Operational Intelligence Briefing - Major Updates and Analysis (May 7, 2025, 12:03 UTC)
Updated Situation
The operational environment continues to be characterized by intense Russian aerial activity, including significant drone and missile attacks on Kyiv and other central regions, resulting in confirmed civilian casualties and damage to residential infrastructure. Ground combat continues across key axes, with reports of heavy fighting in Donetsk Oblast and along the Ukrainian-Russian border. Cross-border activity and strategic information operations persist from both sides. The shooting incident in Dagestan continues to be a notable internal security event in Russia. Ukrainian drone capabilities, including long-range strike platforms, are being showcased, and recent reports confirm Ukrainian drone attacks targeting defense industrial enterprises and other facilities deep within Russia. Recent information further confirms a fire in Saransk following a drone attack and highlights continued Russian efforts to counter Ukrainian drone operations. Russian efforts to promote patriotic narratives around Victory Day are evident.
Significant new developments and analysis from the latest messages (past hour and slightly older):
Continued Intense Russian Aerial Attack on Kyiv and Surrounding Regions with Updated Casualties:Updated reports from Kyiv indicate 8 injured (including 4 children) and 2 fatalities as a result of the overnight Russian attack. A woman was recently hospitalized, bringing the total hospitalized to four. Detailed descriptions of damage across Sviatoshynskyi, Solomianskyi, Dniprovskyi, and Shevchenkivskyi districts are provided, including fires and partial destruction of residential buildings.Explosions were reported in the capital again.A resident described their apartment becoming uninhabitable after both a night ballistic attack and morning drone attack.The State Emergency Service (DSNS) in Kyiv confirmed the casualties and damage.Photos and videos from ASTRA and STERNENKO provide additional visual confirmation of the destruction and emergency response.The State Emergency Service of Ukraine reports a fire and structural damage to a 10-story residential building in Sofiyivska Borshchahivka, Bucha district, Kyiv Oblast, due to a drone attack, with no casualties at that specific location.This indicates a multi-phased and widespread attack impacting numerous areas.Ukrainian authorities reported the all-clear for Kyiv.Ukrainian sources also confirm the liquidation of consequences of the enemy attack in Sofiyivska Borshchahivka due to a UAV attack on a residential building, resulting in a fire and destruction of structures on the 2nd floor, with no casualties reported at that location.Partial suspension of metro service on the "red" line in Kyiv, with stations "Arsenalna" and "Khreshchatyk" operating only as shelters, likely due to security concerns or damage.(РБК-Україна, ASTRA, STERNENKO, РБК-Україна, ДСНС у м. Києві, КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація), Оперативний ЗСУ, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine)
Ukrainian Drone Attacks Targeting Russian Industrial Facilities and Airfields:KіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno reports that UAVs of the Defense and Security Forces of Ukraine successfully struck "Saranskkaбель" and repeatedly struck JSC "Optical Fiber Systems" in Saransk, located 670km from the state border. This confirms specific targets of Ukrainian drone attacks within Russia's defense industrial base, particularly a plant producing optical fiber which could be used for drone control. Additional visual evidence confirms a fire in Saransk following a drone attack.БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports a strike on Russian fighter jet location at Kubinka airbase near Moscow by UAVs, where aircraft for the May 9th parade were stationed.Reported Ukrainian strike on a production building of NPO Splav in Tula.(КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno, ASTRA, БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС, КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno)
Intense Ground Engagements in Donetsk Oblast, Particularly Near Sribne:✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 publishes video footage showing the 35th Separate Marine Brigade repelling an attack by a Russian column south of Sribne on May 5th.DeepState reports very difficult conditions on the brigade's sector and the neighboring 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade's sector in recent days, with massive enemy advances and numerous assault actions. This highlights continued heavy fighting in Donetsk Oblast, specifically south of Sribne, and confirms significant Russian pressure and assault activity in this area. (✙DeepState✙🇺🇦)
Russian Strikes on Zaporizhzhia Oblast:Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація reports that over the past day, Russian forces conducted 628 strikes on 14 settlements in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, resulting in four injuries.These strikes included 10 aviation strikes, 373 UAV attacks, 8 MLRS shellings, and 237 artillery shellings.Targets included civilian and critical infrastructure, leading to 34 reports of damage to apartments, houses, non-residential premises, and vehicles.Гуляйпільська громада was hit by three guided aerial bombs, causing fires in private houses and injuring a 61-year-old man.Ukrainian authorities also report that over 42,000 subscribers in two districts of Zaporizhzhia were quickly re-electrified after a night attack on energy infrastructure in the regional center. This highlights continued intense Russian pressure on the Zaporizhzhia front using a variety of weapon systems, resulting in civilian casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions to essential services, albeit with a rapid response in restoring power. (🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦)
Update on India-Pakistan Border Tensions:Reuters, citing Indian police, reports seven people were killed and 35 injured due to shelling by Pakistan on the line of control.Север.Реалии reports that India's armed forces claim to have struck "terrorist infrastructure" at nine Pakistani sites in Pakistan and the part of Kashmir controlled by it on the evening of May 6th, explicitly stating no Pakistani military objects were attacked.Updated reports indicate 10 fatalities and 48 injured after shelling from Pakistan on the line of control, citing Indian police.Kotsnews provides a summary of the escalation, including claimed aircraft shootdowns by Pakistan, differing casualty figures reported by each side, Pakistan's warning of a full response, and Russia's expression of concern and call for restraint. This reinforces the escalating tensions and reports of casualties in this separate regional conflict, with updated casualty figures indicating a worsening situation and providing more details on the actions and claims of both sides. (ТАСС, Север.Реалии, ТАСС, Kotsnews)
Updated Daily Estimated Russian Losses:РБК-Україна, citing the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, reports estimated Russian losses for the past day (May 6th to 7th) as 1270 personnel, 14 tanks, 3 armored fighting vehicles, 71 artillery systems, 124 drones, and 131 vehicles/fuel tanks.Оперативний ЗСУ also reports these figures, adding "344 units of their equipment burned". This provides updated figures on the estimated rate of Russian attrition across various categories of personnel and equipment, highlighting significant losses in personnel, artillery, and drones. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" shares a collage with images of several Russian officers (2 majors, 4 captains, 1 lieutenant) overlaid with the "Груз 200" (Cargo 200) graphic, indicating their reported deaths. This visually reinforces the claimed Russian personnel losses, specifically highlighting officer casualties. (РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц", Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц")
Russian Claims of Destroying Ukrainian Equipment and Command Posts with Drones and Artillery:Воин DV shares a video claiming that drone operators of the 35th Combined Arms Army of the "Vostok" grouping destroyed a UAV command post and enemy equipment on the Polohy direction.Воин DV shares a video claiming the joint work of artillery and UAV operators of a special forces company resulted in the detection and destruction of a US-supplied M-119 howitzer near Novoukrainka. These are Russian claims of successfully targeting Ukrainian command and control infrastructure and equipment using drones and artillery, including Western-supplied assets. (Воин DV, Воин DV, Воин DV)
Visit of Brazilian President to Russia for Victory Day:ТАСС reports that the President of Brazil, Lula da Silva, has flown to Russia to participate in the Victory Day celebrations. This highlights international diplomatic engagement with Russia despite the ongoing conflict. (ТАСС)
Russian Attacks on Dnipropetrovsk Oblast:Олександр Вілкул reports that in the Nikopol district, Russian forces attacked Nikopol and Pokrovska hromada with artillery and a kamikaze drone, with consequences being clarified and no casualties reported.Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) provides further details, stating that in the evening, the Russian army hit Pokrovska hromada in Synelnykove district with guided aerial bombs (KABs), injuring 8 people (all hospitalized, two in serious condition) and damaging 12 private houses, a gas pipeline, and a power line.He reiterates the attacks on Nikopol district using a kamikaze drone and artillery. This confirms continued Russian attacks on populated areas and infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast using a mix of aerial and artillery assets, resulting in civilian casualties and damage. (Олександр Вілкул, 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА))
Situation in Kryvyi Rih:Олександр Вілкул reports that the situation in Kryvyi Rih is controlled, with no shelling in the district overnight and all services operational. He also notes a planned production blast at a mining and processing plant in the Inhulets district later in the day, emphasizing it is controlled and not a cause for concern. (Олександр Вілкул)
Russian Military Blogger Report on Middle East and Africa:Рыбарь reports on events in "Black Africa," including the continued use of kamikaze drones by Rapid Support Forces against Port Sudan in Sudan, with Sudanese authorities suggesting launches from the Red Sea. He also notes the President of the Republic of the Congo's visit to Russia for Victory Day and the holding of an "Immortal Regiment" action in the capital. He reports the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains tense despite agreements, with the M23 movement continuing attacks. This provides insights into other regional conflicts and Russia's engagement in Africa. (Рыбарь)
Updated Drone Movement Reports and Air Alerts:Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports that drones from Poltava Oblast are moving towards Poltava, Myrhorod, and Kremenchuk.Drones from Kyiv Oblast are heading towards Kyiv/Hostomel and Vasylkiv/Vyshneve.Several groups from Kyiv Oblast are moving towards Zhytomyr Oblast.Drones from Sumy Oblast, passing Romny and Konotop, are moving towards Chernihiv Oblast.Николаевский Ванёк provides further breakdown of drone movements, noting one from Poltava to Cherkasy, two from Kyiv to Zhytomyr, one near Korosten, five near Pryluky heading towards Cherkasy, and nine from Sumy heading towards/through Pryluky.Latest reports indicate drone movement towards Zhytomyr (past Brusyliv), around Bohuslav in Kyiv Oblast, several groups near Kaniv in Черкащина, and from Sumy Oblast towards Chernihiv Oblast.Ukrainian Air Force reports an enemy reconnaissance UAV moving from the southeast in the direction of Zaporizhzhia, potentially acting as a spotter, and that assets are engaged to shoot it down.Air raid alerts have been issued and subsequently lifted in various regions. This indicates a continued and shifting pattern of Russian drone movements across multiple central, northern, and eastern Ukrainian oblasts, including reconnaissance activity over Zaporizhzhia. (Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Николаевский Ванёк, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація))
Russian Naval Infantry Combat Footage:Два майора and Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓ share a video attributed to the 810th Separate Guards Naval Infantry Brigade of the Black Sea Fleet, described as a "duel" between a soldier and a "soulless killing machine." This likely depicts an engagement with a drone and serves as a propaganda piece showcasing individual bravery and unit activity. (Два майора, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓)
Russian Historical Information Operation:Басурин о главном shares a post commemorating the signing of the act of German capitulation in Reims on May 7, 1945, emphasizing Stalin's dissatisfaction with the process and the subsequent signing in Berlin. This is a clear effort to leverage historical events, particularly those related to Soviet victory in WWII, as part of the current information operation, potentially aiming to highlight Russian assertiveness and control. Басурин о главном also shares two video messages without captions, likely related to Victory Day themes or military activities.Глеб Никитин shares photos and a video of two WWII veterans from Nizhny Novgorod attending the main parade in Moscow, highlighting their service and continued public life. This further reinforces the ongoing Russian efforts to build narratives around Victory Day and connect current events to historical victory. (Басурин о главном, Басурин о главном, Басурин о главном, Глеб Никитин, Глеб Никитин, Глеб Никитин)
Russian Claim of Using Fiber-Optic Guided Kamikaze Drone:Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a video claiming that Ukraine used a fiber-optic guided kamikaze drone against a Russian mortar position on the Zaporizhzhia front during the night. This, if confirmed, indicates the use of advanced drone technology by Ukraine, which could have implications for targeting and electronic warfare. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 also shares a video reporting on Russian snipers on the Kherson direction who were wounded by a mine, with one fatality, highlighting the dangers faced by these units and the challenges of evacuation under fire.(Дневник Десантника🇷🇺, Дневник Десантника🇷🇺, Дневник Десантника🇷🇺)
Potential for Special Tribunal Against Russian Leadership:Alex Parker Returns reports that leadership of Ukraine and the Council of Europe, along with foreign ministers of dozens of countries, will sign documents on May 9th in Lviv to create a special tribunal for the leadership of the Russian Federation. This indicates a significant diplomatic effort to pursue legal accountability for the conflict. (Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns)
Russian Ministry of Defense Establishes New "For Assault" Award:Colonelcassad and Alex Parker Returns report on the establishment of a new military award by the Russian Ministry of Defense, "For Assault," which will be awarded to service members for personal participation in offensive actions, with a number indicating the number of assaults. This new award emphasizes the importance of offensive operations and individual participation in assaults within the Russian military structure and serves as a tool for morale and recognition. (Colonelcassad, Colonelcassad, Colonelcassad, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns)
Contrasting Perspectives on the Conflict and Western Society:Janus Putkonen - Uutisia ja kuulumisia - SÄHKEET/TIEDOTTEET (MV-Lehti & Verkkomedia) shares analysis on growing division in the West, potential for civil conflict, and the impact of the conflict with Russia on living standards, attributing it to a "globalist elite."He also shares a news article questioning whether Ukrainian threatened terror attacks on Russian Victory Day celebrations are merely "Putin's celebrations being ruined," framing such actions as "state terrorism" by "Ukrainian Nazis" that could lead to a major war. These posts reflect a specific anti-Western and pro-Russian narrative prevalent in certain online communities, framing the conflict and internal Western issues through a highly critical and conspiratorial lens. (Janus Putkonen - Uutisia ja kuulumisia - SÄHKEET/TIEDOTTEET (MV-Lehti & Verkkomedia), Janus Putkonen - Uutisia ja kuulumisia - SÄHKEET/TIEDOTTEET (MV-Lehti & Verkkomedia), Janus Putkonen - Uutisia ja kuulumisia - SÄHKEET/TIEDOTTEET (MV-Lehti & Verkkomedia))
Peskov's Statements on Ceasefire, Drone Attacks, and Moscow Restrictions:ТАСС reports on key statements from Dmitry Peskov's briefing, including that Russia's initiative for a ceasefire for Victory Day remains in force, their position on a truce is well-known with no new instructions despite Ukrainian drone attacks, and mobile internet in Moscow is restricted during Victory Day due to "dangerous proximity" and should be understood. He also mentions the President's schedule, meeting with Kadyrov, attributing the prohibition of some European leaders' flights to Russia to "absurd Russophobic policy," not planning to invite former foreign leaders living in Russia to the parade, calling the IOC's refusal to accredit some Russian media for the Olympics discriminatory, uncertainty about Russian footballers participating in the 2026 World Cup, and no perceived reason for kefir deficit. This provides Russia's official stance on several key issues, including their public position on a ceasefire, their response to Ukrainian attacks, and the reasons for internal security measures. (ТАСС, ТАСС, ТАСС, ТАСС)
US Implementation of Domestic FPV Drone Production and Supply to Ukraine:Два майора reports that the US company Neros Technologies has received approval from the Ministry of Defense to supply domestically produced Archer FPV drones with the Crossbow control station to the US Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, and Special Operations Forces.The drone has a range of up to 20 km and utilizes American-made components to reduce import dependence and ensure interoperability.The company is increasing production and plans to supply 6,000 Archer drones to Ukraine by August 2025 under contract. The report notes the development and supply of various types of munitions for these drones and that other domestically produced quadcopters have also been approved for military use. This signifies a significant step by the US in developing and implementing its own FPV drone capabilities, focusing on domestic production and integration, and highlights a substantial planned military aid package of these drones for Ukraine. (Два майора, Два майора)
Ukraine Preparing Civilian Population for Resistance:ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that the Deputy Head of the Office of the President, Vereshchuk, has announced several draft laws in May to prepare the entire civilian population of Ukraine for enemy resistance in the near future. This indicates a strategic shift in Ukraine's defense planning to involve the broader population in resistance efforts. (ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS)
Power Outages in Sloviansk Following Night Strikes:Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports that electricity is out in Sloviansk after night strikes, including on the industrial zone. This confirms the impact of recent Russian strikes on infrastructure in Sloviansk, a key city in Donetsk Oblast. (Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны)
Ukrainian Archive Footage of Snake Island Assault:Оперативний ЗСУ shares archive footage from "Mich_team" showing the assault on Snake Island. This provides historical context and highlights past successful Ukrainian operations. (Оперативний ЗСУ, Оперативний ЗСУ)
Turkish Military Presence and Occupation Claims in Northern Iraq:Рыбарь shares analysis and a map detailing the reported Turkish occupation of northern Iraq, including the construction of over a hundred military objects and de facto control over 2,000 square kilometers of Iraqi territory, primarily under the pretext of combating the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The report notes that the majority of these bases have appeared since 2018 and draws parallels to Turkish operations in Syria. This information, while not directly related to Ukraine, highlights another significant regional conflict and Turkish military expansionism, which could have broader geopolitical implications. (Рыбарь, Рыбарь, Рыбарь)
Internal Russian Incident - Fine for Designer Artemy Lebedev:ASTRA reports that designer Artemy Lebedev has been fined 40,000 rubles for violating the right to freedom of conscience and religion over a publication of a carpet with an image deemed to be a desecration of an icon. This highlights internal legal and social issues in Russia, particularly regarding freedom of expression and religious sensitivities. Новости Москвы shares a photo with a caption seemingly unrelated but appearing alongside the Lebedev report.(ASTRA, ASTRA, ASTRA, Новости Москвы)
Areas of Significant Activity (Updated)
Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast:Targeted by numerous "Shahed" drones and reportedly "Iskander" missiles, resulting in air defense engagements, fragment debris impacts, fires, and partial destruction of residential buildings in multiple districts of Kyiv (Dniprovskyi, Solomianskyi, Sviatoshynskyi, Shevchenkivskyi).8 injured (including 4 children) and 2 fatalities confirmed in Kyiv.Fire and structural damage to a residential building in Sofiyivska Borshchahivka, Bucha district, Kyiv Oblast, due to a drone attack (no casualties at this location).Second wave of drone movement towards Kyiv/Hostomel and Vasylkiv/Vyshneve from Kyiv Oblast reported.Air raid alert in Kyiv has ended.Ukrainian authorities confirm the liquidation of consequences of the attack in Sofiyivska Borshchahivka, reiterating no casualties at that location.Drone movement reported around Bohuslav in Kyiv Oblast.Partial suspension of metro service on the "red" line, with stations "Arsenalna" and "Khreshchatyk" and "Khreshchatyk" operating only as shelters.(РБК-Україна, ASTRA, STERNENKO, РБК-Україна, ДСНС у м. Києві, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Николаевский Ванёк, КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація), Оперативний ЗСУ, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, РБК-Україна)
Zaporizhzhia Oblast:Subjected to 628 Russian strikes in the past day, including aviation, drones, MLRS, and artillery, impacting 14 settlements and resulting in four injuries.Damage to civilian and critical infrastructure reported.Гуляйпільська громада hit by three guided aerial bombs, causing fires and injuring a man.Russian claim of Ukrainian fiber-optic guided kamikaze drone use on the Zaporizhzhia front.Russian claim of destroying Ukrainian UAV command post and equipment on the Polohy direction.Over 42,000 subscribers in Zaporizhzhia quickly re-electrified after a night attack on energy infrastructure.Ukrainian Air Force reports an enemy reconnaissance UAV moving from the southeast towards Zaporizhzhia.(🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, Дневник Десантника🇷🇺, Воин DV, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine])
Saransk (Mordovia, Russia):Targeted by Ukrainian drone attacks, reportedly striking "Saranskkaбель" and JSC "Optical Fiber Systems."Confirmed fire in Saransk following a drone attack with additional visual evidence.(КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno, ASTRA, ASTRA)
Donetsk Oblast (including Sribne, Sloviansk, Novoukrainka):Intense ground engagements, particularly south of Sribne, with Ukrainian forces (35th Marine Brigade) repelling a Russian column attack.DeepState reports very difficult conditions and significant Russian assault activity in this area and the neighboring 72nd Brigade's sector.Power outages in Sloviansk following night strikes, including on the industrial zone.Russian claim of destroying a US-supplied M-119 howitzer near Novoukrainka.(✙DeepState✙🇺🇦, ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Воин DV, Воин DV)
Poltava Oblast:Second wave of drone movement towards Poltava, Myrhorod, and Kremenchuk from Poltava Oblast reported.(Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Николаевский Ванёк)
Zhytomyr Oblast:Second wave of drone movement towards Zhytomyr Oblast from Kyiv Oblast reported.Drone reported near Korosten.Drone movement reported towards Zhytomyr (past Brusyliv).(Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Николаевский Ванёк, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine])
Chernihiv Oblast:Drones from Sumy Oblast, passing Romny and Konotop, moving towards Chernihiv Oblast.Drone movement reported from Sumy Oblast towards Chernihiv Oblast.(Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Николаевский Ванёк, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine])
Sumy Oblast:Second wave of drone movement towards Chernihiv and Poltava Oblasts originating from Sumy Oblast reported.Drone movement reported from Sumy Oblast towards Chernihiv Oblast.(Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Николаевский Ванёк, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine])
Nikopol District (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast):Attacked by Russian artillery and a kamikaze drone, with consequences being clarified and no casualties reported.(Олександр Вілкул, 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА))
Synelnykove District (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast):Pokrovska hromada hit by Russian guided aerial bombs (KABs) in the evening, injuring 8 people and damaging houses, a gas pipeline, and a power line.(🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА))
Kryvyi Rih (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast):Situation reported as controlled, with no overnight shelling in the district.(Олександр Вілкул)
Черкащина:Several groups of drones reported near Kaniv.(Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine])
Tula (Russia):Reported Ukrainian strike on a production building of NPO Splav.(КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno)
Kubinka Airbase (Moscow Region, Russia):Reported strike by UAVs on Russian fighter jet location.(БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС)
Kherson Direction:Russian military blogger reports Russian snipers wounded by a mine, with one fatality.(Дневник Десантника🇷🇺, Дневник Десантника🇷🇺)
Dagestan (Russia - Makhachkala): Follow-up on the shooting incident with updated casualty figures and details on attackers' status. (Previous reporting)
Pakistan-India Border: Continued tensions and reported casualties from shelling. Updated reports indicate 10 fatalities and 48 injured from Pakistani shelling.(ТАСС, Север.Реалии, ТАСС, Kotsnews)
Northern Iraq:Turkish military presence and alleged occupation detailed.(Рыбарь, Рыбарь, Рыбарь)
Sudan (Port Sudan): Reports of continued drone strikes by Rapid Support Forces. (Рыбарь)
Democratic Republic of the Congo: Situation remains tense with M23 movement continuing attacks. (Рыбарь)
Aerial and Naval Activity (Updated):
Drone Activity:Intensified and large-scale Russian drone attack on Kyiv and surrounding regions using "Shahed" drones, resulting in significant damage and casualties.Second wave of Russian drone movement reported towards Kyiv, Poltava, Zhytomyr, and Chernihiv Oblasts from Sumy and Kyiv Oblasts.Drone movement reported towards Zhytomyr (past Brusyliv), around Bohuslav in Kyiv Oblast, several groups near Kaniv in Черкащина, and from Sumy Oblast towards Chernihiv Oblast.Ukrainian drone attacks confirmed targeting industrial facilities in Saransk ("Saranskkaбель" and JSC "Optical Fiber Systems") and reportedly a production building in Tula and an airfield in Kubinka.Confirmed fire in Saransk following a drone attack with additional visual evidence.Russian forces used 373 UAVs in strikes on Zaporizhzhia Oblast in the past day.Russian claim of Ukrainian fiber-optic guided kamikaze drone use on the Zaporizhzhia front.Russian claim of destroying Ukrainian UAV command post and equipment on the Polohy direction using drones.Russian forces used a kamikaze drone in attacks on Nikopol district, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.Ukrainian General Staff reports estimated Russian drone losses for the past day as 124.Reports of continued drone strikes in Sudan.Russian sources share video purportedly of a "duel" between a soldier and a "soulless killing machine" (likely a drone).Ukrainian Air Force reports an enemy reconnaissance UAV moving towards Zaporizhzhia.(РБК-Україна, ASTRA, STERNENKO, ДСНС у м. Києві, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Николаевский Ванёк, КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, Дневник Десантника🇷🇺, Воин DV, Олександр Вілкул, 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА), РБК-Україна, Рыбарь, Два майора, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓, ASTRA, Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Оперативний ЗСУ, БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС, КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno)
Ballistic Missile Activity:Threat of ballistic missile use from the northeastern direction reported earlier.Resident in Kyiv reported a night ballistic attack.(Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine], РБК-Україна)
Aviation Activity:Russian forces conducted 10 aviation strikes on Zaporizhzhia Oblast in the past day.Russian forces used guided aerial bombs (KABs) in attacks on Synelnykove district, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.(🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА))
Artillery and MLRS Activity:Russian forces conducted 237 artillery shellings and 8 MLRS shellings on Zaporizhzhia Oblast in the past day.Russian forces used artillery in attacks on Nikopol district, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.Ukrainian General Staff reports estimated Russian artillery losses for the past day as 71.Russian claim of destroying a US-supplied M-119 howitzer near Novoukrainka using artillery and UAVs.(🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, Олександр Вілкул, 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА), РБК-Україна, Воин DV, Воин DV)
Naval Activity:Ukrainian Navy reports zero Russian naval vessels or Kalibr missile carriers in the Black and Azov Seas as of 06:00 on May 7th, but one Kalibr carrier with 8 missiles in the Mediterranean.Kerch Strait passage continues.Russian naval infantry combat footage shared, attributed to the 810th Separate Guards Naval Infantry Brigade of the Black Sea Fleet.(Генеральний штаб ЗСУ, Два майора, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓)
Diplomatic and Political Developments (Updated):
Brazil-Russia Relations:President of Brazil, Lula da Silva, is traveling to Russia for Victory Day celebrations.(ТАСС)
India-Pakistan Relations:Continued border tensions with reported casualties from Pakistani shelling and Indian claims of striking terrorist infrastructure.Updated reports indicate 10 fatalities and 48 injured from Pakistani shelling.Russia has expressed deep concern and called for restraint.(ТАСС, Север.Реалии, ТАСС, Kotsnews)
Russia-Africa Relations:President of the Republic of the Congo visiting Russia for Victory Day."Immortal Regiment" action held in the capital of Congo.(Рыбарь)
Russian Historical Information Operation:Russian sources are leveraging the historical context of the 1945 German surrender at Reims to frame narratives around Victory Day.Russian sources are showcasing WWII veterans attending the main parade.(Басурин о главном, Басурин о главном, Басурин о главном, Глеб Никитин, Глеб Никитин, Глеб Никитин)
Special Tribunal Against Russian Leadership:Reported plans for Ukraine and the Council of Europe, along with foreign ministers of dozens of countries, to sign documents on May 9th in Lviv to create a special tribunal for the leadership of the Russian Federation.(Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns)
Peskov's Briefing:Statements on Russia's ceasefire initiative, response to drone attacks, restrictions in Moscow, the prohibition of some European leaders' flights, IOC media accreditation, Russian football participation in the World Cup, and kefir supply.(ТАСС, ТАСС, ТАСС, ТАСС)
Contrasting Perspectives and Information Warfare:Analysis from a Finnish source with an anti-Western and pro-Russian narrative on divisions in the West and the conflict.(Janus Putkonen - Uutisia ja kuulumisia - SÄHKEET/TIEDOTTEET (MV-Lehti & Verkkomedia), Janus Putkonen - Uutisia ja kuulumisia - SÄHKEET/TIEDOTTEET (MV-Lehti & Verkkomedia), Janus Putkonen - Uutisia ja kuulumisia - SÄHKEET/TIEDOTTEET (MV-Lehti & Verkkomedia))
EU Position on Peace in Ukraine:President of the European Commission warned that if peace is not on Ukraine's terms, Putin will attack again, advocating for continued support for Ukraine's defense industry and cessation of Russian gas imports. (Previous reporting)
Potential Russia-China Gas Pipeline Negotiations:Bloomberg reports that Xi Jinping and Putin will resume negotiations this week regarding the "Power of Siberia 2" gas pipeline.(ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS)
Internal Russian Issues (Updated):
Internal Security Incident:Updates on the Makhachkala shooting incident, including increased injured figures and details on attackers' status. (Previous reporting)
Impact of Ukrainian Attacks:Ukrainian drone attacks on industrial facilities in Saransk and reportedly a production building in Tula and an airfield in Kubinka.Confirmed fire in Saransk following a drone attack with additional visual evidence.Power outages in Sloviansk following night strikes.Restrictions on mobile internet in Moscow during Victory Day.(КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno, ASTRA, ASTRA, ASTRA, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, ТАСС, БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС, КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno)
Information Control and Propaganda:Reports of restrictions on information dissemination regarding drone attack consequences in Saransk (previous reporting).President of Brazil and President of the Republic of the Congo traveling to Russia for Victory Day celebrations."Immortal Regiment" action held in the capital of Congo.Russian sources are leveraging historical context and showcasing veterans for Victory Day narratives.Russian naval infantry combat footage shared, likely for propaganda purposes.Establishment of a new "For Assault" military award.Peskov's briefing providing official stances and justifications.Internal legal incident with designer Artemy Lebedev.(КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno, ТАСС, Рыбарь, Басурин о главном, Басурин о главном, Басурин о главном, Глеб Никитин, Глеб Никитин, Глеб Никитин, Два майора, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓, Battle_🅉 _Sailor ⚓, Colonelcassad, Colonelcassad, Colonelcassad, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns, ТАСС, ТАСС, ТАСС, ТАСС, ASTRA, ASTRA, ASTRA, Новости Москвы)
Military Recognition:Establishment of a new "For Assault" award by the Russian Ministry of Defense.(Colonelcassad, Colonelcassad, Colonelcassad, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns, Alex Parker Returns)
Support and Rehabilitation (Updated)
Humanitarian Situation:Increased civilian casualties (8 injured, 2 fatalities) and widespread damage in Kyiv from Russian aerial attacks.Damage to residential buildings in Sofiyivska Borshchahivka, Kyiv Oblast.Four injuries and damage to civilian and critical infrastructure in Zaporizhzhia Oblast from Russian strikes.8 injuries and damage to houses, gas pipeline, and power line in Synelnykove district, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, from guided aerial bomb attacks.Consequences of artillery and drone attacks in Nikopol district, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, being clarified.Reports of casualties from shelling on the India-Pakistan border.Russian military blogger reports on Russian snipers wounded by a mine on the Kherson direction, with one fatality.Power outages in Sloviansk.(РБК-Україна, ASTRA, STERNENKO, ДСНС у м. Києві, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, Олександр Вілкул, 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА), ТАСС, Север.Реалии, ТАСС, Kotsnews, Дневник Десантника🇷🇺, Дневник Десантника🇷🇺, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны)
Critical Infrastructure Restoration:Rapid re-electrification of over 42,000 subscribers in Zaporizhzhia after attacks on energy infrastructure.(🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦)
Force Composition and Tactics (Updated)
Russia: Continuing large-scale drone and missile attacks targeting urban centers and infrastructure. Employing aviation, guided aerial bombs (KABs), MLRS, and artillery in strikes on Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts. Conducting significant ground assaults in Donetsk Oblast, particularly near Sribne. Claiming destruction of Ukrainian UAV control posts and equipment using drones on the Polohy direction. Utilizing kamikaze drones in attacks on Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Experiencing significant estimated daily losses in personnel, artillery, and drones, including officer casualties. Claiming destruction of a US-supplied M-119 howitzer near Novoukrainka using high-precision munitions and UAVs.Sharing videos purportedly showing combat engagements involving naval infantry.Implementing a new "For Assault" military award to recognize participation in offensive actions.Conducting reconnaissance drone activity.
Ukraine: Continuing drone attacks on Russian territory, specifically targeting industrial facilities in Saransk and reportedly a production building in Tula and an airfield in Kubinka. Claiming use of a fiber-optic guided kamikaze drone on the Zaporizhzhia front. Repelling Russian ground assaults, including a column attack near Sribne. Maintaining defenses against Russian ground assaults and aerial attacks. Reporting on estimated daily Russian losses across various categories, including officer casualties. Conducting defensive operations in areas like Kryvyi Rih. Highlighting the absence of Russian missile carriers in the Black and Azov Seas. Conducting successful re-electrification efforts in Zaporizhzhia after attacks on energy infrastructure.Preparing the civilian population for resistance. Showcasing archive footage of past successful operations (Snake Island). Experiencing sniper casualties from mines on the Kherson direction. Receiving supply of US-produced FPV drones (Archer) with planned significant deliveries.
Rapid Support Forces (Sudan): Reportedly using kamikaze drones against Port Sudan.
M23 Movement (DRC): Reportedly continuing attacks despite agreements.
Strategic Considerations (Updated)
The continued large-scale and damaging Russian drone and missile attacks on Kyiv and other urban centers, now with updated civilian casualty figures and visual confirmation of destruction, underscore the ongoing Russian strategy of targeting civilian infrastructure to inflict casualties and psychological impact. The use of combined tactics (drones and potentially ballistic missiles) suggests an effort to saturate defenses. The reported two fatalities and 8 injured in Kyiv highlight the severity of the humanitarian impact. The rapid re-electrification in Zaporizhzhia demonstrates Ukraine's resilience and effectiveness in restoring critical infrastructure after attacks. The partial suspension of metro services in Kyiv indicates the disruptive impact of these attacks on urban life and infrastructure.
Ukraine's confirmed targeting of the "Saranskkaбель" and JSC "Optical Fiber Systems" plants in Saransk and reported strikes on a production building in Tula and an airfield in Kubinka with drones is a clear strategic move to degrade Russia's defense industrial base, specifically facilities potentially contributing to drone production or control and military aviation assets. This aligns with a strategy of striking targets deep within Russia to disrupt their war effort. The visual confirmation of the fire in Saransk supports the success of this strike.
The continued and multifaceted Russian strikes on Zaporizhzhia Oblast and Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, involving aviation, drones, MLRS, and artillery, demonstrate the persistent pressure on these fronts and the significant impact on civilian populations and infrastructure, resulting in injuries and damage and power outages in Sloviansk.
The reported escalation of tensions and casualties on the India-Pakistan border is a significant regional development that, while not directly related to Ukraine, adds to the complex global geopolitical landscape and could have indirect implications. The updated casualty figures indicate a worsening situation, and Russia's expression of concern highlights the potential for wider regional instability.
Russian claims of destroying Ukrainian UAV command posts and equipment with drones and artillery, including a US-supplied howitzer, suggest a focus on countering Ukraine's effective use of drones and Western military aid by targeting their control infrastructure and assets. This indicates a tactical adaptation to Ukraine's asymmetric capabilities.
The updated figures on estimated Russian losses, particularly the high daily attrition in personnel, artillery, and drones, and the visual confirmation of officer casualties, if accurate, highlight the significant human and material cost of the conflict for Russia and could impact their long-term sustainability and operational capacity. The establishment of a new "For Assault" award suggests a focus on motivating personnel for costly offensive operations.
The reported use of a fiber-optic guided kamikaze drone by Ukraine, if confirmed, indicates the integration of advanced technology into their drone warfare, potentially offering enhanced precision and resistance to electronic warfare, which could impact tactical engagements. The planned supply of a significant number of US-produced FPV drones to Ukraine will significantly enhance their drone capabilities.
The visit of the Brazilian President to Russia for Victory Day celebrations indicates ongoing diplomatic efforts by Russia to maintain international engagement and project an image of normalcy despite the conflict. The reported potential for resumed Russia-China gas pipeline negotiations highlights ongoing strategic energy discussions.
The Russian attacks on populated areas in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast using guided aerial bombs, kamikaze drones, and artillery further illustrate the widespread impact of the conflict on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. The controlled situation reported in Kryvyi Rih, along with the planned production blast, provides a localized snapshot of areas under Ukrainian control and normal civilian activities, contrasting with the areas experiencing active hostilities.
The absence of Russian missile carriers in the Black and Azov Seas, while a potential tactical shift, is offset by the presence of a Kalibr carrier in the Mediterranean, indicating a continued long-range strike capability. The sharing of Russian naval infantry combat footage likely serves as a propaganda effort to highlight their continued activity and effectiveness.
The fighting in Sudan and the DRC, as reported by a Russian military blogger, highlight other ongoing conflicts and Russia's engagement in those regions, which could have broader geopolitical implications.
Russian efforts to leverage historical events, particularly the 1945 German surrender, and showcase WWII veterans as part of their current information operation highlight their strategy of connecting the current conflict to the narrative of Russian victory in WWII, likely to bolster domestic support and influence international perceptions.
The reported plans for a special tribunal for Russian leadership indicate a significant diplomatic and legal effort to pursue accountability for the conflict.
Ukraine's stated intention to prepare the entire civilian population for resistance signifies a strategic shift towards a total defense concept, potentially impacting the nature of future engagements.
The reported Turkish military presence and alleged occupation in northern Iraq, while a separate conflict, highlight regional instability and Turkish military power projection, which could have indirect implications for the broader geopolitical context.
Internal Russian incidents like the fine for designer Artemy Lebedev highlight internal social and legal dynamics and potentially growing restrictions on freedom of expression. Peskov's statements regarding restrictions in Moscow and his justifications provide insight into how Russia frames internal security measures.
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. All recommendations and actions based on this information must be filtered through human oversight and comply with international laws and ethical standards.
