Sitrep 2025-05-17 15:43:34

Operational Intelligence Briefing - Major Updates and Analysis (May 17, 2025, 15:40 UTC)

Updated Situation

The operational environment continues to be characterized by intense ground combat, particularly in eastern and southern Ukraine. Russian forces are conducting active offensive operations and claiming territorial gains. Russian aerial offensive remains persistent and geographically expanding, utilizing strike drones and guided aerial bombs across multiple regions of Ukraine. Drone activity remains significantly high on both sides, with continued use for reconnaissance, targeting, and strike operations, including reports of successful strikes and downing of various drone types by both Ukrainian and Russian forces. The diplomatic front is dominated by recent direct talks in Istanbul that concluded without a ceasefire agreement but with progress on a large-scale prisoner exchange (1000 for 1000 format) expected next week, reportedly on Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Diplomatic discussions continue with international partners, including a telephone conversation between Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and US Senator Rubio, where the possibility of a prisoner exchange and truce conditions were reportedly discussed. Former US President Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. This introduces a significant new element to the diplomatic landscape with a potential high-level intervention. Russian sources continue their information operations, claiming battlefield successes and attempting to discredit Ukrainian efforts and international support. Internal issues within Russia, including criminal activity, reports of problems within military units, and discussions on military production, are also being reported. Internal Ukrainian issues, such as concerns about fortification quality and potential internal conflicts within military administrative structures, are also surfacing. New updates highlight continued support for Ukrainian veterans through rehabilitation programs and sporting events, the issuance of stamps honoring Ukrainian special forces, Russian claims of tactical advancements and the liberation of Nova Poltavka, ongoing Russian diplomatic messaging regarding negotiations, details on damage to civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast from Russian attacks, and further insights into internal Russian affairs including economic initiatives and incidents of desecration.

Significant new updates from the latest messages (past hour):

Veterans Rehabilitation and Support in Kryvyi Rih: Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih after a month-long break, with over 200 veterans and their families participating in rowing and table tennis competitions. He highlights the event's goal of psychological and physical rehabilitation and mentions unique city programs for supporting defenders. This signifies continued and structured support for Ukrainian veterans and their families at the local level, focusing on their well-being and integration.
Issuance of Stamps Honoring GUR Special Unit "Artan": РБК-Україна reports the presentation of a postage stamp dedicated to the "Artan" special forces unit of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (ГУР). The stamp has a limited edition and features imagery related to the unit's operations. The head of the GUR, Kyrylo Budanov, commented on the stamp as a fixation of historical events and expressed confidence in the unit's motto "We know. We find. We destroy." This is a symbolic act aimed at recognizing and honoring specific military units and potentially boosting morale, while also serving as a form of information operation.
Russian Claim of Liberating Nova Poltavka: Военкор Котенок reports that units of the "South" Group of Forces have cleared the western part of Nova Poltavka and the territory to the west, occupying several enemy strongholds, and claims that Nova Poltavka is liberated. This is a specific Russian claim of capturing a settlement on the Druzhkivka direction, following up on earlier reports of advances in this area.
Russian Diplomatic Commentary on Negotiations and US Plan: ТАСС reports that US Senator Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed an American plan for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine, according to the US State Department. This confirms ongoing diplomatic engagement and discussion of potential peace initiatives at a relatively high level. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares statements attributed to Peskov indicating that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy is possible only upon reaching certain agreements, Russia's focus on who will sign documents from the Ukrainian side, and plans for Moscow and Kyiv to exchange lists of conditions for a ceasefire. This reflects the current Russian stance on the conditions and process for negotiations.
Damage to Civilian Infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast from Russian Attacks: 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports that Nikopol district, specifically Nikopol city, Marhanets, and Pokrovsk communities, were subjected to FPV drone and artillery strikes throughout the day. He reports damage to a multi-story building, a private house, and two farm buildings, but no casualties. He also reports that Mezhivsk community in Synelnykivskyi district was hit by a UAV, and Velykomykhailivska and Novopavlivka communities were attacked with KABs, resulting in injuries to two women and destruction to agricultural enterprises, administrative buildings, private homes, and shops. This highlights the continued impact of Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure and the use of various weapon systems, including drones, artillery, and guided aerial bombs, against populated areas in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
Russian Presidential Directives on Environmental and Scientific Issues: ТАСС reports that President Putin has instructed the phased introduction of a ban on plastic tableware and packaging in the Baikal region and to present proposals for this. ТАСС also reports that Putin has instructed the potential development of genetically modified trees with increased growth speed for forest plantations in Russia. These directives are related to environmental policy and scientific development within Russia and are not directly related to military operations.
Russian Internal Affairs - Incidents of Desecration and Migrant Issues: Рыбарь reports the detention of a 45-year-old migrant in Voronezh for burning flowers and extinguishing the Eternal Flame at a mass grave, and the initiation of a criminal case. The report links this incident and a previous one involving children of migrants desecrating a flag to a "trend" and the policies of CIS countries allegedly fostering Russophobia. The author advocates for criminal proceedings and deportation for such incidents. This highlights internal security and social issues in Russia and the narratives being used to frame them, potentially linking them to broader geopolitical tensions.
Ukrainian Drone Operations and Tactical Success Claims: БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video of Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction, showcasing alleged "self-liquidation" of Russian soldiers. Два майора shares a video claiming a drone transferred to soldiers is operating against the enemy in the Kherson direction. Підрозділ Shadow shares a video showcasing the work of their strike drone crews. These reports highlight the continued tactical use of drones by Ukrainian forces and their claimed successes in inflicting casualties and damaging enemy equipment.
Russian Claims of Destroying Ukrainian Equipment: Colonelcassad shares a video claiming the destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, labeling it a "gift from the Western daddy." This is a Russian claim of successfully targeting Western-supplied military equipment.
Russian Discussion of Heavy Bomber Drones: Два майора reports that "Operator Moses" is using heavy bomber drones to deliver TM-62 anti-tank mines by air. This indicates the development and use of larger, payload-carrying drones for strike missions by Russian forces.
Russian Presidential Directive on Tax Deductions: ТАСС reports that Putin has instructed the introduction of a tax deduction for regular medical examinations and passing GTO (Ready for Labor and Defense) standards. This is a domestic social and health policy initiative in Russia, not directly related to military operations.
Iranian Leader's Commentary on Trump's Statements: Оперативний ЗСУ reports that Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei stated that Trump lied about wanting peace and that his comments do not deserve attention. This reflects the Iranian perspective on Trump's diplomatic initiatives and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Areas of Significant Activity (Updated)

Donetsk Oblast (Pokrovsk direction, Bahatyr, Komar, South-Donetsk direction, Konstantinovka, Otradnoye, Volne Pole, Novoaleksandrovka, Chasiv Yar, Kramatorsk direction, Predtechino, Toretsk, Ozaryanivka, Diliyivka, Druzhba, Yablunivka, Vozdvyzhenka, Nova Poltavka, Myrolyubivka, Yelyzavetivka, Promin, Novoserhiivka, Troitske, Andriyivka, Novopavlivka direction, Kostyantynopil, Rivnopil, Novopil, Zelene Pole, Temirivka, Oleksandropil, Siversk, Krasnoarmeisk, Staraya Nikolaevka, Pravdivka, Hnativka, Romanivka, Zarya, Novooleksiyivka, Rusyn Yar, Lyman direction, Druzhkivka direction): Remains the primary focus of intense ground combat. Russian forces claim significant advances and liberation of settlements, including Alexandropol, Bogatyr, Volne Pole, and Nova Poltavka. Intense fighting is reported near Chasiv Yar, Toretsk, and on the Pokrovsk and Novopavlivka directions. Ukrainian forces are reportedly repelling numerous assaults. Russian forces are utilizing drones and artillery in offensive operations. Russian military bloggers are analyzing potential further advances on the Novopavlivka direction (towards Otradnoye and Komar). Ukrainian strike drones are active on the Toretsk direction. Concerns are raised about the quality of some Ukrainian fortifications, with reports of some facing the wrong direction. Russian tactical aviation is active on the eastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas and reportedly conducting high-precision strikes on temporary deployment points in Siversk. Russian forces are reportedly conducting a mechanized assault and claiming significant advances near Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeisk) and Novaya Poltavka, with claimed advances over 3 km east of Krasnoarmeisk. Russian artillery and drones are reportedly active in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts, including areas located at varying distances from the front line in Donetsk. Water supply is being restored in several cities in the occupied Donbas after pipeline repairs. Intense battles are reported in the areas of Pravdivka (Staraya Nikolaevka) and Hnativka. Russian assault units have reportedly entered the eastern part of Romanivka and are pushing Ukrainian forces back towards the center. Ongoing battles are reported west of Zarya, with Russian assaults approaching the village from the north. Alexandropol is claimed to be fully under Russian control, with Russian units advancing from that area towards Zarya and Yablunivka. In Nova Poltavka, the part of the village east of the ponds is claimed to be under the control of the 20th Motor Rifle Division, with fighting for the western part. Russian units are also reported advancing west of Nova Poltavka along the road north of the Malinivka junction and attacking from Novooleksiyivka towards Rusyn Yar and Yablunivka. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform used for transporting ammunition on the Lyman direction. Ukrainian drone operations are reported on the Toretsk direction. Russian forces claim the liberation of Nova Poltavka. Russian tactical aviation is active on the southeastern and eastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports КАБы on Donetsk Oblast. ТАСС reports the liberation of Alexandropol. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report the liberation of Bogatyr and claimed significant Ukrainian losses. Воин DV and Colonelcassad report on Russian offensive operations on the South-Donetsk direction. Военкор Котенок provides an analysis of the situation on the Novopavlivka direction and the Druzhkivka direction, reporting on fighting in Pravdivka (Staraya Nikolaevka), Hnativka, Romanivka, Zarya, Yablunivka, Nova Poltavka, Rusyn Yar, and Novooleksiyivka, and claimed control of Alexandropol and parts of Nova Poltavka and claiming liberation of Nova Poltavka. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports 115 combat engagements today, with detailed breakdowns of Russian offensive actions on numerous fronts, including 23 on the Pokrovsk direction and 9 on the Novopavlivka direction. ТАСС reports the liberation of Alexandropol will increase fire pressure on Konstantinovka. Воин DV and Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition report intense fighting during the liberation of Bogatyr. Николаевский Ванёк reports on the work of Ukrainian strike drones on the Toretsk direction. STERNENKO provides a critical assessment of some Ukrainian fortifications, including reports of some facing the wrong direction. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Mash на Донбассе reports restoration of water supply in Horlivka, Yenakiieve, Debaltseve, Vuhlehirsk, Kirovske, Zhdanivka, Snizhne, Torez, and Shakhtarsk. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes on Ukrainian temporary deployment points in Siversk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt, likely in a frontline area. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction.
Sumy Oblast (Sumy, Bilopillia, Sna host, Nova Huta, Zarichne, Mar'ine, Vovkivka, Malushyne, Oleksandrivka, Pokrovka, Brusky, Bachivsk, Starykove, Porozok, Novodmytrivka, Shalyhyne, Petrushivka, Katerynivka, Bilokopytove, Prohres, Boyaro-Lezhachi, Bunyakyne, north Sumy, Belgorod): Affected by Russian aerial and artillery activity and potentially ground operations. Russia attacked a regular bus near Bilopillia with casualties. КАВ strikes reported in Sumy Oblast. Ukrainian forces are utilizing drones and claiming successful strikes on Russian equipment (D-30 howitzer). Russian Z-pabliks reportedly criticized the lack of air defense in the border area following a Ukrainian strike. Continued Ukrainian activity with small assault groups and DRGs, particularly near Tetkino, Zarya, and Novyi Put, and a significant increase in FPV drone activity targeting Russian logistical routes from Tetkino to Rylsk are reported in the border area of Kursk (bordering Sumy). Russian strike UAVs are heading towards the south of Sumy Oblast from Belgorod. Russian drones are heading towards Poltava Oblast from the border area of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts. Russian artillery and drones are reportedly active in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts, including areas located at varying distances from the front line in Donetsk. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed one Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Kursk Oblast (bordering Sumy) overnight. Economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks are reported. A Russian military blogger shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards the south of Sumy from Belgorod and a group is moving along the border of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts to the south. Civilian infrastructure in Sumy Oblast was reportedly hit by Russian artillery and drones. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS claims Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian D-30 howitzer in Russian territory near Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports КАБы on Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy strike UAVs from Belgorod Oblast, Russia, are heading towards the south of Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" on the border of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts heading towards Poltava Oblast and a group moving along the border to the south. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports that 119 artillery shellings occurred on the Kursk direction, impacting positions and settlements, including Sumy Oblast border communities. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ also reports an aviation strike on Bunyakyne. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the northeastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks, impacting areas bordering Sumy. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast.
Kharkiv Oblast (Kharkiv, Kupyansk, Vovchansk, Stroivka, Zahryzove, Maly Burluk, Izium district, Chuhuiv): Affected by Russian aerial and artillery activity. Russian military bloggers claim Russian forces are "clearing" parts of Kharkiv Oblast. Ukrainian forces are using drones for reconnaissance; daily work of a "Leleka-100" UAV crew is highlighted. The Third Assault Brigade reports repelling numerous assaults, with Russian forces using small infantry groups and FPV drones. Ukrainian military spokesperson states Russian summer offensive has begun, impacting this area. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards Kharkiv Oblast from Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk. Ukrainian mobile air defense units are downing Shaheds in the Kharkiv area. Russian drones are heading southeast from the center of Kharkiv Oblast. Russian strike resulted in civilian casualty and damage in Maly Burluk and damage in Kup'yansk and Izium districts. Russian artillery and drones are reportedly active in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts, including areas located at varying distances from the front line in Donetsk. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards Kharkiv and a group is moving along the border of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts to the south. A Russian military blogger shares a video claiming an FPV drone crew of the 41st Motor Rifle Regiment of the 44th Army Corps destroyed a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Russian drones are heading south from eastern Kharkiv Oblast. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video claiming that mobile units of the anti-aircraft missile and artillery division shot down two Russian "Shahed" drones. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" are heading towards Kharkiv Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" on the border of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts heading towards Poltava Oblast and another group in the center of Kharkiv Oblast heading southeast, and a group moving along the border to the south. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports two Russian attacks on the Kharkiv direction today, in the area of Vovchansk and towards Stroivka, and one attack on the Kupyansk direction near Zahryzove. MoD Russia claims elimination of Ukrainian UAV command posts in Kharkiv region using FPV drones. Олег Синєгубов reports damage and a civilian casualty from Russian strikes in Maly Burluk, Kup'yansk district, and Izium district. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the northeastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka, impacting areas near Kharkiv. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports UAVs in the center and south of Kharkiv Oblast heading southeast, and Shaheds in eastern Kharkiv Oblast heading south.
Kursk Oblast (Russia) (Guyevo area, Kursk region, Tetkino, Rylsk area, Bolshenizovtsevo, Zarya, Novyi Put, Pavlovka, Novoivanovka, Voronezh): Affected by Ukrainian cross-border attacks, including claimed air strikes with high-precision bombs targeting Russian personnel. A Russian military blogger questions the purpose of persistent Ukrainian attacks in the Tetkino area. Russian Z-pabliks reportedly criticized the lack of air defense in the border area following a Ukrainian strike. Continued Ukrainian activity with small assault groups and DRGs, particularly near Tetkino, Zarya, and Novyi Put, and a significant increase in FPV drone activity targeting Russian logistical routes from Tetkino to Rylsk are reported in the border area. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards Sumy Oblast from Belgorod (bordering Kursk). The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed one Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Kursk Oblast overnight. Economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks are reported. An incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh is reported. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS claims Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian D-30 howitzer in Russian territory near Sumy Oblast (bordering Kursk). MoD Russia shows Russian military training in the rear of the Kursk region. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy strike UAVs from Belgorod Oblast, Russia, are heading towards the south of Sumy Oblast (bordering Kursk). Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports seven Russian attacks were repelled and one battle is ongoing on the Kursk direction, with five aviation strikes dropping five КАБ and 119 artillery shellings. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА and Два майора report on continued Ukrainian activity and increased FPV drone use in the border area of Kursk Oblast. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed one Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Kursk Oblast overnight. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks. Рыбарь reports an incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh.
Zaporizhzhia Oblast (Zaporizhzhia city, Zaporizhzhia direction, Mala Tokmachka, Stepove, Mali Shcherbaky, Shcherbaky, Energodar, Prydniprovsk direction, Robotyne, Huliaipole direction, Huliaipole, Orikhiv direction, Orikhiv, Kamianske, Novodarivka, Zaliznychne, Vysoké, Novoyakovlivka): Affected by military activity. Ukrainian forces are reportedly utilizing drones for destroying enemy equipment and personnel. Scientific and educational activities, including plans for AI and robotics centers, are being highlighted in Zaporizhzhia city. A Russian military blogger claims VDV units are conducting assault actions and expanding control on the Zaporizhzhia direction, and MSP units entered Mala Tokmachka from the south, with fierce battles ongoing and the Brick Factory under Russian control. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast from Zaporizhzhia. Air raid alert in communities of Zaporizhzhia Oblast has been lifted. Power has been restored to over 80% of households affected by a Russian attack on frontline communities. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports an air raid alert in communities of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, excluding Zaporizhzhia city. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy strike UAVs from the south moving towards Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and later reports "Shaheds" from Zaporizhzhia moving towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction, entering Mala Tokmachka from the south. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports two women injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports Ukrainian drone activity flying south from Zaporizhzhia over Robotyne. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports three Russian attacks were repelled on the Orikhiv direction, with strikes near Stepove and Mali Shcherbaky, and aviation strikes on Kamianske and Huliaipole, including unguided aviation missiles. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports an air raid alert for communities in Zaporizhzhia Oblast has been lifted. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports power restored to over 80% of households affected by a Russian attack.
Kherson Oblast (Left Bank, Kakhovka, Chelburda, Aleshkinsky district, Сальково, Чонгар, Новоалексеевка, Рыково): Affected by military activity, including claimed "carpet bombing" tactics with drones by a Russian unit (appears to be a misattribution). A Russian military blogger claims a Latvian mercenary was eliminated on the Kherson direction. A Russian priest reportedly died from an enemy drone strike in Kherson Oblast from a drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. Ukrainian forces are allegedly using remotely mined explosive devices disguised as first aid kits on the left bank. Ukrainian drones are reported to be operating against the enemy in the Kherson direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video allegedly showing the detonation of a remotely mined explosive device on the left bank of Kherson Oblast. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast. Два майора shares a video claiming a drone is operating against the enemy in the Kherson direction.
Belgorod Oblast (Russia) (Valuyki): Affected by Ukrainian drone attacks. A mural depicting Putin and Stalin has appeared. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards Sumy Oblast from Belgorod. An FPV drone without identification marks attacked a fuel station in Valuyki. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed one Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Belgorod Oblast overnight. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards the south of Sumy Oblast from Belgorod. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy strike UAVs from Belgorod Oblast, Russia, are heading towards the south of Sumy Oblast. Оперативний ЗСУ reports an attack on a fuel station in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast, by an FPV drone without identification marks. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed one Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Belgorod Oblast overnight.
Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Prydniprovsk direction, Synelnykivskyi district, Nikopol, Marhanets, Pokrovsk communities): Affected by Russian drone, artillery, and guided aerial bomb attacks. Civilian infrastructure has been damaged, and casualties have been reported. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports "Shaheds" from Zaporizhzhia moving towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. РБК-Україна also reports on "Shaheds" moving towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian troops have approached the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and that Ukrainian reserves have been transferred. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" are heading towards Kharkiv Oblast from the east of Dnipropetrovsk and west of Donetsk Oblasts. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports two Russian attempts to advance on the Prydniprovsk direction (bordering Dnipropetrovsk Oblast) were repelled, with one battle ongoing, and unguided aviation missiles struck Mykolaivka. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian FPV drone and artillery attacks on Nikopol, Marhanets, and Pokrovsk communities, and UAV and KAB attacks on Mezhivsk, Velykomykhailivska, and Novopavlivka communities, resulting in damage and casualties.
Crimea (Sevastopol): Russian Ministry of Defense claims four Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were shot down. Russian authorities claim a significantly higher level of defense compared to three years ago. Explosions and suspected air defense activity occurred, particularly near Sevastopol and in the area of Perevalne, including a military warehouse fire and detonations and explosions near military airfields. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts (bordering Crimea) overnight. Russian security services claim to have detained two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. Colonelcassad reports an air raid alert in Sevastopol, Crimea. WarGonzo mentions Anton Titsky, who was involved in pro-Russian movements in Crimea in 2014. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight, impacting areas near Crimea. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen.
Black Sea: Erdogan announced the discovery of a large gas field. The presence of Russian strike UAVs in the Black Sea from occupied Kherson is noted. Germany is preparing sanctions targeting the Russian "shadow fleet" and increasing control over Baltic Sea underwater infrastructure. A new Project 12700 mine countermeasures ship is being laid down in Russia. A US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone is operating over the Black Sea. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts (bordering the Black Sea) overnight. ТАСС reports Erdogan announced the discovery of a large gas field in the Black Sea. Военкор Котенок reports on the activity of a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone over the Black Sea. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight, impacting areas near the Black Sea.
Eastern Direction (Ukraine): Ukrainian Air Force reports activity of enemy tactical aviation with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Russian drones are heading east from eastern Kharkiv Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports activity of enemy tactical aviation on the eastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" are heading towards Kharkiv Oblast from the east of Dnipropetrovsk and west of Donetsk Oblasts. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern and northeastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports Shaheds in eastern Kharkiv Oblast heading south.
Northeastern Direction (Ukraine): Ukrainian Air Force reports activity of enemy tactical aviation with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the northeastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas.
Poltava Oblast: Russian drones are reportedly heading towards this oblast from the border area of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards Poltava. Russian drones are heading south from eastern Poltava Oblast. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" on the border of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts heading towards Poltava Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports "Shaheds" heading towards Poltava. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of UAVs in eastern Poltava Oblast heading south.
Dnipro River (Islands): Reports of ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including an incident involving a Ukrainian drone and casualties on both sides. Kotsnews shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including an incident with a Ukrainian drone and casualties on both sides.
Lviv Oblast: Received representatives from Zaporizhzhia Oblast to exchange experience on administrative service centers. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports on a visit by representatives from Zaporizhzhia to Lviv Oblast to exchange experience on improving administrative service centers.
Rostov Oblast (Russia): The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed one Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Rostov Oblast overnight. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. Ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed one Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Rostov Oblast overnight. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing.
Kyiv Oblast (Pereyaslav): Concerns are emerging about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises. Оперативний ЗСУ reports concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav.
Belarus Border: A large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format is reportedly being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus.
Sudan: Russia is reportedly implementing a humanitarian strategy to build influence without direct military intervention. Рыбарь shares images and commentary analyzing Russia's humanitarian strategy in Sudan.
Moscow Oblast (Раменский район): A traffic accident involving a bus resulted in 14 injuries. ТАСС reports a traffic accident involving a bus in Ramensky district, Moscow Oblast, resulting in 14 injuries.
Kryvyi Rih (Ukraine): Hosting "Veterans Family Games 2025" for the rehabilitation and support of veterans and their families. Олександр Вілкул reports on the event.
Baikal Region (Russia): Subject of a Russian presidential directive on phasing out plastic tableware and packaging. ТАСС reports the directive.

Aerial and Naval Activity (Updated):

Drone Activity: Remains very high and widespread. Both sides are extensively using drones for reconnaissance, targeting, and strike operations (including FPV and reportedly "Baba Yaga" types). Russia claims downing numerous Ukrainian UAVs over the past day and destroying a Ukrainian robotic platform with an FPV drone. Ukrainian forces are actively countering Russian aerial threats and claiming the downing of Russian aerial assets, including a Ka-52 helicopter with an FPV drone and various Russian drones, including "Shaheds" with heavy machine guns and two Zala reconnaissance drones. Russian military bloggers are highlighting the use of FPV drones and claiming success in downing Ukrainian drones and destroying Ukrainian UAV command posts and a Ukrainian engineering reconnaissance vehicle. Fundraising for drones and signal amplifiers is ongoing in Russia. "Akhmat" special forces are training with emphasis on targeting aerial objectives. Ukrainian air force reports activity of enemy tactical aviation on the northeastern and eastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline regions. Daily work of a "Leleka-100" UAV crew from the 22nd Separate Mechanized Brigade on the Kharkiv direction is also reported. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards Kharkiv, Sumy, Dnipropetrovsk, and Poltava Oblasts. Ukrainian forces are allegedly using remotely mined explosive devices utilizing drones on the left bank of Kherson. Ukrainian strike drones are active on the Toretsk direction. Ukrainian armored vehicles are reportedly resilient to FPV drone attacks. A US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone is operating over the Black Sea. A Russian priest reportedly died from a drone strike in Kherson Oblast while saving a wounded comrade. An FPV drone without identification marks attacked a fuel station in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast. Ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands involves drone use. Russian artillery and drones are reportedly active in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts, including areas located at varying distances from the front line in Donetsk. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. Russian strike UAVs are heading towards the south of Sumy from Belgorod and a group is moving along the border of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts to the south. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform used for transporting ammunition on the Lyman direction. Russian military blogger reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel hiding in a forest belt. Russian military blogger shares a video claiming an FPV drone crew of the 41st Motor Rifle Regiment of the 44th Army Corps destroyed a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was reportedly damaged by Russian FPV drone and UAV attacks. Ukrainian drone operations are reported on the Toretsk direction and in the Kherson direction. Russian military bloggers report the use of heavy bomber drones to deliver anti-tank mines by air. Russian drones are heading south from eastern Poltava and Kharkiv Oblasts and east from the border of Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy strike UAVs from the south moving towards Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and later reports "Shaheds" from Zaporizhzhia moving towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. РБК-Україна also reports on "Shaheds" moving towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS claims Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian D-30 howitzer using a drone. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video from 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade demonstrating "hunting" Russian drone operators using FPV drones. МоD Russia claims that Russian air defense systems shot down 930 Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over the past week. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia used over a thousand kamikaze drones today, with detailed breakdowns of drone usage on various fronts and that 123 UAVs of operational-tactical level were neutralized by Ukrainian forces. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" are heading towards Kharkiv Oblast from the east of Dnipropetrovsk and west of Donetsk Oblasts. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video claiming that mobile units of the anti-aircraft missile and artillery division shot down two Russian "Shahed" drones with heavy machine gun fire. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of "Shaheds" on the border of Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts heading towards Poltava Oblast and another group in the center of Kharkiv Oblast heading southeast, and a group moving along the border to the south. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy strike UAVs from Belgorod Oblast, Russia, are heading towards the south of Sumy Oblast. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video demonstrating armored vehicles' resilience to FPV drone attacks. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports Ukrainian drone activity flying south from Zaporizhzhia over Robotyne towards the south. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike. Colonelcassad claims destruction of Ukrainian UAV command posts, "Baba Yaga" drones, and quadcopters using FPV drones. MoD Russia claims elimination of Ukrainian UAV command posts in Kharkiv region using FPV drones. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video allegedly showing the detonation of a remotely mined explosive device utilizing a drone on the left bank of Kherson Oblast. Николаевский Ванёк reports on the work of Ukrainian strike drones on the Toretsk direction. STERNENKO reports that soldiers of the 34th Regiment of the National Guard of Ukraine destroyed two Russian Zala reconnaissance drones. Военкор Котенок reports on the activity of a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone over the Black Sea. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands involving drone use and casualties. Оперативний ЗСУ reports an attack on a fuel station in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast, by an FPV drone without identification marks. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА and Два майора report on continued Ukrainian activity and increased FPV drone use in the border area of Kursk Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern and northeastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. Басурин о главном reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including an incident with a Ukrainian drone and casualties on both sides. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports "Shaheds" heading towards Poltava. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports Russian FPV drone and UAV attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Два майора shares a video claiming a drone is operating against the enemy in the Kherson direction. Підрозділ Shadow shares a video showcasing the work of strike drone crews. Два майора reports the use of heavy bomber drones to deliver anti-tank mines. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of UAVs in eastern Poltava Oblast heading south, Shaheds in eastern Kharkiv Oblast heading south, and Shaheds on the border of Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts heading east.
Guided Aerial Bombs (KABs): Continued use by Russian forces. Russian Ministry of Defense claims downing three JDAM guided bombs over the past day. Ukrainian air force reports activity of enemy tactical aviation on the northeastern and eastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline regions. КАВ strikes reported in Sumy and Donetsk Oblasts. Russian strike resulted in civilian casualty and damage in Maly Burluk and damage in Kup'yansk and Izium districts (Kharkiv Oblast), using unguided aerial missiles and guided aerial bombs. Civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was reportedly damaged by Russian KAB attacks. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports КАБы on Sumy and Donetsk Oblasts. МоD Russia reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 35 JDAM guided aerial bombs over the past week. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia dropped 86 guided aerial bombs today, including five on the Kursk direction. Олег Синєгубов reports Russian forces used guided aerial bombs against Kharkiv Oblast yesterday. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern and northeastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports Russian KAB attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
Aviation Activity: Russian tactical aviation is active, particularly on the northeastern, eastern, and southeastern directions, with the threat of aerial weapons for frontline regions. Ukrainian sources claim Ukrainian aviation used high-precision bombs in Kursk Oblast. A video claiming to show Russian tactical aviation activity during the claimed liberation of Alexandropol is shared. A Robinson 66 helicopter made a hard landing in Moscow Oblast. A US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone is operating over the Black Sea. Russian tactical aviation is active on the southern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Russian aviation is reportedly delivering high-precision strikes on temporary deployment points in Siversk. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports activity of enemy tactical aviation on the eastern direction with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. ТАСС reports a helicopter made a hard landing in Moscow Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia conducted 47 aviation strikes today, with detailed breakdowns of targets and types of strikes. Военкор Котенок reports on the activity of a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone over the Black Sea. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southern and eastern directions, with a threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern and northeastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes on Ukrainian temporary deployment points in Siversk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line, likely involving aviation support. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports significant activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern direction.
Missile Activity: Russian Ministry of Defense claims downing one US-made HIMARS MLRS projectile over the past day. Russian Missile Troops conducted strikes in 143 areas. The death of an Iskander missile designer in a domestic incident in Moscow Oblast is reported. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia launched one missile today.
Naval Activity: No new significant naval activity reported in the immediate last hour. The presence of Russian strike UAVs in the Black Sea from occupied Kherson is noted. Germany is preparing sanctions targeting the Russian "shadow fleet" and increasing control over Baltic Sea underwater infrastructure. A new Project 12700 mine countermeasures ship is being laid down in Russia. A US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone is operating over the Black Sea. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts (bordering the Black Sea) overnight. ТАСС reports Erdogan announced the discovery of a large gas field in the Black Sea. Военкор Котенок reports on the activity of a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone over the Black Sea. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight, impacting areas near the Black Sea.
Air Defense Activity: Both sides are actively engaged in air defense operations. Russia claims downing various Ukrainian aerial targets, including JDAMs, HIMARS, and numerous fixed-wing UAVs, and destroying Ukrainian EW stations. Ukrainian forces are actively countering Russian aerial threats and claiming the downing of Russian aerial assets, including a Ka-52 helicopter with an FPV drone, various Russian drones (including "Shaheds" with heavy machine guns and two Zala reconnaissance drones), and a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. Russian air defense claims downing four Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over Crimea and 6 UAVs over the sea near Sevastopol. Russian Z-pabliks reportedly criticized the lack of air defense in the Kursk border area following a Ukrainian strike. Russian air defense is utilized to counter Ukrainian drone operations near Volnoye Pole. Ukrainian mobile air defense units are downing Shaheds in the Kharkiv area. Ukrainian forces are reporting destroying a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. Suspected air defense activity against UAVs in occupied Crimea, particularly near Sevastopol and Perevalne, is reported. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. МоD Russia reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 930 Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs and 35 JDAM guided aerial bombs over the past week. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports that Russia's aerial and shelling activity today included numerous guided aerial bombs and kamikaze drones, with detailed breakdowns of air defense responses. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports an air raid alert in communities of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, excluding Zaporizhzhia city. Colonelcassad reports an air raid alert in Sevastopol, Crimea. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video claiming mobile units shot down two Russian "Shahed" drones with heavy machine gun fire. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video demonstrating armored vehicles' resilience to FPV drone attacks. РБК-Україна reports Ukrainian military destroyed a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. Colonelcassad claims destruction of Ukrainian UAV command posts, "Baba Yaga" drones, and quadcopters using air defense systems. STERNENKO reports that soldiers of the 34th Regiment of the National Guard of Ukraine destroyed two Russian Zala reconnaissance drones. "Кримський вечір" and РБК-Україна report suspected air defense activity against UAVs in occupied Crimea. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 6 Ukrainian UAVs over the sea near Sevastopol. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight.
Artillery and MLRS Activity: Intense ground combat implies ongoing artillery and MLRS use by both sides. Russian Ministry of Defense claims destruction of Ukrainian field artillery guns and mortars and that Missile Troops and Artillery struck in 143 areas. Russian sources are highlighting their use in offensive operations and claiming mass burning of Ukrainian artillery near Pokrovsk. Russian artillery is utilized in offensive operations on the South-Donetsk direction and near Volnoye Pole. Russian artillery is active in the border area of Kursk Oblast. Russian strike resulted in damage in Kup'yansk and Izium districts (Kharkiv Oblast), using artillery. Russian artillery and drones are reportedly active in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts, including areas located at varying distances from the front line in Donetsk. Intense battles in the areas of Pravdivka (Staraya Nikolaevka) and Hnativka are reported. Russian artillery is used in combat on the Druzhkivka direction. Russian military blogger shares a video claiming an FPV drone crew of the 41st Motor Rifle Regiment of the 44th Army Corps destroyed a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast, highlighting targeting of Ukrainian artillery. Civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was reportedly damaged by Russian artillery attacks. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS claims Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian D-30 howitzer in Russian territory near Sumy Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia conducted 3923 shellings today, including 9 from MLRS on the Kursk direction, with detailed breakdowns of shelling locations and impacts. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports two women injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv, likely involving artillery or aerial strikes. Воин DV and Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition report on Russian artillery use on the South-Donetsk direction. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports aviation strikes with unguided aviation missiles on Huliaipole and Mykolaivka. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА and Два майора report on 119 artillery shellings on the Kursk direction today. Олег Синєгубов reports damage from Russian shelling in Kup'yansk district and Izium district. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. Воин DV shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian fortified area by artillery of the 29th Combined Arms Army. Военкор Котенок reports intense battles in Pravdivka (Staraya Nikolaevka) and Hnativka. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports Russian artillery attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
Electronic Warfare (EW): Russian Ministry of Defense claims destruction of Ukrainian EW stations. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 mentions that Russian FPV drone activity on the Kurshina direction caused problems with logistics through fire control, implying the use of EW against Ukrainian logistics. Colonelcassad claims destruction of Ukrainian UAV command posts, which could involve EW systems.

Diplomatic and Political Developments (Updated):

Ceasefire and Negotiation Discussions: Direct talks in Istanbul have concluded without a ceasefire agreement but with progress on a large-scale prisoner exchange expected next week, reportedly on Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Russia refused a temporary ceasefire. Ukraine viewed some Russian points as unacceptable and confirmed new demands were made, but their position remains unchanged. Diplomatic discussions continue with international partners, including a telephone conversation between Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and US Senator Rubio where they discussed the Istanbul negotiations, prisoner exchange, and conditions for a truce. European leaders view the Russian stance as unacceptable and are coordinating their response with the US, including engagement with former US President Trump. The UN has welcomed the direct talks. Russia continues to blame the West for the breakdown of the "Istanbul project." French President Macron stated Russia's refusal of a ceasefire indicates a desire to gain time. Zelenskyy has met with international leaders, discussing negotiations and the need for continued pressure on Russia. Nordic and Baltic countries have issued a joint statement supporting a 30-day ceasefire and direct high-level talks. Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha assesses that Putin is using diplomacy to imitate a peace process and gain time. US Senator Marco Rubio reportedly spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and discussed the Istanbul negotiations, prisoner exchange, and preparation of truce conditions, with Lavrov reportedly noting Washington's positive role in Kyiv accepting the offer for renewed Istanbul talks and Rubio reportedly welcoming agreements on prisoner exchange. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces has commented on negotiations, stating that Ukraine is controlled by the West and that continued war is militarily advantageous for Russia as Ukraine loses territory daily. Former US President Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. Ukrainian intelligence chief Budanov confirms a large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format may take place next week. ТАСС and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны report a telephone conversation between Lavrov and Rubio discussing the Istanbul negotiations, prisoner exchange, and truce conditions. Colonelcassad also reports on this conversation. РБК-Україна reports Erdogan stating that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy in Istanbul could have been a historical chance. РБК-Україна reports Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha stated that Putin used the Istanbul meeting to imitate a peace process and gain time, and that only a ceasefire indicates readiness for peace. ТАСС shares a statement from former US President Trump calling Zelenskyy the "best salesman," potentially impacting perceptions of US aid. ASTRA reports Rubio and Lavrov discussed the Istanbul talks, prisoner exchange, and conditions for a truce, citing Russian MFA claims, and also reports Bloomberg's alleged Russian demands (accept loss of annexed regions, neutrality, no reparations). STERNENKO reports US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lavrov and that Russia claims the US supported the prisoner exchange proposal and preparation for a truce. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a statement from Medvedev that peace negotiations alone do not always end fighting and can lead to a more terrible stage of conflict if unsuccessful. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, stating Ukraine is controlled by the West and continued war is beneficial for Russia. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report that former US President Donald Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. ТАСС reports that US Senator Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed an American plan for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares statements attributed to Peskov on the conditions and process for negotiations.
International Support for Ukraine: International engagement with Ukraine regarding support and potential future talks continues. Germany is preparing new sanctions against Russia targeting the "shadow fleet." Poland's Foreign Minister suggests China could influence Russia. Germany signed an agreement with Moldova for the placement of a German military "consultative group." The UK Foreign Minister reacted to the Bilopillia bus attack, calling for a ceasefire. Discussions around potential financial support for Ukraine are ongoing. Reports on issues with US military warehouses in Asia-Pacific could have indirect implications for overall US military readiness and ability to support allies. Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including the US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The issuance of stamps honoring Ukrainian special forces highlights national support and recognition for the military. Veterans rehabilitation and support programs in Kryvyi Rih signify continued local support for those affected by the conflict. ТАСС and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны report a telephone conversation between Lavrov and Rubio where Rubio reportedly welcomed agreements on prisoner exchange and the preparation of visions for truce conditions, and emphasized US readiness to further assist in finding a settlement. Colonelcassad also reports on this conversation. Два майора reports Moldova and Germany signed an agreement on placing a German military "consultative group" in Moldova. РБК-Україна reports that the UK Foreign Minister reacted to the Russian strike on a bus near Bilopillia, expressing shock and calling for a ceasefire. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports the Polish Foreign Minister stating that China could put Putin in his place. РБК-Україна reports that the European Union is working on a new package of sanctions targeting Russian banks. РБК-Україна reports Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha's assessment of Russian readiness for peace. ТАСС shares a statement from former US President Trump calling Zelenskyy the "best salesman," potentially impacting perceptions of US aid. Рыбарь reports on an audit of US military equipment warehouses in South Korea that revealed significant unresolved problems. РБК-Україна reports on a significant increase in voter turnout among the Romanian diaspora in the second round of presidential elections, which could favor pro-Russian candidate George Simion. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report that former US President Donald Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. РБК-Україна reports the presentation of a postage stamp dedicated to the "Artan" special forces unit of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate. Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih.
Russia-Ukraine Diplomatic Activity: Discussions on potential peace plans continue. A large-scale body exchange has taken place, and a prisoner exchange is being prepared for next week, reportedly on Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Russia claims to have made constructive proposals in Istanbul, while Ukraine states the Russian stance included unacceptable points. Ukrainian MFA spokesperson responded to Russian insults. Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha assesses that Putin is using diplomacy to imitate a peace process and gain time. US Senator Marco Rubio reportedly spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and discussed the Istanbul negotiations, prisoner exchange, and preparation of truce conditions, with Lavrov reportedly noting Washington's positive role in Kyiv accepting the offer for renewed Istanbul talks and Rubio reportedly welcoming agreements on prisoner exchange. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces has commented on negotiations, stating that Ukraine is controlled by the West and that continued war is militarily advantageous for Russia as Ukraine loses territory daily. Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Former US President Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade. Ukrainian intelligence chief Budanov confirms a large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format may take place next week. ТАСС and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны report a telephone conversation between Lavrov and Rubio where they discussed the Istanbul negotiations, a prisoner exchange, and the conditions for a truce. Lavrov reportedly noted Washington's positive role in Kyiv accepting the offer for renewed Istanbul talks. Rubio reportedly welcomed agreements on prisoner exchange. Colonelcassad also reports on this conversation. РБК-Україна reports Erdogan stating that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy in Istanbul could have been a historical chance. РБК-Україна reports Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha's assessment of Russian readiness for peace. ASTRA reports Rubio and Lavrov discussed the Istanbul talks, prisoner exchange, and conditions for a truce, citing Russian MFA claims, and also reports Bloomberg's alleged Russian demands. STERNENKO reports US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lavrov and that Russia claims the US supported the prisoner exchange proposal and preparation for a truce. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a statement from Medvedev that peace negotiations alone do not always end fighting and can lead to a more terrible stage of conflict if unsuccessful. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, stating Ukraine is controlled by the West and continued war is beneficial for Russia. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report that former US President Donald Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. ТАСС reports that US Senator Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed an American plan for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares statements attributed to Peskov on the conditions and process for negotiations.
Internal Russian Politics: Domestic incidents continue to be reported, including the death of an Iskander missile designer in a domestic dispute. Russia is focusing on internal issues like "Halal" tourism standards and expediting housing provision for military personnel. Putin has simplified citizenship for citizens of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Recruitment for the "Akhmat" special forces is ongoing. A former Moscow Oblast Trade Minister appeared before investigators. A sports festival in Bryansk Oblast is linked to commemorating victory and promoting patriotism. A Russian Orthodox Church Abroad archpriest reportedly proposed a tax on childless men over 40. Discussions on AI in media and diplomacy also took place at a forum in Tatarstan. Reports on issues within the Russian 25th military brigade are emerging. Russian First Deputy Prime Minister stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. A Russian businessman has been placed under house arrest for assault. Russia's security services claim to have detained two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. The FSB is conducting preventive raids against perceived internal threats and detaining individuals allegedly preparing attacks and administrators of Telegram channels with "terrorist and neo-Nazi content," and claims to have found correspondence with Ukrainian curators. Economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks are reported. The Moscow Metro is celebrating its 90th anniversary. Putin signed a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth. Ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. An incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh is reported. Russian Presidential directives on environmental and scientific issues, and tax deductions are reported. ТАСС reports a bribery accusation against Natalya Gordubey, head of the Rosalkogoltabakkontrol department for the Central Federal District. ASTRA reports that a Russian Orthodox Church Abroad archpriest reportedly proposed a symbolic tax on childless men over 40. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit. WarGonzo mentions Anton Titsky, who was involved in pro-Russian movements in Crimea in 2014. ТАСС reports a helicopter made a hard landing in Moscow Oblast. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a T-72 tank repair with a spoon, highlighting "Russian ingenuity." Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast. ТАСС reports alleged phone scammers targeting Muscovites. Colonelcassad reports that Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. ТАСС reports businessman Igor Khubutiya has been placed under house arrest for assaulting a friend. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids in 81 regions, detained six people for preparing attacks, including on schools, and detained 57 administrators of Telegram channels and chats with terrorist and neo-Nazi content, claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators among the latter. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks. Новости Москвы reports that the Moscow Metro is celebrating its 90th anniversary. Басурин о главном shares a photo of President Putin signing a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth. ТАСС reports a traffic accident involving a bus in Ramensky district, Moscow Oblast, resulting in 14 injuries. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Север.Реалии reports on tragic results of import substitution in medicine, with one child dying after being switched from an effective imported drug to a dangerous and ineffective Russian one. Рыбарь reports an incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh. ТАСС reports Russian Presidential directives on environmental and scientific issues, and tax deductions.
Internal Ukrainian Issues: Discussion around public figures enlisting in the military. Efforts to support citizens affected by Russian attacks are being developed. Concerns are raised about military uniforms for TSK employees and public perception. Ukraine is preparing for a large-scale prisoner exchange. Scientific and educational developments in Zaporizhzhia, including plans for AI and robotics centers, are highlighted. A Ukrainian military blogger raises concerns about two individuals presenting themselves as Ukrainian Armed Forces generals who do not appear to have official credentials, highlighting potential issues with fraudulent representation. Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha assesses that Putin is using diplomacy to imitate a peace process and gain time. Concerns are raised about the quality of some Ukrainian fortifications, including reports of some facing the wrong direction. A story about a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay is reported by a Russian source. Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood is being disseminated. Concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav, Kyiv Oblast, are emerging. Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. Power has been restored to over 80% of households in Zaporizhzhia Oblasts affected by an attack. A new requirement for Ukrainian men aged 17 to present military ID for university admission has been introduced. The issuance of stamps honoring Ukrainian special forces highlights national support and recognition for the military. Veterans rehabilitation and support programs in Kryvyi Rih signify continued local support for those affected by the conflict. Ukrainian intelligence chief Budanov confirms a large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format may take place next week. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" raises concerns about two individuals presenting themselves as Ukrainian Armed Forces generals without official credentials. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports two women injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv. РБК-Україна reports Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha's assessment of Russian readiness for peace. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video showcasing the downing of "Shaheds." ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video demonstrating armored vehicles' resilience to FPV drone attacks. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed operational update. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video showcasing air defense work. Оперативний ЗСУ shares a video of Valerii Zaluzhnyi. РБК-Україна reports Ukrainian military destroyed a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. STERNENKO provides a critical assessment of some Ukrainian fortifications, including reports of some facing the wrong direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring a person disseminating Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. Оперативний ЗСУ reports concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports power restored to over 80% of households affected by a Russian attack. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports a new requirement for Ukrainian men aged 17 to present military ID for university admission. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video highlighting Russian propaganda about Ukrainian statehood and Odesa. РБК-Україна reports the presentation of a postage stamp dedicated to the "Artan" special forces unit of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate. Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage and casualties.
Engagement with Former US President Trump: The Financial Times article reportedly discusses a US-Ukrainian peace plan and the involvement of US officials. A telephone conversation between Senator Rubio and FM Lavrov is reported. Former US President Trump commented on Zelenskyy. Reports on issues with US military warehouses in Asia-Pacific could have indirect implications for the scale and speed of US military readiness and ability to support allies. US Senator Marco Rubio, reportedly closely associated with Trump, spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, and Russia claims Lavrov thanked Trump for facilitating renewed Istanbul talks. Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Former US President Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. РБК-Україна reports on former US President Trump's comments about Putin and the reasons for the Russian inability to take Kyiv in 2022. ТАСС shares a statement from former US President Trump calling Zelenskyy the "best salesman," potentially impacting perceptions of US aid. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video containing commentary from Trump. ASTRA reports US officials are now viewing Putin as the main obstacle to peace, contrasting with previous perspectives. STERNENKO reports US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lavrov and that Russia claims the US supported the prisoner exchange proposal and preparation for a truce. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. РБК-Україна reports on a significant increase in voter turnout among the Romanian diaspora in the second round of presidential elections, which could favor pro-Russian candidate George Simion. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report that former US President Donald Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade. ТАСС reports that US Senator Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed an American plan for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. Военкор Котенок reports on Trump's planned phone calls.
Relationship between Military Success and Negotiations (Russian Narrative): The Russian Ministry of Defense daily briefing highlights claimed military successes, which can be used to support their negotiating position. Russian sources claim strategic advantage after taking Alexandropol, linking it to Chasov Yar. Russian claims of liberating Volne Pole and Bogatyr contribute to this narrative. Russian claims of advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction and destruction of Ukrainian equipment near Pokrovsk also support this narrative. Russian First Deputy Prime Minister stating a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions supports the narrative of Russia's ability to sustain the conflict. Russian reports of capturing Ukrainian soldiers and disseminating their accounts of low morale are part of this narrative. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces argues that from a military perspective, continuing the war is advantageous for Russia as Ukraine loses territory daily. Russian forces are reportedly conducting a mechanized assault and claiming significant advances near Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeisk) and Novaya Poltavka, with claimed advances over 3 km east of Krasnoarmeisk. Russia claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka and Druzhkivka directions. Russian military blogger provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show a destroyed convoy of Ukrainian military vehicles on the Pokrovsk direction. ТАСС shares video footage from the Russian Ministry of Defense claiming the liberation of the settlement of Alexandropol. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense, claims the liberation of the settlement of Volnoye Pole. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction, entering Mala Tokmachka from the south. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report the liberation of Bogatyr and claimed significant Ukrainian losses. ТАСС reports the liberation of Alexandropol will increase fire pressure on Konstantinovka. Colonelcassad reports that Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier and disseminating his alleged account of low morale. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, arguing continued war is beneficial for Russia. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. Воин DV shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian fortified area by artillery. Военкор Котенок provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Военкор Котенок claims liberation of Nova Poltavka. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle.
Russian Military Blogger Information Operations: Russian military bloggers continue to disseminate information and commentary, highlighting claimed tactical successes, engaging in psychological warfare narratives, and showcasing propaganda exhibitions. They are promoting narratives about fictional Ukrainian soldiers and claiming elimination of foreign fighters. They are also demonstrating tactical medicine practices. They are disseminating narratives about Ukrainian mobilization and the war effort. They are disseminating propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. They are using anecdotal stories in information operations. They are disseminating narratives about Ukrainian soldiers' morale and discipline. They are using visual content to emphasize claimed territorial gains. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces has commented on negotiations, stating that Ukraine is controlled by the West. Russian military bloggers are claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes in Siversk. Russian military bloggers are claiming Russian artillery and drones are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts. Russian military bloggers are claiming a Russian mechanized assault and significant advances near Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeisk) and Novaya Poltavka. Russia claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka and Druzhkivka directions. Russian military blogger provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction. Russian military blogger reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel hiding in a forest belt. Russian military blogger shares a video claiming an FPV drone crew of the 41st Motor Rifle Regiment of the 44th Army Corps destroyed a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Russian military bloggers are reporting on the escape of convicted contract soldiers, potentially highlighting issues within the Russian military or using it in information operations. Russian military bloggers are selling tactical gear, highlighting efforts to support military personnel. Russian military bloggers are reporting on Trump's planned phone calls. Russian military bloggers report on the use of heavy bomber drones. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show a destroyed convoy of Ukrainian military vehicles on the Pokrovsk direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story and photo about a T-72 tank repair with a spoon, highlighting "Russian ingenuity." WarGonzo shares information from an interview mentioning volunteers printing Russian passports in Crimea in 2014, supporting the Russian narrative of the annexation. Colonelcassad shares a video demonstrating the work of the medical service of the "Rubicon" Center. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video claiming to show intense battles near Pokrovsk and mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense, claims the liberation of the settlement of Volnoye Pole. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video from 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade demonstrating "hunting" Russian drone operators, which can be seen as a counter-information operation. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show Erdogan's dominant interaction with Macron. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine was eliminated on the Kherson direction and mentions the elimination of over 250 mercenaries from Baltic countries. ТАСС shares a statement from former US President Trump calling Zelenskyy the "best salesman." Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, framing it as a heroic act. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video related to Erdogan and Macron, interpreting it through a specific narrative. Военкор Котенок provides an analysis of the Novopavlivka direction, supporting the Russian narrative of advances. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report on the liberation of Bogatyr, highlighting Russian military effectiveness and clearing operations, and claiming significant Ukrainian losses. Басурин о главном presents a narrative claiming that the Ukrainian regime is preparing for a new wave of mobilization, particularly targeting students. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay, used in information operations. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring a person disseminating Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier and disseminating his alleged account of low morale. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands and the death of a Russian marine, while another was severely concussed and injured, and the captured Ukrainian soldier was also killed, likely used in information operations to highlight the risks. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, presenting it as a heroic act, likely for domestic consumption. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, stating Ukraine is controlled by the West, used for information operations. Mash на Донбассе reports restoration of water supply in occupied Donbas cities, likely used to highlight Russian efforts. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks, used to highlight the impact of Ukrainian actions. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes in Siversk, used for information operations. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line, likely used for information operations. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka, used for information operations. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU, used for information operations. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on Trump not attending Istanbul negotiations, potentially used to influence narratives. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids against the ideology of violence and detained individuals, framing it as countering terrorism and neo-Nazism, and claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators, used for information operations. Новости Москвы reports on the Moscow Metro anniversary, potentially used to highlight normalcy and development. Воин DV shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian fortified area by artillery, used for information operations. Военкор Котенок provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control, used for information operations and claims liberation of Nova Poltavka, used for information operations. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction, used for information operations. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt, used for information operations. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports on the planned prisoner exchange, likely for information operations. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports on the escape of convicted contract soldiers, likely used to highlight issues. Два майора sells tactical gear, highlighting support for military personnel. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast, used for information operations. Военкор Котенок reports on Trump's planned phone calls, used for information operations. Рыбарь shares images and commentary analyzing Russia's humanitarian strategy in Sudan, used for information operations. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, used for information operations. Два майора reports the use of heavy bomber drones to deliver anti-tank mines, used for information operations. Рыбарь reports an incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh, used in information operations related to migrants and Russophobia. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares statements attributed to Peskov on negotiations, used for information operations.
Ukrainian Counter-Information Operations: Ukrainian sources are highlighting aspects of the conflict and countering Russian narratives, including sharing videos of claimed military successes and commenting on Russian propaganda. Ukrainian MFA spokesperson responded to Russian insults. A Ukrainian military blogger raises concerns about potentially fraudulent generals. Ukrainian forces are showcasing the downing of Russian Shaheds and the resilience of their armored vehicles to FPV drone attacks. Ukrainian military are reporting destroying a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. Ukrainian forces are allegedly using remotely mined explosive devices utilizing drones on the left bank of Kherson. Ukrainian strike drones are active on the Toretsk direction. Ukrainian National Guard is showcasing the downing of Russian reconnaissance drones. Concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav are being reported, potentially highlighting internal issues. Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, which serves as a platform for counter-information operations by highlighting Ukraine's international engagement. Ukrainian sources are highlighting Russian propaganda about Ukrainian statehood and Odesa to expose it. Ukrainian drone operations are reported on the Toretsk and Kherson directions. The issuance of stamps honoring Ukrainian special forces serves as a form of counter-information and morale boost. Veterans rehabilitation and support programs in Kryvyi Rih highlight efforts to care for those affected by the conflict. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS claims Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian D-30 howitzer in Russian territory near Sumy Oblast. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video from 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade demonstrating "hunting" Russian drone operators using FPV drones. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" raises concerns about two individuals presenting themselves as Ukrainian Armed Forces generals without official credentials. РБК-Україна reports that the UK Foreign Minister reacted to the Russian strike on a bus near Bilopillia, expressing shock and calling for a ceasefire. РБК-Україна reports Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha's assessment of Russian readiness for peace. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video showcasing the downing of "Shaheds." ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video demonstrating armored vehicles' resilience to FPV drone attacks. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed operational update. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video showcasing air defense work. Оперативний ЗСУ shares a video of Valerii Zaluzhnyi. РБК-Україна reports Ukrainian military destroyed a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. STERNENKO provides a critical assessment of some Ukrainian fortifications, including reports of some facing the wrong direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring a person disseminating Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. Оперативний ЗСУ reports concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video highlighting Russian propaganda about Ukrainian statehood and Odesa. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction. Два майора shares a video claiming a drone is operating against the enemy in the Kherson direction. Підрозділ Shadow shares a video showcasing the work of strike drone crews. РБК-Україна reports the presentation of a postage stamp dedicated to the "Artan" special forces unit of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate. Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage and casualties, highlighting the impact of Russian actions.
Ukraine-US Relations: The Financial Times article reportedly discusses a US-Ukrainian peace plan and the involvement of US officials. A telephone conversation between Senator Rubio and FM Lavrov is reported. Former US President Trump commented on Zelenskyy. Reports on issues with US military warehouses in Asia-Pacific could have indirect implications for the scale and speed of US military readiness and ability to support allies. US Senator Marco Rubio, reportedly closely associated with Trump, spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, and Russia claims Lavrov thanked Trump for facilitating renewed Istanbul talks. Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Former US President Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. ТАСС and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны report a telephone conversation between Lavrov and Rubio where they discussed the Istanbul negotiations and the conditions for a truce. Colonelcassad also reports on this conversation. ТАСС shares a statement from former US President Trump calling Zelenskyy the "best salesman." ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video with Trump's commentary. ASTRA reports Rubio and Lavrov discussed the Istanbul talks, prisoner exchange, and conditions for a truce, citing Russian MFA claims, and also reports US officials are now viewing Putin as the main obstacle to peace. Рыбарь reports on an audit of US military equipment warehouses in South Korea that revealed significant unresolved problems. STERNENKO reports US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lavrov and that Russia claims the US supported the prisoner exchange proposal and preparation for a truce. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. РБК-Україна reports on a significant increase in voter turnout among the Romanian diaspora in the second round of presidential elections, which could favor pro-Russian candidate George Simion. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report that former US President Donald Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade. ТАСС reports that US Senator Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed an American plan for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. Военкор Котенок reports on Trump's planned phone calls. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on Iranian Leader Khamenei's commentary on Trump's statements.
North Korea's Military Posture: Kim Jong Un has ordered strengthened military training and tested a new gliding guided bomb.
Finland-Russia Relations: An article discusses Finland's support for Estonia's attempted tanker seizure. Alex Parker Returns shares a news article about the Estonian Minister of Defense commenting on an incident with a "shadow fleet" in the Baltic Sea.
Latvia-Russia Relations: Russia claims to have eliminated a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims to have eliminated a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine near Toretsk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine was eliminated on the Kherson direction. Kotsnews reports the elimination of a Latvian mercenary on the Kherson direction.
EU-Russia Relations: Germany is preparing new sanctions against Russia, including targeting the "shadow fleet" and increasing control over Baltic Sea underwater infrastructure. РБК-Україна reports that the European Union is working on a new package of sanctions targeting Russian banks.
China-Russia Relations: Poland's Foreign Minister suggests China could influence Russia, describing Russia as an "economic vassal" of China. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports the Polish Foreign Minister stating that China could put Putin in his place.
Uzbekistan-Germany Relations: Cooperation on modernizing technical and professional education in Uzbekistan is reported.
Moldova-Germany Relations: Moldova and Germany signed an agreement for the placement of a German military "consultative group." Два майора reports Moldova and Germany signed an agreement on placing a German military "consultative group" in Moldova.
Tatarstan (Russia): Location of a forum where discussions on AI in media and diplomacy took place. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy.
Smolensk Oblast (Russia): Mentioned in a context related to agricultural work and a commercial promotion. WarGonzo mentions Smolensk in the context of agricultural work.
Romania: Potential for a pro-Russian politician to gain power in presidential elections. РБК-Україна reports on a significant increase in voter turnout among the Romanian diaspora in the second round of presidential elections, which could favor pro-Russian candidate George Simion.
France: Cultural exchange with Russia through the awarding of the Legion of Honor to a Russian director. ASTRA reports that the French Minister of Culture presented the Order of the Legion of Honor to Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov in Paris.
Vatican: Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders. Russia will be represented by the Minister of Culture. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV.
Poland: The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, is expected to attend the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with other international leaders, including from Poland (likely represented by the Prime Minister). ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that the Prime Minister of Italy, Canada, and Australia will attend, and while not explicitly stated, Poland's participation at a high level in such events is common.
Sudan: Russia is reportedly implementing a humanitarian strategy to build influence without direct military intervention. Рыбарь shares images and commentary analyzing Russia's humanitarian strategy in Sudan.
Iran: The Supreme Leader has commented on Trump's statements. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on Iranian Leader Khamenei's commentary on Trump's statements.

Internal Russian Issues (Updated):

Internal Security: Reports of domestic incidents, including the death of an Iskander missile designer in a domestic dispute. A former Moscow Oblast Trade Minister appeared before investigators. A helicopter made a hard landing in Moscow Oblast. Reports of alleged phone scammers in Moscow are emerging. A bribery accusation within a Russian federal agency is reported. A businessman has been placed under house arrest for assault. Russia's security services claim to have detained two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. The FSB is conducting preventive raids against perceived internal threats and detaining individuals allegedly preparing attacks and administrators of Telegram channels with "terrorist and neo-Nazi content," and claims to have found correspondence with Ukrainian curators. Ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. An incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh is reported. ТАСС reports a bribery accusation against Natalya Gordubey, head of the Rosalkogoltabakkontrol department for the Central Federal District. ASTRA reports that a Russian Orthodox Church Abroad archpriest reportedly proposed a symbolic tax on childless men over 40. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit. WarGonzo mentions Anton Titsky, who was involved in pro-Russian movements in Crimea in 2014. ТАСС reports a helicopter made a hard landing in Moscow Oblast. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a T-72 tank repair with a spoon, highlighting "Russian ingenuity." Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast. ТАСС reports alleged phone scammers targeting Muscovites. Colonelcassad reports that Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. ТАСС reports businessman Igor Khubutiya has been placed under house arrest for assaulting a friend. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids in 81 regions, detained six people for preparing attacks, including on schools, and detained 57 administrators of Telegram channels and chats with terrorist and neo-Nazi content, claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators among the latter. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks. Новости Москвы reports that the Moscow Metro is celebrating its 90th anniversary. Басурин о главном shares a photo of President Putin signing a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth. ТАСС reports a traffic accident involving a bus in Ramensky district, Moscow Oblast, resulting in 14 injuries. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Рыбарь reports an incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh.
Military Performance and Capabilities: Russian forces are conducting intense offensive operations, claiming advances and utilizing various military assets, including artillery, tactical aviation, drones, and potentially TOS-1A systems. They are recruiting volunteers for special forces. They claim to have captured Ukrainian soldiers in Bilovody, Sumy Oblast. They claim to have eliminated a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine. Russian air defense claims downing various Ukrainian aerial targets, including JDAMs, HIMARS, and numerous fixed-wing UAVs, and destroying Ukrainian EW stations. Russian tactical aviation is active on the northeastern, eastern, and southeastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline regions. Russian forces are claiming the liberation of Alexandropol, Volne Pole, and Bogatyr. Russian military bloggers are claiming advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction and mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment near Pokrovsk. Russian forces are utilizing FPV drones against Ukrainian UAV command posts and other infrastructure. They are showcasing tactical actions of assault units. Russian First Deputy Prime Minister stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. Continued activity with small assault groups and DRGs, and a significant increase in FPV drone activity targeting Russian logistical routes are reported in the border area of Kursk Oblast. A Russian priest reportedly died from an enemy drone strike in Kherson Oblast while saving a wounded comrade. An FPV drone without identification marks attacked a fuel station in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast. Ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands is reported, involving Russian marines. Improvised armored protection for military vehicles is being produced "behind the front line." Russian forces are using long-range weapons against Ukrainian infantry groups near Tёtkino in the Sumy direction. Russian forces are reportedly conducting a mechanized assault and claiming significant advances near Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeisk) and Novaya Poltavka, with claimed advances over 3 km east of Krasnoarmeisk. Russia claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka and Druzhkivka directions. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces argues that from a military perspective, continuing the war is advantageous for Russia as Ukraine loses territory daily. Russian aviation is reportedly delivering high-precision strikes on temporary deployment points in Siversk. Russian artillery and drones are reportedly active in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts, including areas located at varying distances from the front line in Donetsk. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. Russian security services claim to have detained two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. A Russian military blogger shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Russian military blogger provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform used for transporting ammunition on the Lyman direction. Russian military blogger reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel hiding in a forest belt. Russian military blogger shares a video claiming an FPV drone crew of the 41st Motor Rifle Regiment of the 44th Army Corps destroyed a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. Russian military bloggers report the use of heavy bomber drones. МоD Russia shows Russian military training in the rear of the Kursk region. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show a destroyed convoy of Ukrainian military vehicles on the Pokrovsk direction. ТАСС shares video footage from the Russian Ministry of Defense claiming the liberation of the settlement of Alexandropol. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense, claims the liberation of the settlement of Volnoye Pole. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction, entering Mala Tokmachka from the south and controlling the Brick Factory. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story and photo about a T-72 tank repair with a spoon, highlighting "Russian ingenuity" and military resourcefulness. Colonelcassad shares a video demonstrating the work of the medical service of the "Rubicon" Center, highlighting medical support. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video claiming to show intense battles near Pokrovsk and mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment. МоD Russia reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 930 Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs and 35 JDAM guided aerial bombs over the past week. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia conducted 115 combat engagements today, including detailed breakdowns of Russian offensive actions on numerous fronts, and also reports significant drone and guided bomb usage. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА claims Russian forces captured Ukrainian soldiers during an assault on Bilovody. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report on the liberation of Bogatyr and highlight Russian military effectiveness and clearing operations, and claim significant Ukrainian losses. Воин DV and Colonelcassad report on Russian offensive operations on the South-Donetsk direction. Военкор Котенок provides an analysis of the Novopavlivka direction, supporting the Russian narrative of advances and operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control and claiming liberation of Nova Poltavka. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. Colonelcassad claims destruction of Ukrainian UAV command posts, "Baba Yaga" drones, and quadcopters using FPV drones. MoD Russia claims elimination of Ukrainian UAV command posts in Kharkiv region using FPV drones. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports civilian casualties and damage from artillery and aviation strikes in Sumy Oblast border communities. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports two Russian attempts to advance on the Prydniprovsk direction (bordering Dnipropetrovsk Oblast). Colonelcassad reports that Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА and Два майора report on continued Ukrainian activity and increased FPV drone activity in the border area of Kursk Oblast. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier and disseminating his alleged account of low morale. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, involving Russian marines. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 6 Ukrainian UAVs over the sea near Sevastopol. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including an incident with a Ukrainian drone and casualties on both sides. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, arguing continued war is beneficial for Russia and that Russia is determined to achieve its goals. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes on Ukrainian temporary deployment points in Siversk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Воин DV shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian fortified area by artillery. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Два майора sells tactical gear. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. Два майора reports the use of heavy bomber drones to deliver anti-tank mines. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports significant activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern direction.
Casualties: Russian sources claim significant Ukrainian losses in their daily briefing, including up to a consolidated battalion during the liberation of Bogatyr. A Russian soldier recounts close combat. Russia received 34 bodies in a body exchange. A large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format is expected next week, reportedly on Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. The death of an Iskander missile designer in a domestic incident is reported. A Russian military blogger claims elimination of a Latvian mercenary. A Russian priest reportedly died from an enemy drone strike in Kherson Oblast from a drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. Reports of issues within the Russian 25th military brigade, including a high number of missing personnel. Ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands reportedly resulted in the death of a Russian marine and the capture and subsequent death of a Ukrainian soldier. Former US President Trump noted the high weekly casualty rate (over 5000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers). Ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. One child has reportedly died after being switched from an effective imported drug to a dangerous and ineffective Russian one. A traffic accident in Moscow Oblast resulted in 14 injuries. Civilian casualties have been reported in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast from Russian attacks. Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction reportedly led to "self-liquidation" of Russian soldiers. Ukrainian intelligence chief Budanov confirms a large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format may take place next week. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims to have eliminated a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine near Toretsk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine was eliminated on the Kherson direction. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports two women injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv. Kotsnews reports the elimination of a Latvian mercenary on the Kherson direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report the destruction of up to a consolidated battalion of Ukrainian forces during the liberation of Bogatyr. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video allegedly showing a Russian soldier injured by a remotely mined explosive device. Николаевский Ванёк reports on Ukrainian drone strikes leading to "self-liquidation" of Russian soldiers on the Toretsk direction. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands and the death of a Russian marine and a captured Ukrainian soldier. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including an incident with a Ukrainian drone and casualties on both sides. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report that former US President Donald Trump noted the high weekly casualty rate. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Север.Реалии reports on one child dying after being switched to an ineffective Russian drug. ТАСС reports a traffic accident in Moscow Oblast resulting in 14 injuries. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports casualties in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast from Russian attacks. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction, showcasing alleged self-liquidation of Russian soldiers.
Information Operations: Russian sources continue to engage in information operations, framing events to support their narrative and highlight claimed successes. They are disseminating psychological warfare narratives, including claims of Ukrainian drones with "Nazi symbols" and allegations of "Western psychological programs" in Ukraine. They are showcasing propaganda exhibitions and creating fictional narratives about Ukrainian soldiers. Russian military bloggers are demonstrating tactical medicine practices. They are disseminating narratives about Ukrainian mobilization and the war effort, including targeting students. They are disseminating propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. They are using anecdotal stories in information operations. They are disseminating narratives about Ukrainian soldiers' morale and discipline. They are using visual content to emphasize claimed territorial gains. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces comments on negotiations, stating Ukraine is controlled by the West. The FSB is using claims of finding correspondence with Ukrainian curators among detained individuals and opening criminal cases against teenagers allegedly acting on Ukrainian orders as part of their information operations to link internal threats to Ukraine. Russian sources are highlighting the restoration of water supply in occupied Donbas cities. Russian sources are reporting on alleged economic losses in Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks. Russian sources are claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes in Siversk. Russian sources are claiming Russian artillery and drones are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts. Russian sources are claiming a Russian mechanized assault and significant advances near Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeisk) and Novaya Poltavka. Russia claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka and Druzhkivka directions. Russian sources are highlighting the detention of alleged SBU agents in Sevastopol. Russian military bloggers are commenting on Trump's decision not to attend Istanbul negotiations. The Moscow Metro's anniversary is being highlighted, likely as a sign of normalcy and development. Putin signed a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth, used to bolster national identity and military history. Russian military blogger provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control, used for information operations. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction, used for information operations. Russian military blogger reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel hiding in a forest belt, used for information operations. Russian military blogger shares a video claiming an FPV drone crew of the 41st Motor Rifle Regiment of the 44th Army Corps destroyed a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast, used for information operations. Russian military bloggers are reporting on the escape of convicted contract soldiers, potentially highlighting issues within the Russian military or using it in information operations. Russian military bloggers are selling tactical gear, potentially as a form of propaganda highlighting support for military personnel. Russian military bloggers are reporting on Trump's planned phone calls, used for information operations. Rybar analyzes Russia's humanitarian strategy in Sudan, likely to frame Russia's international activities positively. An incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh is reported and linked to migrants and alleged Russophobia in CIS countries. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. Russian military bloggers report the use of heavy bomber drones. Russian Presidential directives are reported. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show a destroyed convoy of Ukrainian military vehicles on the Pokrovsk direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story and photo about a T-72 tank repair with a spoon, highlighting "Russian ingenuity." WarGonzo shares information from an interview mentioning volunteers printing Russian passports in Crimea in 2014, supporting the Russian narrative of the annexation. Colonelcassad shares a video demonstrating the work of the medical service of the "Rubicon" Center. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video claiming to show intense battles near Pokrovsk and mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense, claims the liberation of the settlement of Volnoye Pole. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video from 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade demonstrating "hunting" Russian drone operators, which can be seen as a counter-information operation. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show Erdogan's dominant interaction with Macron. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine was eliminated on the Kherson direction and mentions the elimination of over 250 mercenaries from Baltic countries. ТАСС shares a statement from former US President Trump calling Zelenskyy the "best salesman." Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, framing it as a heroic act. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video related to Erdogan and Macron, interpreting it through a specific narrative. Военкор Котенок provides an analysis supporting the Russian narrative of advances. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report on the liberation of Bogatyr, highlighting Russian military effectiveness and claimed Ukrainian losses. Басурин о главном presents a narrative claiming that the Ukrainian regime is preparing for a new wave of mobilization, targeting students. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay, used in information operations. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring a person disseminating Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier and disseminating his alleged account of low morale. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands and casualties, highlighting the risks. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, presenting it as a heroic act. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including an incident with a Ukrainian drone and casualties on both sides, used for information operations. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, stating Ukraine is controlled by the West, used for information operations. Mash на Донбассе reports restoration of water supply in occupied Donbas cities, likely used to highlight Russian efforts. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks, used to highlight the impact of Ukrainian actions. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes in Siversk, used for information operations. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line, likely used for information operations. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka, used for information operations. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU, used for information operations. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on Trump not attending Istanbul negotiations, potentially used to influence narratives. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids against the ideology of violence and detained individuals, framing it as countering terrorism and neo-Nazism, and claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators, used for information operations. Новости Москвы reports on the Moscow Metro anniversary, potentially used to highlight normalcy and development. Басурин о главном shares a photo of President Putin signing a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth, used for information operations. Воин DV shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian fortified area by artillery, used for information operations. Военкор Котенок provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control, used for information operations and claims liberation of Nova Poltavka, used for information operations. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction, used for information operations. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt, used for information operations. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports on the planned prisoner exchange, likely for information operations. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports on the escape of convicted contract soldiers, likely used to highlight issues. Два майора sells tactical gear, highlighting support for military personnel. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast, used for information operations. Военкор Котенок reports on Trump's planned phone calls, used for information operations. Рыбарь shares images and commentary analyzing Russia's humanitarian strategy in Sudan, used for information operations. РБК-Україна reports the presentation of a postage stamp dedicated to the "Artan" special forces unit of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate, used for counter-information and morale. Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih, highlighting support efforts. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage and casualties, used by Ukrainian sources to highlight the impact of Russian actions. Рыбарь reports an incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh and links it to migrants and alleged Russophobia in CIS countries, used for information operations. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, used for information operations. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction, showcasing alleged self-liquidation of Russian soldiers, used for information operations. Два майора reports the use of heavy bomber drones to deliver anti-tank mines, used for information operations. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares statements attributed to Peskov on negotiations, used for information operations.
Law Enforcement and Criminal Activity: A former Moscow Oblast Trade Minister appeared before investigators. The death of an Iskander missile designer in a domestic incident is reported. Alleged phone scammers are targeting Muscovites. A bribery accusation within a Russian federal agency is reported. A businessman has been placed under house arrest for assault. Russia's security services claim to have detained two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. The FSB is conducting preventive raids against perceived internal threats and detaining individuals allegedly preparing attacks and administrators of Telegram channels with "terrorist and neo-Nazi content," and claims to have found correspondence with Ukrainian curators. Ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. A traffic accident in Moscow Oblast resulted in 14 injuries. An incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh is reported, leading to a criminal case. ТАСС reports a bribery accusation against Natalya Gordubey, head of the Rosalkogoltabakkontrol department for the Central Federal District. ТАСС reports alleged phone scammers targeting Muscovites. ТАСС reports businessman Igor Khubutiya has been placed under house arrest for assaulting a friend. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids in 81 regions, detained six people for preparing attacks, including on schools, and detained 57 administrators of Telegram channels and chats with terrorist and neo-Nazi content, claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators among the latter. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. ТАСС reports a traffic accident involving a bus in Ramensky district, Moscow Oblast, resulting in 14 injuries. Рыбарь reports an incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh, leading to a criminal case.
Military Commemoration and Information Operations: Photos of "frontline cats" are shared, likely aimed at humanizing soldiers and boosting morale. A body exchange is reported, which can be used in information operations. A sports festival in Bryansk Oblast is linked to commemorating victory and promoting patriotism. A mural depicting Putin and Stalin has appeared. The death of a priest in Kherson Oblast is presented as a heroic act. The Moscow Metro's anniversary is being highlighted, likely as a sign of normalcy and development. Putin signed a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth. WarGonzo shares information from an interview mentioning volunteers printing Russian passports in Crimea in 2014, related to citizenship. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, framing it as a heroic act of sacrifice. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, presenting it as a heroic act. Новости Москвы reports on the Moscow Metro anniversary. Басурин о главном shares a photo of President Putin signing a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth.
Support for Military Personnel: Efforts to provide housing for military personnel are being expedited. Fundraising for equipment for military units is ongoing. Recruitment for "Akhmat" special forces is highlighted. A Russian serviceman complained about the poor condition of a road to his village. Russian military bloggers are demonstrating tactical medicine practices. Reports of issues within the Russian 25th military brigade regarding unaccounted-for personnel and difficulties faced by families. A Russian priest reportedly died from an enemy drone strike in Kherson Oblast while saving a wounded comrade. Improvised armored protection for military vehicles is being produced "behind the front line." A commander of "Akhmat" special forces has commented on negotiations, stating the importance of rehabilitation for soldiers. Russian military bloggers are selling tactical gear. Colonelcassad shares a video demonstrating the work of the medical service of the "Rubicon" Center, highlighting medical support for military personnel. MoD Russia shows Russian military training in the rear of the Kursk region. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit, including difficulties with confirming status and providing DNA samples. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. Два майора shares a video showcasing improvised armored protection for military vehicles produced "behind the front line" and fundraising for metal. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, stating the importance of rehabilitation for soldiers and fundraising for a rehabilitation fund. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, highlighting his sacrifice while saving a wounded comrade. Два майора sells tactical gear.
Citizenship Policy: Simplified process for granting Russian citizenship to citizens of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. WarGonzo shares information from an interview mentioning volunteers printing Russian passports in Crimea in 2014, related to citizenship.
Production Capacity: Russia is investing significantly in drone production, but is dependent on foreign components. The death of an Iskander missile designer in a domestic incident is reported. Russian First Deputy Prime Minister stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. Colonelcassad reports that Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. Два майора shares a video showcasing improvised armored protection for military vehicles produced "behind the front line."
Fatalities (Non-Military): A fatality was discovered after an explosion in Bashkiria (non-military). The death of an Iskander missile designer in a domestic incident in Moscow Oblast is reported. One child has reportedly died after being switched from an effective imported drug to a dangerous and ineffective Russian one. A traffic accident in Moscow Oblast resulted in 14 injuries. Two women were injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv. A civilian casualty from Russian strikes in Maly Burluk, Kharkiv Oblast is reported. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports two women injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv. Олег Синєгубов reports a civilian casualty from Russian strikes in Maly Burluk, Kharkiv Oblast. Север.Реалии reports on one child dying after being switched to an ineffective Russian drug. ТАСС reports a traffic accident in Moscow Oblast resulting in 14 injuries. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports casualties in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast from Russian attacks.
Cultural and Social Initiatives: A propaganda exhibition on the military conflict is being showcased. A plan is underway to develop "Halal" tourism standards. A sports festival is linked to commemorating victory and promoting patriotism. A mural depicting Putin and Stalin has appeared. A Russian Orthodox Church Abroad archpriest reportedly proposed a tax on childless men over 40. Discussions on AI in media and diplomacy also took place at a forum in Tatarstan. Cultural exchange with France through the awarding of the Legion of Honor to a Russian director. The Moscow Metro's anniversary is being highlighted. Putin signed a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth. Russian Presidential directives on environmental and scientific issues, and tax deductions are reported. ASTRA reports that a Russian Orthodox Church Abroad archpriest reportedly proposed a symbolic tax on childless men over 40. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy. ASTRA reports on a cultural exchange between France and Russia. Новости Москвы reports on the Moscow Metro anniversary. Басурин о главном shares a photo of President Putin signing a decree on celebrating the 300th anniversary of A.V. Suvorov's birth. ТАСС reports Russian Presidential directives on environmental and scientific issues, and tax deductions.
Military Training: MoD Russia shows Russian military training in the rear of the Kursk region.
Environmental Policy (Russia): Russian Presidential directive on phasing out plastic tableware and packaging in the Baikal region is reported. ТАСС reports the directive.
Scientific Development (Russia): Russian Presidential directive on the potential development of genetically modified trees for forest plantations is reported. ТАСС reports the directive.
Health Policy (Russia): Russian Presidential directive on introducing a tax deduction for regular medical examinations and passing GTO standards is reported. ТАСС reports the directive.

Support and Rehabilitation (Updated)

Veteran Support (Ukraine): A survey on financial literacy for military personnel, veterans, and their families is being conducted. "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih is continuing for the rehabilitation and support of veterans and their families. Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih.
Civilian Support (Ukraine): A support service for citizens affected by Russian attacks is being developed in Kyiv. Transport routes in Sumy Oblast are being changed following an attack on a bus. A fatality occurred in Odesa Oblast from a previous attack. Concerns are raised about military uniforms for TSK employees and public perception. Scientific and educational developments in Zaporizhzhia, including plans for AI and robotics centers, are highlighted. Russia attacked a regular bus near Bilopillia with casualties. The UK Foreign Minister reacted to this attack. Zaporizhzhia and Lviv Oblasts are exchanging experience on improving administrative service centers. Water supply is being restored in several cities in the occupied Donbas after pipeline repairs. Power has been restored to over 80% of households in Zaporizhzhia Oblasts affected by an attack. Civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was reportedly damaged by Russian attacks, resulting in casualties. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports two women injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports civilian casualties and damage from artillery and aviation strikes in Sumy Oblast border communities. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports on a visit by representatives from Zaporizhzhia to Lviv Oblast to exchange experience on improving administrative service centers. Олег Синєгубов reports damage and a civilian casualty from Russian strikes in Maly Burluk, Kharkiv Oblast. Mash на Донбассе reports restoration of water supply in Horlivka, Yenakiieve, Debaltseve, Vuhlehirsk, Kirovske, Zhdanivka, Snizhne, Torez, and Shakhtarsk. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports power restored to over 80% of households affected by a Russian attack. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage and casualties.
Military Personnel Support (Russia): Efforts to provide housing for military personnel are being expedited. Fundraising for equipment for military units is ongoing. Recruitment for "Akhmat" special forces is highlighted. A Russian serviceman complained about the poor condition of a road to his village. Russian military bloggers are demonstrating tactical medicine practices. Reports of issues within the Russian 25th military brigade regarding unaccounted-for personnel and difficulties faced by families. A Russian priest reportedly died from an enemy drone strike in Kherson Oblast while saving a wounded comrade. Improvised armored protection for military vehicles is being produced "behind the front line." A commander of "Akhmat" special forces has commented on negotiations, stating the importance of rehabilitation for soldiers. Russian military bloggers are selling tactical gear. Colonelcassad shares a video demonstrating the work of the medical service of the "Rubicon" Center, highlighting medical support for military personnel. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit, including difficulties with confirming status and providing DNA samples. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. Два майора shares a video showcasing improvised armored protection for military vehicles produced "behind the front line" and fundraising for metal. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, stating the importance of rehabilitation for soldiers and fundraising for a rehabilitation fund. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast, highlighting his sacrifice while saving a wounded comrade. Два майора sells tactical gear.
Prisoner of War Issues: A large-scale body exchange has taken place, and a prisoner exchange is being prepared for next week, reportedly on Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Russia claims to have captured Ukrainian soldiers in Bilovody, Sumy Oblast, and during combat on the Dnipro islands. Ukraine is preparing for a large-scale prisoner exchange. US Senator Marco Rubio reportedly spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and discussed prisoner exchange. A Russian military blogger shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Ukrainian intelligence chief Budanov confirms a large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format may take place next week. ТАСС and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны report a telephone conversation between Lavrov and Rubio where they discussed a prisoner exchange. Colonelcassad also reports on this conversation. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА claims Russian forces captured Ukrainian soldiers during an assault on Bilovody. ASTRA reports Rubio and Lavrov discussed prisoner exchange, citing Russian MFA claims. STERNENKO reports US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lavrov and that Russia claims the US supported the prisoner exchange proposal and preparation for a truce. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands and the capture and subsequent death of a Ukrainian soldier. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier. РБК-Україна and Оперативний ЗСУ report that the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has begun preparations for a large-scale prisoner exchange. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including the capture and subsequent death of a Ukrainian soldier. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares statements attributed to Peskov on plans for Moscow and Kyiv to exchange lists of conditions for a ceasefire, likely related to prisoner exchange.
Post-Conflict Recovery: The issue of rebuilding the destroyed Mariupol maternity hospital is being highlighted. The closure of a bridge in Donetsk for long-term repair indicates infrastructure damage requiring significant recovery efforts. Water supply is being restored in several cities in the occupied Donbas after pipeline repairs. Power has been restored to over 80% of households in Zaporizhzhia Oblasts affected by an attack. Mash на Донбассе reports restoration of water supply in Horlivka, Yenakiieve, Debaltseve, Vuhlehirsk, Kirovske, Zhdanivka, Snizhne, Torez, and Shakhtarsk. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports power restored to over 80% of households affected by a Russian attack. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage to infrastructure.

Force Composition and Tactics (Updated)

Ukrainian Forces: Actively defending against intense Russian assaults, reporting successful repels and inflicting significant Russian losses. Utilizing air defense to counter Russian aerial threats and claiming downing of Russian aerial assets, including a Ka-52 helicopter with an FPV drone and various Russian drones (including "Shaheds" with heavy machine guns and two Zala reconnaissance drones), and a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. Conducting drone attacks in Russian border regions and occupied territories. Utilizing drones for targeting, including claiming the destruction of a Russian D-30 howitzer and successfully hunting down Russian drone operators, and allegedly using remotely mined explosive devices. Seeking diplomatic solutions but maintaining their stance on key issues. Preparing for a large-scale prisoner exchange and participating in body exchanges. Experiencing civilian casualties and infrastructure damage from Russian attacks. Raising internal concerns related to mobilization and public perception of military personnel and the quality of fortifications, including reports of some facing the wrong direction. Using drones for reconnaissance and potentially utilizing robotic platforms for logistics (Russian claim of destroying one). Ukrainian aviation is reportedly conducting strikes in Russian border regions. Recruiting gunners for the 46th Separate Airmobile Brigade. Addressing evasion of mobilization schemes. Highlighting efforts to improve rehabilitation for military personnel and civilians. Highlighting the effectiveness of their FPV drones and armored vehicles against FPV drones. A Ukrainian military blogger raises concerns about potentially fraudulent generals. The Third Assault Brigade reports repelling numerous assaults, with Russian forces using small infantry groups and FPV drones. Daily work of a "Leleka-100" UAV crew from the 22nd Separate Mechanized Brigade on the Kharkiv direction is also reported. Ukrainian mobile air defense units are downing Shaheds in the Kharkiv area. Ukrainian strike drones are active on the Toretsk direction. Ongoing combat is reported on the Dnipro islands. Concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav are emerging. Ukrainian forces are attempting attacks in small infantry groups near Tёtkino in the Sumy direction. Zaporizhzhia and Lviv Oblasts are exchanging experience on improving administrative service centers. Ukrainian forces are reportedly targeted by Russian aviation delivering high-precision strikes in Siversk. Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts are reportedly being hit by Russian artillery and drones. Ukrainian drone fire on Russian forward positions in Novaya Poltavka and Staraya Nikolaevka is reported. Russian security services claim to have detained two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. The FSB is claiming to have found correspondence with Ukrainian curators among detained individuals and opening criminal cases against teenagers allegedly acting on Ukrainian orders. A Russian military blogger shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Ukrainian forces are being subjected to drone bombardment in a forest belt, as reported by a Russian military blogger. A new requirement for Ukrainian men aged 17 to present military ID for university admission has been introduced. Ukrainian drone operations are reported on the Toretsk and Kherson directions. The issuance of stamps honoring Ukrainian special forces highlights national support and recognition for the military. Veterans rehabilitation and support programs in Kryvyi Rih signify continued local support for those affected by the conflict. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS claims Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian D-30 howitzer in Russian territory near Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy strike UAVs from the south moving towards Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and later reports "Shaheds" from Zaporizhzhia moving towards Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video from 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade demonstrating "hunting" Russian drone operators using FPV drones. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" raises concerns about two individuals presenting themselves as Ukrainian Armed Forces generals without official credentials. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports an air raid alert in communities of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, excluding Zaporizhzhia city. РБК-Україна reports that the UK Foreign Minister reacted to the Russian strike on a bus near Bilopillia. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports two women injured in a Russian attack on Orikhiv. МоD Russia reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 930 Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs and 35 JDAM guided aerial bombs over the past week. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia conducted 115 combat engagements today, including detailed breakdowns of defensive actions and repelled attacks on numerous fronts, and also reports significant drone and guided bomb usage by Russia and that 123 UAVs of operational-tactical level were neutralized by Ukrainian forces. ОТУ "Харків"🇺🇦 shares a video showcasing the downing of "Shaheds" with heavy machine guns. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video demonstrating armored vehicles' resilience to FPV drone attacks. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports Ukrainian drone activity flying south from Zaporizhzhia over Robotyne towards the south. РБК-Україна reports Ukrainian military destroyed a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports civilian casualties and damage from artillery and aviation strikes in Sumy Oblast border communities. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports two Russian attempts to advance on the Prydniprovsk direction (bordering Dnipropetrovsk Oblast) were repelled. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video allegedly showing the detonation of a remotely mined explosive device utilizing a drone on the left bank of Kherson Oblast. Николаевский Ванёк reports on the work of Ukrainian strike drones on the Toretsk direction. STERNENKO provides a critical assessment of some Ukrainian fortifications, including reports of some facing the wrong direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring a person disseminating Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. Оперативний ЗСУ reports concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports on a visit by representatives from Zaporizhzhia to Lviv Oblast to exchange experience on improving administrative service centers. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier and disseminating his alleged account of low morale. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including the capture and subsequent death of a Ukrainian soldier. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports increased activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern and northeastern directions with threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes on Ukrainian temporary deployment points in Siversk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka, with Ukrainian drone fire on Russian positions. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids and detained individuals, claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports a new requirement for Ukrainian men aged 17 to present military ID for university admission. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video highlighting Russian propaganda about Ukrainian statehood and Odesa. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction. Два майора shares a video claiming a drone is operating against the enemy in the Kherson direction. Підрозділ Shadow shares a video showcasing the work of strike drone crews. РБК-Україна reports the presentation of a postage stamp dedicated to the "Artan" special forces unit of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate. Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage and casualties.
Russian Forces: Conducting intense ground assaults across multiple fronts, particularly in Donetsk Oblast, with claims of advances and utilizing various military assets, including artillery, tactical aviation, drones (FPV, "Baba Yaga"), and potentially TOS-1A thermobaric systems in urban areas. Recruiting volunteers for special forces ("Akhmat"). Claiming downing of Ukrainian drones, including those with alleged "Nazi symbols," and destruction of Ukrainian robotic platforms. Engaging in information operations and psychological warfare narratives. Focusing on internal security and military support initiatives. Experiencing casualties. Strengthening military cooperation with Belarus. Presenting new, shortened AK-12 variants. Russian tactical aviation is active on the northeastern, eastern, and southeastern directions, with the threat of aerial weapons for frontline regions. Russian air defense is claiming interception of Ukrainian aerial targets and destruction of Ukrainian EW stations, and downing Ukrainian UAVs over Crimea and the sea near Sevastopol. Claiming the liberation of settlements like Alexandropol, Volne Pole, and Bogatyr. Using guided aerial bombs extensively. Russian military bloggers are claiming advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction and mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment near Pokrovsk. Russian forces are utilizing FPV drones against Ukrainian UAV command posts and other infrastructure, and against Ukrainian engineering reconnaissance vehicles and International MaxxPro armored vehicles. They are showcasing tactical actions of assault units. Russian First Deputy Prime Minister stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. Continued activity with small assault groups and DRGs, and a significant increase in FPV drone activity targeting Russian logistical routes are reported in the border area of Kursk Oblast. A Russian priest reportedly died from an enemy drone strike in Kherson Oblast while saving a wounded comrade. An FPV drone without identification marks attacked a fuel station in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast. Ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands is reported, involving Russian marines. Improvised armored protection for military vehicles is being produced "behind the front line." Russian forces are using long-range weapons against Ukrainian infantry groups near Tёtkino in the Sumy direction. Russian forces are reportedly conducting a mechanized assault and claiming significant advances near Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeisk) and Novaya Poltavka, with claimed advances over 3 km east of Krasnoarmeisk. Russia claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka and Druzhkivka directions. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces argues that from a military perspective, continuing the war is advantageous for Russia as Ukraine loses territory daily. Russian aviation is reportedly delivering high-precision strikes on temporary deployment points in Siversk. Russian artillery and drones are reportedly active in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts, including areas located at varying distances from the front line in Donetsk. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. Russian security services claim to have detained two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen. A Russian military blogger shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Russian military blogger provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform used for transporting ammunition on the Lyman direction. Russian military blogger reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel hiding in a forest belt. Russian military blogger shares a video claiming an FPV drone crew of the 41st Motor Rifle Regiment of the 44th Army Corps destroyed a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. Ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was reportedly damaged by Russian FPV drone, UAV, artillery, and KAB attacks. Russian forces claim destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. Russian military bloggers report the use of heavy bomber drones. Russian drones are heading south from eastern Poltava and Kharkiv Oblasts and east from the border of Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts. МоD Russia shows Russian military training in the rear of the Kursk region. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show a destroyed convoy of Ukrainian military vehicles on the Pokrovsk direction. ТАСС shares video footage from the Russian Ministry of Defense claiming the liberation of the settlement of Alexandropol. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense, claims the liberation of the settlement of Volnoye Pole. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction, entering Mala Tokmachka from the south and controlling the Brick Factory. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story and photo about a T-72 tank repair with a spoon, highlighting "Russian ingenuity" and military resourcefulness. Colonelcassad shares a video demonstrating the work of the medical service of the "Rubicon" Center, highlighting medical support. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video claiming to show intense battles near Pokrovsk and mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment. МоD Russia reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 930 Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs and 35 JDAM guided aerial bombs over the past week. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia conducted 115 combat engagements today, including detailed breakdowns of Russian offensive actions on numerous fronts, and also reports significant drone and guided bomb usage. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА claims Russian forces captured Ukrainian soldiers during an assault on Bilovody. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report on the liberation of Bogatyr and highlight Russian military effectiveness and clearing operations, and claim significant Ukrainian losses. Воин DV and Colonelcassad report on Russian offensive operations on the South-Donetsk direction. Военкор Котенок provides an analysis of the Novopavlivka direction, supporting the Russian narrative of advances and operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control and claiming liberation of Nova Poltavka. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. Colonelcassad claims destruction of Ukrainian UAV command posts, "Baba Yaga" drones, and quadcopters using FPV drones. MoD Russia claims elimination of Ukrainian UAV command posts in Kharkiv region using FPV drones. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports civilian casualties and damage from artillery and aviation strikes in Sumy Oblast border communities. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports two Russian attempts to advance on the Prydniprovsk direction (bordering Dnipropetrovsk Oblast). Colonelcassad reports that Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА and Два майора report on continued Ukrainian activity and increased FPV drone activity in the border area of Kursk Oblast. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier and disseminating his alleged account of low morale. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, involving Russian marines. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that Russian air defense systems shot down 6 Ukrainian UAVs over the sea near Sevastopol. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands, including an incident with a Ukrainian drone and casualties on both sides. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, arguing continued war is beneficial for Russia and that Russia is determined to achieve its goals. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming Russian aviation is delivering high-precision strikes on Ukrainian temporary deployment points in Siversk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in several areas of Kharkiv and Sumy Oblasts located at varying distances from the front line. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense claims their air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian aircraft-type UAVs over Rostov and Belgorod Oblasts overnight. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast. Воин DV shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian fortified area by artillery. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports drone bombardment of Ukrainian personnel in a forest belt. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing. Два майора sells tactical gear. WarGonzo shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian M777 howitzer in Kharkiv Oblast. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian FPV drone, UAV, artillery, and KAB attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming destruction of a Ukrainian Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. Два майора reports the use of heavy bomber drones to deliver anti-tank mines. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports significant activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern direction. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a group of UAVs in eastern Poltava Oblast heading south, Shaheds in eastern Kharkiv Oblast heading south, and Shaheds on the border of Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts heading east.
Third-Party Involvement: Belarus is ready to organize a peace process and is strengthening military cooperation with Russia, planning joint "West-2025" exercises. North Korea has ordered strengthened military training and tested a new gliding guided bomb. Finland is discussed in the context of supporting Estonia's actions against Russian shipping. Latvia is mentioned with Russia claiming to have eliminated a mercenary. Germany is preparing new sanctions against Russia, including targeting the Russian "shadow fleet" and increasing control over Baltic Sea underwater infrastructure. Poland's Foreign Minister suggests China could influence Russia. Abkhazia and South Ossetia are mentioned in the context of simplified Russian citizenship. Turkey is facilitating potential negotiations. The US is reportedly involved in discussions regarding a peace plan and potential diplomatic engagement, including a telephone conversation between Senator Rubio and FM Lavrov, and a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone is operating over the Black Sea. Uzbekistan and Germany are cooperating on modernizing technical and professional education in Uzbekistan. Moldova signed an agreement with Germany for the placement of a German military "consultative group." The UK Foreign Minister reacted to the Bilopillia bus attack. BRICS countries are focusing on alternative transport infrastructure. Reports on issues with US military warehouses in Asia-Pacific could have indirect implications for the scale and speed of US military readiness and ability to support allies. Potential for a pro-Russian politician to gain power in Romania. France and Russia engaged in a cultural exchange. Ukraine will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Russia will be represented by the Minister of Culture. Former US President Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. Russia is reportedly implementing a humanitarian strategy to build influence in Sudan without direct military intervention. Iranian leader Khamenei has commented on Trump's statements. ТАСС and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны report a telephone conversation between Lavrov and Rubio where they discussed the Istanbul negotiations and the conditions for a truce. Colonelcassad also reports on this conversation. Два майора reports Moldova and Germany signed an agreement on placing a German military "consultative group" in Moldova. РБК-Україна reports that the UK Foreign Minister reacted to the Russian strike on a bus near Bilopillia. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports the Polish Foreign Minister stating that China could put Putin in his place. РБК-Україна reports Erdogan stating that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy in Istanbul could have been a historical chance. РБК-Україна reports on former US President Trump's comments about Putin and the reasons for the Russian inability to take Kyiv in 2022. РБК-Україна reports that the European Union is working on a new package of sanctions targeting Russian banks. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy, relevant to the information landscape. ASTRA reports Rubio and Lavrov discussed the Istanbul talks, prisoner exchange, and conditions for a truce, citing Russian MFA claims. Военкор Котенок reports on the activity of a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone over the Black Sea. Рыбарь reports on an audit of US military equipment warehouses in South Korea that revealed significant unresolved problems. РБК-Україна reports on a significant increase in voter turnout among the Romanian diaspora in the second round of presidential elections, which could favor pro-Russian candidate George Simion. ASTRA reports on a cultural exchange between France and Russia. STERNENKO reports US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lavrov and that Russia claims the US supported the prisoner exchange proposal and preparation for a truce. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a statement from Medvedev on the potential for failed negotiations. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Russia will be represented by the Minister of Culture. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report that former US President Donald Trump has announced his intention to speak by telephone with President Putin and then President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Рыбарь shares images and commentary analyzing Russia's humanitarian strategy in Sudan. ТАСС reports that US Senator Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed an American plan for a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. Военкор Котенок reports on Trump's planned phone calls. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on Iranian Leader Khamenei's commentary on Trump's statements.

Strategic Considerations (Updated)

The expected large-scale prisoner exchange on a "1000 for 1000" format next week, reportedly planned for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus, is a significant humanitarian and strategic development, crucial for addressing the concerns of families and potentially influencing morale on both sides. It also indicates a degree of operational coordination and communication between the two sides, even amidst ongoing conflict. Ukrainian intelligence chief Budanov confirms a large-scale prisoner exchange may take place next week. РБК-Україна and Оперативний ЗСУ report that the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has begun preparations for this exchange. ТАСС and Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны report Lavrov and Rubio discussed a prisoner exchange. Colonelcassad and ASTRA also report on this discussion. STERNENKO reports US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Lavrov and that Russia claims the US supported the prisoner exchange proposal. Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 reports that a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format is being prepared for Wednesday, May 21st, near the border with Belarus. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares statements attributed to Peskov on plans for Moscow and Kyiv to exchange lists of conditions for a ceasefire, likely related to prisoner exchange.
The Russian information operation alleging "Western psychological programs" in Ukraine and their impact on athletes is a strategic effort to delegitimize Ukrainian national identity and actions, portraying them as manipulated by external forces. This narrative is likely intended to influence both domestic Russian audiences and international perceptions. The Russian narrative about a fictional Ukrainian soldier also serves this purpose, attempting to mock and discredit Ukrainian efforts. The Russian narrative about Ukrainian mobilization and targeting students is also part of this information operation. Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood is being disseminated to undermine Ukrainian sovereignty. The FSB is using claims of finding correspondence with Ukrainian curators among detained individuals and opening criminal cases against teenagers allegedly acting on Ukrainian orders as part of their information operations. Басурин о главном presents a narrative claiming that the Ukrainian regime is preparing for a new wave of mobilization, particularly targeting students. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video featuring a person disseminating Russian propaganda on Ukrainian statehood. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids against the ideology of violence and detained individuals, claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators.
The potential new EU sanctions against the Russian "shadow fleet" and increased control over Baltic Sea underwater infrastructure are significant international strategic developments aimed at increasing economic pressure on Russia and enhancing security in a key maritime region. Targeting the "shadow fleet" aims to reduce Russia's ability to circumvent oil sanctions, directly impacting their revenue stream. Increased control over underwater infrastructure is a response to perceived threats of sabotage and has broader security implications for the region. РБК-Україна reports that the European Union is working on a new package of sanctions targeting Russian banks, which support the war effort, reflecting continued economic pressure. Alex Parker Returns shares a news article about the Estonian Minister of Defense commenting on an incident with a "shadow fleet" in the Baltic Sea.
Russia's ongoing recruitment of volunteers for the "Akhmat" special forces indicates a strategic effort to bolster specific, potentially high-impact units. The emphasis on training in combat skills, including targeting aerial objectives, suggests a focus on adapting to the evolving nature of warfare and utilizing specialized forces for key tasks. A commander of "Akhmat" special forces has commented on negotiations, stating the importance of rehabilitation for soldiers and fundraising for a rehabilitation fund, which is strategically relevant to military support efforts. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations, stating the importance of rehabilitation for soldiers and fundraising for a rehabilitation fund.
Putin's decree simplifying citizenship for citizens of Abkhazia and South Ossetia is a strategic political move aimed at strengthening Russia's influence in these breakaway regions and potentially creating a larger pool of individuals with ties to Russia. WarGonzo shares information from an interview mentioning volunteers printing Russian passports in Crimea in 2014, related to citizenship.
The Russian claim of destroying a Ukrainian robotic platform with an FPV drone on the Krasnolimansk direction is a specific tactical claim with strategic implications. It highlights the increasing use of robotic systems on the battlefield and the efforts by both sides to counter them, demonstrating the evolving tactics and technology in the conflict. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims destruction of a Ukrainian robotic platform on the Lyman direction.
The death of the Iskander missile designer in a domestic incident, while a personal tragedy, has a minor strategic implication in that it removes an individual with expertise in a key Russian military system. However, the cause of death indicates no direct military threat or vulnerability related to the system itself.
The Russian claim of downing a Ukrainian drone with "Nazi symbols" is a clear strategic information operation aimed at reinforcing the Russian narrative of fighting against "Nazism" in Ukraine and justifying their actions. The visual element of the drone with alleged symbols is intended to serve as propaganda.
The Polish Foreign Minister's suggestion that China could "put Putin in his place" due to Russia's economic dependence on China is a significant international commentary with strategic implications. It highlights the perceived power dynamic between Russia and China and suggests a potential avenue for international pressure to influence Russia's actions in Ukraine. This view, if widely shared, could influence diplomatic strategies towards both countries. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports the Polish Foreign Minister stating that China could put Putin in his place.
The sports festival in Bryansk Oblast linked to Victory Day and promoting patriotism is a domestic strategic initiative aimed at bolstering national pride, commemorating historical military achievements, and fostering support for current military actions by linking them to past victories. The explicit criticism of Ukraine within this context serves as a domestic information operation.
The claim by a Russian source of their forces capturing Ukrainian soldiers in Bilovody, Sumy Oblast, is a strategic claim of localized success, potentially aimed at highlighting Russian military effectiveness in border regions and contributing to information operations. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА claims Russian forces captured Ukrainian soldiers during an assault on Bilovody. Старше Эдды shares a video and commentary claiming the capture of a Ukrainian soldier during the assault on Bilovody. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian soldier captured a Ukrainian servicemember from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade in Sumy Oblast, used for information operations.
The claimed elimination of a Latvian mercenary by a Russian source near Toretsk or Kherson is a strategic information operation to portray foreign fighters negatively and highlight claimed successes against them. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims to have eliminated a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine near Toretsk. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims a Latvian mercenary fighting for Ukraine was eliminated on the Kherson direction. Kotsnews reports the elimination of a Latvian mercenary on the Kherson direction.
The claimed Ukrainian air strike with high-precision bombs near Guyevo in Kursk Oblast is strategically significant as it demonstrates Ukraine's capability to conduct targeted strikes in Russian border regions, potentially impacting Russian logistics and personnel concentrations and challenging Russia's perceived control of these areas. The reported criticism by Russian Z-pabliks about the lack of air defense in the border area further emphasizes the impact of these strikes and the strategic importance of air defense in these regions. Economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks further highlight the impact of Ukrainian cross-border actions. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks.
Ukrainian forces highlighting the destruction of a Russian D-30 howitzer in Sumy Oblast using a drone is strategically important as it showcases the effectiveness of Ukrainian tactics against Russian artillery, a key asset in the conflict, and highlights Ukraine's capability to strike Russian military equipment in border regions. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS claims Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian D-30 howitzer in Russian territory near Sumy Oblast.
The Russian claim of liberating the settlement of Volnoye Pole on the South-Donetsk direction, Alexandropol, and Bogatyr are strategic claims of territorial gain, supporting their broader objectives in Donetsk Oblast and serving as an information operation to demonstrate progress. The claimed liberation of Nova Poltavka on the Konstantinovka and Druzhkivka directions are another such claim. ТАСС shares video footage from the Russian Ministry of Defense claiming the liberation of the settlement of Alexandropol. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense, claims the liberation of the settlement of Volnoye Pole. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition, and Сливочный каприз report the liberation of Bogatyr. ТАСС reports the liberation of Alexandropol will increase fire pressure on Konstantinovka. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka, with claimed advances over 3 km east of Krasnoarmeisk. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. Военкор Котенок provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control, including in Alexandropol and Nova Poltavka and claiming liberation of Nova Poltavka.
The closure of the bridge over the Kalmius River in Donetsk for long-term repair is strategically relevant as it indicates infrastructure damage resulting from the conflict, impacting logistics and civilian life in occupied territory, and highlighting the long-term consequences of the war.
The cooperation between Germany and Uzbekistan on modernizing technical and professional education could have long-term strategic implications for labor migration and economic ties, potentially influencing regional dynamics.
The appearance of a mural depicting Putin and Stalin in Belgorod is a strategic information operation aimed at influencing domestic narratives and reinforcing a particular political ideology, potentially linking current events to Soviet historical narratives.
Ukrainian forces highlighting the effectiveness of hunting down Russian drone operators using FPV drones is strategically important as it demonstrates a tactic to directly counter a key Russian capability (drone warfare) by targeting the personnel operating them, potentially degrading Russian reconnaissance and strike capabilities. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video from 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade demonstrating "hunting" Russian drone operators using FPV drones.
Russian claims of advances and capture of the Brick Factory near Mala Tokmachka on the Zaporizhzhia direction are strategic claims of tactical success and potential territorial gains in a key southern area of the front. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian advances on the Zaporizhzhia direction, entering Mala Tokmachka from the south and controlling the Brick Factory.
Former US President Trump's commentary on Putin and the reasons for the Russian inability to take Kyiv in 2022 has strategic implications, particularly given his potential future role in US foreign policy, and may influence perceptions of the conflict's trajectory and the capabilities of both sides. РБК-Україна reports on former US President Trump's comments about Putin and the reasons for the Russian inability to take Kyiv in 2022. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 shares a video containing commentary from Trump. ТАСС shares a statement from former US President Trump calling Zelenskyy the "best salesman."
The proposal by a Russian Orthodox Church Abroad archpriest for a tax on childless men over 40 is an internal social and demographic issue in Russia, but could have long-term strategic implications for population growth and manpower availability, which are relevant in the context of a protracted conflict. ASTRA reports that a Russian Orthodox Church Abroad archpriest reportedly proposed a symbolic tax on childless men over 40.
The agreement between Moldova and Germany for the placement of a German military "consultative group" in Moldova is a significant international strategic development, indicating increased Western military engagement and influence in a country bordering Ukraine and potentially signaling a strengthening of Moldova's defense capabilities and alignment with the EU/NATO. Два майора reports Moldova and Germany signed an agreement on placing a German military "consultative group" in Moldova.
Russian claims of mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment near Pokrovsk are strategic information operations aimed at demonstrating Russian military effectiveness and inflicting significant losses on Ukraine, supporting their narrative of battlefield success. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show a destroyed convoy of Ukrainian military vehicles on the Pokrovsk direction. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a video claiming to show intense battles near Pokrovsk and mass destruction of Ukrainian equipment.
The Ukrainian military spokesperson stating that the Russian summer offensive has effectively begun, particularly impacting the Kharkiv area, is a crucial strategic assessment that directly informs Ukrainian defense planning, resource allocation, and the urgency of international military support. The Third Assault Brigade's report on repelling numerous assaults in Kharkiv further validates this assessment and highlights the intensity of the fighting in this area.
The concern raised by a Ukrainian military blogger about individuals presenting themselves as Ukrainian Armed Forces generals without credentials has potential strategic implications for internal military integrity, trust in leadership, and counterintelligence efforts. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" raises concerns about two individuals presenting themselves as Ukrainian Armed Forces generals without official credentials.
DeepState's reporting of Russian advancements near Mirolyubivka and clarifying the situation near Bahatyr provides a strategic overview of ongoing ground operations and potential changes in territorial control in key areas of the front. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports updating their map, noting Russian advancements near Mirolyubivka and clarifying the situation near Bahatyr.
The UK Foreign Minister's reaction to the Russian strike on a bus near Bilopillia, expressing shock and calling for a full and immediate ceasefire if Putin is serious about peace, is an international diplomatic response that highlights the humanitarian impact of Russian actions and reinforces the call for a peaceful resolution, potentially influencing international pressure on Russia. РБК-Україна reports that the UK Foreign Minister reacted to the Russian strike on a bus near Bilopillia.
Erdogan's announcement of a large gas field discovery in the Black Sea has long-term strategic energy implications for Turkey and the Black Sea region, potentially influencing geopolitical dynamics and energy security in the area. ТАСС reports Erdogan announced the discovery of a large gas field in the Black Sea. РБК-Україна reports Erdogan stating that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy in Istanbul could have been a historical chance.
The forum in Tatarstan discussing the role of AI in media and diplomacy is relevant to the broader strategic landscape of information warfare and the increasing integration of advanced technologies in international relations and conflict narratives. Рыбарь reports on a forum in Tatarstan discussing AI in media and diplomacy.
A bribery accusation within a Russian federal agency has strategic implications for the perceived effectiveness and integrity of Russian state institutions, potentially highlighting issues with governance and corruption. ТАСС reports a bribery accusation against Natalya Gordubey, head of the Rosalkogoltabakkontrol department for the Central Federal District.
An air raid alert in Sevastopol, Crimea is a significant strategic development as it indicates a potential aerial threat to occupied Crimea, highlighting the vulnerability of the peninsula to Ukrainian strikes and potential future targeting. Colonelcassad reports an air raid alert in Sevastopol, Crimea. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen.
An air raid alert in communities of Zaporizhzhia Oblast (excluding Zaporizhzhia city) indicates a potential aerial threat to this region, highlighting the ongoing strategic pressure on this front and necessitating continued air defense vigilance. Air raid alert has been lifted in communities of Zaporizhzhia Oblast. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports an air raid alert in communities of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, excluding Zaporizhzhia city. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports an air raid alert for communities in Zaporizhzhia Oblast has been lifted.
The European Union working on a new package of sanctions targeting Russian banks indicates continued international economic pressure on Russia, a key strategic tool aimed at impacting Russia's ability to finance the conflict and support its war effort. РБК-Україна reports that the European Union is working on a new package of sanctions targeting Russian banks.
Reports of issues within the Russian 25th military brigade, including a high number of missing personnel and difficulties faced by families in obtaining information, are strategically significant as they highlight potential problems with unit cohesion, casualty management, and the overall state of morale and support within the Russian military. ASTRA reports on a relative of a missing Russian serviceman (25th brigade) appealing to Russian leadership regarding unaccounted-for personnel and issues within the unit.
Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha's assessment that Putin is using diplomacy to imitate a peace process and gain time is a crucial strategic assessment that directly informs Ukraine's approach to future negotiations and their calls for continued international pressure and sanctions. РБК-Україна reports Deputy Foreign Minister Sybiha's assessment of Russian readiness for peace.
Russian claims of eliminating Ukrainian UAV command posts highlight a strategic focus on degrading Ukraine's drone capabilities, which are a key component of Ukrainian tactics. Colonelcassad claims destruction of Ukrainian UAV command posts. MoD Russia claims elimination of Ukrainian UAV command posts in Kharkiv region using FPV drones.
Ukrainian reports on the effectiveness of armored vehicles against FPV drones are strategically important for informing force protection measures and highlighting the need for continued provision of such equipment. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video demonstrating armored vehicles' resilience to FPV drone attacks.
Ukrainian reports of destroying a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system are strategically significant as they indicate a successful effort to degrade Russian air defense capabilities, potentially providing greater freedom of movement for Ukrainian aircraft and drones. РБК-Україна reports Ukrainian military destroyed a Russian Buk-M1 air defense system.
The death of a Russian priest in Kherson Oblast from a drone strike while saving a wounded comrade, as reported by a Russian military blogger and presented as a heroic act, has strategic implications for domestic morale and information operations, framing the conflict in a religious and self-sacrificial light. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast from an enemy drone strike while saving a wounded comrade. Басурин о главном shares a report on the death of a priest in Kherson Oblast.
Reports on issues with US military warehouses in Asia-Pacific reveal potential challenges in US logistical readiness, which could have indirect implications for the scale and speed of US support to allies, including Ukraine, in the event of a wider conflict or increased demand for military aid. Рыбарь reports on an audit of US military equipment warehouses in South Korea that revealed significant unresolved problems.
The potential for a pro-Russian politician to gain power in Romania is a strategic political development in a neighboring country that could potentially influence regional dynamics and the level of support for Ukraine from Romania and within the EU and NATO. РБК-Україна reports on a significant increase in voter turnout among the Romanian diaspora in the second round of presidential elections, which could favor pro-Russian candidate George Simion.
Ukrainian forces allegedly using remotely mined explosive devices disguised as first aid kits on the left bank of Kherson Oblast suggests an asymmetric tactic aimed at inflicting casualties and potentially disrupting Russian activities in occupied territory. This highlights Ukrainian ingenuity in utilizing available resources and methods. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video allegedly showing the detonation of a remotely mined explosive device on the left bank of Kherson Oblast, injuring a Russian soldier.
Russian First Deputy Prime Minister stating a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions in Russia is a key strategic indicator of Russia's commitment to sustaining a high level of military production to support ongoing and potentially future operations. This has implications for the anticipated duration and intensity of the conflict. Colonelcassad reports that Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated a significant increase in the production of basic components for munitions.
The analysis of the situation in the border area of Kursk Oblast, highlighting continued Ukrainian activity and increased FPV drone use, underscores the strategic importance of border security for Russia and the evolving nature of cross-border engagements. The increased drone activity specifically targeting logistical routes indicates a Ukrainian effort to disrupt Russian supply lines in this area. Economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks further highlight the impact of Ukrainian cross-border actions. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА and Два майора provide an analysis of the situation in the border area of Kursk Oblast, noting continued Ukrainian activity with small assault groups and DRGs, as well as a significant increase in FPV drone activity targeting Russian logistical routes. ASTRA reports economic losses in the agricultural sector of Kursk Oblast due to Ukrainian attacks.
Ukrainian strike drones being active on the Toretsk direction and reportedly leading to "self-liquidation" of Russian soldiers highlights the strategic impact of Ukrainian drone warfare in inflicting casualties and potentially impacting Russian troop morale and tactics in specific areas of the front. Николаевский Ванёк reports on the work of strike drones from the "Azov" 12th Special Purpose Brigade on the Toretsk direction. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on Ukrainian drone operations on the Toretsk direction, showcasing alleged self-liquidation of Russian soldiers.
Critiques of Ukrainian fortifications raise strategic concerns about the effectiveness of defensive preparations and potentially underlying issues with planning, resources, or implementation. Addressing these concerns is crucial for improving Ukraine's defensive capabilities and minimizing territorial losses. STERNENKO provides a critical assessment of some Ukrainian fortifications, including concerns about trenches dug facing the wrong direction.
The activity of a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone over the Black Sea is strategically significant as it indicates continued US intelligence gathering in a region relevant to the conflict. This intelligence can provide valuable insights for Ukraine and its allies regarding Russian naval and air activities. Военкор Котенок reports on the activity of a US RQ-4B Global Hawk drone over the Black Sea.
The report of a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay provides an anecdotal piece of information that could be used in information operations to portray issues with morale or discipline within the Ukrainian military. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a story about a Ukrainian soldier allegedly absconding with excess pay.
Ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands indicates the continued strategic importance of controlling territory and waterways in this area and highlights the persistent and often brutal nature of localized engagements. Kotsnews reports on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition shares a video and commentary reporting on ongoing combat on the Dnipro islands.
Concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav, Kyiv Oblast, if confirmed, could have strategic implications for the functioning and readiness of territorial defense forces and highlight potential challenges in civil-military relations or resource management within Ukraine. Оперативний ЗСУ reports concerns about the potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit from leased premises in Pereyaslav.
The attack on a fuel station in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast, by an FPV drone is strategically significant as it indicates a potential expansion of Ukrainian targeting of infrastructure within Russia, potentially aimed at disrupting logistics or impacting civilian morale in border regions. Оперативний ЗСУ reports an attack on a fuel station in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast, by an FPV drone.
Improvised armored protection for military vehicles being produced "behind the front line" in Russia suggests a strategic effort to enhance force protection and adapt to battlefield conditions, likely in response to the threat posed by drones and other anti-vehicle weapons. Два майора shares a video showcasing improvised armored protection for military vehicles produced "behind the front line" and fundraising for metal.
A Russian businessman being placed under house arrest for assault is an internal legal matter but could have broader strategic implications if it is perceived to be politically motivated or if it affects individuals connected to strategically important sectors. ТАСС reports businessman Igor Khubutiya has been placed under house arrest for assaulting a friend.
A cultural exchange between France and Russia, as seen in the awarding of the Legion of Honor to a Russian director, is strategically relevant as it reflects the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of international relations during conflict and can be used by either side for diplomatic or propaganda purposes. ASTRA reports on a cultural exchange between France and Russia.
Medvedev's statement on the potential for failed negotiations is a strategic communication aimed at influencing perceptions of the diplomatic process, potentially lowering expectations for peace talks and preparing the ground for possible escalation if negotiations do not proceed according to Russia's preferences. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a statement from Medvedev that peace negotiations alone do not always end fighting and can lead to a more terrible stage of conflict if unsuccessful.
Restoration of water supply in several cities in the occupied Donbas after pipeline repairs highlights the impact of the conflict on civilian infrastructure and the ongoing efforts, likely by Russian or Russian-backed authorities, to address humanitarian needs in occupied territories. This can also be used in information operations to demonstrate a return to normalcy under Russian control. Mash на Донbasse reports restoration of water supply in Horlivka, Yenakiieve, Debaltseve, Vuhlehirsk, Kirovske, Zhdanivka, Snizhne, Torez, and Shakhtarsk.
Commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov, Commander of "Akhmat" special forces and Deputy Head of the Main Military-Political Directorate of the Russian Ministry of Defense, on negotiations with Ukraine is strategically significant as it reflects the perspective of a prominent military figure within the Russian establishment and reinforces key Russian narratives regarding the conflict and the diplomatic process. His statements that Ukraine is controlled by the West and that continued war is militarily advantageous for Russia has implications for assessing Russia's willingness to negotiate and their long-term objectives. Басурин о главном shares commentary from Lieutenant-General Apty Alaudinov on negotiations.
The FSB conducting preventive raids against perceived internal threats, detaining individuals allegedly preparing attacks and administrators of Telegram channels with "terrorist and neo-Nazi content," and claiming to have found correspondence with Ukrainian curators is a significant strategic development as it indicates a concerted effort by Russian security services to counter internal dissent and potential threats, and to link these activities to Ukraine. This has implications for the internal stability of Russia, the narrative surrounding the conflict, and potentially for cross-border security. ТАСС reports that the FSB conducted preventive raids in 81 regions, detained six people for preparing attacks, including on schools, and detained 57 administrators of Telegram channels and chats with terrorist and neo-Nazi content, claiming correspondence with Ukrainian curators among the latter.
Russia's claim of liberating Nova Poltavka on the Konstantinovka and Druzhkivka directions is a strategic claim of territorial gain, contributing to their broader objectives in Donetsk Oblast and serving as an information operation to demonstrate progress. Colonelcassad claims liberation of Novaya Poltavka on the Konstantinovka direction. Военкор Котенок provides operational update on Druzhkivka direction, reporting on claimed Russian advances and control, including in Nova Poltavka and claims liberation of Nova Poltavka.
The reported participation of Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, along with other international leaders, is a strategically significant event for Ukraine. It provides a platform for high-level diplomatic engagement, maintaining international attention on the conflict, and potentially garnering further support. The presence of representatives from the US and other key international partners underscores the continued international dimension of the conflict. The fact that Russia is represented by the Minister of Culture at this event, compared to the higher-level representation from other countries, could be interpreted in various ways regarding Russia's diplomatic priorities or isolation. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна report that Volodymyr Zelenskyy will participate in the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, with expected attendance of other international leaders, including US Vice President and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Russia will be represented by the Minister of Culture.
Russian claims of a mechanized assault and significant advances near Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeisk) and Novaya Poltavka, with claimed advances over 3 km east of Krasnoarmeisk, if verified, represent a significant strategic development on the Pokrovsk front. This indicates a major Russian offensive effort aimed at achieving substantial territorial gains in a key area and could have implications for the stability of the front line in Donetsk Oblast. Сливочный каприз reports Russian mechanized assault and claimed advances near Krasnoarmeisk (Pokrovsk) and Novaya Poltavka.
The detention of two residents of Sevastopol for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen, as claimed by Russian security services, is strategically significant as it indicates ongoing Ukrainian intelligence efforts in occupied Crimea and Russian counterintelligence activities to maintain control over the peninsula. This highlights the contested nature of Crimea and the hidden war being fought through intelligence networks. ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, and ТАСС report the detention of two residents of Sevastopol and initiation of criminal cases against them for allegedly working for the SBU and providing intelligence on Russian servicemen.
The 90th anniversary of the Moscow Metro being highlighted is a domestic strategic initiative aimed at showcasing infrastructure development and a sense of normalcy and progress within Russia, potentially for domestic consumption and to counter narratives about the impact of the conflict. Новости Москвы reports on the Moscow Metro anniversary.
The announcement by former US President Trump of upcoming phone calls with President Putin and President Zelenskyy on Monday, May 19th, to discuss ending the "bloodbath" and trade, followed by a call with NATO members, is a highly significant strategic development. This potential direct engagement by a prominent international figure with the leaders of the warring nations and key international allies could significantly influence the diplomatic trajectory of the conflict, potentially leading to new opportunities or challenges for peace negotiations and international support for Ukraine. The inclusion of "trade" as a topic suggests a potential link between economic considerations and military actions. The order of calls (Putin first, then Zelenskyy and NATO) could also be strategically significant. РБК-Україна, ТАСС, ASTRA, STERNENKO, and Военкор Котенок report on Trump's announcement. Военкор Котенок reports on Trump's planned phone calls. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on Iranian Leader Khamenei's commentary on Trump's statements.
Power being restored to over 80% of households in Zaporizhzhia Oblasts affected by an attack highlights the impact of Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure and the ongoing efforts to restore essential services and maintain civilian life in affected areas. This is strategically important for maintaining morale and functionality of the civilian population supporting the war effort. 🇺🇦 Запорізьka обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports power restored to over 80% of households affected by a Russian attack.
The new requirement for Ukrainian men aged 17 to present military ID for university admission is a strategic measure related to Ukrainian mobilization efforts. It aims to ensure military registration and potentially increase the pool of individuals available for military service in the future. This highlights the ongoing need for personnel within the Ukrainian armed forces and the measures being taken to address it. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports a new requirement for Ukrainian men aged 17 to present military ID for university admission.
Russia's reported humanitarian strategy in Sudan is a strategic foreign policy initiative aimed at expanding Russia's influence and presence in Africa through soft power. By providing humanitarian aid and support, Russia seeks to build goodwill and relationships, potentially creating opportunities for future political, economic, or military engagement, and countering the influence of other actors in the region. Рыбарь shares images and commentary analyzing Russia's humanitarian strategy in Sudan.
Reports of convicted contract soldiers escaping from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast and remaining at large are strategically significant as they highlight potential issues with discipline, control, and personnel management within the Russian military, particularly concerning individuals recruited from correctional facilities. This could impact unit cohesion and pose internal security risks. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports that ten convicted contract soldiers who escaped from a military training ground in Rostov Oblast on May 9th are still missing.
The reported death of a child after being switched from an effective imported drug to a dangerous and ineffective Russian one highlights potential strategic vulnerabilities in Russia's healthcare system and the impact of sanctions or import substitution policies on the well-being of its citizens. Север.Реалии reports on tragic results of import substitution in medicine, with one child dying.
Continued Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage and casualties, are strategically significant as they aim to demoralize the civilian population, disrupt essential services, and potentially impede logistics and troop movements in the region. The variety of weapon systems used (FPV drones, UAVs, artillery, KABs) indicates a multi-faceted approach to targeting civilian areas. 🇺🇦Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports on Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, resulting in damage and casualties.
The issuance of stamps honoring the GUR special unit "Artan" is a symbolic act of national support and recognition for specific military units. This can boost morale within the Ukrainian armed forces and convey a message of resilience and determination, which has strategic value in maintaining support for the war effort. РБК-Україна reports the presentation of a postage stamp dedicated to the "Artan" special forces unit of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate.
The continuation of veterans rehabilitation and support programs in Kryvyi Rih demonstrates a commitment to caring for those affected by the conflict. These programs are strategically important for the well-being of veterans, their reintegration into society, and maintaining public support for the military. Олександр Вілкул reports the continuation of the city's "Veterans Family Games 2025" in Kryvyi Rih.
Incidents of desecration at mass graves and flags in Russia, and the associated narrative linking them to migrants and alleged Russophobia in CIS countries, are being used strategically by Russian sources to frame internal issues and potentially justify stricter policies or crackdowns. This narrative can also be used to generate anti-immigrant sentiment and consolidate domestic support by portraying external groups and neighboring countries negatively. Рыбарь reports an incident of desecration at a mass grave in Voronezh and links it to migrants and alleged Russophobia in CIS countries.
Russian Presidential directives on environmental and scientific issues, and tax deductions while not directly military, reflect the broader governance and priorities within Russia during the conflict. These initiatives could have long-term implications for the country's resources, economy, and social well-being, which indirectly support or are impacted by the military effort. ТАСС reports Russian Presidential directives on environmental and scientific issues, and tax deductions.
The Iranian Supreme Leader's commentary on Trump's statements regarding peace highlights the complex international reaction to potential diplomatic initiatives. This reflects the differing geopolitical interests and perspectives on the conflict and influences the broader diplomatic landscape. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on Iranian Leader Khamenei's commentary on Trump's statements.

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.

Situation Report