Operational Intelligence Briefing - Major Updates and Analysis (May 19, 2025, 08:51 UTC)
Updated Situation
The operational environment is 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. New information highlights continued reconnaissance drone activity in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts, Iran approving a strategic partnership treaty with Russia, EU ambassadors agreeing on a €150 billion militarization fund, Turkey's FDI Group supplying Ukraine with military equipment including AI-integrated fire control systems, and Russian sources showcasing successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles in the Pokrovsk direction. Recent reporting also includes details on ongoing Russian fundraising for military equipment, including drones and anti-drone systems, claimed Russian destruction of Ukrainian armored vehicles using drones, and Russian information operations portraying perceived issues within the Ukrainian military. Further updates detail the passing of a Yakut television presenter serving in the conflict zone, concerns regarding potential external interference in Romanian elections, and Ukrainian claims of destroying Russian armored vehicles and equipment in Kharkiv Oblast. The Ukrainian General Staff provides an operational update as of 16:00 yesterday, detailing combat clashes across multiple axes and highlighting Russian aviation strikes and artillery shelling. Recent reports also indicate Russian claims of advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleevka in the Konstantinovskoye direction and intense clashes on various axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts. Significant developments include the reported mass blocking of Russian PlayStation accounts, a violent incident in Vladimir, Russia, and the Israeli ground operation in Gaza. Russia is also claiming to have "liberated" Bogatyr on the South-Donetsk direction. Ukraine is reporting successful targeting of Russian logistics on the Kurakhivka direction and a claimed airstrike on a Russian gathering point in Nova Kakhovka. Commemoration of the victims of political repression and diplomatic efforts from a Ukrainian perspective continue. The Russian detention of a Liberian-flagged oil tanker that left an Estonian port introduces a new element of tension. Russian sources are claiming gains on the Dzerzhynsk and Konstantinovka directions. Russian military bloggers are discussing negotiations, battlefield effectiveness, and territorial claims. Russian sources are sharing footage of joint operations by special forces and tank brigades on the Shakhtersk direction. Reports of the death of a decorated Russian scout-sniper are circulating. Discussion on potential Putin-Trump negotiations and Russian conditions for a ceasefire persist. Colonelcassad is sharing graphic video and commentary. Russian military training in rear areas is being reported. The Romanian presidential election results, with a pro-European candidate leading in exit polls, are being analyzed, alongside claims of foreign interference. Denmark will place American unmanned surface vessels in the Baltic Sea. Belgium has committed €1 billion in military aid to Ukraine. Russia is planning a "training and combat" launch of an ICBM. Ukrainian intelligence reports on Russia's information special operation during the Polish elections. Ukraine is receiving Abrams tanks from Australia. Italy is potentially transferring armored personnel carriers to Ukraine. Ukraine is actively fundraising for military equipment. Ukraine is investigating allegations made by a commander of the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade. Civilian casualties from Russian attacks are reported in various regions. The US and European partners continue discussions on potential peace settlements and sanctions against Russia. The Vatican is engaged in diplomatic efforts and the new Pope has called for peace negotiations. Ukrainian commemoration of the Crimean Tatar deportation continues. Reports on potential post-conflict arms trafficking and domestic Russian issues are also present. Ukrainian forces have repelled 18 Russian army assaults in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis.
Changes to the Situation from New Messages:
- EU Ambassadors Agree on €150 Billion Militarization Fund: ТАСС reports, citing Reuters, that EU ambassadors have agreed on a €150 billion militarization fund proposed by the European Commission. This is a major development for EU defense policy, signaling a significant increase in funding dedicated to strengthening the military capabilities of EU member states. This could lead to increased military aid to Ukraine or enhanced collective defense capabilities within the EU. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and Оперативний ЗСУ also report on this, noting it will be financed by joint borrowing and available to member states and partners, including Ukraine.
- Iranian Parliament Committee Approves Strategic Partnership Treaty with Russia: ТАСС reports that the Committee on Foreign Policy and National Security of the Iranian Parliament has approved a Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the Russian Federation. This treaty will be submitted to the Iranian Parliament for final approval. This is a significant development in Iran-Russia relations, indicating a deepening of strategic ties with potential implications for military cooperation, trade, and geopolitical alignment.
- Turkey's FDI Group Supplying Ukraine with Military Equipment, Including AI-Integrated Fire Control Systems: Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition reports, citing RT, that the Turkish firm FDI Group is supplying Ukraine with military equipment and plans to integrate a Falcon 127M fire control system with built-in AI into a Ukrainian armored vehicle or tank. The system is reportedly capable of seeing up to 5 km, detecting up to five targets simultaneously, and tracking one at close range (up to 1.5 km). The report also alleges that FDI and its partners are selling Ukrainian tanks ("Oplot" and "Bulat") and MLRS ("Grad") through offshore companies, and that a main buyer is a Ukrainian Air Force base in Chornobaivka. A Russian military expert is quoted as saying Ukraine is a "testing ground" for Turkish technology but that the system is unlikely to change the situation on the battlefield. This report highlights ongoing military-technical cooperation between Turkey and Ukraine, including the potential transfer of advanced systems with AI capabilities. The Russian source's framing of Ukraine as a "testing ground" and skepticism about the system's impact is likely part of their information operation.
- Russian Military Bloggers Report Successful FPV Drone Strikes on Ukrainian Armored Vehicles in Pokrovsk Direction: Kotsnews shares a video with the caption "Ambushes of Maxxpro under the tail," claiming it shows the work of the special forces unit "Vega" on the Pokrovsk direction, with "Kings of the Pokrovsk sky maintaining a high standard." The video appears to show successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles, including potentially MaxxPro MRAPs. This report, from a Russian military blogger, highlights the continued effectiveness of Russian FPV drones against Ukrainian armored vehicles in a key area of intense fighting and serves to promote the capabilities of specific Russian units.
- Reiterated Claim of Prevention of Attacks on Police in Stavropolye Involving Minors: Военкор Котенок reports on the prevention of attacks on police in Stavropolye, reiterating that the FSB reported the liquidation of a "Wahhabi cell" consisting of eight teenagers aged 14 to 16. The report states they pledged allegiance to a terrorist organization (likely ISIS) and planned an attack on police on May 9th, similar to recent events in Makhachkala. The attack was reportedly prevented at the last moment. This reinforces the narrative of internal security threats within Russia, specifically involving radicalized youth.
- Reconnaissance Drone Activity in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts: Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy reconnaissance UAVs are present in the north of Kharkiv Oblast and the west of Donetsk Oblast, and that means are engaged to shoot them down. This indicates ongoing Russian intelligence gathering efforts in these key operational areas.
- Discussion of Robot Delivery Vehicles in Russia: Alex Parker Returns shares photos and text reporting that robot delivery vehicles in Russia will receive official status as road users, with numbers, insurance, and rules of behavior. According to a Yandex project, they can travel on sidewalks and bike paths up to 25 km/h and on pedestrian crossings up to 6 km/h. The post includes a rhetorical question "Show me something similar among the Khokhols?" likely intended to suggest Russia's technological advancement compared to Ukraine. This report, while seemingly non-military, is presented by a Russian military blogger and can be seen as part of an information operation highlighting Russian technological progress and indirectly criticizing Ukraine.
- Ukrainian Forces Claim Destruction of Russian Armored Vehicles in Kharkiv Oblast: ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS shares a video claiming that operators of the "Phoenix" unmanned aerial systems unit of the "Rubizh" National Guard Brigade destroyed two armored vehicles and two dozen other pieces of equipment in Kharkiv Oblast using drones. This highlights successful Ukrainian military actions in this area and the continued effectiveness of their drone units against Russian armor and equipment.
- Russian Military Bloggers Comment on Australian Abrams Tank Shipment: Два майора reports on the shipment of 49 retired Australian Abrams tanks to Ukraine, noting that the US permitted the re-export and that the tanks have been loaded onto a vessel. The author frames this as Australia getting rid of expensive equipment, portraying it as symbolic participation against Russia, and potentially hindering Trump before negotiations. They also comment on the tanks' vulnerability to drones and suitability for breakthrough operations, referencing their claimed destruction on the Kursk and other fronts. This report from a Russian military blogger confirms the transfer of the tanks and includes a narrative consistent with Russian information operations.
- Russian Tactical Aviation Activity and КАБ Launches: Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports activity of enemy tactical aviation on the southeastern direction with a threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas. They also report КАБ launches by enemy tactical aviation on Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts. This indicates continued Russian aerial assaults on frontline areas.
- Russian Military Blogger Fundraising for Equipment: Военкор Котенок shares a fundraising request for six military units operating in the conflict zone, seeking 1,044,016 rubles for various equipment including an EW system ("Romashka 12"), portable charging stations, power banks, a thermal sight, radios, a Mavic 3 Classic drone, and various tools (perforator, screwdriver, grinder, chainsaw, drill). The post indicates 597,893 rubles remain to be collected. This report highlights the ongoing need for and acquisition of equipment through non-state channels for Russian forces.
- Russian Military Blogger Reports on Russian Actions in Odesa Port: Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports on activities in Odesa port, noting the departure of a heavily loaded dry cargo ship and two military boats, the arrival of a small container ship, and the presence of a bulk carrier and a chemical tanker operating under flags of Togo and Malta respectively, and reportedly masking their location. This provides details on maritime traffic and potential Russian observations of activities in the port.
- Russian Military Blogger Reports on Stopping Estonian Tanker in Baltic Sea: Старше Эдды reports that Russian forces stopped an Estonian tanker in the Baltic Sea for inspection, framing it as caring for the ecology of a vulnerable region. The author uses this incident to warn Estonia against hostile actions, arguing they rely on transit through Russian waters and should maintain peaceful relations. This report highlights a potential escalation of maritime tensions in the Baltic Sea and a Russian effort to exert pressure on Estonia.
- Russian Military Reports Scale of Russian Advances: Сливочный каприз shares a chart claiming to show the average daily advancement of Russian forces in the SVO zone, reporting a rate of 31.5 km² per day over the period of May 14-17, 2025, with a total advance of 126 km² in that period. This is a significant claim of Russian territorial gains.
- Russian Military Reports Destruction of Ukrainian Transport and UAV Control Point in Druzhba: Народная милиция ДНР shares a video claiming that drone operators of the 4th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade operating in the Konstantinovskoye direction discovered and destroyed Ukrainian transport with an ATGM near Druzhba, and also destroyed a Ukrainian UAV control point using a 2S1 "Gvozdika" self-propelled howitzer. This reports specific successful Russian engagements in the Donetsk region.
- Russian Military Blogger Comments on Evacuation in Sumy Oblast: Alex Parker Returns comments on the decision to evacuate 202 settlements in Sumy Oblast, stating it appears the issue with this "mysterious fifth oblast" has been resolved and that this is one of the largest evacuations since the start of the SVO, involving over 60% of the population. This report from a Russian military blogger frames the evacuation in Sumy Oblast as a significant event and potentially a sign of Russian military success or intent in the region.
- Ukrainian Air Force Reports High-Speed Target and Additional Targets from Kursk Direction towards Sumy Oblast: Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a high-speed target in Sumy Oblast from the Kursk direction moving southwest. They also report additional targets entering Sumy Oblast from the Kursk direction. This indicates continued aerial threats to Sumy Oblast originating from Russian territory.
- Russian FAS Identifies Restrictions on Internet Providers by Developer PIK: ТАСС reports that the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) of Russia has found that the developer PIK restricts access for internet providers in its residential complexes, with only one provider (Lovitel, part of the PIK group) being available. This is an internal Russian economic/regulatory issue but can reflect on the business environment and potential monopolistic practices within Russia.
- Ukrainian Air Force Reports Threat of Aerial Weapons to Dnipropetrovsk Oblast: Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a threat of application of aerial weapons for Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Synelnykove district). This indicates potential Russian aerial attacks in this region.
- Ukrainian Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration Reports Threat of КАБs to Zaporizhzhia Oblast: 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports a threat of application of guided aerial bombs (KABs) to Zaporizhzhia Oblast and the city of Zaporizhzhia. This indicates potential Russian aerial attacks with guided bombs in this region.
- Ukrainian Air Assault Forces Report on Effectiveness of Drone Unit "Kitaitsi" in Kursk Operation: Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" (Chinese) drone unit of the 80th Separate Air Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces, stating they destroyed hundreds of Russian soldiers, dozens of equipment units, "Murom" surveillance complexes, and robotic ground platforms during the "most active battles of the Kursk operation." They also comment on the use of North Korean soldiers by Russia and assess them as more trained than Russians but still vulnerable to Ukrainian drones. This report highlights the significant role of Ukrainian drone units and provides a Ukrainian perspective on the fighting in the Kursk direction, including claimed successes against Russian personnel, equipment, and tactical approaches (like "meat assaults").
- Russia to be Represented by Shaman at Intervision Contest: ТАСС reports that Shaman will represent Russia at the Intervision contest. This is a cultural/soft power development and reflects Russia's participation in international cultural events.
- Ukrainian National Guard Brigade "Rubizh" Fundraising for Equipment: РБК-Україна reports that a unit of the "Rubizh" Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine is fundraising 450,000 hryvnias for the restoration of destroyed property and equipment, including tactical equipment, camouflage, technical equipment, pilot equipment, and vehicle repair. This indicates the ongoing need for and challenges in maintaining equipment for Ukrainian units and the reliance on public support for these efforts.
- Russian Military Bloggers Discuss Economic Impact of European Defense Industry Development: Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a Politico article discussing the potential economic impact of developing Europe's defense industry, noting that it could harm the economy in the long term due to reliance on state debt and that while production counts towards GDP, the long-term productivity of unused military equipment is questionable. The article also mentions that European arms manufacturers lament their inability to compete strategically with entities like China and the need for significantly higher operational efficiency. This report from a Russian military blogger highlights discussions within Europe regarding defense spending and its economic implications, and potentially aims to portray European defense efforts as economically detrimental or strategically insufficient compared to global competitors.
- Ukrainian Military Blogger Reports on FPV Drone Procurement: STERNENKO reports that 644 FPV drones were purchased in the last two days thanks to donations, totaling 10,117,900 hryvnias, and that since the beginning of the month, 6922 drones have been purchased, representing 46% of the monthly plan. A total of 183,551 FPV drones have been acquired. This highlights the scale of Ukrainian FPV drone procurement through public/charitable efforts and the high rate of consumption of these systems.
- Death of Yakut Television Presenter in Conflict Zone: WarGonzo reports the death of Aleksey Semenov, a Yakut television presenter who volunteered to fight in Ukraine. This highlights the human cost of the conflict within Russia and the involvement of individuals from various professions, contributing to domestic narratives about the conflict.
- Ukraine Reports Suspected Russian "Yars" ICBM Launch Attempt Failed: РБК-Україна reports, citing Defense Express, that Russia planned a "training and combat" launch of the RS-24 "Yars" ICBM overnight, but it appears the launch did not occur as planned. Possible reasons include technical issues or a decision not to proceed before the planned Putin-Trump call. This indicates potential technical difficulties with a key Russian strategic weapon system and highlights the ongoing information battle surrounding such launches.
- Ukrainian Forces Repelled 18 Russian Assaults in Kursk Region Yesterday: Liveuamap reports that Ukrainian forces repelled 18 Russian army assaults in Kursk region yesterday, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued intense fighting in the border region and successful Ukrainian defensive actions. The report also details significant Russian aerial activity in the area yesterday, including air strikes, guided bombs, and artillery shelling.
- Ukrainian Forces Repelled 1 Russian Assault at Kherson Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports that Ukrainian forces have repelled 1 Russian army assault at the Kherson axis yesterday, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued but potentially limited Russian ground activity in the Southern direction and successful Ukrainian defensive actions.
- Intense Clashes at Kharkiv Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Kharkiv axis yesterday near Vovchansk, Vovchanskykh Khutory and Stroyivka, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued ground combat in the Kharkiv direction.
- Intense Clashes at Kupyansk Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Kupyansk axis yesterday near Nova Kruhlyakivka, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued ground combat in the Kupyansk direction.
- Intense Clashes at Lyman Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Lyman axis yesterday near Tverdokhlibove, Kopanka, Ridkodub, Hrekivka, Lypove, Torske and towards Karpivka, Olhivka, Zelena Dolyna and Hryhorivka, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued intense ground combat in the Lyman direction.
- Intense Clashes at Siversk Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Siversk axis yesterday near Verkhnokamyanske and Bilohorivka, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued intense ground combat in the Siversk direction.
- Intense Clashes at Kramatorsk Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Kramatorsk axis yesterday near Chasiv Yar, Bila Hora, Kurdumivka and Stupochky, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued intense ground combat in the Kramatorsk direction.
- Intense Clashes at Toretsk Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Toretsk axis yesterday near Toretsk, Petrivka, Scherbynivka, Ozaryanivka, Dyliyivka and Druzhba, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued intense ground combat in the Toretsk direction.
- Intense Clashes at Pokrovsk Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Malynivka, Myrolubivka, Yelyzavetivka, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zvirove, Novooleksandrivka, Kotlyarivka, Novoserhiyivka, Udachne, Troyitske, Oleksiyivka, Andriyivka, Kotlyne and towards Zoria, Shevchenko Pershe, Muravka, Popiv Yar, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued extremely intense ground combat in the Pokrovsk direction.
- Intense Clashes at Novopavlivka Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Kostyantynopil, Bahatyry, Shevchenko, Vilne Pole, Rivnopil, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued intense ground combat in the Novopavlivka direction.
- Clashes at Orikhiv Axis Yesterday: Liveuamap reports clashes at the Orikhiv axis yesterday near Lukyanivske and towards Novodanylivka, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates continued ground combat in the Orikhiv direction.
- Russian Aviation Conducted Airstrikes Yesterday: Liveuamap reports that Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Mykhalchyna-Sloboda of Chernihiv region, Kamyanka, Kolodyazne, Staryy Saltiv of Kharkiv region, Popiv Yar, Shevchenko Pershe, Sukhyy Yar, Novoukrayinka, Zaporizhzhya, Burlatske and Pokrovsk of Donetsk region, Hulyaypole, Novodarivka, Novoandriyivka of Zaporizhzhia region, Odradokamyanka of Kherson region, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This indicates widespread Russian aerial activity across multiple regions.
- Russian Forces Advanced Near Ozaryanovka in Konstantinovskoye Direction: Z комитет + карта СВО reports that Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. The accompanying map indicates recent territorial gains by Russian forces in this area, which is in proximity to Toretsk/Dzerzhinsk. This indicates continued Russian offensive efforts in the Donetsk region.
- Russian Forces Advanced Near Dyleyivka in Konstantinovskoye Direction: Z комитет + карта СВО reports that Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. The accompanying map indicates settlements in the gray zone, suggesting contested control or active fighting in this area.
- Russian Military Blogger Reports Russian Forces Beat Ukrainian Forces from Romanovka: Z комитет + карта СВО reports that Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. The accompanying map indicates Romanovka under Russian control, and in proximity to Toretsk/Dzerzhinsk. This suggests Russian tactical gains in the Toretsk direction.
- Death of 7-Year-Old Girl in Berdyansk (Reported Crime): Mash на Донбассе reports that a schoolgirl is suspected of murdering a seven-year-old girl in Berdyansk, allegedly imitating a serial killer. This is a criminal event in occupied territory, highlighting potential social issues and their impact.
Areas of Significant Activity (Updated)
- Kyiv Oblast (Kyiv City, Obukhivskyi district, Fastivskyi district, Bilotserkivskyi district, Vasylkiv, Pereyaslav): Affected by a large-scale Russian drone attack resulting in casualties and damage. Reports detail specific damage to residential buildings and infrastructure. Russian military bloggers suggest Vasylkiv airbase was a key target. Concerns about potential eviction of a Territorial Defense unit in Pereyaslav reported. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Kyiv Oblast, with drones in Bilotserkivskyi district and heading towards Zhytomyr Oblast and Vasylkiv. РБК-Україна reports air defense is working in Kyiv Oblast due to detected drones. Полковник ГУР Шершень claims Russian forces launched 273 strike UAVs overnight, with 88 shot down and 128 imitator drones locationally lost, and Ukraine's Kyiv Oblast Administration reports that over 150 Russian UAVs targeted Kyiv Oblast overnight, detailing damage to residential buildings, infrastructure, and communal enterprises in Obukhivskyi and Fastivskyi districts. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Kyiv Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Kyiv Oblast overnight.
- Donetsk Oblast (Rekodub, Volnoye Pole, Chasiv Yar, Shakhtersky direction, Kupiansk direction, Lyman direction, Siversk direction, Kramatorsk direction, Toretsk direction, Pokrovsk direction, Novopavlivka direction, Orikhiv direction, Pridniprovskyi, and Kursk directions), Novaya Poltavka, Konstantinovka direction, Bilohorivka, Verkhnokamyanske, Kurdumivka, Predtechyne, Stupochky, Bila Hora, Ozaryanivka, Dyliyivka, Druzhba, Stara Mykolayivka, Yablunivka, Vozdvyzhenka, Myrolubivka, Yelyzavetivka, Promin, Novoserhiyivka, Troyitske, Andriyivka, Kostyantynopil, Bahatyr, Vilne Pole, Rivnopil, Novopil, Zelene Pole, Komar, Otradnoye, Zelenyy Kut, Novoukrainka, Alekseevka, Berestok, Aleksandropol, Novoaleksandrovka, Kurakhovsky direction, Vuhledarsky direction, Bakhmutsky direction, Bogatyr, Donetsk People's Republic, Kramatorsk–Dobropillya highway, Dzerzhinsk, Dyliivka, Kostiantynivka, Novopavlovka, Romanovka, Zarya, Ignatovka, Novoyelenivka, Rusin Yar, Scherbynivka, Novospasske (Petrivka), Katerynivka, Druzhkivka, Sloviansk, Popiv Yar, Daschenske, Zvirove, Oleksiyivka, Shevchenka Pershe, Karpivka, Tverdochlibove, Kopanky): Remains a primary focus of intense ground combat across multiple directions. Russian forces claim tactical gains and liberation, and Russian VDV are reportedly gaining air superiority over Chasiv Yar. Ukraine reports actively defending and using drones effectively against Russian movements. Colonelcassad shares photos and analysis alleging Ukrainian forces are constructing reserve defensive lines behind Pokrovsk towards Dobropillia. The Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian strike UAVs in northern Donetsk Oblast moving westward. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS report on Russian servicemen using motorcycles near Toretsk and being targeted by Ukrainian drones, describing Toretsk as one of the hottest spots. Воин DV and Colonelcassad share videos of joint operations by Russian special forces and tank brigade on the Shakhtersk direction, claiming destruction of Ukrainian personnel. ASTRA reports on the "DNR" authorities considering preserving destroyed areas in places like Avdiivka, Vuhledar, and Bakhmut as tourist attractions. ТАСС reports, citing Pushilin, that Russian units have advanced in the Velykonovosilka and Pokrovsk directions, with serious clashes in the areas of Velyka Novosilka and Kotlyarivka. Басурин о главном claims a Russian drone operator destroyed a US-made Stryker and disrupted a Ukrainian rotation near Komar on the South-Donetsk direction. Рыбарь claims the "liberation" of Nova Poltavka by Russian forces, describing the assault and raising of the Russian flag, and suggests potential control of the highway near Novoolenivka. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian forces have cleared the area from Druzhba up to the section north of Krymske on the Dzerzhynsk direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian forces have advanced 1.5 km from the southeast side of Romanovka and entered the village on the Konstantinovka direction. They also claim to have cleared a forest belt west of Pravdivka and are storming the village while repelling Ukrainian counterattacks and identifying drone launch points. STERNENKO shares a video of a Ukrainian drone attacking a "bukhanka" type vehicle on the Kurakhivka direction, causing it to crash after being hit. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims that Russian forces have "liberated" the village of Богатырь on the South-Donetsk direction after prolonged heavy fighting. The report also claims advances south and west of Отрадное and ongoing work against Ukrainian groups in Otradnoe. It further states that Russian forces destroyed 7 Ukrainian vehicles in rear areas during rotation and resupply attempts over the past day. Басурин о главном reports a Ukrainian attack on Светлодарск with HIMARS on May 17th, injuring two civilians, and attributes it to the 27th separate rocket artillery brigade of the AFU. DeepState shares a video claiming the 35th Marine Brigade is destroying Russian groups south of Богданівка. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Donetsk Oblast. Liveuamap reports intense clashes across multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday (Toretsk, Novopavlivka, Orikhiv, Siversk, Kramatorsk, Lyman, Kupyansk, Kharkiv axes). Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Popiv Yar, Shevchenko Pershe, Sukhyy Yar, Novoukrayinka, Zaporizhzhya, Burlatske and Pokrovsk of Donetsk region, Hulyaypole, Novodarivka, Novoandriyivka of Zaporizhzhia region, Odradokamyanka of Kherson region, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Моd Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR. 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. Reconnaissance drone activity is reported in the west of Donetsk Oblast. Russian tactical aviation is launching КАБs on Donetsk Oblast. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point in Druzhba.
- Cherkasy Oblast (Kaniv): Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Cherkasy Oblast, with drones heading towards Kyiv Oblast and in the Kaniv area. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Cherkasy Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Cherkasy Oblast overnight.
- Vinnytsia Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Kirovohrad Oblast, with drones transferring to Vinnytsia Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Vinnytsia Oblast overnight.
- Poltava Oblast (Poltava, Myrhorod, Kremenchuk): Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Poltava Oblast, with drones heading towards Cherkasy Oblast and west. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Poltava Oblast overnight.
- Sumy Oblast (Bunyakine, Tetkino, Konotop, Khoten, Showstka, Bilopillia, Bessalovka, Ryzhevka, Sadki, Zapseleye, Yunakovka, Volfino, Bila Bereza, Popivka, Stepok): Affected by Russian aerial activity, ground assaults, and potentially targeted by artillery. Ukrainian claim of destroying a Russian ammunition truck in Belgorod Oblast near the border is relevant. STERNENKO reports successful Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian logistics in Kursk Oblast, adjacent to Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports launches of KABs towards Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warns of Russian tactical aviation activity in the northern and northeastern directions, affecting frontline regions which include parts of Sumy Oblast. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports КАБи on Sumshchyna. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Sumy Oblast, with drones flying towards Chernihiv and Poltava Oblasts. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed report on the situation on the Kursk direction, stating Ukrainian forces maintain a military presence, aiming to create a buffer zone to prevent new offensives on Sumy and Kharkiv. It claims the operation has been successful in disrupting Russian plans for a "security zone" in Sumy and exposing Russian border defense weaknesses. It also highlights Russian force deployments to the area (including 12,000 North Korean servicemen) and increased use of KABs, leading to the destruction of Sudzha. Ukrainian forces are employing asymmetric tactics and active defense. Significant Russian losses in personnel and equipment are reported since August 6, 2024. Russia continues assault actions to push Ukrainian forces out of Kursk Oblast and form "security zones" in Sumy border areas, forcing them to redeploy reserves from other directions. Colonelcassad shares a photo (Russian passport) and text claiming that Russian forces found the body of an elderly woman with signs of physical abuse in Russkoye Porechnoye, Kursk Oblast. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Sumy Oblast. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday. 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. Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near Miropolskoye in Sumy Oblast, claiming they are creating conditions for issuing Russian passports. 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. Ukrainian Air Force reports high-speed target and additional targets from Kursk direction towards Sumy Oblast. Alex Parker Returns comments on the evacuation in Sumy Oblast. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit in the Kursk operation, mentioning their activity on the Sumy border. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Sumy Oblast overnight. РБК-Україна reports a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus in Bilopillia, Sumy Oblast.
- Chernihiv Oblast (near Chernihiv, Nizhyn, Zarichchia, Kliusy): Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Chernihiv Oblast, with drones flying towards Kyiv Oblast, Pryluky, Nizhyn, and Konotop. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Mykhalchyna-Sloboda of Chernihiv region. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Chernihiv Oblast overnight.
- Zhytomyr Oblast: Affected by air raid alerts due to Russian drones. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Zhytomyr Oblast, with drones transferring from Kyiv Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Zhytomyr Oblast overnight.
- Kursk Oblast (Russia) / Sumy Oblast (Ukraine Border) (Tetkino, Pody, Russkoye Porechnoye, Khomutovsky district, Bessalovka, Ryzhevka, Sadki, Zapseleye, Yunakovka, Volfino, Glushkovo, Sudzha): Ongoing conflict with reported Ukrainian attempts to break through and Russian counterattacks. Russian strike UAVs are entering Sumy Oblast from the Kursk region, moving westward/southwestward. Colonelcassad reports the alleged use of mines disguised as mushrooms by Ukrainian forces near Kremennaya in the LPR. STERNENKO reports successful Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian logistics in Kursk Oblast, adjacent to Sumy Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ mentions a Ukrainian soldier serving in the Kursk operation. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warns of Russian tactical aviation activity in the northern and northeastern directions, affecting frontline regions which include parts of Kursk Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed report on the situation on the Kursk direction, stating Ukrainian forces maintain a military presence, aiming to create a buffer zone to prevent new offensives on Sumy and Kharkiv. It claims the operation has been successful in disrupting Russian plans for a "security zone" in Sumy and exposing Russian border defense weaknesses. It also highlights Russian force deployments to the area (including 12,000 North Korean servicemen) and increased use of KABs, leading to the destruction of Sudzha. Ukrainian forces are employing asymmetric tactics and active defense. Significant Russian losses in personnel and equipment are reported since August 6, 2024. Russia continues assault actions to push Ukrainian forces out of Kursk Oblast and form "security zones" in Sumy border areas, forcing them to redeploy reserves from other directions. Colonelcassad shares a photo (Russian passport) and text claiming that Russian forces found the body of an elderly woman with signs of physical abuse in Russkoye Porechnoye, Kursk Oblast. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday. 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. Ukrainian Air Force reports high-speed target and additional targets from Kursk direction towards Sumy Oblast. Alex Parker Returns comments on the evacuation in Sumy Oblast. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit in the Kursk operation, mentioning their activity on the Sumy border.
- Moscow (Russia): Location of high-profile arrests, legal proceedings, criminal events, and domestic incidents potentially linked to returning soldiers from the conflict. ТАСС reports a murder and dismemberment case in Moscow. ASTRA reports the arrest of Vladimir Smerkisa, co-founder of the crypto project Blum and former Binance CIS director, on fraud charges in Moscow. Moscow News reports an expected thunderstorm in Moscow. ТАСС reports the discovery of two bags with body fragments in Moscow and the detention of a suspect. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares photos of Russian soldiers in various mundane settings, including in Moscow. Новости Москвы reports on the most highly paid professions in Russia.
- Zaporizhzhia Oblast (Novodarivka, Temirivka, Huliaipole, Kamianske, Orikhiv, Novaya Poltavka, Mala Tokmachka, Bogatyr, Volnoye Pole, Scherbaky, Stepove, Mali Scherbaky, Marhanets community, Komar, Otradnoe, Komsomolske, Zaporizhzhia city, Synelnykivskyi district, Temirovka, Pavlovka, Kamenskoye, Malaya Tokmachka, Novodanilovka, Yakymivka, Novodarivka, Huliaipole, Novodanylivka, Mala Tokmachka, Charivne, Novodarivka, Lukyanivske, Novoandriivka): Affected by Russian attacks and Ukrainian defensive operations. Russian military bloggers discuss the strategic importance of Bogatyr in relation to reaching the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 issues and cancels an air alarm. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Lobkove, Berezivka, and Oleksandropol. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 provides a summary of weekly aid to the Zaporizhzhia front, including drones, batteries, EW systems, remote mining means, and other equipment, totaling 20 million UAH. ТАСС reports, citing military expert Marochko, that taking Bogatyr in the DNR provides access to Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts. Два майора shares a video claiming Russian Aerospace Forces and "Smuglyanka" unit are providing air support for Russian offensive actions on the Zaporizhzhia front. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports on the presentation of a new youth media platform "YoUA ZP" in Zaporizhzhia. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" shares a video from occupied Yakymivka, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, claiming that teachers are collaborating with Russian forces and spreading propaganda to children. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Hulyaypole, Novodarivka, Novoandriyivka of Zaporizhzhia region. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Zaporizhzhia Oblast overnight. Russian tactical aviation is launching КАБs on Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Ukrainian Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration reports threat of КАБs to Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
- Voronezh (Russia): Location of an incident of vandalism against a Soviet war memorial.
- Kharkiv Oblast (Kupiansk, Vovchansk, Stroivka, Izium district, Chuhuiv district, Pyriatyn, Huliaipole, Borova, Hrekivka, Komsomolske, near Chuhuiv, Kolodezhnoye, Dvurechanskoye, Novoosinovo, Kutkovka, Peschanoye, Chugunovka, Otradnoye, Vasilenkovo, Kupiansk, Kamianka): Affected by Russian aerial and artillery activity and ground assaults. Police investigation regarding a death at a TCC is ongoing. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warns of the threat of enemy strike UAVs in Kharkiv Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ mentions a Ukrainian soldier serving on the Kupiansk direction. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warns of Russian tactical aviation activity in the northern and northeastern directions, affecting frontline regions which include parts of Kharkiv Oblast. РБК-Україна reports a Russian FAB-500 glide bomb strike on a residential area in Kupiansk, injuring one person and causing emotional shock to two others. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Kharkiv Oblast, with drones heading towards Poltava and Dnipropetrovsk Oblasts. РБК-Україна reports that the TCC in Kharkiv has commented on the death of a man on their territory. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Kharkiv Oblast. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Kharkiv axis yesterday near Vovchansk, Vovchanskykh Khutory and Stroyivka. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Kupyansk axis yesterday near Nova Kruhlyakivka. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Kamyanka, Kolodyazne, Staryy Saltiv of Kharkiv region. Олег Синєгубов, голова Харківської ОДА reports a Russian drone strike on a residential area in Kyivskyi district of Kharkiv. Reconnaissance drone activity is reported in the north of Kharkiv Oblast. Ukrainian forces claim destruction of Russian armored vehicles and equipment in Kharkiv Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Kharkiv Oblast overnight.
- Khabarovsk Krai (Russia): Location of reported criminal cases.
- Oryol (Russia): Location of a residential fire that has been extinguished. ТАСС shares a video report about firefighters extinguishing a fire in a residential building in Oryol. 11 people were rescued and 32 evacuated.
- Mediterranean Sea (near Gibraltar): Location of reported Russian oil transshipment activities.
- Bryansk Oblast (Russia): Location of Ukrainian drone attacks. Russia claims downing 8 Ukrainian drones over Bryansk Oblast overnight.
- Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Berezove, Nikopol district, Marhanets community, Synelnykivskyi district, Kryvorizkyi district, Zelenodolska community, Novokalynivka, Pavlohrad, Novomoskovsk, Shakhtarske, Novopavlovka, Dnipro, Kamianske, Berezovoye): Affected by Russian attacks. Russian military bloggers discuss the strategic importance of Bogatyr in relation to reaching the border of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Berezivka. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, with drones heading towards Kryvyi Rih and Poltava Oblasts. Alex Parker Returns reports a "terrorist attack" has occurred in Kryvyi Rih. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Dnipropetrovsk Oblast overnight. Ukrainian Air Force reports threat of aerial weapons to Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Synelnykove district).
- Luhansk Oblast (Kirovsk, Yampol, Kremennaya): Affected by air raid alerts and alleged Ukrainian drone attacks and mine warfare. Colonelcassad reports the alleged use of mines disguised as mushrooms by Ukrainian forces near Kremennaya in the LPR. Поддубный |Z|О|V| edition claims Russian artillery and UAVs are hitting Ukrainian strongpoints and communication hubs in the forests of the Luhansk border regions.
- Crimean Peninsula (АР Крим) (Perevalnoye, Sevastopol): Affected by air raid alerts. Russian analysis of US RQ-4B Global Hawk activity suggests potential for increased Ukrainian attacks in the Black Sea and Crimea. Ukrainian commemoration of the Crimean Tatar deportation is relevant. Координаційний штаб з питань поводження з військовополоненими commemorates the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Genocide of the Crimean Tatar People. ASTRA reports a Ukrainian drone attack on the 126th coastal defense brigade in Perevalnoye on May 16th, destroying an ammunition depot and four buildings and causing casualties, with local authorities allegedly hiding the evacuation of over 2,000 residents. Russia claims downing 26 Ukrainian drones over Crimea overnight. Russian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Crimea overnight.
- Shahtyorsk direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Bogatyr): Russian forces claim liberation of Bogatyr and highlight its strategic importance. Ukrainian sources from the 33rd Separate Mechanized Brigade deny the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. Воин DV shares archival footage supporting the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. ТАСС reports, citing Russian military expert Vitaly Kiselev, that Russian forces have leveled the front line on the flanks after liberating Bogatyr in the DNR and will advance further. Mash на Донбассе shares a video claiming Russian forces have liberated Bogatyr and that it was a large logistical hub for Ukraine. ТАСС reports, citing military expert Marochko, that taking Bogatyr in the DNR provides access to Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims that Russian forces have "liberated" the village of Богатырь on the South-Donetsk direction after prolonged heavy fighting. The report also claims advances south and west of Отрадное and ongoing work against Ukrainian groups in Otradnoe. Liveuamap reports intense clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Bahatyry. MoD Russia shares a video of servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces speaking about the liberation of Bogatyr. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr.
- Kupiansk Direction (Kharkiv/Donetsk Oblasts) (Kolodezhnoye, Dvurechanskoye, Novoosinovo, Kutkovka, Peschanoye, Kupyansk, Nova Kruhliakivka): Location of combat engagements. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ mentions a Ukrainian soldier serving on the Kupiansk direction. РБК-Україна reports a Russian FAB-500 glide bomb strike on a residential area in Kupiansk. Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that an FPV drone from the Russian 27th brigade destroyed a Ukrainian pickup truck on the Kupiansk direction. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Kupyansk axis yesterday near Nova Kruhlyakivka.
- Lyman Direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Torskoye, Zarechnoye, Redkodub, Tverdochlibove, Kopanky, Hrekivka, Karpivka): Location of combat engagements. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye and are fighting for Redkodub on the Lyman direction. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Lyman axis yesterday near Tverdokhlibove, Kopanka, Ridkodub, Hrekivka, Lypove, Torske and towards Karpivka, Olhivka, Zelena Dolyna and Hryhorivka.
- Siversk Direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Verkhnokamyanske, Bilohorivka): Location of combat engagements. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Siversk axis yesterday near Verkhnokamyanske and Bilohorivka.
- Kramatorsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Novaya Poltavka, Kurumivka, near Kramatorsk, Kramatorsk–Dobropillya highway, Konstantinovka, Belaya Gora, Pleshcheyevka, Zarya, Aleksandro-Kalinivo, Zaliznyanskoye, Kleban-Byk, Druzhkivka, Sloviansk, Chasiv Yar, Bila Hora, Stupochky): Location of offensive actions and claimed Russian advances, including the liberation of Novaya Poltavka. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Oleksandropol. Сливочный каприз shares photos and video claiming Russian forces have liberated the central part of Novaya Poltavka. Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, asserting the start of the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk operation. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Kramatorsk axis yesterday near Chasiv Yar, Bila Hora, Kurdumivka and Stupochky.
- Toretsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Dzerzhinsk, Petrivka, Ozaryanivka, Dyliivka, Druzhba): Location of combat engagements. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ mentions a Ukrainian soldier serving in Toretsk. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia is forced to redeploy reserves from other directions, including those intended to reinforce offensive actions on the Toretsk direction, to the Kursk direction. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Toretsk axis yesterday near Toretsk, Petrivka, Scherbynivka, Ozaryanivka, Dyliyivka and Druzhba. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Z комитет + карта СVO reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Russian military blogger reports Russian forces beat Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025, indicating tactical gains in the Toretsk direction.
- Pokrovsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Pokrovsk, Novosergeyevka, Popov Yar, Udachnoye, Ulyanovka, Kotlino, Zverevo, Dmitrov, Krasnoarmeysk, Malynivka, Myroliubivka, Yelyzavetivka, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zvirove, Udachne, Troyitske, Oleksiyivka, Andriyivka, Zorya, Shevchenka Pershe, Popiv Yar): Location of numerous assaults and offensives. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russia is forced to redeploy reserves from other directions, including those intended to reinforce offensive actions on the Pokrovsk direction, to the Kursk direction. Операция Z: Russian Military Correspondents shares a video claiming to show heavy fighting near Pokrovsk. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Malynivka, Myrolubivka, Yelyzavetivka, Lysivka, Dachenske, Zvirove, Novooleksandrivka, Kotlyarivka, Novoserhiyivka, Udachne, Troyitske, Oleksiyivka, Andriyivka, Kotlyne and towards Zoria, Shevchenko Pershe, Muravka, Popiv Yar. Ukraine is reporting changes in command within the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade operating on the Pokrovsk direction. Russian military bloggers are showcasing successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles in the Pokrovsk direction.
- Orikhiv Direction (Zaporizhzhia Oblast) (Lukyanivske): Location of enemy assaults repelled by Ukrainian defenders. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Lobkove. Генеральний штаб ЗSU reports Russia is forced to redeploy reserves from other directions, including those intended to reinforce offensive actions on the Orikhiv direction, to the Kursk direction. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Orikhiv axis yesterday near Lukyanivske and towards Novodanylivka.
- Pridniprovskyi Direction (Kherson Oblast) (Odradokamyanka): Location of unsuccessful enemy offensive actions. Kotsnews and Старше Эдды report on a combat incident on the Dnipro islands. Liveuamap reports 1 Russian army assault repelled at Kherson axis yesterday. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Odradokamyanka of Kherson region.
- Kursk Direction (Russia) (Tetkino, Pody, Russkoye Porechnoye, Khomutovsky district, Bessalovka, Ryzhevka, Sadki, Zapseleye, Yunakovka, Volfino, Glushkovo, Sudzha): Location of combat engagements, aviation strikes, guided bombs, and artillery shellings. STERNENKO reports successful Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian logistics in Kursk Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ mentions a Ukrainian soldier serving in the Kursk operation. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warns of the activity of Russian tactical aviation in the northern and northeastern directions, affecting frontline regions which include parts of Kursk Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed report on the situation on the Kursk direction, stating Ukrainian forces maintain a military presence to create a buffer zone and prevent new offensives on Sumy and Kharkiv, highlighting Russian losses and forced redeployments. Colonelcassad shares a photo (Russian passport) and text claiming that Russian forces found the body of an elderly woman with signs of physical abuse in Russkoye Porechnoye, Kursk Oblast. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday. 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. Ukrainian Air Force reports high-speed target and additional targets from Kursk direction towards Sumy Oblast. Alex Parker Returns comments on the evacuation in Sumy Oblast. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit in the Kursk operation, mentioning their activity on the Sumy border.
- Huliaipole Direction (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): No active enemy offensive actions reported over the past day. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Hulyaypole.
- Volyn and Polissia Directions (Ukraine/Belarus Border): No signs of enemy offensive formations detected.
- Mykolaiv Oblast: Affected by Russian attacks. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Mykolaiv Oblast, including in the Bashtanka district and near Snihurivka. Оперативний ЗСУ reports an incident in Pervomaiskyi TCC in Mykolaiv Oblast where a man who received a summons allegedly cut his hand. The overnight Russian drone attack involved 112 UAVs and imitators, with 76 neutralized, and impacted Mykolaiv Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Mykolaiv Oblast overnight.
- Kherson Oblast (Mykolaivka, Kherson city, Ponyatovka, Tokarevka): Affected by Russian aviation strikes and Ukrainian defensive operations. Kotsnews and Старше Эдды report on a combat incident on the Dnipro islands. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Kherson Oblast, including in the Beryslav district and near Snihurivka. Liveuamap reports 1 Russian army assault repelled at Kherson axis yesterday. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Odradokamyanka of Kherson region. 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. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across Kherson Oblast overnight.
- Vasylkiv (Kyiv Oblast): Russian military bloggers suggest this was a specific target of the overnight drone attack, with reports of a strong fire at the airbase. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking with drones heading towards Vasylkiv.
- Konstantinovka direction (Donetsk Oblast): Russian forces claim advances and the liberation of Novaya Poltavka in this direction. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point near Druzhba in the Konstantinovskoye direction. Russian forces advanced near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka as of May 19, 2025, and beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka, indicating tactical gains in the Konstantinovskoye direction.
- Borova area (Kharkiv Oblast): Positional battles reported.
- Hrekivka area (Kharkiv Oblast): Claimed Russian advances reported.
- Shahtyorsk direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Bogatyr): Russian forces claim liberation of Bogatyr and highlight its strategic importance. Ukrainian sources from the 33rd Separate Mechanized Brigade deny the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. Воин DV shares archival footage supporting the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. ТАСС reports, citing Russian military expert Vitaly Kiselev, that Russian forces have leveled the front line on the flanks after liberating Bogatyr in the DNR and will advance further. Mash на Донбассе shares a video claiming Russian forces have liberated Bogatyr and that it was a large logistical hub for Ukraine. ТАСС reports, citing military expert Marochko, that taking Bogatyr in the DNR provides access to Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims that Russian forces have "liberated" the village of Богатырь on the South-Donetsk direction after prolonged heavy fighting. The report also claims advances south and west of Отрадное and ongoing work against Ukrainian groups in Otradnoe. Liveuamap reports intense clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Bahatyry. MoD Russia shares a video of servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces speaking about the liberation of Bogatyr. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr.
- Southern Direction: Ukrainian forces report inflicting enemy losses. Kotsnews and Старше Эдды report on a combat incident on the Dnipro islands. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators are skillfully shooting down enemy drones on the South-Donetsk direction. Liveuamap reports 1 Russian army assault repelled at Kherson axis yesterday.
- Chelyabinsk (Russia): Location of a domestic Russian military aviation incident.
- Purekh (Russia): Restoration efforts reported.
- Belgorod Oblast (Russia): Location of Ukrainian drone attacks and Russian military activity. Ukrainian claim of destroying a Russian ammunition truck here. Russia claims downing 1 Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV over Belgorod Oblast overnight. Russia claims downing 1 Ukrainian drone over Belgorod Oblast overnight. A Russian drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, resulted in one fatality and one critically injured civilian. ASTRA reports a woman died and another was injured in a Ukrainian attack on Belgorod Oblast.
- Vatican: Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV and has a reported closed meeting with the Pope. The Pope has called for peace negotiations in Ukraine. Zelenskiy / Official, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, and КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) share photos and statements from President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican and commenting on the need for a just peace. STERNENKO reports that Zelenskyy met with the Pope. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration, and Merz also spoke with Zelenskyy there.
- Poland: First round of presidential elections reported. Russia is conducting an information operation during the elections. РБК-Україна reports that GUR reports Russia is conducting the "Doppelganger" information special operation during the elections in Poland.
- Romania: Second round of presidential elections reported with record voter turnout abroad. Alex Parker Returns reports a new historical record for voter turnout abroad in the Romanian presidential elections. ТАСС reports that the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated there are signs of Russian interference in the presidential elections. Alex Parker Returns comments on the French Foreign Ministry statement regarding interference in Romanian elections. Оперативний ЗСУ shares a report citing the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on alleged Russian interference in the presidential elections. Colonelcassad provides a commentary on alleged French interference in Romanian elections and Telegram censorship. ASTRA reports on Durov's statement and the French MFA's response regarding interference in Romanian elections. РБК-Україна and Оперативний ЗСУ report on exit poll data from the Romanian presidential election's second round, indicating that the pro-European candidate, Nicușor Dan, has won against the ultranationalist candidate, George Simion. РБК-Україна later reports that George Simion has declared victory despite the exit polls. Colonelcassad comments on Simion's claim and the potential response from "globalists." НгП раZVедка comments on the recent news about alleged French interference in the Romanian elections and Telegram's founder Pavel Durov's statement about a "Western European government" asking him to block channels.
- Marhanets (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast): Alleged misallocation of funds reported.
- Alekseevka (Donetsk Oblast): Russian strikes reported. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 6 temporary deployment points and 1 armored vehicle in the area of Alekseevka.
- Otradnoye (Donetsk Oblast): Russian strikes reported. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 6 temporary deployment points, 2 "Baba Yaga" hexacopters, and 2 Starlink satellite communication stations in the area of Otradnoye.
- Zelenyy Kut (Donetsk Oblast): Russian strikes reported. Воин DV reports Russian forces disabled 4 antennas of ground control stations and destroyed 2 Starlink satellite communication stations in the area of Zelenyy Kut.
- Novoukrainka (Donetsk Oblast): Russian strikes reported. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Novoukrayinka of Donetsk region.
- Donetsk (city) (DPR claimed territory) (Makiivka): Alleged Ukrainian drone attempt to attack a hospital reported. Human rights activist fined.
- Berestok (Donetsk Oblast): Claimed destruction of a Ukrainian howitzer near here.
- Novomikhailovka (Donetsk Oblast): Positional battles reported with a claimed Russian advance.
- Aleksandropol (Donetsk Oblast): Claimed liberation reported. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Oleksandropol. WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. Моd Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR.
- Komsomolske (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): Russian artillery strikes claimed.
- Khomutovsky district (Kursk Oblast, Russia) (Pody, Glushkovo): Fatality from drone attack reported. House of the head of the district burned down during a drone attack with claims of Russian officers living there.
- St. Peter's Square (Vatican): Location of the inaugural procession for the Pope's mass.
- Nachodka (Russia): Lawsuit filed by a World War II veteran reported.
- Moldova: Diaspora voting in Moldova related to the Romanian presidential election mentioned.
- Great Britain: Diaspora voting in Great Britain related to the Romanian presidential election mentioned.
- South Donetsk Direction (Donetsk Oblast): Russian forces claim the liberation of Bogatyr on this direction and highlight its strategic significance. Ukrainian sources from the 33rd Separate Mechanized Brigade deny the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. Воин DV shares archival footage supporting the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. ТАСС reports, citing Russian military expert Vitaly Kiselev, that Russian forces have leveled the front line on the flanks after liberating Bogatyr in the DNR and will advance further. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators are skillfully shooting down enemy drones on the South-Donetsk direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims that Russian forces have "liberated" the village of Богатырь on the South-Donetsk direction after prolonged heavy fighting. The report also claims advances south and west of Отрадное and ongoing work against Ukrainian groups in Otradnoe. Liveuamap reports intense clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Bahatyry. MoD Russia shares a video of servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces speaking about the liberation of Bogatyr. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk direction.
- Kurakhovsky direction (Donetsk Oblast): Body exchange reported. STERNENKO shares a video of a Ukrainian drone attacking a "bukhanka" type vehicle on the Kurakhivka direction.
- Ugledarsky direction (Donetsk Oblast): Body exchange reported.
- Bakhmutsky direction (Donetsk Oblast): Body exchange reported. Positional battles reported. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ mentions a Ukrainian soldier serving in Chasiv Yar.
- Russkoye Porechnoye (Kursk Oblast, Russia): Russian forces claim finding the body of an elderly woman with signs of physical abuse. Colonelcassad shares a photo (Russian passport) and text claiming that Russian forces found the body of an elderly woman with signs of physical abuse in Russkoye Porechnoye, Kursk Oblast.
- Kryvyi Rih (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast): Military aid provided by the city council reported. Николаевский Ванёк provides detailed drone tracking across Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, with drones heading towards Kryvyi Rih. Alex Parker Returns reports a "terrorist attack" has occurred in Kryvyi Rih.
- St. Petersburg (Russia): Raid at a club and detention of a blogger reported. Murder and dismemberment case reported.
- Horlivka area (Donetsk Oblast): Claimed Russian advances reported.
- Velyka Novosilka area (Donetsk Oblast): Claimed Russian advances reported. ТАСС reports, citing Pushilin, that Russian units have advanced in the Velykonovosilka and Pokrovsk directions, with serious clashes in the areas of Velyka Novosilka and Kotlyarivka.
- Kamenskoye area (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): Claimed Russian advances reported.
- Sinelnykivskyi district (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast): Threat of aviation weapons for this district. Ukrainian Air Force reports threat of aerial weapons to Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Synelnykove district).
- Germany: Seeking decisive action from Italy regarding Russia's war. German helicopters participating in NATO exercises in Lithuania. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration, and Merz also spoke with Zelenskyy there.
- Belgium: Providing new military aid package to Ukraine. Воин DV includes Belgium's commitment of €1 billion in military aid (including SAMs, a Leopard tank, and naval drones) in his summary of international support.
- Khan Yunis (Gaza): Claimed death of a Hamas leader in a tunnel after an Israeli strike. ТАСС reports five volunteers from Dagestan were killed in a bombing in the Jabalia camp in Gaza. ТАСС reports that the Israeli army has announced the beginning of a large-scale ground operation in the north and south of the Gaza Strip. РБК-Україна reports on the Israeli ground operation in Gaza. Рыбарь provides further details on the Israeli ground operation in the Gaza Strip, named "Chariots of Gideon," including planned deployment of five divisions, initial aerial and artillery strikes, claimed hit targets, possible liquidation of a Hamas leader, and plans to occupy specific areas.
- Novosergeyevka (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Novoserhiyivka.
- Popov Yar (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday towards Popiv Yar. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Popiv Yar.
- Udachnoye (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Udachne.
- Ulyanovka (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here. Народная милиция ДНР claims the destruction of a Ukrainian UAV control point near Ulyanovka by a BM-21 "Grad" MLRS.
- Kotlino (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Kotlyne.
- Zverevo (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Zvirove.
- Dmitrov (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here.
- Poltavka (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here.
- Koptevo (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces hit formations near here.
- Novoekonomicheskoye (Donetsk People's Republic): Russian forces advancing into the depth of enemy defense near here.
- Temirovka (Zaporozhye region): Russian forces delivered strikes near here. Сливочный каприз reports successful "Lancet" strike on a Ukrainian tank north of Temirovka.
- Pavlovka (Zaporozhye region): Russian forces engaged formations near here.
- Kamenskoye (Zaporozhye region): Russian forces engaged formations near here. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Kamianka of Kharkiv region.
- Malaya Tokmachka (Zaporozhye region): Russian forces engaged formations near here. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Mala Tokmachka.
- Novodanilovka (Zaporozhye region): Russian forces engaged formations near here. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Orikhiv axis yesterday towards Novodanylivka. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Novodanylivka.
- Ponyatovka (Kherson region): Russian forces engaged formations near here.
- Tokarevka (Kherson region): Russian forces engaged formations near here.
- Canada: Canadian Prime Minister attending Pope's inauguration.
- Italy (Rome): Italian Prime Minister attending Pope's inauguration. Germany seeking decisive action from Italy regarding Russia's war. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Оперативний ЗСУ also confirms this meeting, noting it concluded after about 40 minutes.
- United States: US Vice President attending Pope's inauguration. Zelenskyy met with US Vice President Vance. РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, Alex Parker Returns, and Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 report that Russia plans a "training and combat" launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) RS-24 "Yars" on the night of May 19th, which Ukrainian intelligence (GUR) characterizes as a tactic to intimidate Ukraine, EU, and NATO. Alex Parker Returns reports that the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment. ТАСС reports that, according to Rubio after a conversation with Lavrov, Russia is preparing a document with requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. ТАСС reports that Marco Rubio stated the US wants progress in the next few days in negotiations. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. Два майора comments on the Ukrainian GUR's report about the planned Russian ICBM launch, implying the information originated from the US. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia.
- Russia (Baikonur Cosmodrome): Detention of two Czech citizens reported.
- Russia (Sheremetyevo airport, Moscow): Arrest related to alleged embezzlement schemes reported.
- Russia (Moscow): Arrest of a co-founder of a crypto project and criminal events reported. ТАСС reports a murder and dismemberment case in Moscow. ASTRA reports the arrest of Vladimir Smerkisa, co-founder of the crypto project Blum and former Binance CIS director, on fraud charges in Moscow. Moscow News reports an expected thunderstorm in Moscow. ТАСС reports the discovery of two bags with body fragments in Moscow and the detention of a suspect. Военкор Котенок reports on a formal event held in Moscow. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares photos of Russian soldiers in various mundane settings, including in Moscow.
- International Football History and Statistics Federation: Recognition of Lev Yashin reported.
- ANNA News: Cited in a report on strategic implications.
- Losino-Petrovsk (Moscow Oblast): Alleged grenade incident involving a returning Russian SVO participant resulting in fatalities and injuries.
- Jabalia camp (Gaza): ТАСС reports five volunteers from Dagestan were killed during a bombing here.
- Lobkove (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Lobkove.
- Berezivka (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast): ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Berezivka.
- Oleksandropol (Donetsk Oblast): ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Oleksandropol. WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. Моd Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR.
- Dnipro islands (Kherson Oblast): Kotsnews and Старше Эдды report on a combat incident here.
- Vologda Oblast (Russia) (Nyuksensky district): МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports on a scandal involving the daughter of a district head here. ASTRA reports a scandal in Vologda Oblast where the 19-year-old daughter of a district head allegedly threatened to send people to the SVO. Colonelcassad also shares a video related to this incident, criticizing the official's daughter. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports on a scandal in Vologda Oblast involving the daughter of a local official.
- Vatican: Zelenskiy / Official, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, and КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) share photos and statements from President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV here. Alex Parker Returns reports that the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment. STERNENKO reports that Zelenskyy met with the Pope. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration.
- Denmark: Оперативний ЗСУ reports that Denmark has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Denmark is transferring a new defense package to Ukraine worth $600 million, including self-propelled artillery, ammunition, and equipment for the Air Force. Воин DV includes Denmark's commitment of $600 million in military aid (including SAMs, ammunition, and equipment) in his summary of international support. STERNENKO reports that Denmark will provide Ukraine with a new military aid package worth over €560 million for 2025-2028, including artillery systems and ammunition (via the Czech initiative), air force equipment, and training programs.
- Kazakhstan: Fighterbomber shares a photo of Kazakhstan Air Force Su-30SM aircraft.
- Svobodny (Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia): РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS report that Russia plans a "training and combat" launch of an ICBM from near here. Два майора comments on the Ukrainian GUR's report about the planned Russian ICBM launch from near here. Военкор Котенок comments on the Ukrainian GUR's report about the planned Russian ICBM launch, mentioning its location. РБК-Україна reports Russia planned to launch an ICBM near here overnight, but it did not occur.
- Pip Ivan mountain (Carpathians): РБК-Україна reports renewed snowfall here.
- International Association of Ultrarunners: ТАСС reports that this association has refused to recognize Russian athlete Ivan Zaborsky's world record due to the Russian flag.
- South-Donetsk direction: Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators are skillfully shooting down enemy drones on the South-Donetsk direction. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video claiming a Ukrainian HIMARS strike on a Russian Buk SAM system. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims that Russian forces have "liberated" the village of Богатырь on the South-Donetsk direction after prolonged heavy fighting. The report also claims advances south and west of Отрадное and ongoing work against Ukrainian groups in Otradnoe. Liveuamap reports intense clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Bahatyry. MoD Russia shares a video of servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces speaking about the liberation of Bogatyr. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk direction.
- Druzhkivka direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Romanovka, Zarya, Stara Mykolayivka, Ignatovka, Yablunovka, Novooleksiivka, Novoyelenivka, Rusin Yar, Scherbynivka, Novospasske (Petrivka), Katerynivka, Druzhkivka, Kramatorsk): Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of this direction, claiming Russian attempts to eliminate a pocket, advance towards key heights, and push towards Yablunivka to cut off Ukrainian logistics, asserting the start of the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk operation. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Z комитет + карта СВО reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025.
- Sloviansk-Kramatorsk grouping of Ukrainian forces (Donetsk Oblast): Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, claiming Russian advances pose a threat to the rear of this grouping.
- Krasnoarmiisk-Dymytrovsk grouping of Ukrainian forces (Donetsk Oblast): Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, claiming Russian advances pose a threat to the rear of this grouping.
- Albania: Alex Parker Returns shares a video with a caption that appears to be a satirical comment about the Albanian Prime Minister.
- Novaya Poltavka (Donetsk Oblast): Сливочный каприз shares photos and video claiming Russian forces have liberated the central part of Novaya Poltavka. Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, mentioning advancement from here. Рыбарь claims the "liberation" of Nova Poltavka by Russian forces.
- Novoaleksandrovka (Donetsk Oblast): Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that Russian forces have entered Novoaleksandrovka. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Novooleksandrivka.
- Istanbul (Turkey): TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location.
- Syria: Рыбарь provides analysis on the attempted unification of various armed groups in Syria.
- Eurovision 2025: РБК-Україна reports that Ukraine placed 9th at Eurovision-2025. ТАСС reports that Shaman will represent Russia at the Intervision contest. ТАСС reports that Shaman will represent Russia at the Intervision contest.
- Smuglyanka unit (Russian Forces): Два майора shares a video claiming Russian Aerospace Forces and "Smuglyanka" unit are providing air support on the Zaporizhzhia front.
- Novoelenivka (Donetsk Oblast): Сливочный каприз reports positional battles in the Krasnoarmeysk area and claims Russian forces expanded control and occupied new positions in the northern part of Novoelenivka. Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, mentioning advancement from here. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Krasnoarmeysk direction, including entering Novolekseyevka.
- Alexandropol: WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Oleksandropol. Моd Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR.
- Torskoye (Lyman direction): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Lyman axis yesterday near Torske.
- Zarechnoye (Lyman direction): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye.
- Redkodub (Lyman direction): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces are fighting for Redkodub. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Lyman axis yesterday near Ridkodub.
- Kharkiv (city): РБК-Україна reports that the TCC in Kharkiv has commented on the death of a man on their territory. Олег Синєгубов, голова Харківської ОДА reports a Russian drone strike on a residential area in Kyivskyi district of Kharkiv. Олег Синєгубов reports a Russian drone strike on Kyivskyi district of Kharkiv.
- Terror battalion (Ukrainian-affiliated forces): Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims Russian forces eliminated a Belarusian nationalist fighter of the "Terror" battalion.
- Ryzhkyi (call sign): Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Vesny claims Russian forces eliminated a fighter with this call sign.
- Makeyevka (Donetsk Oblast): Colonelcassad shares photos and text claiming Russian forces have cleared a large "pocket" southwest of Makeyevka.
- Rome (Italy): ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Оперативний ЗСУ also confirms this meeting, noting it concluded after about 40 minutes.
- Pervomaiskyi (Mykolaiv Oblast): Оперативний ЗСУ reports an incident in Pervomaiskyi TCC in Mykolaiv Oblast where a man who received a summons allegedly cut his hand.
- Yakymivka (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" shares a video from occupied Yakymivka, claiming that teachers are collaborating with Russian forces and spreading propaganda to children.
- Перевальное (Crimea): ASTRA reports a Ukrainian drone attack on the 126th coastal defense brigade here on May 16th.
- Доброе (Crimea): ASTRA reports that over 2,000 residents evacuated from Perevalnoye were resettled here.
- Чайковское (Crimea): ASTRA mentions a military unit here in relation to the attack on Perevalnoye.
- Kabardino-Balkaria (Russia): Alex Parker Returns reports on the Vice-Premier's statement about traditional versus Arab national clothing here. Alex Parker Returns reports on the Vice-Premier's statement here.
- Vladimir (Russia): АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports a violent incident here where a man of Central Asian origin allegedly attacked a doctor with a knife.
- Berdyansk: Mash на Донбассе reports a crime here, where a schoolgirl is suspected of murdering a seven-year-old girl. Mash на Донбассе reports a crime here.
- Zaporizhzhia (city): Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Zaporizhzhya of Donetsk region. Ukrainian Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration reports threat of КАБs to Zaporizhzhia city.
- Рівнопіль (Donetsk Oblast): Liveuamap reports clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Rivnopil.
- Mariupol: Mash на Донбассе shares a video showcasing celebration here.
- Якутия (Russia): WarGonzo reports the death of a television presenter from here in the conflict zone. WarGonzo reports the death of a television presenter from here.
- Новолексеевка (Donetsk Oblast): Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Krasnoarmeysk direction, including entering Novolekseyevka.
- Miropolskoye (Sumy Oblast): Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near here.
- Bilopillia (Sumy Oblast): РБК-Україна reports a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus here. РБК-Україна reports a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus here.
- Konstantynopillia (Donetsk Oblast): Liveuamap reports clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Kostyantynopil.
- Odesa port: Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports on Russian observations of activities here. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports on Russian observations of activities here.
- Baltic Sea: Старше Эдды reports on stopping an Estonian tanker here. Старше Эдды reports on stopping an Estonian tanker here.
- Dyliyivka (Donetsk Oblast): Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Toretsk axis yesterday near Dyliyivka.
- Ozaryanovka (Donetsk Oblast): Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Toretsk axis yesterday near Ozaryanivka.
- Romanovka (Donetsk Oblast): Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Russian military blogger reports Russian forces beat Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025, indicating tactical gains in the Toretsk direction.
Aerial and Naval Activity (Updated):
- Drone Activity: Remains extremely high and widespread. A massive overnight attack involved 112 strike UAVs and imitator drones targeting multiple regions, including Kyiv Oblast, with 76 neutralized (41 kinetic, 35 EW), and impacting multiple oblasts. Two people were injured and infrastructure was damaged by Russian drone attacks overnight in Sumy. 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. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025, and beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 6 temporary deployment points and 1 armored vehicle, 2 "Baba Yaga" hexacopters, 4 antennas of ground control stations, and 2 Starlink satellite communication stations in the area of Alekseevka and Otradnoye using artillery and FPV drones. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 1 launcher, 2 temporary deployment points in the area of Komar using artillery. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed a pickup truck with three Ukrainian servicemen northeast of Komar, a UAV control point with two operators and a Starlink terminal northwest of Otradnoye, a temporary deployment point and equipment in Fedorovka, and a "Kozak" armored combat vehicle using FPV drones. Воин DV reports Russian forces shot down two "Baba Yaga" drones by air ramming. MoD Russia reports servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces spoke about the liberation of Bogatyr, detailing the use of FPV drones. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point near Druzhba in the Konstantinovskoye direction using drone operators and artillery. Enemy reconnaissance UAVs are reported in the north of Kharkiv Oblast and the west of Donetsk Oblast. Russian military bloggers are showcasing successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles in the Pokrovsk direction. Ukrainian forces claim destruction of Russian armored vehicles and equipment in Kharkiv Oblast using drones. Russian military blogger fundraising for equipment, including drones and anti-drone systems. Claimed Russian destruction of Ukrainian armored vehicles using drones. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across numerous oblasts, including Sumy, Chernihiv, Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Poltava. РБК-Україна reports wide air alert due to strike drones. STERNENKO reports threat of strike UAVs from the north. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit in the Kursk operation, mentioning their activity on the Sumy border and claimed destruction of Russian Murom complexes and robotic platforms, and commenting on the use of North Korean soldiers by Russia. Ukrainian National Guard Brigade "Rubizh" fundraising for equipment for pilots. STERNENKO reports on FPV drone procurement. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian UAV control point using drones.
- 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. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Воин DV reports Russian forces shot down two "Baba Yaga" drones by air ramming. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr. Means are engaged to shoot down enemy reconnaissance UAVs in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts. Russian military blogger fundraising for anti-drone systems. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit against Russian drones and claimed destruction of Russian Murom complexes. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian forces destroyed Ukrainian "Baba-Yaga" type drones near Bogatyr with claimed air defense success.
- 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. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Mykhalchyna-Sloboda of Chernihiv region, Kamyanka, Kolodyazne, Staryy Saltiv of Kharkiv region, Popiv Yar, Shevchenko Pershe, Sukhyy Yar, Novoukrayinka, Zaporizhzhya, Burlatske and Pokrovsk of Donetsk region, Hulyaypole, Novodarivka, Novoandriyivka of Zaporizhzhia region, Odradokamyanka of Kherson region, which would likely involve guided aerial bombs. Russian tactical aviation is launching КАБs on Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts. Ukrainian Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration reports threat of КАБs to Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
- 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. 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. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Mykhalchyna-Sloboda of Chernihiv region, Kamyanka, Kolodyazne, Staryy Saltiv of Kharkiv region, Popiv Yar, Shevchenko Pershe, Sukhyy Yar, Novoukrayinka, Zaporizhzhya, Burlatske and Pokrovsk of Donetsk region, Hulyaypole, Novodarivka, Novoandriyivka of Zaporizhzhia region, Odradokamyanka of Kherson region. Russian tactical aviation is active on the southeastern direction with a threat of aerial weapons for frontline areas and launching КАБs. Ukrainian Air Force reports threat of aerial weapons to Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
- 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. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Odradokamyanka of Kherson region. Старше Эдды reports that Russian forces stopped an Estonian tanker in the Baltic Sea for inspection. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports on Russian observations of activities in Odesa port, including the departure of a heavily loaded dry cargo ship and two military boats, and the presence of other vessels. Старше Эдды reports on stopping Estonian tanker in Baltic Sea.
- 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. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 6 temporary deployment points and 1 armored vehicle, 2 "Baba Yaga" hexacopters, 4 antennas of ground control stations, and 2 Starlink satellite communication stations in the area of Alekseevka and Otradnoye using artillery and FPV drones. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 1 launcher, 2 temporary deployment points in the area of Komar using artillery. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point near Druzhba in the Konstantinovskoye direction using drone operators and artillery. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian UAV control point using a 2S1 "Gvozdika" self-propelled howitzer.
- 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. Воин DV reports Russian forces disabled 4 antennas of ground control stations and destroyed 2 Starlink satellite communication stations in the area of Alekseevka and Otradnoye. Russian military blogger fundraising for anti-drone systems.
- 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. ТАСС reports that, according to Rubio after a conversation with Lavrov, Russia is preparing a document outlining its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. ТАСС reports that Marco Rubio stated the US wants progress in the next few days in negotiations. РБК-Україна reports that Lavrov informed Rubio that Moscow will prepare a document outlining its conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine, according to Clash Report. РБК-Україна reports that the Ukrainian side will work on its own proposal for a ceasefire and hopes to present it soon, according to Clash Report. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Russia will prepare a document with its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine, citing US Secretary Rubio. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Rubio stating that if documents from each side contain realistic ideas, progress will be made, and if not, the Senate will take steps to pass a sanctions bill. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on the demands made by the Russian delegation at the Istanbul negotiations. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia. Alex Parker Returns confirms a Putin-Trump phone conversation on May 19th.
- Russia-Ukraine Diplomatic Activity: Direct diplomatic exchanges are anticipated regarding ceasefire conditions. Commentary on negotiations continues from both sides, with differing interpretations and stated positions. Zelenskyy is engaged in high-level diplomatic meetings with international figures. Zelenskiy / Official, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, and КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) share photos and statements from President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican and commenting on the need for a just peace. ТАСС reports that, according to Rubio after a conversation with Lavrov, Russia is preparing a document outlining its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. ТАСС reports that Marco Rubio stated the US wants progress in the next few days in negotiations. РБК-Україна reports that Lavrov informed Rubio that Moscow will prepare a document outlining its conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine, according to Clash Report. РБК-Україна reports that the Ukrainian side will work on its own proposal for a ceasefire and hopes to present it soon, according to Clash Report. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Russia will prepare a document with its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine, citing US Secretary Rubio. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Rubio stating that if documents from each side contain realistic ideas, progress will be made, and if not, the Senate will take steps to pass a sanctions bill. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on the demands made by the Russian delegation at the Istanbul negotiations. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia. Alex Parker Returns confirms a Putin-Trump phone conversation on May 19th.
- 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. РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, Alex Parker Returns, and Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 report that Russia plans a "training and combat" launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) RS-24 "Yars" on the night of May 19th, which Ukrainian intelligence (GUR) characterizes as a tactic to intimidate Ukraine, EU, and NATO. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration, and Merz also spoke with Zelenskyy there. EU ambassadors have agreed on a €150 billion militarization fund. Iran has approved a strategic partnership treaty with Russia.
- Internal Russian Politics: Internal legal proceedings, incidents of vandalism, reports on military engineers, and criminal events continue. Reports of a grenade incident involving a returning Russian soldier in Moscow Oblast are circulating. Russian sources continue to promote narratives of military success and highlight internal social and economic issues. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports on a scandal in Vologda Oblast where the 19-year-old daughter of a district head allegedly threatened to send people to the SVO, leveraging her mother's position. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 provides guidance on accessing SVO participants' finances. Военкор Котенок shares commentary discussing military reforms and leadership. ТАСС reports a murder and dismemberment case in Moscow. ТАСС reports that Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stated that the return of Western companies is permissible if it increases market competition. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports on a boxing tournament for youth in Donetsk Oblast. ASTRA is appealing for donations. ASTRA reports a scandal in Vologda Oblast where the 19-year-old daughter of a district head allegedly threatened to send people to the SVO. Colonelcassad also shares a video related to this incident, criticizing the official's daughter. ТАСС reports the discovery of two bags with body fragments in Moscow and the detention of a suspect. ASTRA reports the arrest of Vladimir Smerkisa, co-founder of the crypto project Blum and former Binance CIS director, on fraud charges in Moscow. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports that the Russian state statistics service (Rosstat) has allegedly classified data on birth and death rates by region for March 2025, claiming a significant increase in natural population decline and a historical low in birth rate. Colonelcassad shares a photo (Russian passport) and text claiming that Russian forces found the body of an elderly woman with signs of physical abuse in Russkoye Porechnoye, Kursk Oblast. Военкор Котенок shares photos and text from a solemn evening held at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow by the "Orthodox Russia" public movement in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. ASTRA reports a human rights activist in occupied Donetsk (Makiivka) has been fined for "discrediting the Russian army." ТАСС shares a video report about firefighters extinguishing a fire in a residential building in Oryol. 11 people were rescued and 32 evacuated. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports on a scandal in Vologda Oblast involving the daughter of a local official. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares photos showing Russian soldiers in various mundane settings, including in Moscow, labeled as "Daily Life of a Soldier," which could be a form of internal morale building or public relations. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" shares a video from occupied Yakymivka, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, claiming that teachers are collaborating with Russian forces and spreading propaganda to children, which is an internal issue in occupied Ukrainian territory but relevant to Russian control and influence. WarGonzo reports the death of Aleksey Semenov, a Yakut television presenter. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025, and beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Iran has approved a strategic partnership treaty with Russia. Robot delivery vehicles in Russia will receive official status as road users. Reiterated claim of prevention of attacks on police in Stavropolye involving minors. Russian military bloggers comment on Australian Abrams tank shipment. Russian military blogger fundraising for equipment. Russian military reports scale of Russian advances. Russian military reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point in Druzhba. Alex Parker Returns comments on the evacuation in Sumy Oblast. ТАСС reports FAS identified restrictions on internet providers by developer PIK. ТАСС reports Russia to be represented by Shaman at Intervision contest. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a Politico article discussing the economic impact of European defense industry development.
- Russia-Ukraine Diplomatic Activity: Direct diplomatic exchanges are anticipated regarding ceasefire conditions. Commentary on negotiations continues from both sides, with differing interpretations and stated positions. Zelenskyy is engaged in high-level diplomatic meetings with international figures. Zelenskiy / Official, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, and КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) share photos and statements from President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican and commenting on the need for a just peace. ТАСС reports that, according to Rubio after a conversation with Lavrov, Russia is preparing a document outlining its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. ТАСС reports that Marco Rubio stated the US wants progress in the next few days in negotiations. РБК-Україна reports that Lavrov informed Rubio that Moscow will prepare a document outlining its conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine, according to Clash Report. РБК-Україна reports that the Ukrainian side will work on its own proposal for a ceasefire and hopes to present it soon, according to Clash Report. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Russia will prepare a document with its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine, citing US Secretary Rubio. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Rubio stating that if documents from each side contain realistic ideas, progress will be made, and if not, the Senate will take steps to pass a sanctions bill. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on the demands made by the Russian delegation at the Istanbul negotiations. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia. Alex Parker Returns confirms a Putin-Trump phone conversation on May 19th.
- Eurovision 2025: The outcome of the Eurovision contest is reported. Commentary on media coverage is noted. РБК-Україна reports that Ukraine placed 9th at Eurovision-2025 and provides the final results. ТАСС reports that Shaman will represent Russia at the Intervision contest. ТАСС reports that Shaman will represent Russia at the Intervision contest.
- International Incidents: A maritime incident in New York and the claimed death of a Hamas leader in Gaza after an Israeli strike are reported. ТАСС reports five volunteers from Dagestan were killed in a bombing in the Jabalia camp in Gaza. Alex Parker Returns reports that the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment.
- Middle East Tensions: The claimed death of a Hamas leader in Gaza is reported. ТАСС reports five volunteers from Dagestan were killed in a bombing in the Jabalia camp in Gaza. ТАСС reports that the Israeli army has announced the beginning of a large-scale ground operation in the north and south of the Gaza Strip. РБК-Україна reports on the Israeli ground operation in Gaza. Рыбарь provides further details on the Israeli ground operation in the Gaza Strip, named "Chariots of Gideon," including planned deployment of five divisions, initial aerial and artillery strikes, claimed hit targets, possible liquidation of a Hamas leader, and plans to occupy specific areas.
- Energy Security: Turkey announces the discovery of a giant new gas field in the Black Sea. Russian oil transshipment activities are reported. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones. Ukrainian SBU claims destruction of a Russian radar and warehouses on Black Sea gas production platforms using combined surface and aerial drones.
- ISW Assessment: ISW provides an assessment of the Kremlin's negotiation strategy.
- Commemoration of Fallen Ukrainian Defender: Commemoration of a Ukrainian defender is reported. Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" reports the claimed elimination of the deputy commander of the "Don" Cossack brigade, Alexander Tseruta. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on the claimed elimination of a highly decorated Russian scout-sniper ("Ded") on May 11th. WarGonzo reports the death of Aleksey Semenov, a Yakut television presenter. WarGonzo reports the death of a Yakut television presenter serving in the conflict zone.
- Commemorative Practices in Ukraine: Daily minute of silence and commemoration of historical events like the Crimean Tatar deportation are highlighted. РБК-Україна and 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 commemorate the 80th anniversary of the deportation of the Crimean Tatars. КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) commemorates the victims of political repression and the genocide of the Crimean Tatar people. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ shares a message from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi commemorating the Day of the Reservist of Ukraine. Координаційний штаб з питань поводження з військовополоненими commemorates the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Genocide of the Crimean Tatar People (May 18th).
- Polish Presidential Election: Analysis of the first round and claims of Russian information operations during the election are reported. РБК-Україна reports that GUR reports Russia is conducting the "Doppelganger" information special operation during the elections in Poland.
- Romanian Presidential Election: Analysis of the second round and record voter turnout abroad are reported. Alex Parker Returns reports a new historical record for voter turnout abroad in the Romanian presidential elections. ТАСС reports that the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated there are signs of Russian interference in the presidential elections. Alex Parker Returns comments on the French Foreign Ministry statement regarding interference in Romanian elections. Оперативний ЗСУ shares a report citing the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on alleged Russian interference in the presidential elections. Colonelcassad provides a commentary on alleged French interference in Romanian elections and Telegram censorship. ASTRA reports on Durov's statement and the French MFA's response regarding interference in Romanian elections. РБК-Україна and Оперативний ЗСУ report on exit poll data from the Romanian presidential election's second round, indicating that the pro-European candidate, Nicușor Dan, has won against the ultranationalist candidate, George Simion. РБК-Україна later reports that George Simion has declared victory despite the exit polls. Colonelcassad comments on Simion's claim and the potential response from "globalists." НгП раZVедка comments on the recent news about alleged French interference in the Romanian elections and Telegram's founder Pavel Durov's statement about a "Western European government" asking him to block channels. Alex Parker Returns reports a new historical record for voter turnout abroad in the Romanian presidential elections.
- Report on Potential Post-Conflict Arms Trafficking: A report suggesting a massive inflow of weapons into Europe after the conflict is noted.
- Vatican: Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV and has a reported closed meeting with the Pope, who has called for peace negotiations in Ukraine. International leaders are also attending. Zelenskiy / Official, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, and КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) share photos and statements from President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican. Alex Parker Returns reports that the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment. STERNENKO reports that Zelenskyy met with the Pope. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration.
- US-Russia Relations: Russian President Putin has commented on relations with the US. Commentary on potential high-level meetings continues. РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, Alex Parker Returns, and Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 report that Russia plans a "training and combat" launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) RS-24 "Yars" on the night of May 19th, which Ukrainian intelligence (GUR) characterizes as a tactic to intimidate Ukraine, EU, and NATO. ТАСС reports that, according to Rubio after a conversation with Lavrov, Russia is preparing a document with requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. ТАСС reports that Marco Rubio stated the US wants progress in the next few days in negotiations. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. Два майора comments on the Ukrainian GUR's report about the planned Russian ICBM launch, implying the information originated from the US. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia. Alex Parker Returns confirms a Putin-Trump phone conversation on May 19th.
- Italy-Ukraine Relations: Italy is potentially transferring armored personnel carriers and assisting with a satellite observation system. Germany is seeking decisive action from Italy regarding Russia's war. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Оперативний ЗСУ also confirms this meeting, noting it concluded after about 40 minutes.
- Moldova-Romania Relations: Diaspora voting in Moldova related to the Romanian presidential election mentioned.
- Great Britain-Romania Relations: Diaspora voting in Great Britain related to the Romanian presidential election mentioned.
- Georgia: Report on the lives of Russian and Belarusian individuals who have relocated to Georgia.
- Khan Yunis (Gaza): Claimed death of a Hamas leader here. ТАСС reports five volunteers from Dagestan were killed during a bombing in the Jabalia camp in Gaza. ТАСС reports that the Israeli army has announced the beginning of a large-scale ground operation in the north and south of the Gaza Strip. РБК-Україна reports on the Israeli ground operation in Gaza. Рыбарь provides further details on the Israeli ground operation in the Gaza Strip, named "Chariots of Gideon," including planned deployment of five divisions, initial aerial and artillery strikes, claimed hit targets, possible liquidation of a Hamas leader, and plans to occupy specific areas. ТАСС reports that the Israeli army has announced the beginning of a large-scale ground operation in the north and south of the Gaza Strip.
- European Union: President of the European Commission attending Pope's inauguration. Russia is conducting an information operation during the elections in a member state. РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, Alex Parker Returns, and Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 report that Russia plans a "training and combat" launch of an ICBM on the night of May 19th, which Ukrainian intelligence (GUR) characterizes as a tactic to intimidate Ukraine, EU, and NATO. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. Рыбарь provides analysis on Germany's stance on sending troops to Ukraine, a member of the EU. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report on discussions among European leaders and the US about meeting with Trump before his call with Putin. EU ambassadors have agreed on a €150 billion militarization fund. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a Politico article discussing the economic impact of European defense industry development.
- Canada: Canadian Prime Minister attending Pope's inauguration.
- Italy (Rome): Italian Prime Minister attending Pope's inauguration. Germany seeking decisive action from Italy regarding Russia's war. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Оперативний ЗСУ also confirms this meeting, noting it concluded after about 40 minutes.
- United States: US Vice President attending Pope's inauguration. Zelenskyy met with US Vice President Vance. РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, Alex Parker Returns, and Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 report that Russia plans a "training and combat" launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) RS-24 "Yars" on the night of May 19th, which Ukrainian intelligence (GUR) characterizes as a tactic to intimidate Ukraine, EU, and NATO. Alex Parker Returns reports that the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment. ТАСС reports that, according to Rubio after a conversation with Lavrov, Russia is preparing a document with requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. ТАСС reports that Marco Rubio stated the US wants progress in the next few days in negotiations. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. Два майора comments on the Ukrainian GUR's report about the planned Russian ICBM launch, implying the information originated from the US. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia. Alex Parker Returns confirms a Putin-Trump phone conversation on May 19th. Russian military bloggers comment on Australian Abrams tank shipment.
- Russia (Baikonur Cosmodrome): Detention of two Czech citizens reported.
- Russia (Sheremetyevo airport, Moscow): Arrest related to alleged embezzlement schemes reported.
- Russia (Moscow): Arrest of a co-founder of a crypto project and criminal events reported. ТАСС reports a murder and dismemberment case in Moscow. ASTRA reports the arrest of Vladimir Smerkisa, co-founder of the crypto project Blum and former Binance CIS director, on fraud charges in Moscow. Moscow News reports an expected thunderstorm in Moscow. ТАСС reports the discovery of two bags with body fragments in Moscow and the detention of a suspect. Военкор Котенок reports on a formal event held in Moscow. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares photos of Russian soldiers in various mundane settings, including in Moscow. Новости Москвы reports on the most highly paid professions in Russia.
- International Football History and Statistics Federation: Recognition of Lev Yashin reported.
- ANNA News: Cited in a report on strategic implications.
- Losino-Petrovsk (Moscow Oblast): Alleged grenade incident involving a returning Russian SVO participant resulting in fatalities and injuries.
- Jabalia camp (Gaza): ТАСС reports five volunteers from Dagestan were killed during a bombing here. ТАСС reports that the Israeli army has announced the beginning of a large-scale ground operation in the north and south of the Gaza Strip.
- Lobkove (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Lobkove.
- Berezivka (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast): ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Berezivka.
- Oleksandropol (Donetsk Oblast): ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Oleksandropol. WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. Моd Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR.
- Dnipro islands (Kherson Oblast): Kotsnews and Старше Эдды report on a combat incident here.
- Vologda Oblast (Russia) (Nyuksensky district): МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports on a scandal involving the daughter of a district head here. ASTRA reports a scandal in Vologda Oblast where the 19-year-old daughter of a district head allegedly threatened to send people to the SVO. Colonelcassad also shares a video related to this incident, criticizing the official's daughter. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports on a scandal in Vologda Oblast involving the daughter of a local official.
- Vatican: Zelenskiy / Official, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, and КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) share photos and statements from President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV here. Alex Parker Returns reports that the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment. STERNENKO reports that Zelenskyy met with the Pope. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration.
- Denmark: Оперативний ЗСУ reports that Denmark has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Denmark is transferring a new defense package to Ukraine worth $600 million, including self-propelled artillery, ammunition, and equipment for the Air Force. Воин DV includes Denmark's commitment of $600 million in military aid (including SAMs, ammunition, and equipment) in his summary of international support. STERNENKO reports that Denmark will provide Ukraine with a new military aid package worth over €560 million for 2025-2028, including artillery systems and ammunition (via the Czech initiative), air force equipment, and training programs.
- Kazakhstan: Fighterbomber shares a photo of Kazakhstan Air Force Su-30SM aircraft.
- Svobodny (Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia): РБК-Україна, Оперативний ЗСУ, and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS report that Russia plans a "training and combat" launch of an ICBM from near here. Два майора comments on the Ukrainian GUR's report about the planned Russian ICBM launch from near here. Военкор Котенок comments on the Ukrainian GUR's report about the planned Russian ICBM launch, mentioning its location. РБК-Україна reports Russia planned to launch an ICBM near here overnight, but it did not occur.
- Pip Ivan mountain (Carpathians): РБК-Україна reports renewed snowfall here.
- International Association of Ultrarunners: ТАСС reports that this association has refused to recognize Russian athlete Ivan Zaborsky's world record due to the Russian flag.
- South-Donetsk direction: Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators are skillfully shooting down enemy drones on the South-Donetsk direction. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video claiming a Ukrainian HIMARS strike on a Russian Buk SAM system. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims that Russian forces have "liberated" the village of Богатырь on the South-Donetsk direction after prolonged heavy fighting. The report also claims advances south and west of Отрадное and ongoing work against Ukrainian groups in Otradnoe. Liveuamap reports intense clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Bahatyry. MoD Russia shares a video of servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces speaking about the liberation of Bogatyr. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Southern Donetsk direction.
- Druzhkivka direction (Donetsk Oblast) (Romanovka, Zarya, Stara Mykolayivka, Ignatovka, Yablunovka, Novooleksiivka, Novoyelenivka, Rusin Yar, Scherbynivka, Novospasske (Petrivka), Katerynivka, Druzhkivka, Kramatorsk): Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of this direction, claiming Russian attempts to eliminate a pocket, advance towards key heights, and push towards Yablunivka to cut off Ukrainian logistics, asserting the start of the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk operation. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025.
- Sloviansk-Kramatorsk grouping of Ukrainian forces (Donetsk Oblast): Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, claiming Russian advances pose a threat to the rear of this grouping.
- Krasnoarmiisk-Dymytrovsk grouping of Ukrainian forces (Donetsk Oblast): Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, claiming Russian advances pose a threat to the rear of this grouping.
- Albania: Alex Parker Returns shares a video with a caption that appears to be a satirical comment about the Albanian Prime Minister.
- Novaya Poltavka (Donetsk Oblast): Сливочный каприз shares photos and video claiming Russian forces have liberated the central part of Novaya Poltavka. Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, mentioning advancement from here. Рыбарь claims the "liberation" of Nova Poltavka by Russian forces.
- Novoaleksandrovka (Donetsk Oblast): Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that Russian forces have entered Novoaleksandrovka. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Pokrovsk axis yesterday near Novooleksandrivka.
- Istanbul (Turkey): TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location.
- Syria: Рыбарь provides analysis on the attempted unification of various armed groups in Syria.
- Eurovision 2025: РБК-Україна reports that Ukraine placed 9th at Eurovision-2025. ТАСС reports that Shaman will represent Russia at the Intervision contest. ТАСС reports that Shaman will represent Russia at the Intervision contest.
- Smuglyanka unit (Russian Forces): Два майора shares a video claiming Russian Aerospace Forces and "Smuglyanka" unit are providing air support on the Zaporizhzhia front.
- Novoelenivka (Donetsk Oblast): Сливочный каприз reports positional battles in the Krasnoarmeysk area and claims Russian forces expanded control and occupied new positions in the northern part of Novoelenivka. Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, mentioning advancement from here. Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Krasnoarmeysk direction, including entering Novolekseyevka.
- Alexandropol: WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports enemy advances near Oleksandropol. Моd Russia reports on the liberation of Aleksandopol in the DNR.
- Torskoye (Lyman direction): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Lyman axis yesterday near Torske.
- Zarechnoye (Lyman direction): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye.
- Redkodub (Lyman direction): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces are fighting for Redkodub. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Lyman axis yesterday near Ridkodub.
- Kharkiv (city): РБК-Україна reports that the TCC in Kharkiv has commented on the death of a man on their territory. Олег Синєгубов, голова Харківської ОДА reports a Russian drone strike on a residential area in Kyivskyi district of Kharkiv. Олег Синєгубов reports a Russian drone strike on Kyivskyi district of Kharkiv.
- Terror battalion (Ukrainian-affiliated forces): Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims Russian forces eliminated a Belarusian nationalist fighter of the "Terror" battalion.
- Ryzhkyi (call sign): Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Vesny claims Russian forces eliminated a fighter with this call sign.
- Makeyevka (Donetsk Oblast): Colonelcassad shares photos and text claiming Russian forces have cleared a large "pocket" southwest of Makeyevka.
- Rome (Italy): ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Оперативний ЗСУ also confirms this meeting, noting it concluded after about 40 minutes.
- Pervomaiskyi (Mykolaiv Oblast): Оперативний ЗСУ reports an incident in Pervomaiskyi TCC in Mykolaiv Oblast where a man who received a summons allegedly cut his hand.
- Yakymivka (Zaporizhzhia Oblast): Анатолій Штефан "Штірліц" shares a video from occupied Yakymivka, claiming that teachers are collaborating with Russian forces and spreading propaganda to children.
- Перевальное (Crimea): ASTRA reports a Ukrainian drone attack on the 126th coastal defense brigade here on May 16th.
- Доброе (Crimea): ASTRA reports that over 2,000 residents evacuated from Perevalnoye were resettled here.
- Чайковское (Crimea): ASTRA mentions a military unit here in relation to the attack on Perevalnoye.
- Kabardino-Balkaria (Russia): Alex Parker Returns reports on the Vice-Premier's statement about traditional versus Arab national clothing here. Alex Parker Returns reports on the Vice-Premier's statement here.
- Vladimir (Russia): АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports a violent incident here where a man of Central Asian origin allegedly attacked a doctor with a knife.
- Berdyansk: Mash на Донбассе reports a crime here, where a schoolgirl is suspected of murdering a seven-year-old girl. Mash на Донбассе reports a crime here.
- Zaporizhzhia (city): Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday at Zaporizhzhya of Donetsk region. Ukrainian Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration reports threat of КАБs to Zaporizhzhia city.
- Рівнопіль (Donetsk Oblast): Liveuamap reports clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Rivnopil.
- Mariupol: Mash на Донбассе shares a video showcasing celebration here.
- Якутия (Russia): WarGonzo reports the death of a television presenter from here in the conflict zone. WarGonzo reports the death of a television presenter from here.
- Новолексеевка (Donetsk Oblast): Colonelcassad reports Russian tactical advances on the Krasnoarmeysk direction, including entering Novolekseyevka.
- Miropolskoye (Sumy Oblast): Два майора shows a video of Russian marines near here.
- Bilopillia (Sumy Oblast): РБК-Україна reports a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus here. РБК-Україна reports a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus here.
- Konstantynopillia (Donetsk Oblast): Liveuamap reports clashes at the Novopavlivka axis yesterday near Kostyantynopil.
- Odesa port: Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports on Russian observations of activities here. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports on Russian observations of activities here.
- Baltic Sea: Старше Эдды reports on stopping an Estonian tanker here. Старше Эдды reports on stopping Estonian tanker here.
- Dyliyivka (Donetsk Oblast): Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Toretsk axis yesterday near Dyliyivka.
- Ozaryanovka (Donetsk Oblast): Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Liveuamap reports clashes at the Toretsk axis yesterday near Ozaryanivka.
- Romanovka (Donetsk Oblast): Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Russian military blogger reports Russian forces beat Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025, indicating tactical gains in the Toretsk direction.
Support and Rehabilitation (Updated)
- Military Support (Ukraine): International military aid continues. Fundraising efforts for Ukrainian military units are ongoing. Ukraine is highlighting the need for continued support from NATO. Ukrainian sources are highlighting the effectiveness of FPV drones and emphasizing the need for continued drone support. Zelenskyy and European leaders reportedly held a phone call with Trump. РБК-Україна, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reports that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 provides a summary of weekly aid to the Zaporizhzhia front, including drones, batteries, EW systems, remote mining means, and other equipment, totaling 20 million UAH. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Denmark is transferring a new defense package to Ukraine worth $600 million, including self-propelled artillery, ammunition, and equipment for the Air Force. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС is appealing for donations. STERNENKO is appealing for donations. Воин DV includes Belgium's commitment of €1 billion in military aid (including SAMs, a Leopard tank, and naval drones) and Denmark's commitment of $600 million in military aid (including SAMs, ammunition, and equipment) in his summary of international support. STERNENKO reports that Denmark will provide Ukraine with a new military aid package worth over €560 million for 2025-2028, including artillery systems and ammunition (via the Czech initiative), air force equipment, and training programs. EU ambassadors have agreed on a €150 billion militarization fund, which can provide financial support for military capabilities. Turkey's FDI Group is reportedly supplying Ukraine with military equipment including AI-integrated fire control systems. Ukrainian National Guard Brigade "Rubizh" fundraising for equipment. STERNENKO reports on FPV drone procurement through donations.
- Civilian Support (Ukraine): Efforts to address the issue of deported children are ongoing internationally. Healthcare infrastructure and support for medical workers are being highlighted in Zaporizhzhia. Local authorities in Kryvyi Rih are implementing programs for food package distribution. РБК-Україна reports on Russian drone attacks in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast, resulting in two fatalities and three injuries. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports on the presentation of a new youth media platform "YoUA ZP" in Zaporizhzhia. Alex Parker Returns reports a "terrorist attack" in Kryvyi Rih, implying a need for civilian support. 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. 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. Военкор Котенок and ASTRA report on the fatality and injury from a drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast. ASTRA reports a woman died and another was injured in a Ukrainian attack on Belgorod Oblast. РБК-Україна reports a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus in Bilopillia, Sumy Oblast. Alex Parker Returns comments on the evacuation in Sumy Oblast.
- Military Support (Russia): Fundraising for military equipment is ongoing. The development and presentation of new AK-12 variants is a form of military support. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show combat work of Russian FPV drone crews and tactics for entering Novoaleksandrovka. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 provides data on the number of new Russian drone production companies and their revenue, and the estimated number of drones produced and supplied to the military. Два майора shares a video claiming Russian Aerospace Forces and "Smuglyanka" unit are providing air support for Russian offensive actions on the Zaporizhzhia front. Военкор Котенок reports on a formal event held in Moscow honoring conflict participants and volunteers assisting Russian forces. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares photos of Russian soldiers in various mundane settings, which can serve as morale support. Russian military blogger fundraising for equipment, including EW and drones.
- Veterans Support (Russia): The "Time of Heroes" program aims to train veterans for leadership roles. Военкор Котенок reports on a formal event in Moscow honoring conflict participants and volunteers assisting Russian forces. Басурин о главном links to a fund for the rehabilitation of SVO fighters.
- Rehabilitation (Ukraine): Adaptive sports training programs are being offered.
- Prisoner of War and Missing Personnel (Ukraine): The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War is engaging with families of servicemen. A large-scale body exchange has occurred. Speculation and reports regarding a potential large-scale prisoner exchange are circulating. Басурин о главном reports on the completion of a body exchange where Russia received 34 bodies of Russian servicemen and transferred 909 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen, detailing areas where Ukrainians were killed. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides statistics on Russian prisoners of war taken in the Kursk direction since August 6, 2024 (968). РБК-Україна reports that Ukrainian Defense Minister Umerov will submit a plan to President Zelenskyy tomorrow for a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format. The Coordination Headquarters Council met today to agree on a joint action plan. Оперативний ЗСУ also reports on this planned exchange. Координаційний штаб з питань поводження з військовополоненими commemorates the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Genocide of the Crimean Tatar People, highlighting the plight of Crimean Tatars in Russian captivity.
- Prisoner of War and Missing Personnel (Russia): A body exchange has occurred, with Russia receiving a smaller number of bodies than Ukraine. Speculation and reports regarding a potential large-scale prisoner exchange are circulating. A video featuring an alleged Ukrainian servicemember who surrendered is shared. Басурин о главном reports on the completion of a body exchange where Russia received 34 bodies of Russian servicemen and transferred 909 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen, detailing areas where Ukrainians were killed. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides statistics on Russian prisoners of war taken in the Kursk direction since August 6, 2024 (968). РБК-Україна reports that Ukrainian Defense Minister Umerov will submit a plan to President Zelenskyy tomorrow for a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format, which would involve the return of Russian prisoners. Оперативний ЗСУ also reports on this planned exchange.
- Internal Issues in Russia: Reports on internal issues, including criminal activity, are present. МОБИЛИЗАЦИЯ | Новости | Срочники reports on a scandal in Vologda Oblast where the 19-year-old daughter of a district head and alleged threats related to the SVO. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 provides guidance on accessing SVO participants' finances. ТАСС reports a murder and dismemberment case in Moscow. ASTRA reports a scandal in Vologda Oblast where the 19-year-old daughter of a district head allegedly threatened to send people to the SVO. Colonelcassad also shares a video related to this incident, criticizing the official's daughter. ТАСС reports the discovery of two bags with body fragments in Moscow and the detention of a suspect. ASTRA reports the arrest of Vladimir Smerkisa, co-founder of the crypto project Blum and former Binance CIS director, on fraud charges in Moscow. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports that the Russian state statistics service (Rosstat) has allegedly classified data on birth and death rates by region for March 2025. Colonelcassad shares a photo (Russian passport) and text claiming that Russian forces found the body of an elderly woman with signs of physical abuse in Russkoye Porechnoye, Kursk Oblast. ASTRA reports a human rights activist in occupied Donetsk (Makiivka) has been fined. ТАСС shares a video report about firefighters extinguishing a fire in a residential building in Oryol. 11 people were rescued and 32 evacuated. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА reports on a scandal in Vologda Oblast involving the daughter of a local official. WarGonzo reports the death of Aleksey Semenov, a Yakut television presenter. Liveuamap reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025, and beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Robot delivery vehicles in Russia will receive official status as road users. Reiterated claim of prevention of attacks on police in Stavropolye involving minors. ТАСС reports FAS identified restrictions on internet providers by developer PIK.
- Law Enforcement and Evasion of Mobilization (Ukraine): Investigations into schemes to evade mobilization continue. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ highlights a Ukrainian soldier who voluntarily mobilized. РБК-Україна reports that the TCC in Kharkiv has commented on the death of a man on their territory, opening a criminal case for suicide and investigating the actions of TCC staff. Оперативний ЗСУ reports an incident in Pervomaiskyi TCC in Mykolaiv Oblast where a man who received a summons allegedly cut his hand in a "provocation" after being directed to a medical commission. This highlights potential issues and resistance related to mobilization.
- Psychological Support: Cultural diplomacy and commemoration events in Ukraine can provide psychological support. A tragic domestic incident in Russia potentially linked to a returning soldier highlights potential psychological challenges. РБК-Україна and 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 commemorating the 80th anniversary of the deportation of the Crimean Tatars. КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) commemorating the victims of political repression and the genocide of the Crimean Tatar people. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports on the presentation of a new youth media platform "YoUA ZP" in Zaporizhzhia, which includes information on mental health. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares photos of Russian soldiers in various mundane settings, including interacting with a cat, labeled as "Daily Life of a Soldier," which can serve as a morale booster. Координаційний штаб з питань поводження з військовополоненими commemorates the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Genocide of the Crimean Tatar People (May 18th), highlighting the historical suffering.
- Veteran Status and Benefits (Ukraine): Efforts to improve administrative processes for obtaining veteran status are reported.
- Fundraising: STERNENKO and БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС are appealing for donations for the Ukrainian military. ASTRA is appealing for donations. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 provides a summary of weekly aid to the Zaporizhzhia front, totaling 20 million UAH, highlighting the financial support provided. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 provides data on the number of new Russian drone production companies and their revenue, and the estimated number of drones produced and supplied to the military. Ukrainian National Guard Brigade "Rubizh" fundraising for equipment. STERNENKO reports on FPV drone procurement through donations.
- Cultural Activities (Ukraine): 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 reports on the presentation of a new youth media platform "YoUA ZP" in Zaporizhzhia, which includes information on cultural topics. Координаційний штаб з питань поводження з військовополоненими commemorates the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Genocide of the Crimean Tatar People (May 18th), which includes cultural remembrance.
Force Composition and Tactics (Updated)
- Ukrainian Forces: Actively defending against intense Russian assaults across multiple fronts, repelling numerous attacks and inflicting significant personnel and equipment losses. Utilizing drones for various purposes, including counter-drone operations with interceptor drones and potentially for striking targets in Russia and occupied territories. Experiencing civilian casualties and infrastructure damage from widespread Russian aerial and artillery attacks. Engaging in high-level diplomatic negotiations and seeking continued international military and political support and military aid (including Abrams tanks, Belgian and Danish SAMs, Leopard tanks, naval drones, ammunition, and equipment). Experiencing limitations in obtaining certain advanced weaponry (Taurus missiles from Germany). Ukraine is investigating allegations made by a commander of the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade. Ukraine is actively fundraising for military equipment. Ukraine is conducting drone activity in Russian border regions. Ukraine is repelling Russian counterattacks. Ukraine is targeting Russian logistics and troop concentrations. Ukraine is using howitzers effectively against moving targets. The 35th Marine Brigade is operating south of Bohdanivka. РБК-Україна and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS report on Russian forces using drones to scan the area in Kherson for repeated strikes. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS share a video featuring Ukrainian drone operators targeting Russian servicemen on motorcycles near Toretsk, highlighting the effectiveness of drones against tactical movements. Оперативний ЗСУ reports that Australia has provided Abrams tanks, adding to Ukrainian armored capabilities. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Zelenskyy will not cede Crimea and Donbas and will not abandon Ukraine's right to join NATO. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports that the General Staff has created a working group to investigate allegations by a commander of the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade, indicating internal military review. MoD Russia shares a video detailing Russian combat engineers conducting demining operations on the Orekhiv direction and describing Ukrainian counter-mine tactics involving "Baba Yaga" hexacopters dropping anti-tank mines (PTM-3) and remote mining with M70 cluster munitions. ТАСС reports, citing Pushilin, that Ukrainian forces are "holding on" and serious clashes are ongoing in the areas of Velyka Novosilka and Kotlyarivka. Басурин о главном claims a Russian drone operator destroyed a US-made Stryker and disrupted a Ukrainian rotation near Komar on the South-Donetsk direction. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video featuring Ukrainian drone operators in Kursk Oblast allegedly showing a Russian soldier detonating a grenade after being targeted by a drone. STERNENKO has launched a fundraising campaign offering an exclusive knife as a prize. РБК-Україна reports on a scandal in Lviv where a former National Guardsman alleges he was detained and beaten in a TCC van. STERNENKO shares a video of a Ukrainian drone attacking a "bukhanka" type vehicle on the Kurakhivka direction. Оперативний ЗСУ shares a video claiming an airstrike on a Russian gathering point in occupied Nova Kakhovka, symbolically framed as a "French baguette" strike, implying the use of French-supplied weapons. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian forces are identifying Ukrainian drone launch points near Ignatovka. Воин DV includes Belgium's commitment of €1 billion in military aid (including SAMs, a Leopard tank, and naval drones) and Denmark's commitment of $600 million in military aid (including SAMs, ammunition, and equipment) in his summary of international support. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 claims Russian forces are repelling Ukrainian counterattacks from Ignatovka. Colonelcassad shares a graphic video claiming to show a Ukrainian soldier losing a leg and comments on alleged poor medical training within Ukrainian forces, implicitly criticizing Ukrainian capabilities. Colonelcassad shares a video allegedly showing hand-to-hand combat and capture on the Dnipro islands, implying Ukrainian casualties or capture. Басурин о главном reports a Ukrainian attack on Светлодарск with HIMARS on May 17th, injuring two civilians, and attributes it to the 27th separate rocket artillery brigade of the AFU. РБК-Україна shares a video claiming the Ukrainian 152-mm howitzer 2A65 "Msta-B" precisely hit a Russian serviceman on a motorcycle in Toretsk. DeepState shares a video claiming the 35th Marine Brigade is destroying Russian groups south of Богданівка. STERNENKO reports that Denmark will provide Ukraine with a new military aid package worth over €560 million for 2025-2028, including artillery systems and ammunition (via the Czech initiative), air force equipment, and training programs. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025, and beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. 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. 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. Военкор Котенок and ASTRA report on the fatality and injury from a drone attack on a car in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast. Reconnaissance drone activity is reported in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts. Turkey's FDI Group is reportedly supplying Ukraine with military equipment including AI-integrated fire control systems. Russian military bloggers are showcasing successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles in the Pokrovsk direction. Ukrainian forces claim destruction of Russian armored vehicles and equipment in Kharkiv Oblast using drones. РБК-Україна reports a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus in Bilopillia, Sumy Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across numerous oblasts, including Sumy, Chernihiv, Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Poltava. РБК-Україна reports wide air alert due to strike drones. STERNENKO reports threat of strike UAVs from the north. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit in the Kursk operation, mentioning their activity on the Sumy border and claimed destruction of Russian Murom complexes and robotic platforms, and commenting on the use of North Korean soldiers by Russia. Ukrainian National Guard Brigade "Rubizh" fundraising for equipment. STERNENKO reports on FPV drone procurement.
- Russian Forces: Conducting intense ground assaults and extensive aerial attacks across multiple fronts, claiming tactical successes and liberation of settlements (including claimed advances in the Kharkiv, Shakhtersk, Velykonovosilka, and Pokrovsk directions, and liberation of Nova Poltavka, and claimed gains on the Dzerzhynsk and Konstantinovka directions, including entering Romanovka, and the "liberation" of Богатырь). Employing a massive number of strike UAVs and imitator drones, guided aerial bombs (KABs), extensive artillery and MLRS, and various other drone types. Reporting significant claimed Ukrainian losses in personnel and equipment across all Groups of Forces. Russian military bloggers are actively commenting on tactical situations, equipment use (including unconventional methods), and claimed successes, and engaging in information operations. Russia is strengthening military cooperation with Belarus and planning joint exercises. Domestic incidents potentially linked to returning soldiers are being reported. Russia is utilizing a range of equipment and tactics, including FPV drones and potentially new ground robotic complexes. Ukrainian sources deny the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports on Russian tactics and Ukrainian counter-drone efforts in Chasiv Yar, claiming destruction of Russian vehicles. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video of claimed successful FPV drone strikes by the Ukrainian 3rd Assault Brigade. Pandiurin Ivan provides commentary on the strategy of armoring drones from a Russian military blogger perspective. Colonelcassad shares a video of a past design for armor protection. Воин DV shares archival footage supporting the Russian claim of liberating Bogatyr. Два майора shares a photo showing the aftermath of a FAB strike. Kotsnews and Старше Эдды report on a combat incident on the Dnipro islands. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warns of the activity of Russian tactical aviation in the northern and northeastern directions, with a threat of using aerial weapons for frontline regions. Fighterbomber shares a photo of Kazakhstan Air Force Su-30SM aircraft. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports КАБи on Sumshchyna and Донеччину. РБК-Україна reports a Russian FAB-500 glide bomb strike on a residential area in Kupiansk. Два майора shares a video claiming Russian Aerospace Forces and "Smuglyanka" unit are providing air support for Russian offensive actions on the Zaporizhzhia front. ТАСС reports, citing Russian military expert Vitaly Kiselev, that Russian forces have leveled the front line on the flanks after liberating Bogatyr and will advance further, implying successful tactics. Сливочный каприз shares photos and video claiming Russian forces have liberated the central part of Novaya Poltavka and are raising the Russian flag, presented as a successful tactical action. Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, asserting the start of the Sloviansk-Kramatorsk operation, highlighting Russian offensive tactics. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed report on the situation on the Kursk direction, highlighting Russian force deployments (including 12,000 North Korean servicemen) and increased use of KABs, also reporting on Russian assault actions. Mash на Донбассе shares a video claiming Russian forces have liberated Bogatyr. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 provides data on the number of new Russian drone production companies and their revenue, and the estimated number of drones produced and supplied to the military, highlighting Russian capabilities in drone warfare. Рыбарь provides analysis on the attempted unification of various armed groups in Syria, offering a perspective on challenges related to integrating disparate forces, which could be relevant to understanding their approach or potential difficulties. РБК-Україна reports a Russian FAB-500 glide bomb strike on a residential area in Kupiansk, indicating continued use of glide bombs as a tactic. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators are skillfully shooting down enemy drones on the South-Donetsk direction. Николаевский Ванёк provides granular detail on numerous "moped" (drone) movements across Mykolaiv, Kherson, Kirovohrad, Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Kharkiv, Cherkasy, Kyiv, and Zhytomyr Oblasts, and the Sumy/Chernihiv border, highlighting widespread Russian aerial activity. Полковник ГУР Шершень claims Russian forces launched 273 strike UAVs overnight, with 88 shot down and 128 imitator drones locationally lost, highlighting the scale of Russian drone attacks. НгП раZVедка claims "More than 50 Geraniums are heading towards objects of the cursed state," implying a large-scale drone attack. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show combat work of Russian FPV drone crews. Воин DV shares a video and text claiming that a Ukrainian "Pelican" air target detection radar station was hit by an "Iskander-M" tactical missile system strike near Novokalynivka, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, today at noon. Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that an FPV drone from the Russian 27th brigade destroyed a Ukrainian pickup truck on the Kupiansk direction. Два майора shares a video showing the use of a Russian reconnaissance UAV on the Crimean coast. Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that Russian forces have entered Novoaleksandrovka in Donetsk Oblast and cleared Ukrainian tunnels, highlighting specific tactics. Два майора shares a video claiming Russian Aerospace Forces and "Smuglyanka" unit are providing air support for Russian offensive actions on the Zaporizhzhia front. Сливочный каприз reports positional battles in the Krasnoarmeysk area and claims Russian forces expanded control and occupied new positions in the northern part of Novoelenivka, with a 700-meter advance. WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye and are fighting for Redkodub on the Lyman direction. Colonelcassad shares photos and text claiming Russian forces have cleared a large "pocket" southwest of Makeyevka that was held by Ukrainian forces. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares information from Ukrainian intelligence (GUR) about a planned Russian ICBM launch. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025, and beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 6 temporary deployment points and 1 armored vehicle, 2 "Baba Yaga" hexacopters, 4 antennas of ground control stations, and 2 Starlink satellite communication stations in the area of Alekseevka and Otradnoye using artillery and FPV drones. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 1 launcher, 2 temporary deployment points in the area of Komar using artillery. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed a pickup truck with three Ukrainian servicemen northeast of Komar, a UAV control point with two operators and a Starlink terminal northwest of Otradnoye, a temporary deployment point and equipment in Fedorovka, and a "Kozak" armored combat vehicle using FPV drones. Воин DV reports Russian forces shot down two "Baba Yaga" drones by air ramming. MoD Russia reports servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces spoke about the liberation of Bogatyr, detailing the use of FPV drones. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point near Druzhba in the Konstantinovskoye direction using drone operators and artillery. Reconnaissance drone activity is reported in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts. Russian military bloggers are showcasing successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles in the Pokrovsk direction. Claimed Russian destruction of Ukrainian armored vehicles using drones. Russian military blogger fundraising for equipment. Russian military reports scale of Russian advances. Russian military reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point in Druzhba. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports on Russian observations of activities in Odesa port. Старше Эдды reports on stopping Estonian tanker in Baltic Sea. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the use of North Korean soldiers by Russia in the Kursk operation. РБК-Україна reports Russia planned to launch an ICBM near Svobodny overnight, but it did not occur.
- Third-Party Involvement: Turkey is facilitating negotiations. The US is engaging separately with Ukraine and its Vice President met with Zelenskyy. Speculation on former US President Trump's involvement continues. NATO members are providing military aid to Ukraine (including a new package from Belgium and potential transfers from Italy) and conducting military exercises near Russian and Belarusian borders. The Vatican is offering mediation and the new Pope has called for peace negotiations. Other international leaders are engaging with Ukraine. Zelenskiy / Official, 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦, and КМВА (Київська міська військова адміністрація) share photos and statements from President Zelenskyy attending the inaugural mass of the new Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican. Arkhangel Spetsnaza reports on NATO exercises ("Griffin Lightning - 2025") in Lithuania. Оперативний ЗСУ reports that Denmark has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. Fighterbomber shares a photo of Kazakhstan Air Force Su-30SM aircraft. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed report on the situation on the Kursk direction, highlighting the presence of 12,000 North Korean servicemen fighting alongside Russian forces. Alex Parker Returns reports that the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment. Alex Parker Returns shares a video with a caption that appears to be a satirical comment about the Albanian Prime Minister. Рыбарь provides analysis on the attempted unification of various armed groups in Syria. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Denmark is transferring a new defense package to Ukraine worth $600 million. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims Russian forces eliminated a Belarusian nationalist fighter. Рыбарь provides analysis on Germany's stance on sending troops to Ukraine, a member of NATO and the EU. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS, РБК-Україна, and ASTRA report that President Zelenskyy is meeting with US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio in Rome. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report on discussions among European leaders and the US about meeting with Trump before his call with Putin. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. EU ambassadors have agreed on a €150 billion militarization fund. Iran has approved a strategic partnership treaty with Russia. Turkey's FDI Group is reportedly supplying Ukraine with military equipment including AI-integrated fire control systems. Russian military bloggers comment on Australian Abrams tank shipment. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the use of North Korean soldiers by Russia in the Kursk operation. Старше Эдды reports on stopping Estonian tanker in Baltic Sea. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a Politico article discussing the economic impact of European defense industry development.
- Equipment and Tactics: Continued extensive use of various types of drones by both sides (strike UAVs, FPV drones). Colonelcassad shares a video highlighting the combat work of Russian FPV drone crews. Colonelcassad claims a "Geran" drone strike in Sumy Oblast. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian sniper pair was covering assault troops and destroyed a Ukrainian octocopter, highlighting claimed combined arms tactics and counter-drone success. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming the destruction of a Ukrainian mortar using a UAV for detection and artillery fire from a 2A36 "Giatsint-B" howitzer, highlighting the claimed combined use of drones for reconnaissance and artillery for strike. TASS shares video footage from Kherson Oblast showcasing training of Russian military assault units of the "Dnepr" Group of Forces with combat robotic platforms, highlighting the claimed use and training with advanced military technology. Два майора reports on a claimed deep modernization of the Yak-52 training aircraft into a Як-52Б2 modification designed for counter-drone operations. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports Ukrainian defenders targeting Russian assault troops on motorcycles with mortars, cluster munitions, and drones. STERNENKO shares an FPV drone feed with a "BOMB ARMED" overlay, highlighting the use of armed FPV drones. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports on a plan by Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin to establish large-scale production of ATACMS and Patriot missiles in Europe. STERNENKO reports Belgium will provide military equipment, including drones, surface drones, a Leopard tank, and Cerber systems. MoD Russia reports a Buk-M2 SAM system downed HIMARS projectiles in the South Donetsk direction. Colonelcassad claims a Ukrainian BMC Kirpi armored vehicle was destroyed by Russian FPV drones in Kostiantynivka. STERNENKO reports a Russian military blogger is requesting donations for over 300 FPV drones needed for tomorrow, with a total request exceeding 4000. MoD Russia showcases BMPT Terminator training. Олександр Вілкул reports on FPV drone attacks in Nikopol district. Олександр Вілкул reports on finding and destroying Uragan MLRS shells in Kryvyi Rih district. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a photo of a self-propelled howitzer firing. MoD Russia shares a video of BMPT Terminator tank support fighting vehicle crews training. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС shares a video of a claimed attempt by a Russian soldier to counter a Ukrainian FPV drone with a stick on the Pokrovsk direction. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a video of Grad MLRS working on the Orikhiv sector of the Zaporizhzhia direction. Николаевский Ванёк and Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine provide detailed updates on numerous Russian drone movements across various oblasts. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports 1036 kamikaze drones used by Russian forces and 15 Ukrainian UAVs destroyed in the past day. Олександр Вілкул reports on FPV drone attacks in Nikopol district. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares a fundraising request for a drone and signal amplifier. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian drone operator destroyed a Ukrainian BMP-1U "Shkval" armored vehicle near Kolesnikovka using drone drops. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian forces destroyed Ukrainian "Baba-Yaga" type drones near Bogatyr with claimed air defense success. Два майора shares a fundraising request for metal for armor kits for military vehicles, which is a response to the threat posed by drones and other weapons. Два майора shares a video showing the installation and claimed effectiveness of "Frontline Armor" kits on military vehicles. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны reports Russian forces have entered Dyliivka and are conducting assaults. Два майора shares a video with the caption "Пацаны ебашут хохлов 24/7. Честь и хвала российским штурмам!", a propaganda piece. Colonelcassad shares a video of the interim governor of Kursk Oblast commenting on the situation regarding the embezzlement of budget funds allocated for the construction of defensive structures. MoD Russia claims downing three JDAM guided bombs, one US-made HIMARS MLRS projectile, and 80 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles over the past day. MoD Russia claims destroying field artillery guns and mortars in several locations over the past day and Missile Troops and Artillery struck in 143 areas and Operational-Tactical Aviation struck in 143 areas. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА is fundraising for Mavic drones. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators are skillfully shooting down enemy drones on the South-Donetsk direction. Народная милиция ДНР claims the destruction of a Ukrainian UAV control point near Ulyanovka by a BM-21 "Grad" MLRS. РБК-Україна reports a Russian FAB-500 glide bomb strike on a residential area in Kupiansk, indicating continued use of glide bombs as a tactic. 🇺🇦 Запорізька обласна військова адміністрація 🇺🇦 provides a summary of weekly aid to the Zaporizhzhia front, including drones of various types, batteries, EW systems, and remote mining means, highlighting the capabilities being provided to Ukrainian units. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 provides data on the number of new Russian drone production companies and their revenue, and the estimated number of drones produced and supplied to the military, highlighting Russian capabilities in drone warfare. Николаевский Ванёк provides granular detail on numerous "moped" (drone) movements across Mykolaiv, Kherson, Kirovohrad, Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Kharkiv, Cherkasy, Kyiv, and Zhytomyr Oblasts, and the Sumy/Chernihiv border, indicating widespread drone activity. Полковник ГУР Шершень claims Russian forces launched 273 strike UAVs overnight, with 88 shot down and 128 imitator drones locationally lost, highlighting the scale of Russian drone attacks. НгП раZVедка claims "More than 50 Geraniums are heading towards objects of the cursed state," implying a large-scale drone attack. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming to show combat work of Russian FPV drone crews. Воин DV shares a video and text claiming that a Ukrainian "Pelican" air target detection radar station was hit by an "Iskander-M" tactical missile system strike near Novokalynivka, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, today at noon. Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that an FPV drone from the Russian 27th brigade destroyed a Ukrainian pickup truck on the Kupiansk direction. Два майора shares a video showing the use of a Russian reconnaissance UAV on the Crimean coast. Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that Russian forces have entered Novoaleksandrovka in Donetsk Oblast and cleared Ukrainian tunnels, highlighting specific tactics. Два майора shares a video claiming Russian Aerospace Forces and "Smuglyanka" unit are providing air support for Russian offensive actions on the Zaporizhzhia front. Сливочный каприз reports positional battles in the Krasnoarmeysk area and claims Russian forces expanded control and occupied new positions in the northern part of Novoelenivka, with a 700-meter advance. WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye and are fighting for Redkodub on the Lyman direction. Colonelcassad shares photos and text claiming Russian forces have cleared a large "pocket" southwest of Makeyevka that was held by Ukrainian forces, implying the use of specific tactics to achieve this. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 6 temporary deployment points and 1 armored vehicle, 2 "Baba Yaga" hexacopters, 4 antennas of ground control stations, and 2 Starlink satellite communication stations in the area of Alekseevka and Otradnoye using artillery and FPV drones. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed 1 launcher, 2 temporary deployment points in the area of Komar using artillery. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed a pickup truck with three Ukrainian servicemen northeast of Komar, a UAV control point with two operators and a Starlink terminal northwest of Otradnoye, a temporary deployment point and equipment in Fedorovka, and a "Kozak" armored combat vehicle using FPV drones. Воин DV reports Russian forces shot down two "Baba Yaga" drones by air ramming. MoD Russia reports servicemen of the Vostok Group of Forces spoke about the liberation of Bogatyr, detailing the use of FPV drones. Воин DV shares a video claiming Russian drone operators destroyed two "Baba Yaga" hexacopters near Bogatyr. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point near Druzhba in the Konstantinovskoye direction using drone operators and artillery. Reconnaissance drones are active in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts. Russian military bloggers are showcasing successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles in the Pokrovsk direction. Turkey's FDI Group is reportedly supplying Ukraine with military equipment including AI-integrated fire control systems. Discussion of robot delivery vehicles in Russia. Ukrainian forces claim destruction of Russian armored vehicles and equipment in Kharkiv Oblast using drones. Russian military bloggers comment on Australian Abrams tank shipment. Russian military blogger fundraising for equipment, including drones and anti-drone systems. Claimed Russian destruction of Ukrainian armored vehicles using drones. Russian military reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point in Druzhba. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit in the Kursk operation, mentioning their activity on the Sumy border and claimed destruction of Russian Murom complexes and robotic platforms. Ukrainian National Guard Brigade "Rubizh" fundraising for equipment. STERNENKO reports on FPV drone procurement.
- Personnel: TASS reports alleged Ukrainian troop deployments, including "elite units" and the "Aidar" battalion, to Sumy Oblast. Colonelcassad claims a "Geran" drone strike on a temporary deployment point of the Ukrainian 82nd Airborne Assault Brigade near Velyka Chernechyna, Sumy Oblast, implying the presence of this unit's personnel. Colonelcassad shares a video claiming a Russian sniper pair was covering assault troops. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ reports Russian personnel losses, including 372 neutralized (228 killed) on the Pokrovsk direction, and a total of 910 Russian personnel losses over the past day. Colonelcassad and Шеф Hayabusa🫡🇺🇦 report on the resignation of a battalion commander from the Ukrainian 47th Brigade due to concerns about unjustified personnel losses. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports on the destruction of enemy personnel by the 59th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade near Nadiivka. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 discusses Russian tactics of using small groups (2-3 people) for propaganda. ✙DeepState✙🇺🇦 reports on the resignation of a battalion commander from the 47th Brigade and shares his statements. Alex Parker Returns shares a video with commentary linking the battalion commander's resignation to opposition to the regime. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a photo message quoting the head of the Council of Reservists of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, Tymochko, discussing the intensity of the Russian offensive and the projected duration of the conflict, and adds commentary from Ukrainian citizens reportedly mocking Tymochko's statement about Russia's inability to fight for 10 years. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides statistics on Russian personnel losses in the Kursk direction since August 6, 2024, including 63,172 killed and wounded, and 968 prisoners of war. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides a detailed report on the situation on the Kursk direction, highlighting the presence of 12,000 North Korean servicemen fighting alongside Russian forces and reporting on Russian assault actions. Военкор Котенок provides a detailed operational update and map analysis of the Druzhkivka direction, claiming Russian attempts to eliminate a pocket and advance, implying personnel involved in these actions. Mash на Донбассе shares a video claiming Russian forces have liberated Bogatyr. Басурин о главном reports on the completion of a body exchange where Russia received 34 bodies of Russian servicemen and transferred 909 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen, detailing areas where Ukrainians were killed. Colonelcassad shares a video and text claiming that Russian forces have entered Novoaleksandrovka in Donetsk Oblast and cleared Ukrainian tunnels, implying personnel actions. WarGonzo reports that soldiers of the 242nd regiment have liberated Alexandropol and are continuing their advance. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports that after liberating Torskoye, Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Zarechnoye and are fighting for Redkodub on the Lyman direction, implying personnel involved in these battles. Colonelcassad shares photos and text claiming Russian forces have cleared a large "pocket" southwest of Makeyevka that was held by Ukrainian forces. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны claims Russian forces eliminated a Belarusian nationalist fighter. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ shares a message from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi commemorating the Day of the Reservist of Ukraine. WarGonzo reports the death of Aleksey Semenov, a Yakut television presenter. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Воин DV reports Russian forces destroyed a pickup truck with three Ukrainian servicemen northeast of Komar, and a UAV control point with two operators northwest of Otradnoye, a temporary deployment point and equipment in Fedorovka using FPV drones. БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС reports on the claimed elimination of a highly decorated Russian scout-sniper ("Ded") on May 11th, highlighting a high-profile Russian personnel loss. Оперативний ЗСУ reports an incident in Pervomaiskyi TCC in Mykolaiv Oblast related to mobilization, highlighting potential issues with personnel recruitment. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ provides an operational update as of 16:00, detailing attempted ground assaults by Russian forces and Ukrainian defensive actions, implying personnel involvement in these engagements. Воин DV provides an update on the South Donetsk direction, claiming Russian advances and counterattacks by Ukrainian forces (repelled), and reporting Ukrainian losses. РБК-Україна reports that Ukrainian Defense Minister Umerov will submit a plan to President Zelenskyy tomorrow for a prisoner exchange in a "1000 for 1000" format, indicating efforts to recover personnel. Оперативний ЗСУ also reports on this planned exchange. Координаційний штаб з питань поводження з військовополоненими commemorates the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Genocide of the Crimean Tatar People, highlighting the plight of Crimean Tatars in Russian captivity. ОТУ "Харків" reports Russian personnel losses (54, 18 irrecoverable) in the Kharkiv operational zone. Десантно-штурмові війська ЗС України reports on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit, stating they destroyed hundreds of Russian soldiers and commented on North Korean soldier casualties. Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 shares photos of Russian soldiers in various mundane settings, labeled as "Daily Life of a Soldier," potentially aimed at presenting a more humanized image of the personnel.
- Counterintelligence: Colonelcassad reports the detention of a Ukrainian citizen in occupied Rubizhne (LNR) for alleged espionage. This highlights Russian counterintelligence efforts in occupied territories. Оперативний ЗСУ reports the SBU detained a 17-year-old FSB agent who was preparing a terrorist attack on the administrative building of a Kyiv TCC. Оперативний ЗСУ reports the SBU detained a 17-year-old FSB agent in Kyiv.
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. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warns of the threat of enemy strike UAVs in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts and reports launches of KABs towards Sumy and Donetsk Oblasts, indicating ongoing strategic aerial threats. Повітряні Силі ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports КАБи on Sumshchyna and Донеччину, indicating continued strategic aerial bombardment. РБК-Україна reports a Russian FAB-500 glide bomb strike on a residential area in Kupiansk, demonstrating the strategic impact of these munitions on civilian areas. Николаевский Ванёк provides granular detail on numerous "moped" (drone) movements across multiple oblasts, highlighting the widespread nature of Russian aerial attacks. РБК-Україна reports air defense is working in Kyiv Oblast due to detected drones. Полковник ГУР Шершень claims Russian forces launched 273 strike UAVs overnight, with 88 shot down and 128 imitator drones locationally lost, highlighting the scale and impact of Russian drone attacks. НгП раZVедка claims "More than 50 Geraniums are heading towards objects of the cursed state," implying a large-scale drone attack. РБК-Україна reports on Russian drone attacks in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast, resulting in two fatalities and three injuries, underscoring the civilian impact of Russian aerial tactics. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday, and 1 Russian army assault at Kherson axis yesterday, and clashes on multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday, and Russian aviation conducted airstrikes yesterday across multiple regions. Ukrainian Air Force reports Russian drone movements across numerous oblasts, including Sumy, Chernihiv, Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Poltava, confirming the widespread nature of this strategic threat. РБК-Україна reports wide air alert due to strike drones. STERNENKO reports threat of strike UAVs from the north. STERNENKO reports on FPV drone procurement through donations, highlighting the scale of Ukrainian efforts to counter Russian drone and ground threats.
- 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. Russian military bloggers comment on Australian Abrams tank shipment and frame it within Russian information operations.
- 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 Pokrovsk (65 actions repelled yesterday) and Novopavlivka (24 attacks yesterday), 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 operating 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. Liveuamap reporting intense clashes across multiple axes in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts yesterday provides a comprehensive overview of the most active areas of ground combat and reinforces their strategic importance. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces are advancing near Ozaryanovka and Dyleyivka in the Konstantinovskoye direction as of May 19, 2025. Z комитет + карта SVO reports Russian Armed Forces have beaten Ukrainian forces from Romanovka as of May 19, 2025. Reconnaissance drone activity is reported in the north of Kharkiv Oblast and the west of Donetsk Oblast. Russian tactical aviation is launching КАБs on Donetsk Oblast. Народная милиция ДНР reports destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point in Druzhba. Russian military reports scale of Russian advances (31.5 km² per day average May 14-17) which, if accurate, would be strategically significant for assessing the pace of the Russian offensive.
- 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. ТАСС reports that, according to Rubio after a conversation with Lavrov, Russia is preparing a document outlining its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. ТАСС reports that Marco Rubio stated the US wants progress in the next few days in negotiations. РБК-Україна reports that Lavrov informed Rubio that Moscow will prepare a document outlining its conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine. РБК-Україна reports that the Ukrainian side will work on its own proposal for a ceasefire and hopes to present it soon. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that Russia will prepare a document with its requirements for a ceasefire in Ukraine. РБК-Україна reports, citing Clash Report and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that the US Senate will advance a sanctions bill against Russia if there is no progress in negotiations. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Rubio stating that if documents from each side contain realistic ideas, progress will be made, and if not, the Senate will take steps to pass a sanctions bill. ТАСС reports that the American Congress may toughen anti-Russian sanctions if no progress is made in peace talks on Ukraine, citing State Secretary Rubio. TASS reports delegations of Turkey, US, and Ukraine arrived at the meeting location in Istanbul. Оперативний ЗСУ reports on the demands made by the Russian delegation at the Istanbul negotiations. Alex Parker Returns and РБК-Україна report on a statement by Trump's special representative Dan Witkoff, who is optimistic about a "very successful" call between Trump and Putin, claiming the US has managed to "narrow the gap" between Ukraine and Russia. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны and ТАСС report that German Chancellor Merz discussed meeting with Trump with US Secretary of State Rubio at the Pope's inauguration, and Merz also spoke with Zelenskyy there. Alex Parker Returns confirms a Putin-Trump phone conversation on May 19th, a significant diplomatic development.
- 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. Liveuamap reports 18 Russian army assaults repelled in Kursk region yesterday. Reiterated claims of prevention of attacks on police involving minors in Stavropolye underscore the continued Russian focus on internal security and counter-terrorism narratives. ASTRA reports a woman died and another was injured in a Ukrainian attack on Belgorod Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force reports high-speed target and additional targets from Kursk direction towards Sumy Oblast, indicating continued Ukrainian activity from border regions.
- 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. Ukrainian National Guard Brigade "Rubizh" fundraising for equipment, including for pilots, highlights specific unit needs and reliance on public support. STERNENKO reports on FPV drone procurement through donations, indicating the scale of Ukrainian drone acquisition 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. Alex Parker Returns comments on the evacuation in Sumy Oblast, framing it as a significant event and potentially a sign of Russian military success.
- 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. РБК-Україна reports on the active construction of Russian military infrastructure near the Finnish border, citing satellite images.
- 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. Russian military blogger fundraising for equipment, including EW and drones.
- 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.
- Reconnaissance drone activity in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts is strategically important as it indicates ongoing Russian efforts to gather intelligence on Ukrainian positions, movements, and capabilities in these key operational areas. This requires Ukrainian forces to maintain vigilance and employ counter-reconnaissance measures.
- Iran approving a strategic partnership treaty with Russia is a significant geopolitical development with potential long-term strategic implications. This could lead to increased military and economic cooperation between the two countries, potentially impacting the flow of resources and military technology to Russia and influencing regional stability.
- EU ambassadors agreeing on a €150 billion militarization fund is a major strategic decision for the European Union. This substantial investment signals a commitment to enhancing European defense capabilities and can be interpreted as a direct response to the perceived threat from Russia. This fund could be used to increase military aid to Ukraine, strengthen NATO's eastern flank, or develop independent European defense capabilities. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS and Оперативний ЗСУ also report on this, noting it will be financed by joint borrowing and available to member states and partners, including Ukraine. Операция Z: Военкоры Русской Весны shares a Politico article discussing the economic impact of European defense industry development, potentially to portray European efforts negatively.
- Turkey's FDI Group supplying Ukraine with military equipment, particularly AI-integrated fire control systems, is strategically significant. This indicates continued Turkish support for Ukraine, including access to potentially advanced military technology. The integration of AI into fire control systems could enhance the effectiveness of Ukrainian armored vehicles, requiring Russia to adapt its tactics and defenses.
- Russian military bloggers showcasing successful FPV drone strikes on Ukrainian armored vehicles in the Pokrovsk direction is strategically relevant. It serves as both propaganda to highlight Russian capabilities and potentially as a means to share tactical information and lessons learned within the Russian military community. It also underscores the continued dominance of drones in the current conflict and the vulnerability of armored vehicles to these systems.
- Discussion of robot delivery vehicles in Russia, while seemingly civilian, is presented by a Russian military blogger as a sign of Russian technological advancement compared to Ukraine. This is likely part of a broader information operation aimed at portraying Russia as a technologically capable nation, which can have strategic implications for international perceptions and domestic morale.
- Ukrainian forces claiming destruction of Russian armored vehicles and equipment in Kharkiv Oblast using drones is strategically significant. It highlights successful Ukrainian counter-operations in this key area and the effectiveness of their drone technology in degrading Russian military assets.
- РБК-Україна reporting a fatality and nine injuries from Russian shelling of a bus in Bilopillia, Sumy Oblast, has significant humanitarian implications and will likely be used in Ukrainian strategic messaging to highlight the impact of Russian aggression on civilians.
- Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reporting on Russian observations of activities in Odesa port is strategically relevant as it provides insight into Russian intelligence gathering efforts regarding Ukrainian logistical hubs and potential maritime activity.
- Старше Эдды reporting on stopping an Estonian tanker in the Baltic Sea is strategically significant as it indicates a potential escalation of maritime tensions between Russia and NATO/EU countries in a key strategic waterway and can be seen as a Russian effort to exert pressure.
- Russian military reports scale of Russian advances (31.5 km² per day average May 14-17) is a significant claim of territorial gains. While the accuracy requires further verification, if true, it indicates a sustained offensive momentum in certain areas, impacting the overall strategic picture.
- Народная милиция ДНР reporting destruction of Ukrainian transport and UAV control point in Druzhba highlights specific successful Russian tactical actions in the Donetsk region. This is strategically relevant as it suggests successful targeting of Ukrainian logistics and command/control capabilities in a key area of intense fighting.
- Ukrainian Air Force reports high-speed target and additional targets from Kursk direction towards Sumy Oblast, indicating continued aerial threats originating from Russian territory to Ukrainian border regions. This necessitates ongoing air defense vigilance and highlights the vulnerability of these areas.
- ТАСС reporting FAS identified restrictions on internet providers by developer PIK is an internal Russian economic/regulatory issue. While not directly military, it can reflect on the business environment and potential monopolistic practices within Russia, which could indirectly impact the broader strategic landscape by influencing economic stability and internal dynamics.
- Ukrainian Air Force reports threat of aerial weapons to Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts, including КАБs, indicating continued Russian aerial pressure on these regions. This highlights the ongoing threat to civilian infrastructure and military positions beyond the immediate front lines.
- Десантно-штурмові військові ЗС України reporting on the effectiveness of the "Kitaitsi" drone unit in the Kursk operation and commenting on the use of North Korean soldiers by Russia is strategically significant. It provides a Ukrainian perspective on the fighting in a key border region, highlights the effectiveness of their drone units, and includes intelligence on the involvement of foreign personnel in the Russian military.
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.