31 hospitalized, 4 serious) from a Russian FPV drone striking a civilian bus on April 23. Critical energy infrastructure supplying Kherson city was destroyed by sustained Russian attacks.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal stated that since the start of the full-scale war, Russia has killed 13,000 civilians, including 618 children. Reports from Russian sources claim extensive damage to civilian housing in Bryansk Oblast (~56 houses destroyed claimed) and civilian casualties in Belgorod and occupied territories from alleged Ukrainian attacks.
Ukrainian forces continue to employ effective air defense and electronic warfare, though the scale of Russian attacks highlights a critical need for interceptors and systems. Drone operations remain critical for reconnaissance, strikes (FPV, anti-armor, anti-personnel, remote mining), and supply delivery. Ukraine successfully conducted a long-range strike on the Yelabuga UAV plant, demonstrating deep strike capability against military-industrial targets. President Zelenskyy commended the resilience and effectiveness of the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade, 59th Separate Assault Brigade of Unmanned Systems, 100th Separate Mechanized Brigade, and 12th Operational Designation Brigade of the National Guard, indicating their active roles and performance. Ukraine's government simplified import of explosives for private manufacturers to boost domestic ammunition production. Ukrainian forensic experts are actively investigating debris from downed Russian missiles and drones to identify critical components supplied from third countries to Russia or North Korea, providing crucial intelligence for disrupting enemy production and supply chains.
Russian forces maintain capabilities for sustained, multi-vector air/missile attacks. Tactical aviation remains active. Russian sources claim effectiveness against Ukrainian assets, including radars (Lancet success claimed against AN/TPQ radars) and drones (Russian sources shared video claiming the destruction of a Ukrainian "Baba Yaga" heavy drone with an FPV drone on the Kharkiv direction). Russian units are employing drones to coordinate ground assaults and claim success using EW to counter Ukrainian FPVs. Russian sources disseminated a "tactical reminder" video advising personnel against picking up unplaced items, likely related to Ukrainian mine or IED tactics.
Russian reliance on volunteer/humanitarian support for equipment acquisition persists, with fundraising appeals ongoing for frontline units, indicating potential gaps in state supply. A Russian source reported that 58,000 Russian military personnel could be missing, highlighting potential significant unacknowledged losses and internal issues. Russian MoD proposed extending SVO payments to military personnel in border regions (Bryansk, Belgorod, Kursk) to incentivize service in high-risk areas. Russian sources also discussed the use of FPV drones on fiber optics by the "Centre" group in Donbas, indicating technical adaptations in drone warfare.
Potential discussions and pressure regarding peace negotiations continue. European nations warned the United States that they will not recognize annexed Crimea as Russian territory. Polish President Andrzej Duda stated that Ukraine "will have to make certain concessions" in peace talks.
Ukraine continues diplomatic engagements. President Zelenskyy met with the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, discussing the return of Ukrainian children held in Russia. Zelenskyy stated London talks (April 23) were constructive but difficult, reiterating Ukraine is only ready for talks after a full ceasefire and excluding territorial concessions. It was reported that a document containing the "joint vision of Europeans - France, Britain, Germany and Ukraine regarding the war" was agreed upon in London and taken by Trump's special representative Kit Kellogg to Washington.
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. Russian MFA Sergey Lavrov, in an interview with CBS, stated Trump is right that the US and Russia are moving in the right direction on settlement and that Russia is ready for a deal but details need finalizing. He called Trump the only leader understanding the need to eliminate "root causes" and confirmed contacts with the US on settlement.
Russian official statements (Peskov, Lavrov) reiterated Russia's stance that Putin advocates for peace ensuring Russia's interests and justified continued strikes, claiming to hit only military or military-used civilian targets. Russian sources engaged in information operations targeting Moldovan President Sandu and commented on civilian casualties in Ukraine, framing it within their narrative.
Ukraine reportedly summoned the Chinese envoy to provide evidence of Chinese company support for the Russian VPK, stating it contradicts Beijing's neutrality claims. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has publicly called for Hungarians to vote against Ukraine's accession to the EU, stating it endangers Hungary's achievements and interests.
A joint Ukrainian OGP/SBU Cyber Department and Czech Police operation successfully halted a hacker group. Allegations of Russian security services torturing activists internally persist. The investigation into journalist Viktoria Roshchina's death confirmed signs of torture.
In Russia, the FSB claimed preventing a terrorist attack in Nizhny Novgorod region on April 24, neutralizing two individuals allegedly acting on instructions from Ukraine. Temporary mobile internet restrictions were confirmed in Rostov and Astrakhan regions, likely for operational security. Russian Defence Minister Shoigu stated that Russia has taken measures to protect the Russian segment of the internet.
Ukrainian forces continue adapting tactics, including increased reliance on drones for various roles. Recruitment drives for specialized units like UAV battalions and Artillery Brigades demonstrate a focus on capabilities suited to the current operational environment. Ukrainian Marine Corps are focusing on CBRN defense skills. Ukraine is seeking to boost domestic ammunition production by simplifying import rules for private manufacturers. Leveraging combat experience, Ukraine reportedly sent UAV instructors to the UK. The specific commendation of the 59th Separate Assault Brigade of Unmanned Systems highlights the formal integration and adaptation of drone warfare within the Ukrainian military structure. Forensic investigation of downed Russian missiles and drones to identify critical components from third countries is an active learning process aimed at understanding and disrupting enemy supply chains.
Russian forces continue employing large-scale combined air attacks, adapting targeting based on perceived Ukrainian vulnerabilities. Russian sources discuss potential adaptation of existing equipment like the ZU-23 for drone defense. The claimed use of FPV drones on fiber optics suggests technical adaptation in drone deployment. Russian sources issuing tactical reminders about mines/IEDs suggests adaptation to perceived Ukrainian battlefield threats.
Ukraine is prioritizing domestic ammunition production and seeking external support (drone donations, international aid). Recruitment efforts highlight specific personnel needs. Support programs for veterans and families indicate long-term resource commitments. Ukraine's Ministry of Finance's inability to restructure some foreign debt highlights potential financial strains.
Russia's proposal for SVO payments for border personnel is an incentive for deployment to high-risk areas. Russian reports on volunteer initiatives supplementing military supply point to potential gaps in central logistics. Reports of 58,000 missing Russian personnel, if accurate, indicate significant unacknowledged losses impacting available human resources. The sentencing of Russian General Popov for fraud related to fortification materials may indicate systemic issues in logistics or accountability.
Operational reports from GSh and MoD sources, as well as reports from units (3rd Assault Brigade, SSO), indicate communication channels. Diplomatic communications (Zelenskyy meetings, London talks, statements from international leaders) and information operations demonstrate coordination efforts at the political and strategic levels. The London document agreed upon by European partners and Ukraine represents coordination on a joint vision. Joint operations (UA OGP/SBU Cyber with Czech Police) highlight international security cooperation. President Zelenskyy reporting on Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi's daily brief demonstrates the communication structure from battlefield command to the highest political level. Russian official statements via TASS provide insight into state-level messaging.
Human commanders remain actively involved in directing operations and making tactical decisions. High-level political leaders are engaged in critical strategic decision-making regarding peace negotiations, international support, and the overall direction of the conflict. The conviction of Russian General Popov, linked to criticism of leadership, highlights potential political control and suppression of dissent impacting the autonomy of human commanders and potentially morale. Soldiers complaining about premature reporting of gains also points to potential disconnects or pressure within the reporting chain of command.
Successful international cooperation to disrupt cybercrime groups (UA OGP/SBU with Czech Police) indicates ongoing efforts to protect critical information infrastructure and counter malicious cyber activity. UK and EU sanctions on technology exports to Russia are attempts to limit Russia's access to components potentially used in military systems. Russian state control over information (Roskomnadzor censorship, SVR claims about information warfare) remains a factor influencing the information landscape and shaping narratives. Temporary mobile internet restrictions in Russian border regions are likely operational security measures aimed at enhancing information assurance and hindering adversary intelligence/coordination. Russian Defence Minister Shoigu stated that measures have been taken to protect the Russian segment of the internet.
The workflow involves data collection from various sources (official military reports, media outlets, milbloggers, satellite imagery, human reports, investigations), analysis (assessing claims, identifying trends, evaluating impact), reporting (structured briefs, public announcements), and adaptation based on feedback and outcomes (adjustments in tactics, recruitment focus, diplomatic messaging). Investigations into incidents (like the inmate death or collaboration cases) represent a workflow of identifying issues, gathering evidence, and applying legal or administrative processes. Fundraising appeals indicate a feedback loop identifying unit needs. Forensic investigation of downed Russian weapons provides crucial intelligence for analysis and strategic response. Reporting structure from Commander-in-Chief to President facilitates oversight and decision authority.
The continuation of large-scale, multi-vector Russian air/drone attacks, particularly targeting urban centers like Kharkiv with multiple confirmed impacts on enterprises and residential areas, indicates a sustained effort to degrade infrastructure and exert pressure, suggesting these attacks will likely continue. The high intensity and Russian claims of advances and liberation (Bogdanovka) on the Pokrovsk axis, combined with assessments of a critical situation on the Toretsk axis and reports of continued RU attacks towards Dyleevka/Dachne, point to Russia prioritizing offensive breakthroughs in Donbas. The reported Russian tactic of attempting ground assaults under the cover of massive missile/drone strikes suggests an adaptation to overwhelm defenses and exploit Ukrainian focus on air defense, indicating this combined arms approach may be used again. The significant qualitative evidence of severe issues within Russian military personnel management (missing personnel reports, treatment of volunteers/injured) could indicate systemic weaknesses in Russian force generation and sustainment, potentially impacting the long-term effectiveness of units, although they are currently being used in high-intensity assaults. Continued reliance on volunteer/humanitarian fundraising for specific equipment needs for Russian units suggests ongoing logistical or procurement challenges. The complexities and reported disagreements surrounding negotiations about Western aid/negotiation terms, especially coupled with critical statements from US sources and Trump's public stance, strongly indicate a potential shift in the international support landscape for Ukraine, posing a risk to the scale and consistency of future aid. Hungarian PM Orbán's public opposition to Ukraine's EU accession signals potential future challenges to Ukraine's integration path within the European Union. The active investigation by Ukrainian experts into foreign components in Russian weapons indicates a strategic focus on identifying and disrupting Russia's military-industrial supply chains, which is critical for degrading their long-term combat capability. The specific commendation of Ukrainian brigades heavily involved in current operations, including a dedicated drone unit, highlights the areas of most intense fighting and successful Ukrainian defense, and the critical role of specialized units. Russian MFA Lavrov's statements on readiness for a deal with the US, while requiring finalization of "elements," may indicate a potential shift in Russia's diplomatic messaging or a strategic attempt to influence perceptions of negotiation readiness, particularly in light of US political dynamics.
The latest messages reinforce key ongoing trends and provide specific real-time updates:
The updated situation confirms the continuity of high-intensity conflict on the ground and in the air, highlights a specific combined arms tactic employed by Russia, reinforces the critical nature of drone warfare and counter-UAV efforts for both sides, details Ukrainian efforts to counter Russian supply chains, and provides insights into ongoing diplomatic signaling and information operations, particularly from the Russian side regarding potential peace talks and influencing international perception.
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