Archived operational intelligence briefing
Recent reporting emphasizes the Russian narrative surrounding the detention of Ignat Kuzin, alleged Ukrainian agent, in connection with the killing of Major General Yaroslav Moskalik. Russian sources provide details of the alleged plot, including recruitment in April 2023, arrival in Moscow September 2023, apartment occupation November 2024, vehicle purchase February 2025, and explosive device retrieval late February 2025. They claim remote detonation from Ukraine and the explosive device was made of TNT, bolts, and nails. Footage of the alleged detention and interrogation is being disseminated.
Russian sources claim the deployment of a FAB-3000 with UMPK by Russian aviation to strike a concentration of Ukrainian reserves south of Myropillya, Sumy Oblast, asserting significant Ukrainian casualties.
Russian claims include the destruction of a Ukrainian T-72 tank in Kharkiv Oblast by FPV drones and ongoing operations to destroy Ukrainian military assets in Chernihiv Oblast to prevent force buildup near the border.
Russian Ministry of Defense Minister Belousov reportedly visited the command post of the "Kursk" group and issued new tasks.
Recommendation: Continue to scrutinize Russian claims regarding the Moskalik assassination for inconsistencies and potential disinformation. Assess the impact and implications of FAB-3000 strikes, particularly in border regions. Maintain focus on counter-drone and air defense capabilities in vulnerable areas. Monitor Russian activity and reporting in Chernihiv Oblast and high-level command visits for indicators of operational priorities.
No new significant naval developments reported.
Recommendation: Maintain continuous surveillance of Russian naval activities.
Intense ground combat persists.
Detailed claims of Russian advances on the Toretsk direction include pushing from Dachne along the railway to Dyliivka station, fighting in Dyliivka settlement, advancing east of the Balamutka river north of Druzhba towards Dyliivka, and battling for a pioneer camp west of the first Dyliivsky pond north of Krymske. Russian sources claim units of the 20th Motorized Rifle Division have entered southern Staraya Nikolayevka, and the 150th Motorized Rifle Division continues fighting northwest and west of Sukha Balka towards Staraya Nikolayevka and Romanovka. They report Ukrainian counterattacks and fierce fighting in contested areas, including northern Tarasivka, north of Zelenoye Pole, Aleksandropol, Beryozovka, and the southwestern outskirts of Dzerzhinsk, Shcherbinovka, and Novospasskoye (Petrovka).
On the Pokrovsk direction, Russian sources claim units of the "Center" group are assaulting Kotlyarivka, with Ukrainian forces using drones to resist. Russian artillery and drone operators are reportedly targeting Ukrainian positions in the village and western tree lines. Russian units also claim attacking the eastern outskirts of Troitske, advancing into tree lines north of Nadezhdynka towards Novoaleksandrivka, capturing two positions in the Shumilova gully, and fighting for the central street in Uspenivka.
Ukrainian sources showcase successful drone strikes, including the SSU "A" unit destroying three Russian tanks and an FPV drone strike on a Russian soldier near mines resulting in a mine detonation and fatality. Ukrainian sources also share video of drones destroying Russian vehicles in Kursk Oblast.
Russian sources promote the "liberation" of the Kursk border region as a significant victory.
A military situation map from Russian sources indicates changes in territorial control in the Konstantinovka direction as of April 26, 2025, showing areas under Russian and Ukrainian control, settlements, and fortifications. It highlights an area that recently came under Russian control and settlements in a "gray zone."
Recommendation: Prioritize intelligence gathering and verification of claimed Russian advances on the Toretsk and Pokrovsk axes. Reinforce defenses in key areas under pressure. Continue effective use of drone capabilities for targeting and reconnaissance. Analyze the impact of Russian claims regarding the "liberation" of the Kursk border region. Analyze and assess the latest military situation map for the Konstantinovka direction to identify areas of recent change and potential future conflict.
Reports continue regarding President Zelenskyy's diplomatic activities in Rome. Donald Trump reportedly questioned Putin's motives for striking civilian areas and suggested alternative pressure methods after meeting Zelenskyy. President of Estonia, Alar Karis, reportedly stated that Trump promised not to withdraw from negotiations regarding Ukraine and felt they were "quite close to a solution" after meeting with Zelenskyy.
President Zelenskyy met with President Emmanuel Macron, discussing achieving a full, unconditional ceasefire and the need for pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy highlighted the impact of recent Russian attacks and the critical need for strengthened air defense.
Russian sources quote Maria Zakharova stating that following Kursk, all territories under Kyiv's control will be "liberated," emphasizing Russia's maximalist goals. Russian sources continue to promote discussions about Ukrainian politicians.
President Zelenskyy also met with the Head of the Council of Ministers of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, discussing security guarantees, peace restoration, and the importance of pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire 46 days prior, while Russia continued attacks. He mentioned constructive meetings with delegations from the US, France, UK, and Germany in Paris and London, with a shared position that a full, unconditional ceasefire is the first step to lasting peace.
Zelenskyy met with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, discussing protecting Ukrainian lives, restoring security, approaching an unconditional ceasefire, strengthening Ukraine-EU cooperation (including ReArm Europe), and the importance of the 17th EU sanctions package targeting key Russian economic sectors as pressure for peace.
News reports mention a demonstration against arms supplies to Ukraine in Berlin and counter-protests.
Recommendation: Continue monitoring international statements and diplomatic engagements for indicators of potential negotiation pathways and support levels. Leverage statements critical of Russian actions. Prioritize high-level diplomatic efforts to secure further military assistance, particularly air defense systems. Publicize Russian maximalist goals. Assess the impact of political statements and demonstrations in partner countries on support for Ukraine.
Ukrainian forces continue to utilize drones effectively for targeting Russian armor and personnel, as seen in the SSU "A" unit's destruction of three tanks and other FPV drone strikes. Ukrainian forces are also engaged in countering Russian drone activity, highlighted by fundraising efforts for counter-drone training and equipment.
Russian sources are actively fundraising for training and equipment for counter-drone operations, indicating the significant threat posed by Ukrainian UAVs and Russian efforts to adapt. Russian sources showcase the use of FAB-3000 with UMPK. Russian sources highlight visits by high-ranking officials to frontline command posts, potentially indicating focus on specific operational areas and resource allocation. Russian military bloggers appeal for volunteer donations for specific equipment on the Southern Donetsk axis, including armor, Starlink, radios, portable EW systems, drones (Mavic, fiber optics), vehicles, and motorcycles.
Russian sources report the arrival of a new medal for assistance to the 36th Army of the Russian Armed Forces, acknowledging contributions from channel readers.
Reports indicate that Google requires restricting access to the "Wagner Discharge" Telegram channel for Android users due to its affiliation with Wagner PMC, which is designated as a terrorist/criminal organization by some Western entities.
Recommendation: Continue to invest in and expand Ukraine's domestic drone production and operator training programs. Prioritize the development and deployment of effective counter-drone measures. Document and publicize Russian equipment losses. Analyze Russian logistics and resupply efforts, particularly regarding heavy aerial munitions and reliance on volunteer support. Monitor efforts to restrict Russian propaganda and recruitment channels.
Russian sources are extensively reporting on the alleged detention and investigation of Ignat Kuzin, claiming he was a Ukrainian agent responsible for the assassination of Major General Yaroslav Moskalik, recruited in Ukraine, operating in Moscow, and that the attack was remotely detonated from Ukraine. They highlight details of the alleged plot. Russian sources claim Kuzin was detained after attempting to flee to Turkey.
Reports indicate Google's action against the "Wagner Discharge" Telegram channel, citing its affiliation with Wagner PMC and its designation as a terrorist/criminal organization.
Recommendation: Monitor Russian reporting on the Moskalik assassination for further details or inconsistencies and be prepared to counter Russian disinformation. Assess the credibility of Russian claims regarding the alleged plot and Ukrainian involvement. Maintain vigilance regarding potential Russian intelligence activities and sabotage efforts. Monitor the impact of actions taken against channels affiliated with designated organizations.
While no new civilian casualties were reported in the latest messages, previous reports detail significant civilian fatalities and injuries from Russian strikes. Continued fighting on various axes, as detailed by Russian sources, indicates a high risk of further civilian harm in these areas.
Ukrainian sources share graphic footage of a Russian soldier being killed by a drone strike near anti-tank mines, underscoring the brutal reality and high risk of death on the battlefield for combatants.
A Russian source commented on the civilian casualties in Ukraine, framing it as Ukraine acclimating its population to war and death, which is an ethically questionable framing.
A Russian source (Kotsnews) shared a poll related to a monument in Uzbekistan, where a significant percentage of respondents felt Uzbek authorities had forgotten who defeated the "Third Reich" and that "English-speakers" would approve of the monument's inscription language choices. This reflects a nationalistic and potentially resentful sentiment linked to historical narratives.
News reports mention a demonstration in Berlin against arms supplies to Ukraine and counter-protests, reflecting differing public sentiments regarding the conflict and potentially raising ethical considerations related to international support.
Recommendation: Continue to meticulously document all instances of civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure. Provide humanitarian assistance to affected populations. Continue to highlight the human cost of the conflict and counter ethically questionable narratives from Russian sources.
Russian information operations are heavily focused on the alleged detention of Ignat Kuzin and claiming the involvement of Ukrainian special services in the assassination of Major General Yaroslav Moskalik. Multiple Russian sources are amplifying this narrative with details and footage.
Russian sources are actively promoting claimed tactical successes, particularly on the Toretsk and Pokrovsk axes, with detailed reports of advances and ongoing fighting. They are also highlighting the "liberation" of the Kursk border region.
Russian sources are engaging in fundraising efforts for counter-drone training and equipment, indicating a public awareness campaign about the threat and the need for support.
Statements by Donald Trump regarding the lack of justification for Russian strikes on civilians and potential negotiations are being reported. Russian sources are highlighting Maria Zakharova's statement about the future "liberation" of all Ukrainian-controlled territories. Russian sources are also reporting on President Zelenskyy's diplomatic meetings and statements regarding negotiations.
Ukrainian information operations are highlighting successful military actions, including the destruction of Russian tanks and vehicles with drones. They are highlighting high-level diplomatic engagements, emphasizing discussions on ceasefire and the need for air defense. Ukrainian sources are also highlighting symbolic diplomatic events, such as President Zelenskyy's seating arrangement at the Vatican ceremony. Ukrainian sources are using graphic footage to illustrate the impact of drone warfare.
Russian sources (Kotsnews) are using a poll about a monument in Uzbekistan to promote a nationalistic narrative and perceived historical slights. Russian sources are also reporting on the opening of the motorcycle season by "Night Wolves" dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory, linking the current conflict to historical narratives.
Reports indicate Google's action against a Telegram channel affiliated with Wagner PMC, citing its status as a terrorist/criminal organization, which impacts information dissemination for that entity.
Recommendation: Counter Russian narratives regarding the Moskalik assassination and alleged Ukrainian involvement. Continue to publicize Ukrainian military successes and the need for international military assistance. Leverage statements from international leaders critical of Russian actions. Counter Russian propaganda regarding territorial control and alleged "liberation." Monitor and counter Russian information operations utilizing historical narratives and nationalistic sentiments.
The extensive and coordinated reporting by Russian sources on the alleged detention and interrogation of Ignat Kuzin is a significant indicator of a deliberate information operation aimed at attributing the Moskalik assassination to Ukraine and showcasing Russian counter-intelligence capabilities.
Claimed Russian advances on the Toretsk and Pokrovsk axes, particularly around Dyliivka, Staraya Nikolayevka, Sukha Balka, Kotlyarivka, Troitske, and Uspenivka, are indicators of continued Russian offensive pressure and potential shifts in the frontline.
Active fundraising efforts by Russian sources for counter-drone training and equipment, including for specific units and equipment types, are indicators of the perceived threat posed by Ukrainian UAVs and areas of vulnerability for Russian forces, as well as reliance on volunteer support for certain logistical needs.
Statements from Donald Trump questioning Putin's motives and suggesting alternative pressure methods, while potentially inconsistent, are indicators of the evolving dynamics within the international political landscape and could influence discussions regarding future negotiations. The reported statement to the President of Estonia about not withdrawing from negotiations is another indicator in this regard.
President Zelenskyy's meeting with President Macron, Head of the Council of Ministers of Italy Meloni, and President of the European Commission von der Leyen, and the emphasis on a full, unconditional ceasefire and the need for pressure on Russia, are clear indicators of Ukraine's continued diplomatic stance and objectives, as well as ongoing efforts to secure international support and sanctions against Russia.
Maria Zakharova's statement about the future "liberation" of all Ukrainian-controlled territories is a strong indicator of Russia's maximalist strategic goals.
Ukrainian forces' continued successful use of drones for targeting Russian armor and vehicles is an indicator of their adapting tactics and capabilities.
The military situation map for the Konstantinovka direction showing recent changes in territorial control and areas in the "gray zone" is a key indicator of ongoing combat and potential shifts in the frontline in that specific area.
Russian information operations utilizing historical narratives and nationalistic sentiments, as seen in the poll regarding the monument in Uzbekistan and the "Night Wolves" event, are indicators of efforts to reinforce national identity and potentially garner public support for the conflict.
Google's action against the "Wagner Discharge" Telegram channel indicates efforts by technology companies to restrict the online presence of entities designated as terrorist/criminal organizations, impacting information dissemination for those groups.
Updated Situation: The situation remains dynamic with continued high-intensity ground combat, particularly on the Toretsk and Pokrovsk axes, where Russian forces claim tactical advances. Russia is actively pursuing information operations, heavily focused on the alleged detention of a Ukrainian agent in connection with a high-profile assassination in Russia to implicate Ukraine and demonstrate security capabilities. Diplomatic activity continues with President Zelenskyy engaging international leaders to secure further support, sanctions, and emphasize the need for an unconditional ceasefire, while statements from figures like Donald Trump and other leaders indicate potential complexities in future negotiation dynamics. Russia continues to articulate maximalist territorial goals. Both sides are actively utilizing and countering drone warfare, with fundraising efforts highlighting logistical needs and adaptation. The military situation in the Konstantinovka direction is characterized by ongoing combat and recent changes in territorial control. Information operations from both sides leverage various narratives, including historical and nationalistic themes. Actions are being taken to restrict the online presence of entities designated as terrorist/criminal organizations.
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