Situation Report

Operational Intelligence Briefing - Major Updates and Analysis (May 4, 2025, 12:18 UTC)

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Updated Situation

The operational landscape is marked by continued intense ground combat, with Russian forces claiming further advances on key axes. Simultaneously, widespread Russian aerial attacks persist across Ukraine, targeting various regions. Ukrainian forces continue to conduct deep strikes and engage Russian assets, including significant developments in naval drone capabilities. Information operations remain a crucial element of the conflict, with both sides disseminating narratives and propaganda. Diplomatic activities continue, with notable visits and ongoing friction regarding international relations and alliances. Internal Russian issues related to security and societal control are also emerging.

Key updates and analysis:

• Confirmed Russian Advances and Intensified Ground Combat:

  • Pokrovsk Direction: Continues to be a focal point of intense Russian offensive efforts. DeepState reports 113 enemy attacks on May 3rd, the highest daily figure for this sector in 2025. Russian forces maintain activity near Kotliarivka, Nadiivka, Uspenivka, Novooleksandrivka, Novosergievka, Udachne, Novoukrainka, Dachenskyi, Lysivka, Mykolaivka, Novotoretske, Yelyzavetivka, Nova Poltavka, Berezivka, Novooleivka, and Oleksandropil. Colonelcassad claims Russian units expanded control near Uspenivka (up to 400 meters) and advanced towards Novooleksandrivka (up to 100 meters). Colonelcassad also reports fighting near Udachne, with the front being unstable and Russian forces attempting to hold the northeastern part and industrial zone, but struggling to consolidate new positions. Assaults by small Russian groups near Kotlyne and Zverovo are reported to be repelled by strong Ukrainian fire, with Russian forces unable to consolidate. Fighting in eastern Malynivka is ongoing, with Russian forces reportedly weakening Ukrainian defenses and gradually consolidating positions. Russian military bloggers report units of GrV "Center" attacking along the entire Pokrovsk direction, claiming Ukrainian defense is cracking and a Russian DRG engaged the enemy in Pokrovsk itself. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video claiming destruction of NATO equipment, infantry, and artillery near Pokrovsk. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a statement from a Ukrainian 152 Brigade commander stating the "fall of Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) is not far off," comparing it to Bakhmut.
  • Southern Donetsk Direction: Colonelcassad reports Russian forces reached the outskirts of Bohotyr. Воин DV reports Russian artillery, using "Краснополь," destroyed a dugout and a group of Ukrainian infantry near Bohotyr.
  • Novopavlivka Direction: Colonelcassad reports expansion of the control zone east of Novo Polye.
  • Konstantinovka Direction: Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian advances near Tarasivka, Berezivka, Yelyzavetivka, and Novooleksandrivka, providing map imagery. Z комитет + карта СВО also reports Russian advances near Dzerzhinsk, Dyleyevka, and Toretsk on the Konstantinovka direction, providing map imagery. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares photos reporting Russian occupation of Zelene Pole in Donetsk Oblast, citing DeepState. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS also reports Russian advances near Novyi and Novomykhailivka in Donetsk Oblast.
  • Lyman Direction: Colonelcassad reports Russian advances west of Makiivka.
  • Nova Poltavka: Colonelcassad reports Russian forces approaching Nova Poltavka and indicates a potential landing operation here.
  • Artemivsk Direction: НгП раZVедка shares a video claiming units of the 6th Motorized Rifle Division are conducting "Chubatsid" (slang for killing Ukrainians) operations on the Artemivsk direction, targeting Ukrainian positions.
  • Unknown Direction: Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" shares a video claiming a Russian assault ("Zaskok") went wrong, with work by Ukrainian RUBAK 10th Separate Motorized Battalion 59th Separate Motorized Brigade.

• Persistent Russian Aerial Attacks and Drone Activity:

  • Kharkiv Oblast: KABs reported directed at the oblast.
  • Donetsk Oblast: KABs reported directed at the oblast. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares photos reporting Russian occupation of Zelene Pole in Donetsk Oblast, citing DeepState, and also reports Russian advances near Novyi and Novomykhailivka in Donetsk Oblast.
  • Dnipropetrovsk Oblast: KABs reported directed at the oblast.
  • Cherkasy Oblast: Олексій Білошицький shares videos reporting a Russian drone attack on Cherkasy Oblast last night, confirming damaged houses and evacuation of citizens with no fatalities, highlighting the work of patrol police and emergency services.
  • Crimea: Kotsnews discusses massive combined attacks on the peninsula and Novorossiysk as reconnaissance-in-force to test Russian air defense, aviation, and countermeasures.
  • General Drone Activity: STERNENKO shares a video claiming the downing of 2 Zala and 1 Orlan UAV by the "Condor" unit of the "Burevii" brigade. Старше Эдды discusses Ukrainian drone tactics aimed at isolating the combat zone up to 30 km deep, targeting moving objects, especially civilian vehicles in the Kursk-Belgorod border region, viewing it as terror but militarily significant. He advocates for Russia to adopt similar tactics for harassing fire and free hunting by drone operators to disrupt Ukrainian logistics.

• Evolving Ukrainian Naval Drone Capabilities and Russian Countermeasures: Kotsnews discusses the active use of Russian FPV drones by "Espanola" and "Vosmerka" units to destroy Ukrainian unmanned boats (BECs) in the coastal zone. Kotsnews notes that despite combined attacks, no Ukrainian means of destruction have reached their main target, and critical damage to Russian air defense has not been achieved. He suggests the main target for Ukraine remains the Crimean Bridge.

• Information Operations:

  • Russian Narratives and Propaganda: Colonelcassad and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны disseminate a statement from a captured Ukrainian 152 Brigade commander regarding the potential fall of Pokrovsk, framing it as a confirmation of Russian success. TASS reports Putin's statement that the basis of Russian self-awareness is moral and ethical values, not material well-being. TASS reports Putin's statement that he constantly thinks about a successor, but the final choice is with the citizens. TASS reports Putin's statement that Russia hoped for compliance with the Minsk agreements but was "simply deceived" by partners, viewing it as an experience to consider in the future. РБК-Україна summarizes Putin's statements in a documentary, covering the "forced" annexation of Crimea, the lack of preparation for conflict in 2014, the desire for a peaceful resolution in Donbas, the deception regarding Minsk agreements, and the idea that Western sanctions after 2014 gave Russia an "impetus" for development. Рыбарь provides fragments of Putin's interview, including statements on Russian sovereignty, the 2014 events in Crimea, lack of preparation for confrontation with the West in 2014, the danger of economic dependence, the sincere desire for a peaceful Donbas resolution, the conflict stemming from Western non-recognition of Russian sovereignty, the attempt by the West to provoke Russia into mistakes, the sufficiency of forces without nuclear weapons, the inevitability of reconciliation with the Ukrainian part of the Russian people, the public understanding of their role in the state, and the comparison of current military feats to those in the Great Patriotic War. WarGonzo shares a text about Isaac Babel and his work "Red Cavalry," linking it to the Russian nature of Odesa and criticizing attempts to portray it as Ukrainian. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Ukrainian "militant" sentenced in Russia to life imprisonment confessed to killing 16 civilians near Mariupol.
  • Ukrainian Narratives and Counter-Propaganda: ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports on a protest in Washington, D.C. against a Russian "Immortal Regiment" action, with participants carrying Ukrainian flags and signs accusing Putin of genocide and war crimes. КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno expresses a sarcastic view on Putin potentially holding the Victory Day parade via video link due to fear of Ukrainian strikes, suggesting Ukrainians could provide "fireworks." БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video with sarcastic commentary on a video allegedly showing a Russian soldier carrying a deceased comrade, mocking Russian logistics and "career growth."
  • Fundraising Efforts: STERNENKO encourages donations to help protect the sky after reporting drone downings.

• Diplomatic and Political Developments:

  • Zelenskyy's Visit to Czech Republic: РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, and Zelenskiy / Official report President Zelenskyy's arrival for an official visit to the Czech Republic. Zelenskiy / Official details planned meetings with the Czech President, Prime Minister, heads of chambers of parliament, parliamentary faction leaders, defense company executives, students, and the Ukrainian community. Key discussion points include gratitude for support, strengthening cooperation, the effectiveness of the Czech artillery initiative, military aviation development, pilot training, F-16 supply, diplomatic efforts, and joint pressure on Russia for a lasting ceasefire. The First Lady will participate in a conference on healthcare for Ukraine.
  • Slovakian Prime Minister's Visit to Russia: ТАСС reports Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico will visit Russia for Victory Day and will be accompanied by two students and a delegation including members of the National Council and European Parliament. This confirms a notable diplomatic presence at the Russian Victory Day event.
  • Xi Jinping's Visit to Russia: Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Russia from May 7-10 for an official visit and participation in Victory Day events. This significant visit underscores strengthening ties between Russia and China.

• Internal Russian Issues: Старше Эдды discusses the importance of competent drone operator tactics and advocates for Russia to adopt Ukrainian tactics of long-range harassment and free hunting to disrupt Ukrainian logistics. Два майора shares photos in a "Soldier's Daily Life" rubric featuring soldiers with dogs, seeking similar photos/videos from front-line personnel. Alex Parker Returns shares a fundraising request for a child with severe health issues, including a veteran father, highlighting the financial struggles of some families in Russia. This personal request, while not directly military, provides insight into social issues in Russia.

• Humanitarian Impact: Олексій Білошицький reports on a Russian drone attack on Cherkasy Oblast last night, causing damage to houses and requiring evacuation, although with no fatalities. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring wounded soldiers of the 49th Separate Battalion "Carpathian Sich" who defended Toretsk, highlighting the intense fighting and casualties in that area and their plans to return after treatment.

Areas of Significant Activity (Updated)

• Pokrovsk Direction: Highest intensity of Russian assaults in 2025 reported on May 3rd (113 attacks). Russian activity continues near Kotliarivka, Nadiivka, Uspenivka, Novooleksandrivka, Novosergievka, Udachne, Novoukrainka, Dachenskyi, Lysivka, Mykolaivka, Novotoretske, Yelyzavetivka, Nova Poltavka, Berezivka, Novooleivka, and Oleksandropil. Russian forces claim expanded control near Uspenivka and advanced towards Novooleksandrivka. Fighting near Udachne remains unstable with attempts to hold the northeastern part and industrial zone but difficulty consolidating new positions. Small Russian assault groups near Kotlyne and Zverovo are reportedly repelled. Fighting in eastern Malynivka is ongoing with claimed Russian consolidation. Russian military bloggers report attacks along the entire direction and fighting within Pokrovsk itself. Russian sources claim destruction of Ukrainian equipment and personnel near Pokrovsk. Ukrainian commander's statement suggests the potential imminent fall of Pokrovsk. (✙DeepState✙🇺🇦, Colonelcassad, Военкор Котенок, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны)
• Southern Donetsk Direction: Colonelcassad reports Russian forces reached the outskirts of Bohotyr. Воин DV reports Russian artillery destroyed a dugout and Ukrainian infantry near Bohotyr. (Colonelcassad, Воин DV)
• Novopavlivka Direction: Colonelcassad reports expansion of the control zone east of Novo Polye. (Colonelcassad)
• Konstantinovka Direction: Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian advances near Tarasivka, Berezivka, Yelyzavetivka, and Novooleksandrivka. Z комитет + карта СВО also reports Russian advances near Dzerzhinsk, Dyleyevka, and Toretsk. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Russian occupation of Zelene Pole and advances near Novyi and Novomykhailivka. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring wounded Ukrainian soldiers who defended Toretsk, highlighting intense fighting. (Z комитет + карта СВО, ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS)
• Lyman Direction: Colonelcassad reports Russian advances west of Makiivka. (Colonelcassad)
• Nova Poltavka: Colonelcassad reports Russian forces approaching and a potential landing operation. (Colonelcassad)
• Artemivsk Direction: НгП раZVедка reports units of the 6th Motorized Rifle Division are conducting "Chubatsid" operations here. (НгП раZVедка)
• Kharkiv Oblast: KABs reported directed at the oblast. (Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine])
• Donetsk Oblast: KABs reported directed at the oblast. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Russian occupation of Zelene Pole and advances near Novyi and Novomykhailivka. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian advances near Dzerzhinsk, Dyleyevka, and Toretsk on the Konstantinovka direction. (Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine], ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, Z комитет + карта СВО)
• Dnipropetrovsk Oblast: KABs reported directed at the oblast. (Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine])
• Cherkasy Oblast: Russian drone attack last night caused damage to houses and required evacuation. (Олексій Білошицький)
• Crimea: Discussions on combined attacks as reconnaissance-in-force and the main target being the Crimean Bridge. Use of Russian FPV drones to destroy Ukrainian BECs reported in the coastal zone. (Kotsnews)
• Novorossiysk (RU): Discussed as a target in combined attacks on the Black Sea. (Kotsnews)
• Kurk-Belgorod Border Region (RU): Discussed by a Russian military blogger as an area where Ukraine is employing drone tactics to isolate the combat zone and disrupt logistics. (Старше Эдды)
• Dnipryan (Kherson Oblast): Оперативний ЗСУ reports Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian radar station here. (Оперативний ЗСУ)

Aerial and Naval Activity (Updated):

• Drone Warfare: Continued widespread use by both sides. STERNENKO claims downing of 2 Zala and 1 Orlan by the "Condor" unit. Старше Эдды discusses and advocates for Russian adoption of Ukrainian long-range harassment and free-hunting drone tactics to disrupt logistics. Kotsnews reports active use of Russian FPV drones by "Espanola" and "Vosmerka" units to destroy Ukrainian BECs in the coastal zone.
• Guided Aerial Bombs (KABs): Reported directed at Kharkiv, Donetsk, and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts.
• Tactical Aviation: Activity implied by the use of KABs.
• Unmanned Boats (BECs): Ukrainian use targeting Black Sea gas platforms and Crimea is being discussed by Russian sources. Russian FPV drones are reportedly used to destroy Ukrainian BECs.
• Russian Air Defense: Kotsnews suggests Russian air defense capabilities are being probed by Ukrainian combined attacks on Crimea and Novorossiysk.
• Naval Activity: Combined Ukrainian drone and BEC attack on Crimea last night is being discussed.
• Artillery: Воин DV reports Russian artillery, using "Краснополь," destroyed a dugout and Ukrainian infantry near Bohotyr. (Воин DV)
• Radar Stations: Оперативний ЗСУ reports Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian radar station near Dnipryan, Kherson Oblast. (Оперативний ЗСУ)

Diplomatic and Political Developments (Updated):

• Zelenskyy's Visit to Czech Republic: Official visit with planned meetings focusing on support, cooperation, artillery initiative, military aviation, pilot training, F-16s, diplomatic efforts, and pressure on Russia. First Lady's participation in healthcare conference and expansion of Ukrainian studies in Czech universities are also noted.
• Slovakian Prime Minister's Visit to Russia: Robert Fico will visit Russia for Victory Day with a delegation.
• Xi Jinping's Visit to Russia: Chinese President will visit Russia from May 7-10 for official talks and Victory Day commemorations, highlighting strengthening ties.
• Russian Official Narrative: Putin's statements on Russian values, succession, the Minsk agreements, the "forced" Crimea annexation, desire for peaceful Donbas resolution, deception regarding Minsk, Western sanctions as an impetus, Western non-recognition of sovereignty leading to conflict, attempts to provoke Russia, sufficiency of forces without nuclear weapons, inevitability of reconciliation, public understanding of their role, and comparison of current feats to WWII are being disseminated.
• Information Operations: Protest against Russian "Immortal Regiment" in Washington, D.C. Russian military bloggers engaging in propaganda and promoting narratives. Ukrainian sarcastic commentary on Russian activities. Fundraising efforts for military units. Russian media promoting a narrative of a Ukrainian "militant" confessing to civilian killings.
• Historical Narratives: Russian sources are leveraging historical narratives, including those related to WWII and the nature of Odesa, for propaganda purposes.
• Economic Impact: Putin suggests Western sanctions after 2014 gave Russia an "impetus" for development (Russian narrative).
• Succession in Russia: Putin is constantly thinking about a successor, with the final choice with the citizens (Russian narrative).

Internal Russian Issues (Updated):

• Military Doctrine and Tactics: Discussion on improving drone operator tactics and adopting Ukrainian long-range harassment strategies.
• Soldier Welfare/Daily Life: Sharing photos of soldiers with dogs in a "Soldier's Daily Life" rubric.
• Propaganda: Active dissemination of propaganda through various channels, including military bloggers and state media.
• Social Issues: A fundraising request for a child with health issues, highlighting financial struggles of a veteran's family.
• Historical Narratives: Efforts to shape and promote specific historical narratives for internal consumption.

Support and Rehabilitation (Updated):

• Ukrainian Military Support: Fundraising efforts are ongoing to support military units, specifically mentioned for protecting the sky.
• Wounded Soldiers: Video featuring wounded Ukrainian soldiers who defended Toretsk, highlighting their resilience and intent to return to service after treatment.
• Humanitarian Assistance: Evacuation of citizens from damaged houses in Cherkasy Oblast after a drone attack.

Other Incidents:

• Protest in Washington, D.C.: Against a Russian "Immortal Regiment" action.
• Satellite Imagery Analysis: Colonelcassad shares analysis of a map image indicating changes on the front line, including expanded control zones, reaching the outskirts of Bohotyr, advances in Kotliarivka, west of Makiivka, and approaching Nova Poltavka.
• Russian Radar Station Destroyed: Ukrainian forces claim the destruction of a Russian radar station near Dnipryan, Kherson Oblast.

Potential Future Developments

• Continued High-Intensity Ground Combat and Potential for Russian Tactical Gains: Expect sustained Russian offensive pressure, particularly on the Pokrovsk, Novopavlivka, Lyman, and Konstantinovka directions. The high number of attacks on the Pokrovsk front indicates a major Russian push. Russian claims of advances near Uspenivka, Novooleksandrivka, Novo Polye, Bohotyr, and Zelene Pole, if independently confirmed, suggest a grinding but potentially effective Russian offensive at the tactical level. The Ukrainian commander's statement regarding the potential fall of Pokrovsk is a significant indicator of the pressure on this front. Continued intense fighting in Toretsk is also likely, given the presence of wounded Ukrainian defenders. The potential landing operation near Nova Poltavka, if attempted or successful, could significantly alter the local dynamics.
• Persistent and Potentially Expanding Russian Aerial Attack Campaign: Russia is likely to continue widespread use of drones and guided aerial bombs (KABs) across multiple oblasts. The targeting of Cherkasy Oblast and the continued threat to Kharkiv, Donetsk, and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts indicate a broad aerial campaign. The discussion among Russian military bloggers about adopting Ukrainian long-range drone tactics suggests a potential shift towards more extensive and disruptive Russian drone operations targeting Ukrainian logistics and rear areas.
• Continued Struggle for Black Sea Control and Crimean Bridge Security: Ukrainian attempts to target Russian assets in the Black Sea and Crimea, likely including the Crimean Bridge, are expected to continue. Russia will likely increase efforts to counter Ukrainian unmanned boats and drones, including the active use of FPV drones as reported. The effectiveness of Russian countermeasures will be a key factor.
• Amplified Information Warfare Efforts: Expect both sides to intensify information operations, particularly in the lead-up to May 9th Victory Day. Russia will likely amplify narratives around military successes, historical events, and perceived Western/Ukrainian weaknesses. Ukrainian counter-propaganda efforts, including highlighting Russian losses and perceived internal issues, and leveraging international events like protests, will also continue. The showcasing of Russian military capabilities, including drones, in the context of Victory Day parades will be a key element of Russian messaging. The visit of foreign leaders to Moscow for Victory Day will be leveraged by Russia for diplomatic signaling.
• Increased Diplomatic Engagement and Potential for Shifting Alliances: President Zelenskyy's visit to the Czech Republic highlights ongoing Ukrainian efforts to secure international support and military aid, particularly regarding air defense and aviation. The planned participation of the Slovakian Prime Minister and Chinese President in Russia's Victory Day events underscores evolving diplomatic relationships and potential shifts in international alignment.
• Focus on Counter-Drone and Air Defense Measures: Ukraine will need to maintain and enhance its counter-drone and air defense capabilities to mitigate the impact of persistent Russian aerial attacks. The reported destruction of a Russian radar station by Ukrainian forces indicates ongoing efforts to degrade Russian air reconnaissance and targeting capabilities.
• Impact on Civilian Populations: The continued targeting of civilian infrastructure by Russian aerial attacks will likely result in further casualties, displacement, and humanitarian needs. Efforts to provide aid and support to affected populations will remain crucial.
• Internal Russian Social and Military Considerations: The reported fundraising request for a child with health issues, highlighting the struggles of a veteran's family, provides a glimpse into potential social challenges in Russia that could be exacerbated by the conflict. Discussions among Russian military bloggers regarding tactics and equipment highlight ongoing internal assessments and potential adaptations within the Russian military.

Potential Indicators

• Observable changes in the pace or direction of Russian ground advances on the Pokrovsk, Novopavlivka, Lyman, and Konstantinovka directions, including independent confirmation of claimed territorial gains in specific settlements like Uspenivka, Novooleksandrivka, Novo Polye, Bohotyr, and Zelene Pole. Any observable changes in the control of Toretsk.
• Reports or visual evidence of Russian forces attempting or successfully conducting a landing operation near Nova Poltavka.
• Increased or decreased frequency and geographic spread of Russian drone and KAB attacks, including evidence of new targeting patterns or the adoption of long-range harassment tactics as discussed by Russian military bloggers. Independent confirmation of targets hit and assessment of damage, particularly to civilian infrastructure.
• Reports of successful Ukrainian interceptions of Russian drones or KABs, or successful strikes on key Russian military assets supporting aerial operations.
• Observable changes in Russian naval activity in the Black Sea and around Crimea, including any notable changes in the security posture around the Crimean Bridge. Reports of successful Ukrainian BEC attacks or Russian countermeasures against BECs.
• Changes in the themes and volume of information operations from both sides, particularly around May 9th, including the showcasing of military equipment in parades and the emphasis on specific historical narratives.
• Statements or actions from international leaders or organizations regarding their participation in or stance on the Russian Victory Day events.
• Further reports or discussions within Russian military or public channels regarding the implementation of new drone tactics, internal social issues related to the conflict (e.g., veteran support, economic hardship), or military discipline.
• Any new official statements from Ukraine or its international partners regarding military aid, diplomatic efforts, or conditions for a ceasefire.
• Reports or visual evidence of the humanitarian impact of continued aerial attacks in various Ukrainian oblasts, including casualty figures and damage assessments.
• Independent verification of the destruction of the Russian radar station near Dnipryan.
• Further information or analysis regarding the significance of Zelene Pole's reported occupation.

Operational Summary

The battlefield situation is characterized by escalating Russian offensive actions, with significant intensity on the Pokrovsk direction, where Russian forces claim advances and are reportedly engaged in fighting within the city limits, leading to a Ukrainian commander's statement on the potential fall of the city. Russian forces also claim advances on the Southern Donetsk, Novopavlivka, Lyman, and Konstantinovka directions, and a potential landing operation near Nova Poltavka. Simultaneously, widespread Russian aerial attacks using drones and guided aerial bombs continue to impact various Ukrainian oblasts, including confirmed damage and required evacuations in Cherkasy. Ukrainian forces are actively engaged in counter-drone operations and are reported to have destroyed a Russian radar station in Kherson Oblast. The Black Sea remains a contested area, with discussions among Russian sources focusing on Ukrainian combined attacks as reconnaissance-in-force probing Russian defenses and suggesting the Crimean Bridge remains a primary Ukrainian target, while Russian forces are reportedly employing FPV drones to counter Ukrainian unmanned boats. Information operations are prominent, with both sides disseminating narratives to shape perceptions, particularly in the lead-up to Victory Day, which will also see notable diplomatic visits to Moscow. Discussions within Russian military circles indicate a focus on improving drone tactics and potentially adopting strategies currently employed by Ukraine. Internal social issues related to the conflict are also emerging. The humanitarian impact of the ongoing attacks on civilian areas remains a concern, as highlighted by reports from Cherkasy and the situation of wounded Ukrainian defenders in Toretsk.

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Disclaimer: This report is based on the provided information and aims to provide a high-level analysis of the operational situation. It is crucial to acknowledge that the information landscape is dynamic and contested, and independent verification of all claims is not always possible in real-time. The analysis is focused on military intelligence and does not include comprehensive political or economic assessments unless directly relevant to military operations.