Operational Intelligence Briefing - Major Updates and Analysis (May 18, 2025, 05:33 UTC)
Updated Situation
The operational environment continues to be characterized by widespread and intense Russian aerial attacks, primarily utilizing strike drones, across numerous Ukrainian oblasts, with a significant focus on Kyiv and the surrounding areas. Tragically, the ongoing drone attack in Kyiv Oblast has resulted in a fatality and injuries, along with damage to civilian infrastructure. Ukrainian air defense forces are actively engaged in countering these threats across the country. Intense ground combat persists, particularly in Donetsk Oblast, with reports detailing numerous combat engagements across multiple directions. Russian forces continue to employ guided aerial bombs (KABs) and a variety of drone types. Diplomatic discussions regarding potential peace negotiations continue, with international actors emphasizing the importance of progress. Internal Russian affairs, including military promotions and reports on combat engineers, provide glimpses into Russian priorities and narratives.
Changes to the Situation from New Messages:
Confirmation of High Intensity Across Multiple Fronts: The Ukrainian General Staff provides a comprehensive overview of military activity over the past day, reporting a total of 167 combat engagements across various directions. This includes detailed figures for specific areas: 3 attacks on the Kharkiv direction, 1 on the Kupiansk direction, 24 on the Lyman direction, 10 on the Siversk direction, 8 on the Kramatorsk direction, 14 on the Toretsk direction, 54 on the Pokrovsk direction, 23 on the Novopavlivsk direction, 7 on the Orikhiv direction, and 2 on the Pridniprovskyi direction. This detailed breakdown confirms that intense fighting is ongoing across a wide front, with particularly high activity in the Pokrovsk, Lyman, and Novopavlivsk directions.
Significant Russian Aerial and Artillery Activity in the Past Day: The General Staff reports that over the past day, Russian forces conducted 75 aviation strikes, dropping 106 guided aerial bombs, employing 2960 kamikaze drones, and carrying out 4735 shellings, including 122 from MLRS. This highlights the significant scale of Russian aerial and artillery operations across Ukraine.
Confirmation of Widespread Russian Aerial Strikes (Past Day): The General Staff lists specific areas targeted by Russian aviation strikes over the past day, including Bunyakine in Sumy Oblast; Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast; Berezove in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast; Kurtivka, Kostiantynivka, Bilytske, Yablunivka, and Novopil in Donetsk Oblast; Novodarivka, Temirivka, Huliaipole, and Kamianske in Zaporizhzhia Oblast; and Mykolaivka in Kherson Oblast. This confirms the broad geographical reach of Russian air attacks beyond the current focus on Kyiv.
Ukrainian Successes in Targeting Russian Assets: The General Staff reports that over the past day, Ukrainian aviation, missile troops, and artillery struck four areas of concentration of Russian personnel, weapons, and military equipment, and four enemy artillery systems. This indicates successful Ukrainian targeting of Russian assets.
Detailed Breakdown of Estimated Russian Losses: The General Staff provides estimated total Russian losses over the past day: 1130 personnel, 1 tank, 4 armored fighting vehicles, 38 artillery systems, 1 MLRS, 107 UAVs (operational-tactical level), and 91 units of vehicles/fuel tanks. This detailed report provides a clear metric of the intensity of fighting and the effectiveness of Ukrainian forces in inflicting losses on the enemy.
Russian Military Narrative on Combat Engineers and Mine Clearing: Colonelcassad shares a video featuring Sergeant Maxim Samofalov, a Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system ("Zmey Gorynych") in the "Special Military Operation" zone. The video highlights the capabilities of the UR-77 in creating passages through minefields and striking the enemy, and notes that Samofalov is now pursuing higher military education and participated in the Victory Parade. This is a piece of Russian information operation focusing on specific military capabilities, the role of combat engineers, and linking current operations to historical patriotic narratives (Victory Parade).
Clarification of Downed UAVs and Imitator Drones: The Ukrainian Air Force provides a detailed breakdown of the overnight Russian aerial attack. They report that Russia attacked with 273 strike UAVs of the Shahed type and various types of imitator drones. Out of these, 88 strike UAVs (and other types) were confirmed shot down in the east, north, and center of the country. Importantly, 128 imitator drones are reported as "locationally lost" without negative consequences. One enemy UAV is still in the air with combat work ongoing. This clarifies the composition of the attack, distinguishing between strike drones and decoys, and provides a more precise success rate against the strike drones.
Areas Affected by Overnight Russian Attack (Confirmed): The Ukrainian Air Force confirms that Kyiv Oblast, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, and Donetsk Oblast were affected by the overnight Russian attack. This provides specific confirmation of the regions impacted by the aerial assault.
Confirmation of Fatality and Injuries in Kyiv Oblast: ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that a 28-year-old woman was killed and three people were injured, including a 4-year-old child, in Kyiv Oblast as a result of the night's Russian attack. Specific locations of impact and resulting damage are provided: in Obukhivskyi district, a private house was partially destroyed, and windows were broken in a multi-story building, with injuries to a 59-year-old man, a 61-year-old woman, and a child. In Fastivskyi district, a fire broke out at a feed mill. In Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv, drone debris damaged the roof of a non-residential building without casualties. This confirms the tragic humanitarian impact of the attack. STERNENKO also reports the fatality and injuries in Obukhivskyi district. Оперативний ЗСУ further details the casualties and damage in Obukhivskyi and Fastivskyi districts, and the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv. КМВА reports the finding of downed enemy UAV debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv and damage to a non-residential building without casualties. РБК-Україна also reports on the casualties and damage in Kyiv Oblast and the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district.
Confirmation of Damage in Solomianskyi District of Kyiv: КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) reports damage to window glazing in a residential building in Solomianskyi district of Kyiv as a result of the Russian attack. There were no fires or casualties in this specific incident. Оперативний ЗСУ also reports this damage in Solomianskyi district. РБК-Україна also reports on the damage in Solomianskyi district.
Russian Claim of Successful Strike on Ammunition Depot in Novaya Poltavka (Donetsk Oblast): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a video claiming that Russian aerial reconnaissance in Novaya Poltavka on the Krasnoarmeysk direction identified a Ukrainian ammunition depot and personnel, which were then struck by drones, resulting in a powerful detonation. This is a Russian claim of a successful strike on a tactical target.
Russian Claim of Advances Near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk) in Donetsk Oblast: TASS reports, citing Andrey Marochko, that the Krasnoarmeysk direction in the DNR has been one of the most active and successful sectors for Russian forces this week, and that military forces are advancing near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk) despite Ukrainian resistance. This is a Russian claim of operational success in a key area of intense fighting.
Summary of Overnight News from Ukrainian Perspective: РБК-Україна provides a summary of the main news from the night, highlighting the Russian attack on Kyiv, casualties in Kyiv Oblast, the Eurovision outcome, and the confirmation by the US that Russia will prepare a ceasefire document and Ukraine will prepare an identical document. This provides a concise overview of key events from a Ukrainian news source.
Visual of Civilian Shelter During Attack in Kyiv Metro: ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video of a crowd of people in the Kyiv Metro during the Russian drone attack, illustrating the impact on civilian life and the use of the metro as a shelter.
Confirmation of Ukrainian Air Defense Downing Drones in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast: Сергій Лисак / Дніпропетровська ОДА (ОВА) reports that five drones were shot down over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in the evening by "defenders of the sky." This confirms successful Ukrainian air defense actions in this region.
Confirmation of Russian Claims of Downing Ukrainian Drones Over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts (May 16th): ASTRA reports that the Russian Ministry of Defense stated that seven Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight on May 16th, four over Belgorod Oblast and three over Bryansk Oblast. This confirms Russian claims of downing Ukrainian drones in border regions from a few days prior.
Russian Military Blogger Commentary on Kyiv Attack and Targeting of Vasylkiv: Два майора shares commentary from @lost_armour suggesting that many drones in the overnight attack on Kyiv Oblast were directed at Vasylkiv, where an airbase and logistics center are located. The commentary claims this was the largest attack on a single object using these drones and includes videos/photos purportedly showing the results and Ukrainian air defense work. This provides a Russian military blogger's perspective on the targeting and scale of the attack.
Analysis of Ground Combat Situations Across Multiple Directions by Ukrainian General Staff: Detailed analyses and maps provided by the Ukrainian General Staff describe the combat situation on the Kupiansk, Lyman, Siversk, Kramatorsk, Toretsk, Pokrovsk, Novopavlivsk, Orikhiv, and Pridniprovskyi directions over the past day. These reports detail the number of enemy attacks in each direction and, in some cases, the specific settlements near which fighting occurred, along with indications of successful Ukrainian defensive actions.
Detailed Report on Russian Attacks and Damage in Kharkiv Oblast: Олег Синєгубов, Head of the Kharkiv Oblast State Administration, provides a detailed report on Russian attacks in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day. He states that 7 settlements were targeted, with no casualties reported. Russian forces used 4 KABs, 2 Shahed drones, and 10 Geran-2 drones. Damage to civilian infrastructure is specified: 3 private houses, a bakery, a multi-story building, and a non-operational farm building in Kupiansk district; an power line in Izium district; and farming infrastructure and a gas distribution node in Chuhuiv district. He also reiterates the General Staff's information on combat engagements in the Kharkiv and Kupiansk directions. This provides a comprehensive localized update on Russian attacks and their impact in Kharkiv Oblast.
Areas of Significant Activity (Updated)
Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast (Vasylkiv, Obukhivskyi district, Fastivskyi district, Holosiivskyi district, northern part, Solomianskyi district): Affected by a large-scale Russian drone attack resulting in air raid alerts and active air defense operations. Explosions have been reported in the capital. Tragically, one fatality and three injuries have occurred in Obukhivskyi district, with damage to a private house and multi-story building. A fire broke out at a feed mill in Fastivskyi district. Downed drone debris has been found in the Holosiivskyi district, causing minor damage to a non-residential building without casualties. Damage to window glazing in a residential building has been reported in Solomianskyi district. The drone threat, particularly near Vasylkiv, remains significant. The Ukrainian Air Force confirms Kyiv Oblast was affected by the overnight attack.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports a fatality and injuries in Kyiv Oblast and provides details of damage in Obukhivskyi, Fastivskyi, and Holosiivskyi districts.STERNENKO reports a fatality and injuries in Obukhivskyi district.Оперативний ЗСУ further details the casualties and damage in Obukhivskyi and Fastivskyi districts, and the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv.КМВА reports the finding of downed enemy UAV debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv and damage to a non-residential building, and also damage to window glazing in a residential building in Solomianskyi district without casualties.РБК-Україна reports on the casualties and damage in Kyiv Oblast, the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district, and damage in Solomianskyi district.Два майора suggests Vasylkiv was a specific target of the overnight attack.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video of civilians sheltering in the Kyiv Metro.
Donetsk Oblast (Rekodub, Volnoye Pole, Chasiv Yar, Shakhtersky direction, Kupiansk direction, Lyman direction, Siversk direction, Kramatorsk direction, Toretsk direction, Pokrovsk direction, Novaya Poltavka): Intense ground combat continues across multiple directions. Russian forces claim tactical advances and the liberation of settlements. Ukrainian forces report repelling numerous attacks and inflicting losses on the enemy. Russian aviation strikes and artillery shelling are reported. The Ukrainian General Staff provides detailed reports on combat engagements in the Kupiansk (1 attack), Lyman (24 attacks near multiple settlements), Siversk (10 attacks near Bilohorivka and Verkhnokamyanske), Kramatorsk (8 offensive actions near Chasiv Yar and surrounding settlements), Toretsk (14 attacks near multiple settlements), Pokrovsk (54 assaults/offensives near multiple settlements), Novopavlivsk (23 attacks near multiple settlements), and Orikhiv (7 attacks near multiple settlements) directions over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff reports Russian aviation strikes on Kurtivka, Kostiantynivka, Bilytske, Yablunivka, and Novopil over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff confirms Donetsk Oblast was affected by the overnight Russian attack.Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims a successful Russian drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot and personnel in Novaya Poltavka on the Krasnoarmeysk direction.TASS reports Russian claims of advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk).Оперативний ЗСУ provides a summary of the General Staff report, highlighting 167 total combat engagements and 54 on the Pokrovsk direction.
Cherkasy Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports explosions in Cherkasy overnight.
Vinnytsia Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones.
Poltava Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports explosions in Poltava overnight.The Ukrainian Air Force confirms Poltava Oblast was affected by the overnight attack (implied by confirmed downings in the center of the country).
Sumy Oblast (Bunyakine): Affected by Russian aerial activity. The Ukrainian General Staff reports Russian aviation strikes on Bunyakine over the past day.Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports multiple explosions in Sumy overnight.
Chernihiv Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports repeated explosions in Chernihiv overnight.
Zhytomyr Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones.
Kursk Oblast (Russia): Location of Ukrainian drone attacks and Russian military activity. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 14 combat engagements, 15 aviation strikes, 20 guided bombs, 224 artillery shellings (including 3 MLRS), and 20 guided bombs in the Kursk direction over the past day.ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing seven Ukrainian drones over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts on May 16th.
Moscow (Russia): Location of high-profile arrests and legal proceedings. Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who participated in the Victory Parade on Red Square in Moscow.
Zaporizhzhia Oblast (Novodarivka, Temirivka, Huliaipole, Kamianske, Orikhiv): Affected by Russian attacks. The Ukrainian General Staff reports Russian aviation strikes on Novodarivka, Temirivka, Huliaipole, and Kamianske over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff reports 7 enemy assaults repelled in the Orikhiv direction over the past day.Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports FABs were used in Zaporizhzhia overnight.
Voronezh (Russia): Location of an incident of vandalism against a Soviet war memorial.
Kharkiv Oblast (Kupiansk, Vovchansk, Stroivka, Izium district, Chuhuiv district): Affected by Russian aerial and artillery activity and ground assaults. The Ukrainian General Staff reports Russian aviation strikes on Kupiansk over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff reports 3 enemy attacks on the Kharkiv direction in the areas of Vovchansk and towards Stroivka over the past day.Олег Синєгубов reports 7 settlements targeted by Russian forces in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day, with 4 KABs, 2 Shahed, and 10 Geran-2 drones used, and details damage to civilian infrastructure in Kupiansk, Izium, and Chuhuiv districts.Олег Синєгубов also reiterates the General Staff's report on combat engagements in the Kharkiv and Kupiansk directions.
Khabarovsk Krai (Russia): Location of reported criminal cases.
Oryol (Russia): Location of a residential fire that has been extinguished.
Mediterranean Sea: Location of Russian naval vessels, including a Kalibr missile carrier.
Bryansk Oblast (Russia): Location of Ukrainian drone attacks. ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing three Ukrainian drones over Bryansk Oblast on May 16th.
Belgorod Oblast (Russia): Location of Ukrainian drone attacks. ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing four Ukrainian drones over Belgorod Oblast on May 16th.
Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Berezove, Nikopol district, Marhanets community, Synelnykivskyi district, Mezhivska community, Kryvorizkyi district, Zelenodolska community): Affected by Russian attacks. The Ukrainian General Staff reports Russian aviation strikes on Berezove over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff confirms Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was affected by the overnight Russian attack.Сергій Лисак reports five drones were shot down over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in the evening.
Luhansk Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts.
Crimean Peninsula (АР Крим): Affected by air raid alerts.
Shahtyorsk direction (Donetsk Oblast): Russian UAV operators are active.
Kupiansk Direction (Kharkiv/Donetsk Oblasts): Location of one enemy attack repelled by Ukrainian forces near Zahryzove. The Ukrainian General Staff reports one enemy attack in the Kupiansk direction over the past day.Олег Синєгубов reiterates the General Staff's report on combat engagements in the Kupiansk direction.
Lyman Direction (Donetsk Oblast): Location of 24 enemy attacks near multiple settlements. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 24 enemy attacks in the Lyman direction over the past day.
Siversk Direction (Donetsk Oblast): Location of ten enemy attacks in the areas of Bilohorivka and Verkhnokamyanske. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 10 enemy attacks in the Siversk direction over the past day.
Kramatorsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast): Location of eight offensive actions near Chasiv Yar and surrounding settlements. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 8 offensive actions in the Kramatorsk direction over the past day.
Toretsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast): Location of 14 enemy attacks in the areas of Toretsk, Ozaryanivka, Dyliyivka, and Druzhba. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 14 enemy attacks in the Toretsk direction over the past day.
Pokrovsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast): Location of 54 enemy assaults and offensives repelled by Ukrainian defenders near multiple settlements. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 54 assaults and offensives in the Pokrovsk direction over the past day.TASS reports Russian claims of advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk).Оперативний ЗСУ highlights 54 combat engagements on the Pokrovsk direction.
Novopavlivsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast): Location of 23 enemy attacks near multiple settlements. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 23 enemy attacks in the Novopavlivsk direction over the past day.
Orikhiv Direction (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): Location of 7 enemy assaults repelled by Ukrainian defenders near multiple settlements. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 7 enemy assaults in the Orikhiv direction over the past day.
Pridniprovskyi Direction (Kherson Oblast): Location of 2 enemy offensive actions that were unsuccessful. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 2 enemy offensive actions in the Pridniprovskyi direction over the past day.
Kursk Direction (Russia): Location of 14 combat engagements, 15 aviation strikes, 20 guided bombs, and 224 artillery shellings (including 3 MLRS) over the past day. The Ukrainian General Staff reports these activities in the Kursk direction over the past day.
Huliaipole Direction (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): No active enemy offensive actions reported over the past day. The Ukrainian General Staff reports no active enemy offensive actions in the Huliaipole direction over the past day.
Volyn and Polissia Directions (Ukraine/Belarus Border): No signs of enemy offensive formations detected. The Ukrainian General Staff reports no signs of enemy offensive formations in these directions over the past day.
Mykolaiv Oblast: Affected by Russian attacks. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports explosions in Mykolaiv overnight.
Kherson Oblast (Mykolaivka): Affected by Russian aviation strikes. The Ukrainian General Staff reports Russian aviation strikes on Mykolaivka over the past day.
Vasylkiv (Kyiv Oblast): Russian military bloggers suggest this was a specific target of the overnight drone attack. Два майора suggests Vasylkiv was a specific target of the overnight attack.
Aerial and Naval Activity (Updated):
Drone Activity: Remains extremely high and widespread. A large-scale attack utilizing 273 strike UAVs and imitator drones occurred overnight. Ukrainian air defense forces shot down 88 strike UAVs and 128 imitator drones were locationally lost. One drone is still in the air. The attack affected Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Donetsk Oblasts. Casualties and damage from the drone attack have been reported in Kyiv Oblast, including a fatality and injuries, and damage to civilian infrastructure. Downed drone debris has been found in Kyiv. Damage to window glazing in a residential building in Solomianskyi district of Kyiv has been reported. Russian forces used 2960 kamikaze drones over the past day. Russian forces also used 2 Shahed and 10 Geran-2 drones in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day. Russian military bloggers claim a successful drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot in Novaya Poltavka. Russian military bloggers suggest Vasylkiv was a specific target of the overnight Kyiv attack. Five drones were shot down over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in the evening. Russia claims downing seven Ukrainian drones over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts on May 16th. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 2960 kamikaze drones were used by Russia over the past day, and 107 Ukrainian UAVs (operational-tactical level) were lost by Russian forces over the past day.The Ukrainian Air Force reports Russia attacked with 273 strike UAVs and imitator drones overnight, shooting down 88 strike UAVs and 128 imitator drones were locationally lost. One drone is still in the air.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports 273 drones were released by Russia overnight, with 88 shot down and 128 locationally lost. One drone is still in the air.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports casualties and damage in Kyiv Oblast from the drone attack and shares a video of civilians sheltering in the Kyiv Metro during the attack.STERNENKO reports a fatality and injuries in Obukhivskyi district from the drone attack.Оперативний ЗСУ further details the casualties and damage in Kyiv Oblast from the drone attack, and the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv.КМВА reports the finding of downed enemy UAV debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv and damage to a non-residential building, and also damage to window glazing in a residential building in Solomianskyi district without casualties.РБК-Україна reports on the casualties and damage in Kyiv Oblast from the drone attack, the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district, and damage in Solomianskyi district, and also reports Russia released 273 drones overnight with 88 shot down and 128 locationally lost.Два майора reports 273 drones were released by Russia overnight and suggests Vasylkiv was a specific target of the overnight attack.Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims a successful Russian drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot and personnel in Novaya Poltavka.Сергій Лисак reports five drones were shot down over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in the evening.ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing seven Ukrainian drones over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts on May 16th.Олег Синєгубов reports 2 Shahed and 10 Geran-2 drones were used by Russia in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day.
Air Defense Activity: Ukrainian air defense forces are actively engaged in countering Russian aerial threats, with successful interceptions reported across various oblasts, including Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and the east, north, and center of the country. Downed drone debris has been found in Kyiv. Russia claims downing of Ukrainian UAVs over border regions. The Ukrainian Air Force reports shooting down 88 strike UAVs and 128 imitator drones were locationally lost out of 273 released by Russia overnight.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports 88 out of 273 drones were shot down and 128 locationally lost.Оперативний ЗСУ further details the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv.КМВА reports the finding of downed enemy UAV debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv.РБК-Україна reports the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district.Два майора includes commentary and visuals purportedly showing Ukrainian air defense work during the attack on Vasylkiv.Сергій Лисак reports five drones were shot down over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in the evening.ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing seven Ukrainian drones over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts on May 16th.Олег Синєгубов reports on the use of drones by Russia in Kharkiv Oblast, implying Ukrainian air defense engagement.The Ukrainian General Staff reports an estimated 107 Ukrainian UAVs (operational-tactical level) were lost by Russian forces over the past day, implying successful Ukrainian air defense or EW against these systems.
Artillery and MLRS Activity: Intense ground combat implies ongoing artillery fire from both sides. Russian forces conducted 4735 shellings, including 122 from MLRS, over the past day. In the Kursk direction, 224 artillery shellings and 3 MLRS were reported over the past day. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 4735 shellings, including 122 from MLRS, over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff reports 224 artillery shellings and 3 MLRS in the Kursk direction over the past day.Олег Синєгубов reports on damage from Russian shelling in Kharkiv Oblast.The Ukrainian General Staff reports an estimated 38 artillery systems and 1 MLRS were lost by Russian forces over the past day.
Aviation Activity: Russian forces conducted 75 aviation strikes, dropping 106 guided aerial bombs, over the past day. Specific areas targeted included Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson Oblasts. In the Kursk direction, 15 aviation strikes and 20 guided bombs were reported over the past day. Russian forces used 4 KABs in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day. The Ukrainian General Staff reports 75 aviation strikes, dropping 106 guided aerial bombs, over the past day, and lists specific targeted areas.The Ukrainian General Staff reports 15 aviation strikes and 20 guided bombs in the Kursk direction over the past day.Олег Синєгубов reports 4 KABs were used by Russia in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day.
Ballistic Missile Activity: Alleged use of ballistic missiles by Houthi forces against Israel.
Naval Activity: No new reports on naval engagements or carrier movements in the Black or Azov Seas. The reported maritime incident in New York is not directly related to the conflict.
Mine Clearing: A Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system in the "Special Military Operation" zone is featured in a Russian information operation video. Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system.
Diplomatic and Political Developments (Updated):
Ceasefire and Negotiation Discussions: Diplomatic efforts continue, with the US linking potential sanctions against Russia to a lack of progress in negotiations with Ukraine. Both sides are reportedly preparing documents outlining ceasefire conditions. An ISW assessment suggests the Kremlin is delaying negotiations and preparing for a prolonged war. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on the discussion between US Secretary of State Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, including the US linking sanctions to negotiation progress and both sides preparing ceasefire documents.Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on the same discussion.РБК-Україна provides a summary of overnight news, including the US confirmation that Russia will prepare a ceasefire document and Ukraine will prepare an identical document.ISW provides an assessment suggesting the Kremlin is delaying negotiations and preparing for a prolonged war.
International Pressure: The US is linking progress in negotiations to potential further sanctions against Russia. Оперативний ЗСУ reports that the US Congress will advance a bill on sanctions against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations with Ukraine.Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on the US linking sanctions to negotiation progress.
Internal Russian Politics: Internal legal proceedings, incidents of vandalism, and reports on military engineers are present in reporting. Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who participated in the Victory Parade.
Russia-Ukraine Diplomatic Activity: Direct diplomatic exchanges are anticipated regarding ceasefire conditions. Оперативний ЗСУ reports that Ukraine and Russia are preparing their versions of documents with a vision of the conditions for a ceasefire.
Eurovision 2025: The outcome of the Eurovision contest is reported. РБК-Україна provides a summary of overnight news, including the Eurovision outcome.
International Incidents: A maritime incident in New York is reported. ТАСС reports on a maritime incident in New York where a Mexican Navy sailing vessel collided with the Brooklyn Bridge, resulting in injuries.РБК-Україна provides a summary of overnight news, including the maritime incident in New York (implicitly as it is a major overnight event).
Middle East Tensions: Alleged Houthi ballistic missile attack on Israel reported.
Energy Security: Turkey announces the discovery of a giant new gas field in the Black Sea.
ISW Assessment: ISW provides an assessment of the Kremlin's negotiation strategy. ISW provides an assessment suggesting the Kremlin is intentionally delaying negotiations and preparing for a prolonged war, viewing territorial claims as prerequisites for a ceasefire.
Internal Russian Issues (Updated):
Internal Security: Reports of explosions and a fire at a machine-testing station in Podolsk, Moscow region. Internal legal proceedings and incidents of vandalism are ongoing. Ukrainian drone attacks in border regions (previously reported). ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing seven Ukrainian drones over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts on May 16th.
Military Performance and Capabilities: Russian forces are actively engaged in ground combat and utilizing aviation, artillery, and drones. Russia claims to have stabilized the frontline and created conditions for further advances in Kharkiv Oblast. Tactical operations involving artillery support and strike UAVs are being highlighted. Russia also claims the destruction of Ukrainian drone control points and a Starlink station. A Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system is featured. Russia claims a successful drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot in Novaya Poltavka. Russia claims advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk). The Ukrainian General Staff provides a comprehensive report on Russian military activity over the past day, including 167 combat engagements, 75 aviation strikes, 106 guided aerial bombs, 2960 kamikaze drones, and 4735 shellings (including 122 MLRS).The Ukrainian General Staff reports 14 combat engagements, 15 aviation strikes, 20 guided bombs, and 224 artillery shellings (including 3 MLRS) in the Kursk direction over the past day.Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system.Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims a successful Russian drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot and personnel in Novaya Poltavka.TASS reports Russian claims of advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk).ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing seven Ukrainian drones over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts on May 16th.Олег Синєгубов reports on Russian use of KABs and drones in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff reports estimated Russian losses over the past day, including personnel, tanks, armored fighting vehicles, artillery systems, MLRS, UAVs, and vehicles/fuel tanks.РБК-Україна reports estimated Russian losses over the past day.Два майора suggests Vasylkiv was a specific target of the overnight attack on Kyiv Oblast.
Casualties: Tragically, the ongoing Russian drone attack has resulted in one fatality and three injuries in Obukhivskyi district, Kyiv Oblast. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports a fatality and injuries in Kyiv Oblast.STERNENKO reports a fatality and injuries in Obukhivskyi district.Оперативний ЗСУ further details the casualties in Obukhivskyi district.РБК-Україна reports on the casualties in Kyiv Oblast.The Ukrainian General Staff reports estimated Russian personnel losses over the past day: 1130.РБК-Україна reports estimated Russian personnel losses over the past day: 1130.
Information Operations and Propaganda: Russian sources continue to promote narratives of military success and criticize Ukrainian actions. The claimed capture of Volnoye Pole is being used to promote a narrative of Russian military success. Russia claims to have destroyed Ukrainian drone control points and a Starlink station. A Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system is featured. Russia claims a successful drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot. Russia claims advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk). Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system in the "Special Military Operation" zone, which serves as information operation.Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a Russian perspective on the discussion between US Secretary of State Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov.Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims a successful Russian drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot and personnel in Novaya Poltavka and shares a video.TASS reports Russian claims of advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk).Два майора shares commentary from @lost_armour suggesting Vasylkiv was a specific target of the overnight Kyiv attack and includes videos/photos purportedly showing the results and Ukrainian air defense work, which is part of Russian information operation.
Law Enforcement and Criminal Activity: Legal proceedings against individuals are reported.
Military Commemoration and Morale: A Russian military engineer who participated in the Victory Parade is featured in a video. Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who participated in the Victory Parade.АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА shares a routine "Good Sunday Morning" post with a request for prayers for soldiers, serving as morale-boosting.Басурин о главном shares a historical account and painting commemorating a Russian naval victory and the founding of the Baltic Fleet, aimed at highlighting historical narratives and potentially boosting morale.
Support for Military Personnel: Colonelcassad is promoting a new film about volunteer activities and the Russian military. A Russian military engineer is featured. Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system.АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА shares a routine "Good Sunday Morning" post with a request for prayers for soldiers.
Consumer Goods Standards: ТАСС reports that Rosstandart is developing a set of state standards for baby food and its ingredients.
Domestic Regulations: ТАСС reports on regulations regarding placing a dash instead of a signature in a Russian citizen's passport. TASS reports that Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova commented on the complexity of transferring the main amount of maternal capital to the second child.
Support and Rehabilitation (Updated)
Military Support (Ukraine): Ukrainian forces are actively engaged in ground combat and air defense, indicating ongoing operational capabilities and support for personnel. Estimated Russian equipment losses reported by the Ukrainian General Staff highlight the effectiveness of Ukrainian forces and the need for continued support. The Ukrainian General Staff reports estimated Russian equipment losses over the past day.РБК-Україна reports estimated Russian equipment losses over the past day.Олег Синєгубов reports on damage to civilian infrastructure in Kharkiv Oblast, implying the need for humanitarian support and potentially military assistance for defense.
Military Support (Russia): Russian forces are actively engaged in ground combat and utilizing aviation, artillery, and drones, indicating ongoing military support for their operations. A Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system is featured. Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system.АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА shares a routine "Good Sunday Morning" post with a request for prayers for soldiers, serving as a form of support.
Humanitarian Impact of Russian Attacks: Tragically, the ongoing Russian drone attack has resulted in one fatality and three injuries in Obukhivskyi district, Kyiv Oblast, with damage to civilian property and infrastructure. A fire also occurred at a feed mill in Fastivskyi district. Damage to window glazing in a residential building in Solomianskyi district of Kyiv has been reported. Downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv caused minor damage to a non-residential building but no casualties, highlighting the potential for wider humanitarian impact. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports a fatality and injuries in Kyiv Oblast and provides details of damage in Obukhivskyi, Fastivskyi, and Holosiivskyi districts.STERNENKO reports a fatality and injuries in Obukhivskyi district.Оперативний ЗСУ further details the casualties and damage in Obukhivskyi and Fastivskyi districts, and the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv.КМВА reports the finding of downed enemy UAV debris in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv and damage to a non-residential building, and also damage to window glazing in a residential building in Solomianskyi district without casualties.РБК-Україна reports on the casualties and damage in Kyiv Oblast, the finding of downed drone debris in the Holosiivskyi district, and damage in Solomianskyi district.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video of civilians sheltering in the Kyiv Metro during the attack.Олег Синєгубов reports on damage to civilian infrastructure in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day, including private houses, a bakery, a multi-story building, a power line, farming infrastructure, and a gas distribution node, with no casualties.
Civilian Support (Russia): TASS reports that Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova commented on the complexity of transferring the main amount of maternal capital to the second child, a domestic social support program.
Force Composition and Tactics (Updated)
Ukraine: Actively defending against intense Russian assaults and a large-scale drone attack across multiple fronts and oblasts. Engaging Russian aerial targets with air defense systems, with successful engagements reported across various regions. Inflicting significant personnel and equipment losses on Russian forces. Experiencing civilian casualties and infrastructure damage from Russian shelling and aerial attacks. The Ukrainian General Staff provides comprehensive reports on combat engagements across multiple directions, including the number of attacks repelled in each area.The Ukrainian General Staff reports that over the past day, Ukrainian aviation, missile troops, and artillery struck four areas of concentration of Russian personnel, weapons, and military equipment, and four enemy artillery systems.The Ukrainian General Staff provides estimated Russian losses over the past day, including personnel, tanks, armored fighting vehicles, artillery systems, MLRS, UAVs, and vehicles/fuel tanks.The Ukrainian Air Force reports shooting down 88 strike UAVs and 128 imitator drones out of 273 released by Russia overnight.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports 88 out of 273 drones were shot down and 128 locationally lost.Сергій Лисак reports five drones were shot down over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in the evening.Олег Синєгубов reports on damage from Russian attacks in Kharkiv Oblast, implying Ukrainian defensive actions.The Ukrainian General Staff reports an estimated 107 Ukrainian UAVs (operational-tactical level) were lost by Russian forces over the past day, implying Ukrainian UAV usage.
Russia: Conducting intense ground assaults across multiple fronts, claiming tactical successes. Utilizing extensive aerial assets, including a large number of strike UAVs and guided aerial bombs (KABs), and a variety of other drones. Employing artillery and MLRS extensively. Experiencing significant personnel and equipment losses according to Ukrainian reports. Undergoing high-level military command changes (previously reported). The Ukrainian General Staff reports 167 combat engagements across multiple directions over the past day, with specific numbers of attacks in each area, including 54 on the Pokrovsk, 24 on the Lyman, and 23 on the Novopavlivsk directions.The Ukrainian General Staff reports that over the past day, Russian forces conducted 75 aviation strikes, dropping 106 guided aerial bombs, employing 2960 kamikaze drones, and carrying out 4735 shellings, including 122 from MLRS.The Ukrainian General Staff reports 14 combat engagements, 15 aviation strikes, 20 guided bombs, and 224 artillery shellings (including 3 MLRS) in the Kursk direction over the past day.The Ukrainian Air Force reports Russia attacked with 273 strike UAVs and imitator drones overnight.ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports 273 drones were released by Russia overnight.Два майора reports 273 drones were released by Russia overnight and suggests Vasylkiv was a specific target.Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims a successful Russian drone strike on a Ukrainian ammunition depot in Novaya Poltavka.TASS reports Russian claims of advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk).ASTRA reports Russian claims of downing seven Ukrainian drones over Belgorod and Bryansk Oblasts on May 16th.Олег Синєгубов reports on Russian use of KABs and drones in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day.The Ukrainian General Staff reports estimated Russian losses over the past day, including personnel, tanks, armored fighting vehicles, artillery systems, MLRS, UAVs, and vehicles/fuel tanks.РБК-Україна reports estimated Russian losses over the past day.Colonelcassad features a Russian military engineer who worked with the UR-77 mine clearing system.
Third-Party Involvement: The outcome of the Eurovision contest is reported, involving multiple countries. A maritime incident in New York is reported, involving a vessel colliding with the Brooklyn Bridge. Alleged Houthi ballistic missile attack on Israel is reported. Turkey announces the discovery of a giant new gas field in the Black Sea. The US is involved in diplomatic discussions.
Strategic Considerations (Updated)
The comprehensive report from the Ukrainian General Staff on combat engagements across multiple fronts, totaling 167 over the past day with particularly high numbers in the Pokrovsk (54), Lyman (24), and Novopavlivsk (23) directions, is a crucial strategic update. It confirms that Russia is maintaining intense pressure on multiple axes simultaneously, indicating a strategic objective of stretching Ukrainian defenses and seeking breakthroughs in these key areas. The detailed numbers provide critical data for assessing the intensity of fighting in each sector and allocating resources accordingly.
The scale of Russian aerial and artillery activity over the past day, including 75 aviation strikes, 106 guided aerial bombs, 2960 kamikaze drones, and 4735 shellings, is strategically significant. It highlights Russia's continued reliance on overwhelming firepower and aerial assets to support its ground operations and inflict damage across Ukrainian territory. The use of guided aerial bombs on a wide range of locations, including civilian infrastructure, underscores the strategic objective of degrading Ukraine's capabilities and infrastructure across the country.
The overnight Russian aerial attack involving 273 strike UAVs and imitator drones, resulting in 88 confirmed downings of strike UAVs, is a significant strategic event. It demonstrates Russia's continued capacity to launch large-scale aerial assaults targeting multiple regions, including the capital. The use of a large number of imitator drones alongside strike UAVs is a strategic tactic aimed at overwhelming Ukrainian air defense systems and increasing the likelihood of strike drone penetration. The tragic outcome of this attack in Kyiv Oblast, with a fatality and injuries, along with damage to civilian infrastructure, highlights the strategic objective of inflicting harm and disruption beyond military targets. The detailed reporting on the scale and composition of the attack provides critical intelligence for refining air defense strategies and resource allocation.
The estimated Russian losses reported by the Ukrainian General Staff over the past day, including 1130 personnel, 38 artillery systems, and 107 UAVs, are strategically important. These figures, if accurate, indicate significant attrition of Russian forces and equipment, which directly impacts Russia's ability to sustain its offensive operations. Reporting these losses serves as a strategic communication to highlight the effectiveness of Ukrainian defense and garner continued international support.
The Russian military blogger's claim that Vasylkiv was a specific target of the overnight Kyiv attack is strategically relevant. Vasylkiv hosts an airbase and logistics center, making it a high-value military target. If verified, this suggests a strategic objective of degrading Ukrainian air capabilities and logistical support in the Kyiv region.
The Russian claim of advances near Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk) is strategically significant as it is a key area of intense ground combat. If verified, this would represent a tactical gain with potential strategic implications for controlling key routes and potentially advancing towards larger urban centers in the Donbas. This aligns with the high number of combat engagements reported by the Ukrainian General Staff in the Pokrovsk direction (54).
The Russian information operation featuring a combat engineer and the UR-77 mine clearing system is strategically aimed at highlighting a specific military capability important for overcoming defensive obstacles. Linking this to participation in the Victory Parade connects current military actions to historical patriotic narratives, intended to bolster morale and support for the "Special Military Operation."
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.
