Sitrep 2025-05-19 07:44:44

Operational Intelligence Briefing - Major Updates and Analysis (May 19, 2025, 07:43 UTC)

Updated Situation

The operational environment remains characterized by intense ground combat, particularly in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts, a persistent and geographically widespread Russian aerial offensive employing strike drones and guided aerial bombs (KABs), and ongoing diplomatic efforts intertwined with conflicting military signals. The latest reporting provides further detail on the massive overnight Russian drone attack involving 112 UAVs, with Ukrainian air defense forces claiming to have neutralized 76 (41 destroyed by fire, 35 suppressed by EW), and highlights impacts in Kharkiv, Sumy, Donetsk, Cherkasy, and Kirovohrad Oblasts. Intense ground fighting continues across multiple directions, with Russian sources claiming tactical advances and the liberation of settlements. Russian forces continue to employ guided aerial bombs, and a variety of drone types, while also reportedly engaging in counter-drone efforts. Diplomatic discussions and international political developments continue to be reported, with ongoing commentary from various sources. Internal Russian affairs, including legal proceedings and information operations, remain relevant. Ukrainian sources are highlighting successful military actions and commemorating key historical events. A significant development is the reported Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulting in one fatality and one critically injured civilian, and a similar attack on a car in Kherson city, injuring two civilians. Another key report is the Ukrainian SBU's claimed destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using a combination of surface and aerial drones. Russian military bloggers are discussing negotiations, battlefield effectiveness, and internal Russian issues, while also highlighting the ongoing need for and acquisition of equipment through fundraising. Evacuations are ongoing in border regions of Sumy Oblast due to increased shelling. Russian sources are claiming the liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast and tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions, including entering Novolekseyevka. Russia is also claiming to have downed 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts. Ukraine is reporting a fatality and three injuries from Russian shelling in Kherson city overnight. Ukraine is reporting repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast. Ukraine is reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade operating on the Pokrovsk direction. Russian sources are detailing the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR, highlighting the use of armored personnel carriers, FPV drones, and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems. Ukrainian sources are reporting on the sentencing of a Ukrainian serviceman for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast.

Changes to the Situation from New Messages:

Ukrainian SBU Claims Destruction of Russian Radar and Warehouses on Black Sea Platforms: ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and РБК-Україна share videos and reports claiming that the Ukrainian SBU used a combination of surface and aerial drones to destroy a Russian "Neva" radar station and warehouses located on Ukrainian gas production platforms in the Black Sea. The reports emphasize the effectiveness of using two types of drones in combination and state that the radar was used for monitoring air and surface conditions. STERNENKO also shares this information, noting that FPV drones purchased through their fundraising were used in the operation. This is a significant claim of a successful Ukrainian strike against Russian assets at sea, degrading their reconnaissance capabilities and potentially impacting their control of strategic infrastructure in the Black Sea. Два майора comments on this, noting that the SBU showed footage of using unmanned surface vessels (USVs) with drones and alleging that the use of Starlink is why Ukraine can control these assets.
Details on Massive Overnight Russian Drone Attack: Оперативний ЗСУ, РБК-Україна, ASTRA, and Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provide detailed reports on the massive overnight Russian drone attack. They confirm that Russia attacked with 112 strike UAVs (specifically "Shaheds" and other types) and imitator drones. Ukrainian air defense forces reportedly neutralized 76 of these drones by 09:30 on May 19th, with 41 destroyed by fire and 35 locationally lost or suppressed by EW. The attack impacted Kharkiv, Sumy, Donetsk, Cherkasy, and Kirovohrad Oblasts. The Ukrainian Air Force also announced a change in reporting format for night attacks due to new enemy tactics and increased use of UAVs and imitators. This provides crucial detail on the scale, composition, and effectiveness of the Russian aerial assault and the Ukrainian response.
Russian Claim of Liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast: Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports that fighters of the "Sever" group continue to create a security zone along the Russian borders and have destroyed the remaining Ukrainian occupiers in the border areas and liberated the village of Maryino in Sumy Oblast. This is a significant Russian claim of territorial gain in a border region. The report also notes that Ukrainian authorities previously announced the evacuation of over 200 settlements in Sumy Oblast.
Russian Claim of Downed Ukrainian Drones Overnight (35 total): Военкор Котенок and Colonelcassad report that 35 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight by air defense duty means: 26 over the territory of the Republic of Crimea, eight over Bryansk Oblast, and one over Belgorod Oblast. This provides a Russian perspective on the scale and location of Ukrainian drone activity targeting Russian territory and occupied Crimea.
Ukrainian Report of Fatality and Injuries from Shelling in Kherson City: Офіс Генерального прокурора reports that as a result of Russian artillery shelling of Kherson city overnight on May 18, 2025, a 75-year-old woman was killed and three other people were injured. Private residential buildings and multi-story buildings were also damaged. A criminal investigation has been initiated. This is a tragic report of civilian casualties and damage from Russian shelling in a frontline city.
Russian Drone Attack on Civilian Car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, Resulting in Civilian Casualties: Север.Реалии reports that a Ukrainian drone attacked an bus in Shebekino, injuring the driver. However, later reports from Два майора, Военкор Котенок, and ASTRA clarify that a Ukrainian drone attacked a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulting in the death of one woman and critical injury to another woman, who has an open craniocerebral injury and multiple shrapnel wounds. Two vehicles were damaged. This highlights a tragic incident with civilian casualties in a Russian border region, attributed by Russia to a Ukrainian drone. Два майора also reports on this, confirming the fatality and severe injury and expressing condolences. Военкор Котенок also confirms the fatality and critical injury. ASTRA also reports the fatality and injury, citing the governor.
Ukrainian SBU Claims Destruction of Russian Radar and Warehouses on Black Sea Platforms (RBC-Ukraine): РБК-Україна shares a video and report similar to ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAIGHTS and STERNENKO, claiming the SBU used drones (surface and aerial) to destroy a Russian radar and warehouses on "Boyko's towers" (gas production platforms) in the Black Sea. This reinforces the claim of a successful Ukrainian strike against Russian assets at sea using combined drone tactics.
Russian Claim of Preventing Attacks on Police in Stavropolye: ТАСС, Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны, ASTRA, and Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 report that the Russian FSB prevented planned attacks on police on May 9th in Stavropolye. Nine individuals, eight of whom were reportedly minors (14-16 years old), were allegedly involved as followers of a "international terrorist organization" and planned to attack police during Victory Day celebrations. One detained individual has reportedly confessed. TASS shares a video of the interrogations. This highlights internal security concerns and counter-terrorism efforts within Russia, involving minors.
Presentation of Book on the Destruction of the Moskva Cruiser: Генеральний штаб ЗСУ shares a video reporting on the presentation of a book titled "The Hunt for the Cruiser Moskva" in Kyiv. The book is described as a fundamental study of the Ukrainian military operation to destroy the Moskva, focusing on the planning and execution and the role of Ukrainian engineers, military, and intelligence officers. This is a strategic communication effort by Ukraine to commemorate a significant military success and highlight the professionalism and courage of their forces. РБК-Україна also shares a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage of the strike, and mentions the book presentation.
Repeated KAB Launches by Russian Tactical Aviation on Sumy Oblast: Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs (KABs) by Russian tactical aviation on Sumy Oblast. This confirms continued heavy bombardment in this border region.
Russian Claim of Advances on Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk Directions, Including Novolekseyevka: Colonelcassad shares a map with annotations detailing changes on the map over the past day. These claimed changes include advancement south of Grekovka, expansion of the control zone southwest of Makeevka, Russian forces entering Novolekseyevka (administratively part of Yablonovka), Russian forces assaulting Novopol and Zelenoe Pole, advancement to Poltavka, and expansion of the control zone north of Kotlyarovka. The report states that overall, problems have significantly worsened for the enemy on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions. This is a significant Russian claim of tactical successes across multiple settlements and directions in Donetsk Oblast.
Ukraine Reports Change in Command of 59th Separate Motorized Brigade on Pokrovsk Direction: STERNENKO reports that there has been a change in the commander of the 59th Separate Assault Brigade fighting on the Pokrovsk direction. Lieutenant Colonel Bohdan Shevchuk has been replaced by Colonel Oleksandr Sak. The reasons are unknown but speculated to be related to the complication of the situation on the part of the Pokrovsk direction where the 59th Brigade holds the defense. STERNENKO states they know Sak personally and view him as an adequate and results-oriented commander who takes care of his personnel. This highlights potential command adjustments in response to challenging battlefield conditions in a key area of intense fighting.
Russian Claim of Liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR: MoD Russia reports that servicemen of the 242nd Motorised Rifle Regiment of the "Tsentr" Group of Forces liberated Aleksandopol in the Donetsk People's Republic. The report details the tactics used, including an unexpected maneuver by assault detachments using armored personnel carriers, neutralization of enemy armored vehicles and pickup trucks, and active use of FPV drones and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems to disrupt enemy rotation and eliminate manpower. This is a detailed Russian claim of a specific territorial gain and the tactics employed. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition also shares a video from Aleksandopol with commentary on the fighting.
Ukrainian Sentencing of Servicemember for Appropriation and Sale of Military Property: Офіс Генерального прокурора reports that a servicemember has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the appropriation and sale of military property worth 4.5 million UAH. The servicemember, a sergeant in charge of material support for an assault company in a military unit in Sumy Oblast, appropriated night vision devices and thermal imaging binoculars and sold them for 430,000 UAH. Over 3 million UAH was recovered during the pre-trial investigation. The servicemember pleaded guilty. This highlights internal legal proceedings within the Ukrainian military related to corruption and accountability, specifically in Sumy Oblast.

Areas of Significant Activity (Updated)

Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast: Affected by a large-scale Russian drone attack overnight, resulting in impacts and air defense activity. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Kyiv Oblast.
Donetsk Oblast (Pokrovsk, Novopavlivka, Orikhiv, Prydniprovskyi, Bogatyr, Krasnoarmeysk, Krasnolimansky direction, Serebryanka, Kurakhovo, Dacha area, Aleksandopol, Grekovka, Makeevka, Novolekseyevka, Yablonovka, Novopol, Zelenoe Pole, Poltavka, Kotlyarovka, Chasiv Yar): Intense ground combat continues across multiple directions. Russian forces claim advances and liberation of Bogatyr, Aleksandopol, and Maryino, assessing their strategic impact. Russian forces claim advances on the Krasnolimansky, Southern Donetsk, and Krasnoarmeysk directions, including entering Novolekseyevka and assaulting Novopol and Zelenoe Pole. Russian forces are reportedly using FPV drones to target Ukrainian assets near Serebryanka and Bogatyr. Ukrainian forces repelled numerous attacks in the Novopavlivka, Orikhiv, and Prydniprovskyi directions in the South. Ukraine claims a large cache of NATO-style weapons was discovered near Kurakhovo. A Russian soldier captured on the Kherson direction (Dacha area) is reported. Fighting continues in Chasiv Yar. Affected by Russian aerial assaults overnight. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Donetsk Oblast. Russian forces are detailing the liberation of Aleksandopol. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions, including entering Novolekseyevka. Ukraine is reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade operating on the Pokrovsk direction due to the complicated situation.
Kharkiv Oblast: Affected by Russian aerial and artillery activity and ground assaults. Russian tactical aviation is active on the eastern direction with a threat of guided aerial weapons. KABs were launched by Russian tactical aviation on the border of Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts and on Sumy Oblast. An enemy UAV is heading towards Kharkiv from the north. Affected by the overnight Russian aerial assault. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Kharkiv Oblast. ОТУ "Харків" reports on the operational situation in the Kharkiv operational zone, detailing Russian aviation strikes, KABs, kamikaze drones, and shelling, and Ukrainian successes in destroying Russian personnel, equipment, and shelters.
Sumy Oblast (Shostka community, Esman community, Konotop, Verkhnie Pishchane, Maryino, Bilopolska community, Vorozhbyanska community, Nova Sloboda, Miropolskoye): Affected by Russian aerial and artillery activity. Russian tactical aviation launched KABs on Sumy Oblast. Two people were injured and infrastructure was damaged by Russian drone attacks overnight. Enemy targets are moving southwest from the Sumy border. Affected by the overnight Russian aerial assault. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Sumy Oblast. Evacuations are ongoing in border regions of Sumy Oblast due to increased shelling. Два майора reports on the ongoing evacuation of 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims the liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports the sentencing of a Ukrainian servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast. Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports.
Zaporizhzhia Oblast (Mala Tokmachka): Affected by Russian aerial and artillery activity. Russian military bloggers report ongoing assaults near Mala Tokmachka. Russian aviation strikes were conducted on civilian and critical infrastructure in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts (KABs, NAR). Affected by FPV drone strikes on civilians. Affected by Russian artillery attacks on frontline territories.
Turkey (Istanbul): Continues to be a location for diplomatic discussions, although the timing and progress remain uncertain.
Russia (Belgorod Oblast - Shebekino, Bryansk Oblast, Crimea, Stavropolye, Kalmykia, Magnitogorsk, Moscow, Kursk, Shyolkovo, Podolsk, Khabarovsk Krai, Voronezh, Oryol, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast - Demkovo, Buryatia - Novy Enhaluk): Internal issues and security concerns continue, including preventing attacks on police involving minors. Russian forces claim downing Ukrainian drones over border regions and Crimea. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino resulted in civilian casualties. Fatal accidents were reported in Kalmykia and Magnitogorsk. A murder and dismemberment case was reported in Moscow. Affected by reported Ukrainian drone activity targeting Russian territory and occupied Crimea. Russian military bloggers provide commentary on negotiations, battlefield effectiveness, and internal Russian issues. Ongoing construction of military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders is reported. An incident of vandalism against a Soviet war memorial was reported in Voronezh. A residential fire was reported in Oryol. The arrest of Vladimir Smerkis on fraud charges and the closure of a case against Morgenstern were reported in Moscow. Weekly summary of criminal cases in Khabarovsk Krai was released. The remains of a Ukrainian scientist who disappeared in Buryatia 16 years ago were reportedly found. Fundraising efforts for Russian military personnel are ongoing. Development of state standards for baby food is reported. The arrest of the founder and former general director of "Rusagro" is requested to be extended. Russian military bloggers are promoting handcrafted knives. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea (26), Bryansk (8), and Belgorod (1) Oblasts. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in civilian casualties. The FSB prevented planned attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. ТАСС shares a video of interrogations of the detained teenagers in Stavropolye. MoD Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances in various directions, including near Makeevka, Novolekseyevka, Yablonovka, Novopol, Zelenoe Pole, Poltavka, and Kotlyarovka. Два майора reports on the ongoing evacuation of 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast, and attributes it to Russia creating a buffer zone after "liberating" Kursk Oblast. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims the liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast and reports on FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region. Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports.
Romania: Location of recent presidential election.
Libya (Tripoli): Mentioned in a summary of events in Black Africa by a Russian military blogger.
Congo: Mentioned in a summary of events in Black Africa by a Russian military blogger.
Sudan (Darfur): Mentioned in a summary of events in Black Africa by a Russian military blogger.
Ukraine (Cherkasy Oblast, Kirovohrad Oblast, Mykolaiv Oblast, Kherson Oblast - Kherson city, Dacha area, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast - Kryvyi Rih, Vinnytsia, Poltava, Chernihiv, Zhytomyr): Affected by widespread Russian drone attacks overnight. Affected by FPV drone strikes on civilians, Russian artillery attacks on frontline territories, and Russian aviation strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure (KABs, NAR). Civilian casualties were reported due to Russian aggression, including from a drone attack on a car in Kherson city. A Russian soldier captured in the Dacha area is reported. Kryvyi Rih is providing support to doctors on the front line. Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Presentation of a book about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser in Kyiv. Fundraising for FPV drones is ongoing. Threatening relatives of a Ukrainian soldier who reportedly went to Russia is reported by a Russian source. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Cherkasy and Kirovohrad Oblasts. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports a fatality and three injuries from Russian shelling in Kherson city overnight. РБК-Україна also reports on the casualties and damage in Kherson city from overnight shelling. РБК-Україна shares a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast. Ukraine is reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade operating on the Pokrovsk direction. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports the sentencing of a Ukrainian servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast.
Australia: Location of confirmed shipment of Abrams tanks to Ukraine.
United States: Discussion among leaders and Trump regarding Ukraine and sanctions. US is preparing new sanctions against Russia. Criticism from the Trump camp regarding the effectiveness of current policy. Reportedly allowed Australia to send retired Abrams tanks to Ukraine, with some US officials questioning their utility in drone warfare.
Germany: Discussion among leaders and Trump regarding Ukraine and sanctions.
France: Discussion among leaders and Trump regarding Ukraine and sanctions.
United Kingdom: Discussion among leaders and Trump regarding Ukraine and sanctions.
Italy: Discussion among leaders and Trump regarding Ukraine and sanctions.
Poland: Candidates for the second round of presidential elections are reported. Russia is conducting an information operation during the elections.
Black Sea: Location of Ukrainian SBU's claimed destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. Presence of a Russian Kalibr missile carrier reported during oil transshipment near Gibraltar. No enemy warships or Kalibr missile carriers were detected in the Black Sea as of 06:00 UTC. A Ukrainian boat was reportedly destroyed in the South. Presentation of a book about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser in Kyiv. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. РБК-Україна shares a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage.
Azov Sea: No enemy warships or Kalibr missile carriers were detected as of 06:00 UTC.
Mediterranean Sea: Three enemy ships, including one Kalibr carrier, are present. Russian oil transshipment activities near Gibraltar are reported.
Finland: Ongoing construction of Russian military infrastructure near the border is reported.
Estonia: Ongoing construction of Russian military infrastructure near the border is reported.
Argentina: Video about antisemitism in Argentina shared by a Russian source.
Dnieper River: A Ukrainian boat was reportedly destroyed in the South.

Aerial and Naval Activity (Updated):

Drone Activity: Extremely high and widespread. A massive overnight Russian attack involved 112 strike UAVs and imitator drones, with 76 neutralized by air defense (41 kinetic, 35 EW). The attack impacted multiple oblasts. Russian forces used 2960 kamikaze drones over the past day and almost 300 drone drops in the South. 590 kamikaze drone strikes occurred in the South. Two people were injured and infrastructure was damaged by Russian drone attacks in Sumy Oblast. An enemy UAV is heading towards Kharkiv from the north. Enemy targets are moving southwest from the Sumy border. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian UAVs overnight over Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts (26 Crimea, 8 Bryansk, 1 Belgorod). A Ukrainian drone reportedly attacked a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulting in civilian casualties. Russians dropped explosives from a drone onto a car in Kherson city, injuring two civilians. Russian forces are reportedly using FPV drones to target Ukrainian communication and EW stations near Serebryanka and Bogatyr. Ukrainian military bloggers claim Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian personnel. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. Fundraising for FPV drones is ongoing in Ukraine. Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed 2 Shahed-136 strike UAVs and 3 antenna control UAVs in the Southern direction. Russian forces are using FPV drones and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems in tactical operations, such as the liberation of Aleksandopol. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Details on the massive overnight Russian drone attack confirm 112 strike UAVs and imitators were used, with 76 neutralized. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea (26), Bryansk (8), and Belgorod (1) Oblasts. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in civilian casualties. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. MoD Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol, detailing the use of FPV drones and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian use of 116 kamikaze drones and 60 destroyed Ukrainian drones in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Air Defense Activity: Ukrainian air defense actively countered a massive overnight Russian drone attack, neutralizing 76 out of 112 UAVs using kinetic and EW means. Air defense measures are being employed against an enemy UAV heading towards Kharkiv. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian UAVs overnight over Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts. NATO is conducting aerial reconnaissance, which involves air defense systems being on alert. Details on the massive overnight Russian drone attack confirm 76 out of 112 UAVs were neutralized by air defense. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian UAVs overnight across Crimea (26), Bryansk (8), and Belgorod (1) Oblasts. ОТУ "Харків" reports the destruction of 60 Ukrainian drones and 2 EW assets in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Guided Aerial Bombs (KABs): Continued extensive use by Russian forces. 124 guided aerial bombs were used by the aggressor over the past day. Russian tactical aviation launched KABs on the border of Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts and on Sumy Oblast. Two guided aerial bombs were used in nine Russian aviation strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts in the South. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian use of 4 KABs in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Aviation Activity: Russian forces conducted 78 aviation strikes over the past day. Russian tactical aviation is active on the eastern direction with a threat of guided aerial weapons for frontline areas. KABs were launched by Russian tactical aviation on the border of Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts and on Sumy Oblast. Nine Russian aviation strikes were conducted on civilian and critical infrastructure in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts in the South, using two guided aerial bombs (KABs) and a hundred unguided aerial missiles (NAR). Ongoing construction of military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders is reported, which includes shelters for fighter jets. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast by Russian tactical aviation. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian use of 3 aviation strikes in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Naval Activity: Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. A Russian Kalibr missile carrier is present near Gibraltar in the Mediterranean Sea. No enemy warships or Kalibr missile carriers were detected in the Black or Azov Seas as of 06:00 UTC. Three enemy ships, including one Kalibr carrier, are present in the Mediterranean Sea. One boat was reportedly destroyed by Ukrainian forces in the Southern direction over the past day. Presentation of a book about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser in Kyiv. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. РБК-Україна shares a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage of the strike.
Artillery and MLRS Activity: Intense ground combat implies ongoing artillery fire from both sides. Russian forces conducted 5134 shellings, including 116 from MLRS, over the past day. Over 320 enemy shellings using 1400 munitions occurred in the South over the past day. Russian artillery attacks were conducted on frontline territories of Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts in the South. Two cannons and two mortars were reportedly destroyed by Ukrainian forces in the Southern direction over the past day. A large cache of NATO-style weapons and ammunition, including artillery and mortar shells, was discovered near Kurakhovo. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports a fatality and three injuries from Russian artillery shelling in Kherson city overnight. РБК-Україна also reports on the casualties and damage in Kherson city from overnight shelling. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian use of 570 shellings in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Electronic Warfare (EW): 35 Russian UAVs were locationally lost or suppressed by EW overnight. Russian forces are reportedly using FPV drones to target Ukrainian EW stations near Serebryanka and Bogatyr. Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed an EW asset over the past day (implied from ОТУ "Харків" previous report). Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed 4 Starlink antennas and 4 communication antennas in the Southern direction over the past day, which are related to communication and potentially EW targeting. Details on the massive overnight Russian drone attack confirm 35 out of 112 UAVs were suppressed by EW. ОТУ "Харків" reports the destruction of 2 EW assets in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Unguided Aerial Missiles (NAR): Used by Russian aviation in strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure in the South. A hundred unguided aerial missiles were used in nine Russian aviation strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts in the South.
Mine Warfare: A large cache of NATO-style weapons and ammunition, including over 100 German anti-tank mines, was discovered near Kurakhovo.

Diplomatic and Political Developments (Updated):

Ceasefire and Negotiation Discussions: Diplomatic efforts continue. US and Europe will strengthen sanctions if Russia does not negotiate in good faith. Criticism from the Trump camp on current sanctions.
Russia-Ukraine Diplomatic Activity: Direct diplomatic exchanges are anticipated regarding ceasefire conditions.
International Pressure: US and Europe will strengthen sanctions against Russia if negotiations are not in good faith. Criticism from the Trump camp on current sanctions. US reportedly allowed Australia to send retired Abrams tanks to Ukraine, with some US officials questioning their utility in drone warfare.
Internal Russian Politics: Internal legal proceedings and security concerns continue, including preventing attacks on police involving minors. A murder and dismemberment case was reported in Moscow. Fatal accidents were reported in Kalmykia and Magnitogorsk. Ongoing construction of military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders is reported. An incident of vandalism against a Soviet war memorial was reported in Voronezh. A residential fire was reported in Oryol. The arrest of Vladimir Smerkis on fraud charges and the closure of a case against Morgenstern were reported in Moscow. Weekly summary of criminal cases in Khabarovsk Krai was released. The remains of a Ukrainian scientist who disappeared in Buryatia 16 years ago were reportedly found. Development of state standards for baby food is reported. The arrest of the founder and former general director of "Rusagro" is requested to be extended. Russian military bloggers are promoting handcrafted knives. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. The FSB prevented planned attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. ТАСС shares a video of interrogations of the detained teenagers in Stavropolye. Два майора reports on the ongoing evacuation of 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast, and attributes it to Russia creating a buffer zone after "liberating" Kursk Oblast. Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports.
Romania Presidential Election: Outcome reported.
Polish Presidential Election: Candidates for the second round are reported. Russia is conducting an information operation during the elections.
US Politics: Health of former President Biden reported.
Russia-US Relations: Planned conversation between Trump and Putin.
Black Africa Events: Summary provided by Russian military blogger.
Social Media and Information Control: Elon Musk supports Pavel Durov's refusal to block channels (previously reported).
Humanitarian Concerns: Civilian casualties from Russian drone attacks in Sumy Oblast and from Russian aggression in Kherson Oblast, including FPV drone strikes on civilians and a drone attack on a car in Kherson city. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in civilian casualties. Evacuations are ongoing in border regions of Sumy Oblast. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports a fatality and three injuries from Russian artillery shelling in Kherson city overnight. РБК-Україна also reports on the casualties and damage in Kherson city from overnight shelling. Два майора reports on the ongoing evacuation of 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast. Военкор Котенок and ASTRA report on the fatality and injury from a drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast.
Finland's Stance: Finnish President Stubb reportedly tried to dissuade Trump from rapprochement with Russia. Ongoing construction of Russian military infrastructure near the border is reported.
UK's Stance: Starmer discussed the war with leaders from the US, Italy, France, and Germany ahead of Trump's call with Putin.
Poland-Ukraine Relations: Discussion in an interview about the future of relations, including border blockades and refugees. Russia is conducting an information operation during the elections in Poland.
Germany's Stance: Discussed readiness for troop deployment in Ukraine and focus on a ceasefire and clarifying formats for peace talks and security guarantees (previously reported).
Italy's Stance: Discussed readiness for troop deployment in Ukraine and focus on a ceasefire and clarifying formats for peace talks and security guarantees (previously reported).
Argentina: Non-military video about the President of Argentina shared by a Ukrainian source. Video about antisemitism in Argentina shared by a Russian source.

Internal Russian Issues (Updated):

Internal Security: Internal legal proceedings and security concerns continue, including preventing attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. A murder and dismemberment case was reported in Moscow. Fatal accidents were reported in Kalmykia and Magnitogorsk. Ongoing construction of military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders is reported. An incident of vandalism against a Soviet war memorial was reported in Voronezh. A residential fire was reported in Oryol. The arrest of Vladimir Smerkis on fraud charges and the closure of a case against Morgenstern were reported in Moscow. Weekly summary of criminal cases in Khabarovsk Krai was released. The remains of a Ukrainian scientist who disappeared in Buryatia 16 years ago were reportedly found. The FSB prevented planned attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. ТАСС shares a video of interrogations of the detained teenagers in Stavropolye.
Military Performance and Capabilities: Russian forces are actively engaged in ground combat, claiming advances and liberation of Bogatyr and advances on the Krasnolimansky direction. Russian tactical aviation is active on the eastern direction with a threat of guided aerial weapons. Russian forces used 2960 kamikaze drones over the past day. 590 kamikaze drone strikes and almost 300 drone drops occurred in the South over the past day. Russian forces conducted 78 aviation strikes, dropping 106 guided aerial bombs, and 4735 shellings (including 122 from MLRS) over the past day. Russian forces are reportedly using FPV drones to target Ukrainian communication and EW stations near Serebryanka and Bogatyr. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian UAVs overnight over Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts. A Ukrainian drone reportedly attacked a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulting in civilian casualties. Russian military bloggers provide commentary on negotiations, battlefield effectiveness, and internal Russian issues. A Russian soldier captured on the Kherson direction is reported. Ongoing assaults are reported on the Zaporizhzhia front near Mala Tokmachka. Russia claims advances on the Krasnolimansky direction. A large cache of NATO-style weapons was discovered near Kurakhovo. Ongoing construction of military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders is reported. Russian military bloggers are promoting handcrafted knives. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Russia claims the liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea (26), Bryansk (8), and Belgorod (1) Oblasts. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in civilian casualties. MoD Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR, detailing the use of armored personnel carriers, FPV drones, and reconnaissance drones. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions, including entering Novolekseyevka. Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region. ОТУ "Харків" reports on the operational situation in the Kharkiv operational zone, detailing Russian aviation strikes, KABs, kamikaze drones, and shelling, and Ukrainian successes in destroying Russian personnel, equipment, and shelters.
Casualties: Civilian casualties reported from Russian drone attacks in Sumy Oblast and from Russian aggression in Kherson Oblast, including FPV drone strikes on civilians and a drone attack on a car in Kherson city. Civilian casualties were reported in Belgorod Oblast due to a claimed Ukrainian drone attack. A murder and dismemberment case was reported in Moscow. Fatal accidents were reported in Kalmykia and Magnitogorsk. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports a fatality and three injuries from Russian artillery shelling in Kherson city overnight. РБК-Україна also reports on the casualties and damage in Kherson city from overnight shelling. Военкор Котенок and ASTRA report on the fatality and injury from a drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian losses of 54 personnel (18 irretrievable) in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Information Operations and Propaganda: Russian sources continue to promote narratives of military success and criticize Ukrainian actions. Claimed liberation of Bogatyr and advances on Krasnolimansky direction are reported. Claims of downing Ukrainian UAVs over border regions and Crimea. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulting in civilian casualties, is reported by a Russian source. Russian military bloggers provide commentary on negotiations, battlefield effectiveness, and internal Russian issues. A large cache of NATO-style weapons was discovered near Kurakhovo, which can be used for propaganda. A Russian soldier captured on the Kherson direction is reported by a Ukrainian source. Ongoing construction of military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders is reported. An incident of vandalism against a Soviet war memorial was reported in Voronezh. Russian military bloggers are promoting handcrafted knives. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Russia claims the liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts. MoD Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol, detailing the tactics used. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances in various directions. Два майора reports on the ongoing evacuation of 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast, and attributes it to Russia creating a buffer zone after "liberating" Kursk Oblast, which is a propaganda narrative. Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports, which is an information operation related to claiming control. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region, likely for morale and propaganda.
Judicial System: Internal legal proceedings continue. A murder and dismemberment case was reported in Moscow. FSB prevented planned attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. The FSB prevented planned attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. ТАСС shares a video of interrogations of the detained teenagers in Stavropolye. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports the sentencing of a Ukrainian servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast.
Social Policy: Proposed law on increasing pensions for dependents (previously reported). Proposed law to confiscate income of "foreign agent" artists for military support (previously reported). Development of state standards for baby food is reported. Development of state standards for baby food is reported.
Mobilization and Recruitment: Information on a bot for reporting on mobilization and conscripts is provided.
Stavropolye (Russia): Location where FSB prevented planned attacks on police involving minors. The FSB prevented planned attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. ТАСС shares a video of interrogations of the detained teenagers in Stavropolye.
Kursk (Russia): Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region.
Buryatia (Russia): The remains of a Ukrainian scientist who disappeared in Buryatia 16 years ago were reportedly found.
Sumy Oblast (Russia): Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports.
Nizhny Novgorod Oblast (Russia): Russian military bloggers are promoting handcrafted knives made by a local craftsman.
Kharkiv operational zone: ОТУ "Харків" reports on the operational situation, detailing Russian aviation strikes, KABs, kamikaze drones, and shelling, and Ukrainian successes.

Support and Rehabilitation (Updated)

Military Support (Ukraine): International military aid continues, including confirmed shipment of Abrams tanks from Australia. Fundraising for FPV drones is ongoing. Ukrainian forces are actively engaged in defense and counter-drone operations. Support for military personnel from regional administrations (previously reported). Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed 76 Russian personnel and various equipment in the Southern direction over the past day, highlighting their effectiveness and the need for continued support. Presentation of a book about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser. Ukraine is reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade. Presentation of a book about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser in Kyiv. РБК-Україна shares a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage. Ukraine is reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade operating on the Pokrovsk direction. ОТУ "Харків" reports Ukrainian successes in destroying Russian personnel, equipment, and shelters in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Veteran Support (Ukraine): Doctors from Kryvyi Rih are serving on the front line.
Military Support (Russia): Russian forces are actively engaged in ground combat and utilizing aerial assets, artillery, and drones, indicating ongoing military support for their operations. Proposed law to confiscate income of "foreign agent" artists for military support (previously reported). Fundraising for equipment is ongoing (implied from military blogger activities). Russian military bloggers are promoting handcrafted knives. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Fundraising efforts for Russian military personnel are ongoing, seeking support for equipment like REB, thermal sights, signal amplifiers, drone detectors, power stations, batteries, radios, drones, and tools. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region, implying ongoing support for these units.
Civilian Support (Ukraine): Civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure reported due to Russian strikes, including from a massive overnight drone attack and from FPV drone strikes on civilians in the South. Civilian deaths and injuries in Kherson Oblast due to Russian aggression, including a drone attack on a car in Kherson city. Commemoration of fallen defenders and historical events (Moskva cruiser). Support from regional administrations (previously reported). Doctors from Kryvyi Rih are serving on the front line. Evacuations are ongoing in border regions of Sumy Oblast. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports a fatality and three injuries from Russian artillery shelling in Kherson city overnight. РБК-Україна also reports on the casualties and damage in Kherson city from overnight shelling. Два майора reports on the ongoing evacuation of 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast.
Civilian Support (Russia): Civilian casualties reported in Belgorod Oblast due to a claimed Ukrainian drone attack. Claims of civilian casualties in Kursk Oblast within a Russian information operation (previously reported). Fatal accidents were reported in Kalmykia and Magnitogorsk. Development of state standards for baby food is reported. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in civilian casualties. Военкор Котенок and ASTRA report on the fatality and injury from a drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast. Development of state standards for baby food is reported.
Support for Military Personnel (Russia): Proposed law on increasing pensions for dependents (previously reported). Proposed law to confiscate income of "foreign agent" artists for military support (previously reported). Fundraising for equipment is ongoing (implied from military blogger activities). Russian military bloggers are promoting handcrafted knives. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Fundraising efforts for Russian military personnel are ongoing.
Ukrainian Commemorative Practices: Presentation of a book about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser. Presentation of a book about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser in Kyiv. РБК-Україна shares a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage.
Military Medical Support (Ukraine): Doctors from Kryvyi Rih are serving on the front line.
Judicial System (Ukraine): Офіс Генерального прокурора reports the sentencing of a Ukrainian servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast.

Force Composition and Tactics (Updated)

Ukraine: Actively defending against intense Russian assaults and a massive overnight drone attack across multiple fronts and oblasts. Engaging Russian aerial targets with air defense systems, neutralizing 76 out of 112 UAVs (41 kinetic, 35 EW) in a massive overnight attack and taking measures against an enemy UAV near Kharkiv. Inflicting significant personnel and equipment losses on Russian forces, including reportedly 76 personnel and various equipment in the South over the past day. Experiencing civilian casualties and infrastructure damage from Russian shelling and aerial attacks, including a drone attack on a car in Kherson city and FPV drone strikes on civilians in the South. Receiving Abrams tanks from Australia. Repelling numerous Russian attacks in the Novopavlivka, Orikhiv, and Prydniprovskyi directions in the South. Claiming destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. Ukrainian military bloggers claim Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian personnel. A Russian soldier captured on the Kherson direction (Dacha area) is reported. Commemorating key historical events (Moskva cruiser). Fundraising for FPV drones is ongoing. Threatening relatives of a Ukrainian soldier who reportedly went to Russia is reported by a Russian source. Fighting continues in Chasiv Yar. Experiencing a fatality and injuries from Russian shelling in Kherson city overnight. Experiencing repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast. Making changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade operating on the Pokrovsk direction. Sentencing a servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast. Details on the massive overnight Russian drone attack confirm 112 strike UAVs and imitators were used by Russia, with 76 neutralized by Ukrainian air defense. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones using combined surface and aerial drones. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports a fatality and three injuries from Russian artillery shelling in Kherson city overnight. РБК-Україна also reports on the casualties and damage in Kherson city from overnight shelling. РБК-Україна shares a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast. Ukraine is reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade operating on the Pokrovsk direction. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports the sentencing of a Ukrainian servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast. ОТУ "Харків" reports Ukrainian successes in destroying 54 Russian personnel, 95 units of equipment, 67 shelters, and 1 ammunition storage place in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Russia: Conducting intense ground assaults, claiming tactical successes and liberation of Bogatyr and advances on the Krasnolimansky direction. Utilizing extensive aerial assets, including a massive overnight attack with 112 strike UAVs and imitator drones, of which 76 were neutralized by Ukrainian air defense. Using 2960 kamikaze drones and almost 300 drone drops over the past day, with 590 kamikaze drone strikes in the South. Conducting 78 aviation strikes, dropping 106 guided aerial bombs (KABs), and 4735 shellings (including 122 from MLRS) over the past day. Russian tactical aviation is active on the eastern direction with a threat of guided aerial weapons. Launching KABs on the border of Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts and on Sumy Oblast. An enemy UAV is heading towards Kharkiv from the north. A Ukrainian drone reportedly attacked a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulting in civilian casualties. Russians dropped explosives from a drone onto a car in Kherson city, injuring two civilians. Claiming downing 35 Ukrainian UAVs overnight over Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts. Russian forces are reportedly using FPV drones to target Ukrainian communication and EW stations near Serebryanka and Bogatyr. Russian military bloggers are discussing negotiations, battlefield effectiveness, and internal Russian issues. Ongoing assaults are reported on the Zaporizhzhia front near Mala Tokmachka. A large cache of NATO-style weapons was discovered near Kurakhovo. Claiming to have prevented attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye. Utilizing a Kalibr missile carrier in the Mediterranean during oil transshipment. Claiming the liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast. Claiming tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions, including entering Novolekseyevka. Detailing the liberation of Aleksandopol, highlighting the use of armored personnel carriers, FPV drones, and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems. Showing a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports. Conducting FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region supporting offensive operations. Details on the massive overnight Russian drone attack confirm 112 strike UAVs and imitators were used by Russia. Russia claims the liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea (26), Bryansk (8), and Belgorod (1) Oblasts. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in civilian casualties. MoD Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR, detailing the tactics used, including armored personnel carriers, FPV drones, and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions, including entering Novolekseyevka and assaulting Novopol and Zelenoe Pole. Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports on FPV drone activity in the Kursk border region. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian use of 3 aviation strikes, 4 KABs, 116 kamikaze drones, and 570 shellings in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day.
Third-Party Involvement: Turkey is playing a facilitating role. The US is engaging separately with the Ukrainian delegation and expressing a view on the level of the Russian delegation (previously reported). Speculation continues regarding former US President Trump's potential involvement. NATO members are providing military aid to Ukraine, including confirmed shipment of Abrams tanks from Australia. The Czech Republic is cooperating with Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (previously reported). The UN is involved (previously reported). The EU is discussing further sanctions. France has commented on Russia's stance (previously reported). Sweden and other Nordic/Baltic countries have issued a joint statement (previously reported). Finland and Estonia are mentioned in Russian information operations (previously reported). Bulgaria and Denmark are providing military and financial support and coordinating diplomatic efforts (previously reported). Poland has commented on the Istanbul talks and coordination with Trump (previously reported). The Netherlands is increasing its defense assistance to Ukraine (previously reported). Montenegro is strengthening cooperation and discussing EU integration (previously reported). Pope Leo XIV has offered mediation (previously reported). NATO is conducting aerial reconnaissance. Starmer discussed the war with leaders from the US, Italy, France, and Germany ahead of Trump's call with Putin. US reportedly allowed Australia to send retired Abrams tanks to Ukraine, with some US officials questioning their utility in drone warfare. Ongoing construction of Russian military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders is reported. Video about antisemitism in Argentina shared by a Russian source. US reportedly allowed Australia to send retired Abrams tanks to Ukraine, with some US officials questioning their utility in drone warfare.
Equipment and Tactics: Continued extensive use of drones by both sides (strike, reconnaissance, FPV, "Shahed," "Geran-2," imitator drones, "Baba Yaga," aircraft-type). Employment of guided aerial bombs (KABs, NAR), artillery, MLRS. Use of surface and aerial drones in combination for strikes against naval/offshore targets. Russian forces reportedly using FPV drones to target Ukrainian communication and EW stations. Ukraine is fundraising for FPV drones. A large cache of NATO-style weapons and ammunition was discovered near Kurakhovo, including a Javelin ATGM and other munitions. Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed 2 Shahed-136 strike UAVs and 3 antenna control UAVs, 4 Starlink antennas, and 4 communication antennas in the Southern direction. Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed 1 boat, 2 cannons, 2 mortars, 3 motorcycles, 1 quad bike, and 2 generators in the Southern direction. Russian forces reportedly used motorcycles and light armored vehicles in assaults (previously reported). Russian military bloggers discuss the effectiveness of "Geran" drones and the need for counter-drone equipment. Russia is detailing the liberation of Aleksandopol, highlighting the use of armored personnel carriers, FPV drones, and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems. Russian military bloggers are providing updates from the Kursk border region, including FPV drone activity supporting offensive operations. Fundraising efforts for Russian military personnel are ongoing, seeking support for equipment like REB, thermal sights, signal amplifiers, drone detectors, power stations, batteries, radios, drones, and tools. Details on the massive overnight Russian drone attack confirm 112 strike UAVs and imitators were used by Russia. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. Russia claims downing 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in civilian casualties from a drone attack. MoD Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol, detailing the tactics used, including armored personnel carriers, FPV drones, and reconnaissance drones with payload release systems. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions, including entering Novolekseyevka and assaulting Novopol and Zelenoe Pole. US reportedly allowed Australia to send retired Abrams tanks to Ukraine, with some US officials questioning their utility in drone warfare. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports repeated launches of guided aerial bombs on Sumy Oblast. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian use of 3 aviation strikes, 4 KABs, 116 kamikaze drones, and 570 shellings, and Ukrainian destruction of 95 units of equipment, including 2 armored fighting vehicles, 2 artillery pieces, 18 vehicles, 60 drones, 2 EW assets, and 11 special equipment units in the Kharkiv operational zone over the past day. Fundraising efforts for Russian military personnel are ongoing, seeking support for equipment like REB, thermal sights, signal amplifiers, drone detectors, power stations, batteries, radios, drones, and tools.
Ukrainian Judicial System: Офіс Генерального прокурора reports the sentencing of a Ukrainian servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast.

Strategic Considerations (Updated)

The massive overnight Russian drone attack involving 112 strike UAVs and imitator drones across multiple Ukrainian oblasts, with 76 neutralized, and reported impacts in Kharkiv, Sumy, Donetsk, Cherkasy, and Kirovohrad Oblasts, is a significant strategic event. It demonstrates Russia's continued capacity to launch large-scale aerial assaults aimed at overwhelming Ukrainian air defenses and striking targets across a wide geographical area. The use of imitator drones is a strategic tactic to complicate air defense efforts. The reported impacts across multiple oblasts highlight the widespread nature of the threat. The Ukrainian Air Force's change in reporting format due to new Russian tactics underscores the evolving nature of the aerial threat and the need for Ukrainian adaptation. The detailed reporting on the scale and composition of this attack confirms its strategic significance.
The Ukrainian SBU's claimed destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using a combination of surface and aerial drones is strategically significant. If verified, this demonstrates Ukraine's capability to strike Russian assets at sea using innovative combined drone tactics, degrading Russian naval reconnaissance capabilities and potentially impacting their control of strategic offshore infrastructure. The repeated reporting from multiple Ukrainian sources reinforces the strategic importance of this claimed strike.
The confirmed shipment of Australian Abrams tanks to Ukraine is a tangible strategic development increasing Ukraine's heavy armor capabilities and demonstrating continued international military support. The note about these tanks compensating for losses and the reported US skepticism about their effectiveness against drones highlights key strategic considerations regarding the utility of traditional armor in the current conflict. The report that the US allowed this transfer, coupled with the US official's comments, adds a layer of strategic complexity regarding allied perspectives on equipment effectiveness.
The ongoing intense ground combat across multiple fronts, particularly in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts, and the Russian claims of advances and liberation of settlements, underscore Russia's strategic objective of gaining ground and degrading Ukrainian defenses. The high number of attacks in specific directions, such as Novopavlivka and Orikhiv in the South, reflects continued pressure on key areas. The reported ongoing assaults near Mala Tokmachka and advances on the Krasnolimansky direction are further indicators of active Russian offensive efforts. The Russian assessment that the liberation of Bogatyr will impact Ukrainian actions and may lead to troop reallocation from Krasnoarmeysk highlights the strategic implications of territorial gains. The Russian claims of liberation of Maryino in Sumy Oblast, tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk and Krasnoarmeysk directions (including entering Novolekseyevka), and detailing the liberation of Aleksandopol are strategically significant as they indicate a potential shift in the frontline and Russian efforts to consolidate control in these areas. Ukraine reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade on the Pokrovsk direction is strategically relevant as it suggests a response to challenging battlefield conditions in a key area of intense fighting. ОТУ "Харків" providing a detailed operational report on the Kharkiv operational zone with specifics on Russian attacks and Ukrainian successes is strategically vital for understanding the dynamics on this front.
Ongoing diplomatic discussions and the prospect of new US and European sanctions linked to negotiation progress highlight the continued strategic efforts to leverage international support and economic pressure to influence the conflict. The differing perspectives within the US political sphere regarding the effectiveness of current sanctions are a relevant factor in the broader international strategic landscape.
The reports of continued Ukrainian drone activity targeting Russian territory, including the tragic attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulting in civilian casualties, and the claimed downing of numerous UAVs over Russian border regions and Crimea, are strategically significant. These actions demonstrate Ukraine's capability to strike targets within Russia, creating pressure on border regions and potentially impacting morale. Russia's claims of preventing attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye can be used within Russian information operations to highlight perceived threats and justify security measures. Russia claiming downing 35 Ukrainian drones overnight across Crimea, Bryansk, and Belgorod Oblasts provides a Russian perspective on the scale and reach of Ukrainian drone activity, which is strategically important for assessing Ukraine's capabilities and intentions. The tragic incident involving a civilian fatality and injury from a claimed Ukrainian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, reported by multiple sources, is strategically significant due to its humanitarian impact and potential for propaganda use by Russia.
The Russian drone attack on a car in Kherson city, injuring two civilians, highlights the strategic objective of inflicting harm and terror on civilian populations in frontline cities. This tactic aims to create psychological pressure and disrupt civilian life. The report of a fatality and three injuries from Russian artillery shelling in Kherson city overnight, confirmed by multiple sources, reinforces the strategic impact of Russian attacks on civilian populations in frontline areas.
The presentation of a book on the destruction of the Moskva cruiser is a strategic communication effort by Ukraine to commemorate a significant military success, boost national morale, and highlight the capabilities and courage of their forces. РБК-Україна sharing a video about the destruction of the Moskva cruiser, including archival footage, amplifies this strategic communication.
Fundraising initiatives for FPV drones in Ukraine, such as the sale of limited edition knives, are strategically relevant as they highlight continued civilian support for the war effort and the reliance on non-state resources for acquiring crucial military equipment. Continued reports on fundraising efforts, including for specific equipment like REB and thermal sights, are strategically important as they indicate the ongoing need for and acquisition of crucial military hardware through non-state channels.
The report on a captured Russian soldier from the Kherson direction provides potential human intelligence on Russian personnel, morale, and conditions on the front line.
The report from Sili oborony Pivdnya Ukrainy provides a crucial localized strategic overview of the situation in the South. The detailed breakdown of enemy attacks, munition usage, civilian casualties, and Ukrainian successes in repelling assaults and destroying equipment offers valuable tactical and operational intelligence that informs the strategic picture in this vital region.
Evacuations ongoing in border regions of Sumy Oblast due to increased shelling are strategically significant as they indicate a potential escalation of hostilities or a shift in military activity in these areas. Два майора's report on the ongoing evacuation of 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast, and attributing it to Russia creating a buffer zone after "liberating" Kursk Oblast, is a strategic narrative being promoted by Russia.
Ongoing construction of Russian military infrastructure near the Finnish and Estonian borders, including shelters for fighter jets and warehouses, reported by a Ukrainian source citing the NYT, is strategically significant. It indicates a potential long-term shift in Russian military posture in response to NATO expansion and highlights areas of potential future tension.
Fundraising efforts for Russian military personnel, including for equipment like REB, thermal sights, signal amplifiers, drone detectors, power stations, batteries, radios, drones, and tools, reported by a Russian military blogger, are strategically relevant. They demonstrate the ongoing need for equipment and highlight the reliance on non-state support within the Russian military, which can impact operational capabilities. The list of requested equipment also provides insight into the tactical needs on the ground.
The sentencing of a Ukrainian servicemember for the appropriation and sale of military property in Sumy Oblast, reported by the Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office, is strategically relevant as it relates to internal military discipline, accountability, and resource management. Such incidents can impact morale and operational effectiveness if not addressed appropriately.

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