Situation Report

Operational Intelligence Briefing - Major Updates and Analysis (May 3, 2025, 16:18 UTC)

Updated Situation

The operational environment remains characterized by persistent and intense ground combat across key axes, a significant level of Russian aerial and drone activity targeting a wide range of Ukrainian territory, and a dynamic information landscape heavily influenced by the approaching May 9th. While Russia continues to assert localized gains and highlight Ukrainian losses, Ukraine maintains its focus on deep strikes, effective drone operations, and highlighting perceived Russian vulnerabilities and internal issues. Diplomatic activity continues, often intertwined with information operations, particularly concerning potential truces and attendance at the Victory Day parade. New reporting from Russian sources indicates an increased focus on pressuring the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast with claimed successes in the Uspenivka and Novoaleksandrivka areas. An Iskander strike has been reported in the suburbs of Odesa after reconnaissance drone activity. Internal issues within Russia regarding mobilized personnel continue to be highlighted by independent media. Concerns about potential provocations and attacks during the May 9th period are being exchanged at a high level, with both sides making accusations and warnings. Discussions regarding the conditions for peace negotiations continue, with reports indicating a stalemate due to differing demands regarding territorial control.

Key updates and analysis:

• Continued Intense Ground Combat and Russian Offensive Efforts: Reports from Russian sources continue to indicate active offensive operations and claims of territorial gains. The 39th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade of the "Vostok" Group of Forces claims to have established a foothold on the southern outskirts of Malinivka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Russian military bloggers continue to report on fighting in various directions. The video from the "Center" group of forces claiming destruction of Ukrainian armor near Pokrovsk and reports of FPV drone effectiveness on the Kharkiv and Kherson fronts persist. Kadyrov's channel claims that "Akhmat" special forces and other units prevented Ukrainian forces from entering the Kursk Oblast in the Sumy direction. This underscores the continued Russian effort to push on multiple fronts and counter perceived Ukrainian incursions. Colonelcassad reports that Russian forces are increasing pressure towards the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, with claimed recent successes in the areas of Uspenivka and Novoaleksandrivka, supported by video of FAB strikes on Novopavlivka, described as an important logistical hub for Ukraine. A Russian military blogger reports active combat near Borova, with a Russian infantry unit attacking in the direction of Novomykhailivka on the western bank of the Zherebets river and taking a stronghold under Ukrainian fire. They also claim Russian forces advanced over 2 km south of Makiyivka.

• Persistent Russian Aerial and Drone Activity: Russian forces continue to heavily utilize drones and other aerial assets. Russian sources like WarGonzo highlight the effectiveness of FPV drones, with a video claiming a successful strike inside a Ukrainian dugout near Zaporizhzhia. The report from the Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration confirms a Russian FPV drone attack in the Bilenke settlement of Zaporizhzhia district, causing damage to private houses from blast waves and debris, though no casualties were reported. Dnipropetrovsk Oblast reports being targeted by artillery and kamikaze drones throughout the day in the Nikopol, Pokrovsk, Marhanets, Myrove, and Chervonohryhorivka communities, resulting in damage to private houses, cars, and infrastructure. Further reports from Dnipropetrovsk mention Russian use of Grad MLRS and KABs in the Velykomykhailivka and Novopavlivka communities of Synelnykove district, damaging houses and non-operational buildings, and an FPV drone strike in the Zelenodolsk community of Kryvyi Rih district causing a fire. The Ukrainian Air Force reported rocket danger in Kherson and Mykolaiv Oblasts and a high-speed target in southern Odesa Oblast from the Black Sea, indicating ongoing missile and aerial threats. A Russian military blogger reports a powerful strike on a target near Odesa, with a large smoke column, and mentions reconnaissance drones were active beforehand. Colonelcassad reports an Iskander strike in the suburbs of Odesa after Orlan reconnaissance drone activity. A Russian military blogger shares video claiming their unit shot down a "Baba Yaga" drone.

• Ukrainian Deep Strikes and Counter-Drone Operations: Ukrainian forces continue to conduct effective drone operations. The video from the State Border Guard Service's "Phoenix" unit claiming destruction of multiple Russian equipment units near Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast through drone strikes highlights this capability. STERNENKO's channel reports on the work of the "Chornyi Stryzh" unit in the Sumy region, claiming the destruction of two vehicles carrying ammunition, four artillery pieces (including a 155mm Hyacinth), a motorcycle, and a tractor, demonstrating ongoing efforts to degrade Russian logistics and artillery. A video from the Azov NGU brigade near Toretsk showcases drone operators using unmanned systems to "smoke out" Russian troops from underground positions, indicating adaptation to Russian defensive tactics. Videos from BUTUSOV PLUS and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS also show Ukrainian drone operators targeting Russian troops in underground positions in the Toretsk direction. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video claiming the remote detonation of a drone when three Russian soldiers approached it. Оперативний ЗСУ shares a video of a claimed Ukrainian drone strike resulting in a "Headshot."

• Information Operations and Propaganda: The information landscape remains highly active and contested, particularly in the lead-up to May 9th.

  • Russian sources, including Dmitry Peskov, are framing their proposed temporary truce for Victory Day as a "test of Kyiv's readiness for searching for ways for long-term sustainable peace" and waiting for "unequivocal statements and actions from Kyiv" for de-escalation during the holiday. Peskov also added that Ukraine's alleged "unwillingness to directly respond" to the proposal "clearly shows that the ideological basis of today's Kyiv regime is neo-Nazism," reinforcing a key propaganda narrative.
  • Reports from Russian military bloggers continue to emphasize claimed Russian successes and Ukrainian losses, often accompanied by videos.
  • Ukrainian sources continue to counter Russian narratives and highlight perceived Russian failures and internal issues. Operational ZSU presents a Forbes analysis suggesting that at current rates of advance and loss, Russia would take centuries to conquer the rest of Ukraine at a massive cost, using this to highlight perceived Russian failures and the futility of their efforts. DeepState's commentary on Donald Trump's statement about renaming May 8th and November 11th as Victory Days for WWI and WWII respectively is framed as a "strange case of interpreting world history" and a "competitor" to Russia's narrative of the "Great Victory," suggesting a potential shift in the global narrative of these historical events and potential implications for Russian propaganda.
  • Statements regarding the attendance of foreign leaders at the May 9th parade in Moscow remain a point of discussion and potential information manipulation. RBC-Ukraine reports that the Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has canceled his trip to the Moscow parade due to "exacerbation on the border with Pakistan" and will be replaced by his deputy.
  • Ukrainian sources are highlighting perceived internal Russian issues, such as the video from BUTUSOV PLUS showing scuffles over free "soldier's porridge" at a "Victory Train" event in Udmurtia, suggesting social and economic strains. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники shares a video appeal from the family of a missing mobilized soldier from North Ossetia, claiming he was forcibly sent to the front despite a severe leg injury and official exemption, and that his family believes he was kidnapped. This highlights ongoing concerns about mobilization practices and the treatment of mobilized personnel in Russia. A Russian military blogger shares information about a program ("Family Nanny") for families of SVO participants and others, which is being proposed to be extended to all regions, highlighting social support initiatives for military families.
  • The Coordination Staff for the Treatment of Prisoners of War is actively campaigning against fraudulent schemes targeting the families of prisoners of war and missing persons, highlighting a vulnerability being exploited by malicious actors, likely including those linked to the conflict. They advise against contact with representatives of the aggressor state or "intermediaries."
  • A military expert from TASS frames Ukraine's combined attack on Crimea using UAVs, uncrewed boats, and missiles as a "provocation with the participation of Britain" in anticipation of a truce, pushing a narrative of Western involvement and Ukrainian aggression.
  • The report from the Zaporizhzhia police about detaining a man in Nazi-era uniform with a cache of weapons, while potentially an isolated criminal incident, is presented by Ukrainian sources and could be used to reinforce narratives about extremist elements. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a photo and information about the detention in Zaporizhzhia of a man walking in Third Reich uniform with a grenade.
  • Colonelcassad comments on Ukrainian sources dropping flags in Oleshky using drones as an old method of creating fake "peremogas" (victories), comparing it to similar practices he claims occur on the Russian side and condemning such "oчковтирательство" (eyewash). This highlights the ongoing information warfare regarding claimed territorial control and the use of visual evidence for propaganda.
  • ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Russian language is disappearing from Ukrainian schools, with significantly fewer students learning or studying it compared to three years ago, and a bill registered in the Rada could ban the language in educational processes entirely. This highlights cultural and linguistic shifts within Ukraine in response to the conflict and potential long-term implications.
  • ASTRA reports that Kazakhstan has closed entry to the country for several prominent Russian figures, including Alexander Dugin, Petr Tolstoy, Tigran Keosayan, Tina Kandelaki, Yevgeny Fyodorov, and Yevgeny Primakov, citing their negative statements about Kazakhstan and its leadership. This indicates potential diplomatic friction between Russia and Kazakhstan and highlights the impact of the conflict on regional relationships.
  • Basurin о главном quotes Zelenskyy's reported statement that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of foreign leaders attending the May 9th parade in Moscow, framing it as an order to intensify attacks on Russian territory and a threat to guests and veterans. He also suggests European politicians who agreed to attend the parade may have faced pressure, citing the hospitalization of the Serbian president as potential evidence. This is a clear information operation aimed at portraying Ukraine as aggressive and Russia as a victim, while also attempting to sow discord among European leaders. He also quotes Maria Zakharova and Dmitry Medvedev making strong condemnations of Zelenskyy and his statement, further amplifying the narrative of Ukrainian aggression and neo-Nazism.
  • Рыбарь discusses the recent US approval of a $310.5 million package for Ukraine, framing it as spare parts and technical support for F-16s, noting that supplied F-16s have already been lost to "friendly fire." The post includes photos allegedly showing F-16 components being loaded onto AN-124 aircraft in Arizona. Рыбарь interprets this as the US not planning to cease support, though it may not be free, and that talks of a ceasefire are unrealistic and dependent on battlefield realities. This is an information operation aimed at downplaying the significance of Western aid, highlighting claimed Ukrainian military failures, and managing expectations about the duration of the conflict.
  • ТАСС reports on the "Immortal Regiment" action in Buenos Aires, Argentina, highlighting international participation in this Russian commemorative event. This is likely part of Russia's effort to demonstrate international support and leverage historical narratives.
  • DeepState shares a promotional message for merchandise featuring a map of Ukraine with cities Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, and Odesa forming a heart, emphasizing unity and control over key points, likely aimed at bolstering morale and national identity.
  • Colonelcassad shares a critical post regarding a Ukrainian figure (likely Arestovich) and a tweet from Yulia Latynina, highlighting a perceived change in how he is viewed within Ukraine compared to the beginning of the conflict. This is an information operation focusing on internal divisions within Ukraine and attempting to discredit Ukrainian figures.

• Focus on Military Losses and Tactics: Both sides are actively promoting content highlighting enemy losses and their own tactical successes, particularly in the realm of drone warfare and counter-drone measures. Russian military bloggers, like "Два майора," are openly fundraising for drones and recruiting for specific units like a UAV company and an engineering-diving group of the "Espanola" marine detachment, indicating ongoing needs and a focus on specialized capabilities. Два майора shares photos and videos of a "Front Armor" project, creating armored kits in memory of a WWII veteran, and fundraising for metal for these kits, linking current efforts to historical narratives and civilian support. Два майора also shares information about NATO countries (UK, Poland, France) developing and showcasing unmanned surface vessels (USVs) based on technologies tested in Ukraine, interpreting it as Western countries incorporating battlefield experience into their military technology and suggesting Russia should accelerate its own development of similar assets, possibly through private initiatives.

• Discussion of Peace Negotiations: The Russian stance on the temporary truce for Victory Day, as articulated by Peskov, indicates ongoing, albeit potentially performative, discussions around ceasefires and conditions for peace talks. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Zelenskyy is ready for a ceasefire from May 7th for 30 days, but only when the killing stops. This sets a condition for negotiations. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports, citing Bloomberg, that negotiations with W. Whitkoff stalled because Putin insists on full control over all four claimed regions (LNR, DNR, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia), not just the current front line, while Whitkoff proposed a ceasefire along the current line. The report suggests direct contact between Putin and Trump is needed for progress. This indicates a significant impasse in negotiations due to fundamental disagreements on territorial control. Basurin о главном's comments about Zelenskyy rejecting the ceasefire offer and escalating attacks further emphasize the current lack of progress towards a truce.

• Regional Conflicts and Geopolitical Tensions: Reports continue to highlight broader geopolitical tensions. Colonelcassad mentions potential Israeli threats to shoot down Turkish aircraft in Syrian airspace and Turkey's response, as well as renewed conflict dynamics in Syria involving HTSh militants. The report on heightened tensions and severed agreements between India and Pakistan also indicates a complex regional security environment with potential indirect links to the broader geopolitical situation. Colonelcassad also notes continued Houthi attacks on Israeli and Western targets and their preparation for a potential ground invasion of Yemen, highlighting another active conflict zone. TASS reports on discussions between Walt Waltz and Netanyahu regarding a potential strike on Iran, suggesting ongoing high-level considerations of military action in the Middle East. ТАСС reports the arrest in Dagestan of a suspect in the preparation of a terrorist attack in Khasavyurt. This indicates ongoing internal security concerns in Russia. ASTRA reports on Kazakhstan closing entry to several prominent Russian figures, indicating potential diplomatic friction.

• Internal Ukrainian Developments: The Dnipropetrovsk Oblast State Administration reports on the success of the "Dnipro" basketball team winning the Super League, providing a domestic focus amidst the conflict. The Ukrainian General Staff highlights the work of psychological support officers utilizing a therapy dog ("Addie") from the 5th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade, emphasizing efforts to support the mental well-being of soldiers. The report on the detention of a man with a cache of weapons in Zaporizhzhia highlights ongoing security concerns and law enforcement activity within Ukraine. The report from the Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration about a librarian from Dniprorudne teaching Ukrainian embroidery and singing in Ireland highlights cultural preservation and integration efforts of displaced Ukrainians. Олександр Вілкул, Head of the Kryvyi Rih Defense Council, provides an update on the situation, including confirmed Russian losses yesterday (1170 personnel, significant equipment), 4 intercepted drones over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, ongoing shelling and drone attacks in Nikopol and Kryvyi Rih districts causing damage but no casualties, demining efforts finding cluster munitions and WWII-era ordnance, and civilian activities like tree planting and sports achievements. This provides a comprehensive overview of the situation in the Kryvyi Rih area, highlighting both the ongoing threat and efforts towards recovery and normalcy. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports on the disappearance of Russian language from Ukrainian schools.

• Support for Military Personnel: Posts from Ukrainian and Russian military channels continue to include messages of gratitude for support from the public and highlight ongoing fundraising efforts for military units, underscoring the importance of civilian backing. Два майора highlights a "Front Armor" project in memory of a WWII veteran and is fundraising for materials, linking current military support to historical narratives. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники shares information about a program aimed at supporting families of SVO participants.

• Border Security: Poland is reportedly reinforcing its border guard presence on the border with Belarus with an additional 1,500 officers, in addition to existing personnel and military presence, indicating concerns about border security.

• Russian Military Logistics: The Russian Ministry of Defense highlights the work of logistics specialists of the "Sever" Group of Forces in deploying a network of mobile fueling stations and bases, suggesting efforts to maintain operational reach and sustain offensive capabilities.

• Environmental Factors: РБК-Україна reports that Kyiv and several other regions are covered by a dust storm. This is an environmental factor that could potentially impact visibility and drone operations.

• Naval Developments: Два майора reports on the development and showcasing of USVs by the UK and Poland, based on technologies tested in Ukraine, highlighting the adoption of battlefield experience by NATO countries and suggesting the need for Russia to accelerate its own USV development, potentially through private initiatives.

Potential Future Developments

• Continued Intense Ground Combat: The high tempo of engagements and claims of localized advances from Russian sources suggest that intense ground combat will persist on key fronts, particularly Pokrovsk, in border regions, and potentially in Zaporizhzhia Oblast around Malinivka. Efforts to dislodge Ukrainian troops from underground positions near Toretsk are likely to continue. The reported increased pressure and claimed successes towards the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast suggest this area may see intensified ground combat. Claims of fighting near Borova and advances south of Makiyivka indicate continued Russian efforts in the Kharkiv/Luhansk direction.
• Escalation of Rhetoric and Information Warfare: With May 9th imminent, expect further escalation of rhetoric and information operations from both sides, utilizing the date for political messaging and to frame the conflict narrative. Expect continued personal attacks in the information space and intensified propaganda efforts, including fundraising appeals and highlighting claimed enemy losses and destruction of Western equipment. The contrasting narratives around historical events like WWII, as highlighted by DeepState's commentary on Trump's statements, could become another point of information warfare. Russian efforts to frame Ukrainian actions as provocations pre-truce are likely to continue. Countering fraudulent schemes targeting families of military personnel will remain important. The detention of a man in a Nazi-era uniform in Zaporizhzhia may be used by Russian propaganda. Russian sources will likely continue to highlight alleged Ukrainian attempts to create fake victories. Russian state media and military bloggers will continue to disseminate narratives aligned with the official Russian position, potentially highlighting internal Ukrainian issues and questioning the effectiveness of Western aid while promoting Russian military capabilities and social support for military families. Discussions about internal divisions within Ukraine are likely to be amplified. The actions and rhetoric surrounding potential attendance at the May 9th parade will remain a focus of information operations. The closure of entry to Kazakhstan for certain Russian figures may become a point of information manipulation.
• Persistent Russian Aerial and Drone Strikes: Russia is likely to continue its campaign of aerial and missile attacks across a wide range of Ukrainian territory, including the use of guided aerial bombs, various types of drones for reconnaissance and attack, and potentially ballistic missiles, as evidenced by the reported Iskander strike near Odesa after reconnaissance activity. Areas like Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson, Mykolaiv, and Odesa Oblasts are likely to remain targets. The dust storm in Kyiv and other regions could potentially impact visibility and influence the nature or timing of aerial operations.
• Continued Ukrainian Deep Strikes and Drone Operations: Ukraine will likely continue its drone attacks on Russian territory and assets, targeting military logistics, artillery, and potentially air defense systems. The documented effectiveness of Ukrainian drone units and their focus on development and recruitment suggest an increasing reliance on and capability in drone warfare, including specialized tactics like targeting troops in underground positions and using drones with remote detonation capabilities. Efforts to degrade Russian logistics in border regions are likely to continue.
• Focus on Military Losses and Tactics: Both sides will continue to highlight enemy losses and showcase their own tactical successes, particularly in drone warfare and combined arms operations. Recruitment efforts for specialized units like drone operators and engineering-divers are likely to continue. Discussions within Russian military circles about adapting tactics and efforts to improve battlefield medical care are likely to continue. Russian military bloggers will likely continue to use their platforms for fundraising efforts for military equipment, including materials for armored kits. The development and showcasing of USVs by NATO countries may prompt accelerated Russian efforts in this area, potentially involving private sector initiatives. Claims of shooting down Ukrainian "Baba Yaga" drones highlight Russian counter-drone efforts.
• Highlighting of Internal Issues: Reports of perceived internal issues within both Ukraine (e.g., mobilization, political processes, security concerns, linguistic shifts) and Russia (e.g., economic situation, social issues like food queues, desertion, procurement issues, concerns about mobilized personnel, internal security concerns in regions like Dagestan) will likely continue to be used in information operations. Poland's increased border security measures could become a point of tension and discussion. The reported detention in Dagestan of a suspect in a terrorist attack plot highlights ongoing internal security concerns in Russia. The report on Kazakhstan closing entry to certain Russian figures could be used to highlight Russia's strained relationships with some neighboring countries.
• Continued Diplomatic Positioning: Diplomatic exchanges and statements regarding potential peace negotiations will likely continue, with differing views on mediation roles and the conditions for truces, as evidenced by the reported impasse in negotiations between W. Whitkoff and Putin over territorial control. The situation surrounding foreign leaders' attendance at the May 9th parade in Moscow will remain a point of discussion and potential information manipulation. Discussions around broader geopolitical issues, such as Indian-Pakistani relations and potential actions in the Middle East, may continue to be framed within the context of Russian foreign policy. Zelenskyy's reported condition for a ceasefire linked to an end to killings sets a clear parameter for potential negotiations. Russian framing of Zelenskyy's statements as threats is likely to continue. The reported stalling of negotiations over territorial demands indicates that finding a diplomatic resolution will remain challenging. The Immortal Regiment action in Argentina highlights Russia's efforts to leverage historical narratives for diplomatic and public relations purposes.
• Adaptation of Military Tactics: The reported use of drones to target troops in underground positions and drones with remote detonation capabilities suggests continued adaptation of tactics by Ukrainian forces to counter Russian defensive measures and create traps. Russia's efforts to maintain mobile logistics networks and increasing pressure on new axes like the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast indicate an adaptation to the dispersed nature of the conflict and attempts to find new vulnerabilities. The development of USVs by NATO countries based on battlefield experience in Ukraine suggests that lessons learned from the conflict are influencing military technology development and could lead to the introduction of new capabilities in the maritime domain.
• Impact on Civilian Life: The conflict will continue to impact civilian life across a wide area of Ukraine through aerial attacks, shelling, and disruptions. Efforts to support the psychological well-being and rehabilitation of soldiers and affected civilians will remain important. Cultural preservation and integration efforts for displaced populations will continue. The reported damage to civilian infrastructure and the ongoing demining efforts in areas like Kryvyi Rih highlight the lasting impact of the conflict on civilian areas. The reported dust storm could impact daily life in affected regions.
• Regional Security Dynamics: Tensions in other regions, particularly between India and Pakistan and in the Middle East, could escalate and potentially have indirect impacts on the conflict in Ukraine by diverting attention or resources. The arrest in Dagestan highlights internal security challenges in Russia. Kazakhstan's actions regarding certain Russian figures indicate potential shifts in regional dynamics.
• Military Technology Development: The development and showcasing of USVs by NATO countries, informed by the conflict in Ukraine, indicates a continued focus on advancing military technology based on real-world experience. This could lead to the introduction of new capabilities in the maritime domain. Acceleration of Russia's own USV development, potentially through private initiatives, may be a response to these developments.

Operational Summary

The operational situation is characterized by sustained and intense ground combat on multiple fronts, including confirmed Russian claims of limited advances in Zaporizhzhia Oblast and efforts in border regions. New reports indicate increased Russian pressure and claimed successes towards the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and continued fighting in the Kharkiv/Luhansk direction. Russian forces continue a widespread aerial and drone campaign, impacting both military and civilian targets across numerous Ukrainian oblasts, including recent FPV drone attacks in Zaporizhzhia and extensive shelling and drone activity in Dnipropetrovsk. An Iskander strike has been reported near Odesa after reconnaissance drone activity. Ukrainian forces continue to conduct effective deep strikes and drone operations, successfully targeting Russian logistics, artillery, and even adapting tactics to engage troops in underground positions and utilizing drones with remote detonation capabilities. The information environment is highly contested, with both sides utilizing propaganda and counter-narratives, particularly centered around the upcoming May 9th and differing interpretations of historical events. Discussions around potential truces persist, framed differently by each side, with Zelenskyy setting a condition for a ceasefire linked to an end to killings, while negotiations with W. Whitkoff are reported to have stalled over fundamental disagreements on territorial control. Attendance at the Moscow parade remains a point of geopolitical interest, with Russia attempting to leverage historical narratives and highlighting international participation in events like the Immortal Regiment. Broader regional tensions in South Asia and the Middle East also continue. Internal issues within both Ukraine (e.g., linguistic shifts, security concerns like the detention of a man in Nazi-era uniform) and Russia (e.g., concerns about mobilized personnel, internal security in regions like Dagestan, diplomatic friction with Kazakhstan) are highlighted, impacting security, social dynamics, and military capabilities. Support for military personnel from the public remains crucial for both sides, with efforts to link current military support to historical narratives. The development and showcasing of USVs by NATO countries based on battlefield experience in Ukraine indicate the ongoing evolution of military technology and tactics. An environmental factor, a dust storm, is impacting visibility in Kyiv and other regions. New information reinforces the intensity of fighting, the evolving nature and widespread impact of drone warfare, the persistent and often intertwined nature of information operations and diplomacy, and the impact of the conflict on international relations and domestic life in both countries. The reported impasse in negotiations over territorial demands highlights the significant challenges in achieving a diplomatic resolution.

Major Updates from the Article:

• Subdivisions of the Russian 39th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade claim to have consolidated their positions on the southern outskirts of Malinivka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
• Russian military bloggers are fundraising for drones and recruiting for a UAV company and an engineering-diving group of the "Espanola" marine detachment.
• WarGonzo shares a video claiming a successful Russian FPV drone strike inside a Ukrainian dugout near Zaporizhzhia.
• Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration confirms a Russian FPV drone attack in Bilenke settlement, Zaporizhzhia district, damaging private houses.
• Dnipropetrovsk Oblast reports being hit by Russian artillery and kamikaze drones in multiple communities, causing damage.
• Dnipropetrovsk Oblast reports Russian use of Grad MLRS and KABs in Synelnykove district and an FPV drone strike in Kryvyi Rih district, causing damage and a fire.
• Ukrainian Air Force reports rocket danger in Kherson and Mykolaiv Oblasts and a high-speed target in southern Odesa Oblast from the Black Sea.
• Kadyrov claims that "Akhmat" special forces and other Russian units prevented Ukrainian forces from entering Kursk Oblast in the Sumy direction.
• STERNENKO's channel reports the Ukrainian "Chornyi Stryzh" unit in Sumy region destroyed two ammunition vehicles, four artillery pieces (including a 155mm Hyacinth), a motorcycle, and a tractor.
• A video from the Azov NGU brigade near Toretsk showcases drone operators using unmanned systems to "smoke out" Russian troops from underground positions. Videos from BUTUSOV PLUS and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS also show Ukrainian drone operators targeting Russian troops in underground positions in the Toretsk direction.
• Russian sources, including Dmitry Peskov, frame the proposed temporary truce for Victory Day as a "test of Kyiv's readiness for searching for ways for long-term sustainable peace" and claim Ukraine's alleged lack of direct response "clearly shows that the ideological basis of today's Kyiv regime is neo-Nazism."
• RBC-Ukraine reports that India's Defense Minister has canceled his trip to the Moscow May 9th parade due to "exacerbation on the border with Pakistan."
• BUTUSOV PLUS shares a video allegedly showing scuffles over free "soldier's porridge" at a "Victory Train" event in Udmurtia.
• The Coordination Staff for the Treatment of Prisoners of War is campaigning against fraudulent schemes targeting the families of prisoners of war and missing persons and advises against contact with representatives of the aggressor state or "intermediaries."
• A military expert from TASS frames Ukraine's combined attack on Crimea as a "provocation with the participation of Britain" in anticipation of a truce.
• The Zaporizhzhia police detained a man wearing a Nazi-era uniform with a cache of weapons. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a photo and information about the detention in Zaporizhzhia of a man walking in Third Reich uniform with a grenade.
• The Ukrainian General Staff highlights the use of a therapy dog ("Addie") by psychological support officers in the 5th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade.
• Poland is reportedly reinforcing its border guard presence on the border with Belarus with an additional 1,500 officers.
• The Russian Ministry of Defense highlights the deployment of a network of mobile fueling stations and bases by logistics specialists of the "Sever" Group of Forces.
• Colonelcassad mentions potential Israeli threats to shoot down Turkish aircraft in Syrian airspace and Turkey's response, renewed conflict dynamics in Syria, continued Houthi attacks, and heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.
• TASS reports on discussions between Walt Waltz and Netanyahu regarding a potential strike on Iran.
• Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration reports on a librarian from Dniprorudne teaching Ukrainian embroidery and singing in Ireland.
• Colonelcassad reports that Russian forces are increasing pressure towards the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, with claimed recent successes in the areas of Uspenivka and Novoaleksandrivka, supported by video of FAB strikes on Novopavlivka.
• A Russian military blogger reports a powerful strike on a target near Odesa, with a large smoke column, and mentions reconnaissance drones were active beforehand. Colonelcassad reports an Iskander strike in the suburbs of Odesa after Orlan reconnaissance drone activity.
• МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники shares a video appeal from the family of a missing mobilized soldier from North Ossetia, claiming he was forcibly sent to the front despite a severe leg injury and official exemption, and that his family believes he was kidnapped.
• РБК-Україна reports that Kyiv and several other regions are covered by a dust storm.
• Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares information about a program ("Family Nanny") for families of SVO participants and others, which is being proposed to be extended to all regions.
• ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 discusses the situation around Kostiantynivka, highlighting increased Russian attention, use of FPV drones with fiber optic cables, increased use of KABs, and the strategic importance of Chasiv Yar and the Stupochky area. They also discuss a potential new Russian advance route on Kostiantynivka from the west via Sukha Balka and Novoolenivka.
• Colonelcassad comments on Ukrainian sources dropping flags in Oleshky using drones as an old method of creating fake "peremogas" and condemns such practices.
• ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video claiming the remote detonation of a drone when three Russian soldiers approached it.
• ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Russian language is disappearing from Ukrainian schools.
• ASTRA reports that Kazakhstan has closed entry to the country for several prominent Russian figures, including Alexander Dugin, Petr Tolstoy, Tigran Keosayan, Tina Kandelaki, Yevgeny Fyodorov, and Yevgeny Primakov, citing their negative statements about Kazakhstan and its leadership.
• Basurin о главном quotes Zelenskyy's reported statement that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of foreign leaders attending the May 9th parade in Moscow, framing it as an order to intensify attacks on Russian territory and a threat to guests and veterans. He also suggests European politicians who agreed to attend the parade may have faced pressure, citing the hospitalization of the Serbian president as potential evidence. He also quotes Maria Zakharova and Dmitry Medvedev making strong condemnations of Zelenskyy.
• АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА shares video claiming their unit shot down a "Baba Yaga" drone.
• Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports, citing Bloomberg, that negotiations with W. Whitkoff stalled because Putin insists on full control over all four claimed regions (LNR, DNR, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia), while Whitkoff proposed a ceasefire along the current line. The report suggests direct contact between Putin and Trump is needed for progress.
• ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a promotional message for merchandise featuring a map of Ukraine with cities Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, and Odesa forming a heart.
• Олександр Вілкул, Head of the Kryvyi Rih Defense Council, provides an update on the situation, including confirmed Russian losses yesterday (1170 personnel, significant equipment), 4 intercepted drones over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, ongoing shelling and drone attacks in Nikopol and Kryvyi Rih districts causing damage but no casualties, demining efforts finding cluster munitions and WWII-era ordnance, and civilian activities like tree planting and sports achievements.
• ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Zelenskyy is ready for a ceasefire from May 7th for 30 days, but only when the killing stops.
• ТАСС reports the arrest in Dagestan of a suspect in the preparation of a terrorist attack in Khasavyurt.
• Colonelcassad shares a critical post regarding a Ukrainian figure (likely Arestovich) and a tweet from Yulia Latynina, highlighting a perceived change in how he is viewed within Ukraine.
• Рыбарь discusses the recent US approval of a $310.5 million package for Ukraine, framing it as spare parts and technical support for F-16s, noting that supplied F-16s have already been lost to "friendly fire." The post includes photos allegedly showing F-16 components being loaded onto AN-124 aircraft in Arizona. Рыбарь interprets this as the US not planning to cease support, though it may not be free, and that talks of a ceasefire are unrealistic.
• Два майора shares photos and videos of a "Front Armor" project, creating armored kits in memory of a WWII veteran, and fundraising for metal for these kits.
• ТАСС reports on the "Immortal Regiment" action in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• Два майора reports on the development and showcasing of USVs by the UK and Poland, based on technologies tested in Ukraine, interpreting it as Western countries incorporating battlefield experience and suggesting Russia should accelerate its own development.
• Оперативний ЗСУ shares a video of a claimed Ukrainian drone strike resulting in a "Headshot."
• Сливочный каприз reports active combat near Borova, with a Russian infantry unit attacking in the direction of Novomykhailivka and taking a stronghold under Ukrainian fire. They also claim Russian forces advanced over 2 km south of Makiyivka.