Archived operational intelligence briefing
INTELLIGENCE SITUATION REPORT (SITREP)
TIME: 142311Z AUG 25
1.1. Battlefield Geometry and Key Terrain
Donetsk Oblast (Chasiv Yar/Ivanivske Axis): RF forces, specifically elements of the 98th Guards Airborne Division (VDV), continue to concentrate in forward assembly areas between Bakhmut and Ivanivske, and have secured a foothold in eastern Ivanivske. Probing attacks towards eastern Chasiv Yar micro-district are ongoing, with reported fighting moving into adjacent forest. Air Force of Ukraine reports multiple KAB launches by enemy tactical aviation targeting Donetsk Oblast. RF sources claim "liberation" of Chasiv Yar (MEDIUM CONFIDENCE). TASS confirms liberation of Shcherbynivka (Donetsk) by a Southern Group assault team, with MoD Russia explicitly stating units of the 103rd Motorised Rifle Regiment knocked the enemy out of Shcherbynivka. Colonelcassad reports UAV operators of the 103rd Motor Rifle Regiment discovered a long-term enemy strongpoint in Katerynivka, destroyed by a Krasnopol-M2 guided munition. RF forces have engaged in combat on the outskirts of Alexandrogad in the Velikomykhailovka direction. UA Border Guard Service's "Phoenix" unit destroyed an RF tank and BM-21 Grad MLRS in Donetsk Oblast. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports a drone hit in occupied Yenakiieve (Donetsk). Colonelcassad reports "Geran" (Shahed) drone strikes on a forward Ukrainian command post in the Birino area of Chernihiv Oblast, indicating RF deep strike capabilities beyond Donetsk. New reports confirm multiple drone strikes and detonations in occupied Yenakiieve, Donetsk Oblast, with Ukrainian sources indicating successful targeting, and ASTRA reporting a school was set on fire as a result (HIGH CONFIDENCE). КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno reports that School #28 in Yenakiieve was preliminarily hit in the attack (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Updated information from КіберБорошно | CyberBoroshno states that the post has been updated with location information (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Mash на Донбассе provides video footage with caption "Школа №28 загорелась в Енакиево. Предварительно, по ней ударил беспилотник," confirming the previous report and adding detail about a school fire (HIGH CONFIDENCE).
Donetsk Oblast (Pokrovskoe Direction): UA source STERNENKO reports a critical "lack of infantry" ("піхоти нема") in this direction. Tsaplienko reports drone liquidation of an RF occupant in a fortified position. TASS reports Apty Alaudinov stating a "big breakthrough" on the Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk) direction, with significant RF advances. MoD Russia officially reports liberation of Iskra in DNR. Шеф Hayabusa reports an RF FPV drone burned a car on the Pavlohrad-Pokrovsk/Slavianka-Mezhova highway. STERNENKO reports a significant UA requirement for 1,457 drones in the Pokrovsk-Konstantinovka direction. РБК-Україна and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS report the situation on the Pokrovskoe direction is stabilizing, with UA forces destroying enemy elements. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS provides drone footage showing RF personnel attempting to infiltrate UA positions around Pokrovsk, engaging them with FPV drones, and resulting in casualties. RF forces have reportedly broken through into the village of Zolotyi Kolodyaz, with fighting ongoing.
Donetsk Oblast (Toretsk Direction): UA source Mykolaivskyi Vaniok reports the capture of a new RF prisoner from the 150th Division by Azov units in the Toretsk direction. RBK-Ukraine reports significant Russian losses in the areas of responsibility of the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine "Azov." Mandatory evacuation of families with children has been introduced in some settlements of Donetsk Oblast, including Druzhkivka. Alex Parker Returns reports that all Ukrposhta branches in Konstantinovka are closing from August 19, suggesting potential RF advance or increased threat to this key logistics hub. Операция Z reports mandatory evacuation of families with children announced in Druzhkivka and neighboring settlements near the Russian army's breakthrough point.
Luhansk Oblast (Siversk Direction): RF sources report combat operations by "3rd Shock" involving drone-guided artillery or direct fire engagements. MoD Russia reports a Metis ATGM team destroying an AFU stronghold in the Krasny Liman direction. TASS reports Marochko stating that Russian military needs to advance approximately 2 km to close a "fire bag" for AFU in Kremensky forests of LPR. TASS reports that Ukrainian forces have received orders to intensify shelling of LNR with cruise missiles and strike UAVs, citing Pasechnik. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Russian forces broke through Ukrainian defense lines in the Lyman district. Воин DV provides video footage showing a Russian military drone operator deploying an FPV drone that strikes a target, with the caption "Nightmares of the AFU in Serebryansky forest." Старше Эдды posts photos with the caption "Будни войны. Инженерные подразделения группировки войск «Центр» разминируют освобождённую территорию Донбасса." Рыбарь reports on the ongoing situation. Рыбарь provides ongoing assessment of the situation in Luhansk Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE).
Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (Nikopolshchyna): UA source Serhii Lysak reports sustained RF artillery and FPV drone attacks throughout the day targeting Nikopol and surrounding communities. Colonelcassad reports exclusive footage of the defeat of the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade (OMBr) in the Dnipropetrovsk direction. MoD Russia confirms the liberation of Iskra (Donetsk People's Republic). TASS reports RF controls all settlements at the junction of DNR and Dnipropetrovsk Oblast after the liberation of Iskra. Шеф Hayabusa reports that RF forces are attacking residential areas in Mezheva, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, with KABs. Serhii Lysak / Dnipropropetrovsk ODA (OVA) provides photo evidence of extensive damage to civilian infrastructure in Nikopol. Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine issues a warning: "High-speed target in the north of Dnipropetrovsk region, moving south," followed by an "All clear!" STERNENKO reports "Pavlohrad/suburbs under ballistic strike." The government has adopted the first package of a comprehensive program to support frontline regions, including Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Олександр Вілкул is conducting a briefing on the results of 14 Aug 25, implying continued local government operations.
Kharkiv Oblast (Kharkivskyi District): UA Air Force issues a "Warning! Kharkivskyi district!" alert. TASS reports Russian servicemen, having improved their position near Krasny Perviy, have taken control of approximately 6 km of the road leading to Dvorechnaya. Oleg Syniehubov reports 6 settlements in Kharkiv Oblast were subjected to enemy strikes. ASTRA reports one person killed and one injured in Russian shelling of Kharkiv Oblast. Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports KAB launches on Kharkiv Oblasts. Дневник Десантника reports a GUR reconnaissance group was eliminated by RF forces. Oleg Syniehubov reports RF attacked a civilian vehicle near Kupyansk, with ASTRA reporting two killed by drone attack. WarGonzo reports Msta-S crews of the 44th Army Corps conducted a "dense sweep" in Kharkiv Oblast. Oleg Syniehubov posts photo messages regarding energy issues in Kharkiv Oblast. Операция Z (Russian Spring Military Correspondents) posts a photo message claiming Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Poltava may be under threat if Donbas is lost, citing "The Independent." New: Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports "☄️ Kharkiv Oblast, threat of ballistic missile use." (HIGH CONFIDENCE)
Chernihiv Oblast: Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports an enemy reconnaissance UAV in the Chernihiv region. Colonelcassad provides a photo claiming to show what was hit by a missile strike on August 12 in Chernihiv Oblast. High-speed targets detected in Chernihiv Oblast. Air Force of Ukraine reports threat of strike UAVs in Chernihiv Oblast. Филолог в засаде reports enemy concentration in Chernihiv Oblast. Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy reconnaissance UAVs in northern Chernihiv Oblast. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine issues a warning: "Chernihiv and Kyiv regions - threat of enemy UAVs." Colonelcassad reports "Geran" (Shahed) drone strikes on a forward Ukrainian command post in the Birino area of Chernihiv Oblast, confirming RF deep strike capabilities. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a high-speed target in Chernihiv Oblast via Sumy Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Colonelcassad provides video footage of "Поражение места стоянки техники ВСУ авиационным ударом с применением ФАБ-500 с УМПК и БпЛА-камикадзе «Герань» в районе н.п. Роговка Черниговской области," confirming an RF aviation and loitering munition strike against UA equipment in Chernihiv Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE).
Kherson Oblast (Left Bank Dnieper): UA source Tsaplienko reports an RF ammunition depot was destroyed on the left bank of the Dnieper River in Kherson Oblast. Tsaplienko also reports border guards destroying an RF floating craft and four vehicles. Colonelcassad reports "Ulyanovsk paratroopers" using "Msta-B" howitzers with "Krasnopol" precision-guided munitions to destroy UAV control points and manpower. TASS reports an RF Lancet strike destroyed an American M-777 howitzer and a Ukrainian Bogdana self-propelled artillery unit on the right bank of the Dnieper. ASTRA reports on an alleged UA drone attack on a water park. Liveuamap Source reports Ukrainian forces repelled 4 Russian army assaults. Silly oborony Pivdnya Ukrayiny reports enemy activating shelling on several directions. Ukrainian Navy obtained radio intercepts confirming the loss of a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet that was performing tasks southeast of Snake Island. Operatyvnyi ZSU posts a photo message confirming the destruction of an RF Su-30SM.
Zaporizhzhia Oblast: Colonelcassad reports the destruction of an AFU ammunition depot. Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a Lancet strike UAV in the Lozove-Mezenivka area. Colonelcassad reports on a Russian tank making a path for infantry through a minefield. RF MOD reports a Grad MLRS crew thwarted an attempt to rotate AFU personnel. Liveuamap Source reports Russian aviation conducted airstrikes near Uspenivka, Novoandriyivka, Prymorske, Orikhiv, Chervona Krynytsya. Дневник Десантника requests donations for the 7th Airborne Assault Division for drones and Starlink. Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration reports approval of shelter construction on Khortytsia Island. Silly oborony Pivdnya Ukrayiny reports enemy activating shelling on several directions. Два майора provides a photo message with a map indicating tactical elements and road markers. 🇺🇦 Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration 🇺🇦 issued an "ATTENTION" alert at 19:52:58Z. Операция Z provides video footage with caption "Бесстрашные танкисты прорываются сквозь огонь врага и мины, прокладывая путь пехоте, наступающей на Запорожском фронте," suggesting continued RF ground offensive activity with armor in Zaporizhzhia (HIGH CONFIDENCE). РБК-Україна and Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine report a ballistic missile threat for Zaporizhzhia Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE). 🇺🇦 Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration 🇺🇦 reports an all-clear for the air raid alert (HIGH CONFIDENCE). TASS reports "In the Kiev-controlled part of Zaporizhzhia there are panic moods, the pro-Russian underground told TASS." (LOW CONFIDENCE, RF propaganda)
Kupyansk Axis: The previous daily report indicated a decisive shift of RF main effort to the Kupyansk axis, with capture of Ivanivka and intensified preparatory fire. Oleg Syniehubov reports on RF strikes on 6 settlements in Kharkiv Oblast. BUTUSOV PLUS provides a video documenting a "risky but successful sortie" by a Ukrainian tank close to enemy positions. Oleg Syniehubov reports RF attacked a civilian vehicle near Kupyansk. ASTRA reports two people were killed in a Russian drone attack on a vehicle under Kupyansk. Air Force of Ukraine reports KAB launches on Kharkiv Oblast. Военкор Котенок reports contradictory information regarding the situation near Petropavlivka, stating UA is attempting counterattacks. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy tactical aviation activity in the northeastern direction.
Overall Frontline: RF continues to employ FPV drone swarms and Lancet loitering munitions, with a reported 20% increase in Lancet strikes in the last 24 hours. RF sources claim successful destruction of UA drone repeater stations and command posts. UA source BUTUSOV PLUS provides video evidence of an FPV drone strike against RF soldiers. STERNENKO provides video showing UA special forces downing 6 drones in the Zaporizhzhia direction. RF MOD released a video showing strikes against Ukrainian assets, including 'LELEKA-100' and 'SHARK-M' drones, and 'BERGEPANZER 2' and 'KOZAK' vehicles. Tsaplienko reports an FPV drone being caught in "Yahoza" (razor wire) and "Putanka" (tangled wire) nets. General Staff of AFU reports approximately 990 RF personnel losses in the last 24 hours, and 276,300 RF personnel losses since the beginning of the year. Air Force of Ukraine reports 24 enemy UAVs were shot down/suppressed. A new prisoner exchange of 84 servicemen by each side was conducted. Operatyvnyi ZSU reports the dismissal of the 47th OMBr battalion commander. Operatyvnyi ZSU posts a video showing "collective suicide of Russian motorcycle assault troops" being turned into "meat lego," indicating a successful UA engagement and significant RF casualties. Оперативний ЗСУ provides video footage titled "Нічні удари FPV-дронами по противнику в зоні відповідальності 3-го армійського корпусу," confirming continued UA FPV drone strikes against enemy personnel and vehicles (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Шеф Hayabusa provides photo message "Звіт" likely related to UA FPV operations or general frontline reporting (HIGH CONFIDENCE).
Deep Rear (Sumi Oblast/Tatarstan/Belgorod/Kyiv Oblast/Chernihiv Oblast/Dnipropetrovsk Oblast/Zaporizhzhia Oblast/Volgograd/Rostov-on-Don/Bryansk/Kursk/Arzamas/Lipetsk): UA source Alex Parker Returns reports detention of four individuals in Tatarstan attempting to impersonate RF servicemen with "imitations" of Orlan-10 drones. RF sources report ongoing drone attacks on Belgorod, with dozens of targets engaged. Operatsiya Z reports "Massive enemy attacks on Belgorod Oblast - civilians killed and wounded." ASTRA provides video of Belgorod Governor Gladkov confirming the attack on the government building, with visible damage. TASS reports Ukrainian servicemen are disappearing by platoons and companies near Yunakivka, Sumy Oblast. Air Force of Ukraine reports activity of reconnaissance UAVs and KAB launches in Sumy Oblast, and high-speed targets in Chernihiv Oblast. Kyiv City Military Administration (KMVA) announces air raid alert for Kyiv due to ballistic missile threat from the north, with subsequent "All clear!" ASTRA and RBK-Україна report a Ukrainian drone attack on the Volgograd Oil Refinery (NPP "Lukoil"), resulting in spilled and burning oil products. Operatyvnyi ZSU provides satellite imagery appearing to confirm significant damage. RF MOD reports 44 Ukrainian UAVs were shot down over regions of the Russian Federation overnight. TASS reports RF FSB claims of destroying Ukrainian long-range missile production, including "Sapsan" missiles. ASTRA reports three people injured in a drone attack on Belgorod, and photo damage to a 16-story residential building in Volgograd. ASTRA reports a child and a man were injured in a Russian missile strike in Sumy Oblast. Kotsnews provides multiple videos from Belgorod showing aftermath of drone attacks. TASS confirms RF air defense shot down 8 Ukrainian UAVs over Belgorod Oblast and 2 over Krasnodar Krai. TASS reports RF Investigative Committee opened terrorism cases for attacks on civilian targets in Rostov-on-Don and Belgorod. TASS reports a powerful explosion in Rostov-on-Don after a missile danger alert, with multiple sources corroborating a drone impact on a multi-story building and 13 injured. Dn. Desantnika reports a UA drone attack on the Druzhba oil pipeline in Bryansk Oblast. Генеральний штаб ЗСУ explicitly states that SBS ZSU, GUR MOU, and other elements attacked the Volgograd Oil Refinery. TASS reports RF struck HIMARS positions with an Iskander-M in Zhykhove, Sumy Oblast. Colonelcassad video shows a drone strike against an RF T-80BVM tank near Kiyanitsa, Sumy Oblast. ASTRA reports police lieutenant colonel and senior criminal investigator injured in strike on district court building in Belgorod. Rosaviatsiya has introduced temporary flight restrictions at Volgograd Airport. ASTRA reports a Ukrainian UAV struck "Belgorod Arena". Поддубный reports that Belgorod continues to endure AFU attacks, with air raid alerts every 20 minutes, and mobile fire groups and AD working in the suburbs. Север.Реалии provides videos of Belgorod being attacked by drones. TASS reports three civilians were injured in drone attacks by AFU in Kursk border areas. STERNENKO reports a "drone safety" alert for Saratov, Bryansk, Stavropol, Dagestan, and North Caucasus. ASTRA and Alex Parker Returns report on a federal judge killed in Volgograd Oblast, with STERNENKO reporting a "veteran of the Special Military Operation" as the killer. Два майора posts a message from the Belgorod governor, likely related to ongoing drone threats. РБК-Україна reports explosions in occupied Yenakiieve, DNR, due to unknown drone attacks. ASTRA reports over 2000 sq.m. of production facilities damaged at the Arzamas Instrument-Making Plant due to a UAV attack (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Igor Artamonov (Lipetsk Oblast Governor) reports an air alert regime introduced across Lipetsk Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE). ТАСС reports "Специальный стратостат подняли над заливом Аляска для контроля за воздушным пространством," indicating RF is enhancing its ISR/air defense capabilities in its far rear (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Colonelcassad provides video footage of "Буревестник" (Burevestnik) cruise missile animation, emphasizing RF strategic missile capabilities (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Alex Parker Returns contains video message of Boris Yeltsin speaking on historical political context, likely for domestic informational purposes (LOW CONFIDENCE for direct military relevance, HIGH for informational intent). Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and РБК-Україна provide "Оновлення щодо руху ворожих ударних БпЛА" and photo message "⚠️ Повітряні сили ЗСУ продовжують фіксувати ворожі дрони," indicating continued UA air defense activity and RF drone threats across UA deep rear (HIGH CONFIDENCE). TASS reports no requests for Putin and Trump to go on nature trips in Anchorage (LOW CONFIDENCE for direct military relevance, HIGH for informational intent on summit details). TASS reports a federal judge was brutally killed in Volgograd Oblast, with a suspect detained (HIGH CONFIDENCE, affects internal security). КМВА (Kyiv City Military Administration) announces an air raid alert for Kyiv (HIGH CONFIDENCE). РБК-Україна reports an air raid alert in Kyiv (HIGH CONFIDENCE). КМВА (Kyiv City Military Administration) and РБК-Україна report a threat of missile armament use for Kyiv (HIGH CONFIDENCE). КМВА (Kyiv City Military Administration) reports an all-clear for the air raid in Kyiv (HIGH CONFIDENCE). РБК-Україна reports an all-clear for the air raid in Kyiv (HIGH CONFIDENCE). АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА posts two photo messages captioned "💬Сумское направление💬", indicating continued RF intelligence gathering or operational activity in Sumy Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports "Нові групи ворожих ударних БпЛА на сході та південному сході Сумщини, курс на південь," confirming ongoing RF drone activity in Sumy Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE). New (22:16Z-23:11Z): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports a request for information from Kursky residents, followed by preliminary information that 5 civilians were killed in Kursk due to an enemy UAV strike on a residential building. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) ASTRA provides video footage of the residential building on fire in Kursk, and photos of the damage, explicitly stating a Ukrainian UAV strike. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) TASS confirms a UAV attacked a multi-story building in Kursk, reporting one woman killed and six injured, with fire engulfing four upper floors. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) Военкор Котенок posts photo messages claiming "Ukrainian Nazis continue terrorist attacks on Russian territory," explicitly linking the Kursk incident to this narrative. (HIGH CONFIDENCE)
1.2. Weather and Environmental Factors Affecting Operations
1.3. Current Force Dispositions and Control Measures
Ukrainian Forces: Maintain a defensive posture, particularly in Donetsk Oblast. Training images of tanks suggest ongoing readiness efforts. Despite challenges (e.g., claimed infantry shortages), UA continues to inflict losses on RF forces (990 RF personnel losses reported by General Staff, and 1432 tanks / 3087 AFVs, 276,300 personnel losses since year start). UA leadership maintains a firm diplomatic stance on territorial integrity and conditions for peace talks. UA sources publicly acknowledge tactical challenges (e.g., infantry shortages in Pokrovsk). UA forces continue drone operations into RF territory. UA helicopter pilots are reportedly engaging RF "Shaheds" at close range. UA Cabinet of Ministers proposes changes to mobilization deferment rules for students and educators, and changes to booking rules for agricultural enterprises. General Prosecutor's Office reports 22 suspicions handed to Kyiv City State Administration officials. Zaporizhzhia OVA reported the delivery of new specialized equipment to communities. UA border guards are conducting successful interdiction operations. UA airborne forces are preparing Ukrainian soil for autumn sowing. The SBU released exclusive video of the 14 August prisoner exchange. UA airborne fighting a Russian assault near Kursk. Оперативний ЗСУ reports the appointment of Oleksandr Rashevsky as the new commander of the National Police of Ukraine's "Lyut" (Fury) Brigade. STERNENKO posts a photo message with the caption "Army reform has taken place!", suggesting internal military reforms. Офіс Генерального прокурора reports a new wave of exposures in Bukovyna, with 15 individuals notified of suspicion for budget embezzlement and environmental crimes. РБК-Україна reports the government has appointed a temporary head of ARMA (Asset Recovery and Management Agency). ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports that the Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP) must sever all legal ties with the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) by August 24, affecting internal religious and political control. РБК-Україна reports "Шахтар" lost a football match, which has no direct military relevance, but may impact public sentiment (LOW CONFIDENCE). РБК-Україна reports "👍 Summit in Alaska: Kyiv is set for peace, but not at any cost, - EU Ambassador to Ukraine." (HIGH CONFIDENCE, UA diplomatic posture).
Russian Forces: Concentrating elite VDV units and deploying advanced EW systems (R-330ZH Zhitel) near Bakhmut/Chasiv Yar. Repositioning S-300 battalions for potential surface-to-surface roles. Intensifying artillery, including TOS-1A thermobaric systems. RF Defense Minister Belousov is meeting with military correspondents to discuss drone production, supplies, and social support. RF forces are actively engaging UA drones. RF source Zvezdets Mangust claims RF command has moved "a number of units and formations from the North" to the Southern and Southern part of Eastern operational zones. RF source Voenkor Kotenok video features RF soldiers requesting Mavic 3 and Mavic 3 Pro drones. ARCHANGEL SPETSNAZ provides a video showing field dental clinics. Два майора is still requesting charitable support for forces. TASS reports Northern Fleet has begun exercises involving 2,000 military personnel, up to 14 ships and submarines. ASTRA reports RF police detained Russian cadets launching drones in Tatarstan. STERNENKO reports a "drone safety" alert for multiple RF oblasts. RF's Parliament speaker Volodin has arrived in Pyongyang, North Korea. НгП раZVедка provides an update indicating that ballistic missile strikes on Ukraine will continue regardless of US diplomatic initiatives. TASS indicates that captured Ukrainian soldier Alexey Levchenko claims his brigade consists of "disabled and mentally ill people." TASS indicates that a commander of an Airborne Reconnaissance Battalion (callsign Manul) stating that after "liberating Chasov Yar," fighting has moved into the adjacent forest. Kadyrov_95 posts video of Akhmat battalion operating in Vovchansk (Kharkiv direction). WarGonzo claims RF forces are taking control of the Dobropillya-Kramatorsk highway. TASS reports Russian Ministry of Justice added "Reporters Without Borders" to the list of undesirable organizations. MoD Russia video shows 103rd Motor Rifle Regiment liberating Shcherbynivka in Donetsk. Два майора reports Belgorod governor indicating probable provocations on the border and enemy concentration on Bryansk, Kursk, and Belgorod directions. TASS reports special flight Il-96 for RF-US summit arrived in Anchorage. MoD Russia posts multiple photo messages celebrating the floating out of the latest frigate of the Project 22350 Admiral Amelko in Saint Petersburg. MoD Russia releases video of a platoon leader 'Zatvor' describing captured foreign weaponry (M4 assault rifle, Belgian 7.62mm machine guns) during the "Zeleny Gai liberation." Kadyrov_95 posts videos of urban development and construction in Grozny. Два майора posted a video titled "Frontline Armor" showing two armed soldiers expressing gratitude for support, suggesting continued reliance on public/volunteer funding for equipment. Colonelcassad also posted a slide titled "NATO Logistics: The West is Preparing for War," likely a propaganda piece. Новости Москвы reports Putin and Lavrov flying to Alaska on Friday (HIGH CONFIDENCE). WarGonzo posts photos referencing Abkhazia, implying historical grievances or potential for future actions (MEDIUM CONFIDENCE). Colonelcassad showcases Kalashnikov civilian UAVs at a specialized exhibition in Skolkovo, indicating RF's continued investment and display of UAV technology (HIGH CONFIDENCE). TASS reports Melania Trump supported her husband's lawsuit against Hunter Biden (LOW CONFIDENCE for direct military relevance, HIGH for informational intent). ТАСС provides video footage with caption "Лондон хочет смены Зеленского, чья политика "на грани шизофрении", на Залужного. Такое мнение высказал в интервью ТАСС член постоянной комиссии по международному сотрудничеству СПЧ Александр Ионов," indicating RF's ongoing information operations targeting Ukrainian leadership (HIGH CONFIDENCE). РБК-Україна provides a photo message captioned "Час змиритися або замовкнути: Бессент дорікнув Європі за купівлю нафтопродуктів Індії, вироблених з російської сировини," indicating an RF information operation designed to create divisions among Western allies regarding sanctions (HIGH CONFIDENCE). New (22:29Z): Военкор Котенок reports "Еще два Ил-96 подлетают к Анкориджу," indicating additional RF governmental flights to Alaska, likely in support of the Putin-Trump summit. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) Colonelcassad posts photo selection of "SVO zone chevrons," likely for domestic morale or propaganda purposes. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) TASS reports 42 police officers injured and 37 detained during ongoing unrest in Serbia. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) TASS also features a video of Konstantin Yaroshenko, discussing the potential for dialogue between Putin and Trump to help convicted Russians return from the US. (HIGH CONFIDENCE, RF propaganda)
2.1. Enemy Capabilities, Intentions, and Courses of Action
Capabilities:
Offensive Ground Maneuver: HIGH. Concentration of VDV, use of small assault groups, and heavy fire support (TOS-1A, KABs) indicates capability for breakthrough operations, particularly around Chasiv Yar. Claimed redeployments from the North could further enhance this. The confirmed capture of Shcherbynivka and Iskra in DNR demonstrates effective ground maneuver. WarGonzo claims RF forces taking control of the Dobropillya-Kramatorsk highway. Kadyrov_95 video of Akhmat battalion targeting UA personnel in residential areas in Vovchansk (Kharkiv direction) indicates continued urban/semi-urban offensive capability. The 36th Motor Rifle Brigade is advancing towards Aleksandrogad. RF forces have engaged in combat on the outskirts of Alexandrogad and broken through into the village of Zolotyi Kolodyaz. Operatyvnyi ZSU posts a video showing "collective suicide of Russian motorcycle assault troops" being turned into "meat lego," implying RF's willingness to commit forces to high-risk frontal assaults. Воин DV provides drone footage with text "Soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Aleksandrogra and Kamyshevakha," indicating RF surveillance of UA positions in these areas (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Операция Z provides video footage with caption "Бесстрашные танкисты прорываются сквозь огонь врага и мины, прокладывая путь пехоте, наступающей на Запорожском фронте," confirming continued RF ground offensive capability with armor (HIGH CONFIDENCE).
Electronic Warfare (EW): CRITICAL. Confirmed deployment of a new, advanced EW system near Bakhmut, and confirmed R-330ZH Zhitel near Kupyansk. Claims of successful targeting of UA drone C2 elements suggest a functional capability. The introduction of "Pole-21" EW system in Chasiv Yar, actively degrading GPS and datalinks, is a significant new capability. Colonelcassad reports destruction of enemy EW station in Konstantinovka direction. Alex Parker Returns posts a video implying RF EW capabilities, with the caption "The best EW turned out to be the ass of a comrade" (MEDIUM CONFIDENCE, primarily for IO intent).
Deep Strike/Air Support (Surface-to-Surface & Air-to-Ground): SEVERE. Repositioning of S-300 battalions for ground strike roles significantly enhances capability. RF Air Force is actively employing KABs over Donetsk, Sumy, and Kharkiv. Kyiv is under ballistic missile threat from Bryansk/Kursk. The 72nd OMBr defeat footage suggests effective RF deep strike. RF FSB claims of destroying Ukrainian long-range missile production facilities, including "Sapsan" missiles, is a significant successful RF deep strike capability targeting the UA military-industrial complex (MIC). ASTRA reports a child and a man were injured in a Russian missile strike in Sumy Oblast. RF attacked with 2 S-300/400 missiles and 45 drones, with 24 of which were shot down. Powerful explosion and apparent drone strike in Rostov-on-Don hitting a multi-story building, with 13 injured. UA drone attack on Druzhba oil pipeline in Bryansk Oblast confirmed. TASS reports RF struck HIMARS positions with an Iskander-M in Zhykhove, Sumy Oblast. Colonelcassad video shows drone strike on T-80BVM tank near Kiyanitsa, Sumy Oblast. Дневник Десантника reports RF forces struck Dobropolye with 6 KABs. Шеф Hayabusa reports that RF forces are attacking residential areas in Mezheva, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, with KABs. Serhii Lysak / Dnipropetrovsk ODA (OVA) provides photo evidence of extensive damage to civilian infrastructure in Nikopol. MoD Russia provides a video showing an Iskander-M missile system obliterating HIMARS MLRS positions near Zhikhovo in Sumy region. TASS reports that Ukrainian forces received orders to intensify shelling of LNR with cruise missiles and strike UAVs, citing Pasechnik. MoD Russia posts multiple photo messages celebrating the floating out of the latest frigate of the Project 22350 Admiral Amelko in Saint Petersburg, signifying ongoing naval modernization and shipbuilding efforts that support long-term strike capabilities and power projection. STERNENKO reports "Pavlohrad/suburbs under ballistic strike." ASTRA confirms a HIMARS strike on a petrochemical pumping station in Bryansk Oblast. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy tactical aviation activity in the northeastern direction. Colonelcassad reports "Geran" (Shahed) drone strikes on a forward Ukrainian command post in the Birino area of Chernihiv Oblast. РБК-Україна posts videos of explosions in Yenakiieve, DNR, due to unknown drone attacks, confirming UA deep strike capability against occupied territories. ASTRA reports over 2000 sq.m. of production facilities damaged at the Arzamas Instrument-Making Plant due to a UAV attack (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Igor Artamonov (Lipetsk Oblast Governor) reports an air alert regime introduced across Lipetsk Oblast, indicating RF's defensive reaction to UA deep strikes (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Colonelcassad emphasizes RF's strategic deep strike capabilities with "Буревестник" cruise missile animation, even if currently conceptual or in testing (HIGH CONFIDENCE). РБК-Україна and Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine report a ballistic missile threat for Zaporizhzhia Oblast (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a ballistic missile threat from the east in air raid alert areas (HIGH CONFIDENCE). КМВА (Kyiv City Military Administration) and РБК-Україна report a missile armament threat for Kyiv (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Colonelcassad provides video footage of an "авиационным ударом с применением ФАБ-500 с УМПК и БпЛА-камикадзе «Герань»" strike in Chernihiv Oblast, demonstrating combined aviation and loitering munition deep strike capabilities (HIGH CONFIDENCE). New (22:16Z-23:11Z): Multiple Ukrainian and Russian sources confirm a powerful explosion and fire in Kursk, Russia, with RF claiming a "targeted missile strike" on a multi-story building by "Kyiv regime" and reporting casualties. This directly demonstrates RF's vulnerability to UA deep strike capabilities and RF's continued narrative of Ukrainian "terrorism." (HIGH CONFIDENCE) Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports ballistic missile threat for Kharkiv Oblast. (HIGH CONFIDENCE)
UAV/Loitering Munitions: HIGH. Increased use of Lancet/Orlan-10 for precision strikes against high-value targets, and widespread FPV drone use. RF requests for specific Mavic models confirm ongoing reliance on tactical drones. MoD Russia video shows RF successfully targeting UA drones ('LELEKA-100', 'SHARK-M'). Lancet strike UAV reported in Lozove-Mezenivka area. Widespread drone safety alert in RF oblasts indicates persistent UA drone activity. Дневник Десантника's request for drones for 7th Airborne Assault Division suggests continued reliance on and demand for UAS. RF Air Force reports enemy UAV in southeastern Dnipropetrovsk Oblast potentially acting as a spotter. Reconnaissance UAVs observed in Kyiv, Dnipropetropavsk, and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts. TASS reports Senior Sergeant Oleg Batyrev destroyed an approaching FPV drone. Colonelcassad reports training exercises on shooting down drones with shotguns/rifles. RF MOD reports 44 Ukrainian UAVs were shot down over regions of the Russian Federation overnight. RF attacked with 45 drones, 24 of which were shot down. Poddubny reports a doubling of UA drone attacks on Belgorod Oblast in the last 24 hours, with 32 drones aimed at Belgorod city. Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports enemy reconnaissance UAVs in northern Chernihiv Oblast. Kotsnews video from under Pokrovsk and Шеф Hayabusa's video from the Pokrovskoe direction provides further visual evidence of active RF drone reconnaissance and targeting capabilities, leading to the destruction of UA vehicles. Воин DV provides a video showing thermal drone footage of ground activity, likely military personnel, with multiple explosions/impacts. ASTRA reports a Ukrainian UAV struck "Belgorod Arena". TASS reports that the Russian Ministry of Transport plans to regulate urban drone delivery. Poddubny reports that Belgorod continues to endure AFU attacks, with mobile fire groups and AD units working in the suburbs trying to intercept drones, indicating ongoing RF counter-UAS operations and persistent UA drone threat. Север.Реалии provides videos of Belgorod being attacked by drones, corroborating the high volume and persistence of UA drone activity targeting RF territory. Colonelcassad posts a video message where two RF military personnel express gratitude for a donated Mavic 3 Pro drone, specifically mentioning it was given to "scouts of the 37th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade." БУТУСОВ ПЛЮС posts a video showing a Russian infantryman successfully using a grenade to engage a Ukrainian FPV drone. Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine issues a warning: "Chernihiv and Kyiv regions - threat of enemy UAVs." Воин DV provides video footage captioned "Nightmares of the AFU in Serebryansky forest." TASS reports 13 Ukrainian UAVs were intercepted and destroyed over RF regions in the last three hours. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS posts a video confirming a series of drone hits in occupied Yenakiieve, Donetsk Oblast, with visible explosions, indicating successful UA drone strike capabilities. ASTRA reports over 2000 sq.m. of production facilities damaged at the Arzamas Instrument-Making Plant due to a UAV attack, demonstrating UA's continued drone strike capability against RF industrial targets (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Igor Artamonov (Lipetsk Oblast Governor) reports an air alert regime introduced across Lipetsk Oblast due to drone threats (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and РБК-Україна, reporting "Оновлення щодо руху ворожих ударних БпЛА" and "Повітряні сили ЗСУ продовжують фіксувати ворожі дрони," confirm ongoing RF UAV activity across Ukraine (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Colonelcassad, showcasing Kalashnikov civilian UAVs, indicates RF's dual-use technology development and potential for future military applications or civilian control over drone technology (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Повітряні Сили ЗС України / Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports "Нові групи ворожих ударних БпЛА на сході та південному сході Сумщини, курс на південь," confirming ongoing RF drone activity (HIGH CONFIDENCE). New (22:49Z-23:01Z): Дневник Десантника🇷🇺 reports preliminary information of 5 civilian deaths in Kursk from an enemy UAV strike on a residential building. ASTRA provides video and photos explicitly stating a Ukrainian UAV struck a residential building in Kursk. TASS confirms a UAV attack on a multi-story building in Kursk with casualties and fire. This confirms UA's continued and successful deep strike UAV capability and RF's vulnerability to these strikes. (HIGH CONFIDENCE)
Information Warfare (IW): HIGH. Continued efforts to spread disinformation (e.g., Ukraine trying to "disrupt Alaska talks," "military coup" narratives, claims of UA refusing ceasefire). RF MoD actively engaging with military correspondents to control narrative and boost internal morale/recruitment. Alex Parker Returns continues direct smear campaigns against President Zelenskyy. RF sources are pushing a narrative of "Russia winning" and Ukraine being in "hysterics." TASS claims Ukrainian units disappearing in Sumy Oblast is also an IW effort. Colonelcassad and Operatsiya Z continue to push the "West Bank model" for occupied territories. TASS reports Russian Ministry of Justice added "Reporters Without Borders" to the list of undesirable organizations. TASS reports Trump stating NATO should not be part of Ukraine's security guarantees. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reports Putin is bringing "pseudo-historical documents" to Alaska to convince Trump that Ukraine is an "artificial state." РБК-Україна and ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS reporting on no immediate outcome/documents from Putin-Trump summit, and that Ukrainian conflict discussion will be in "subsequent stages," suggests an RF-driven narrative to control expectations. Alex Parker Returns disinformation about US Sec. Rubio and territory exchange and Zelenskyy being a "military dictator" directly targets UA morale and leadership. The "cry for help" from Военкор Котенок's subscriber might be used as IO to show the humanitarian impact of the conflict on RF citizens. Военкор Котенок's videos of returned Russian prisoners are a powerful propaganda tool. Операция Z reports Trump does not think a ceasefire can be achieved. TASS shares a photo message featuring US Treasury Secretary Yellen with a caption urging Europeans demanding sanctions against RF to "shut up." WarGonzo's video on "RDK" recruitment of teenagers, framed as criminal activity, aims to undermine and demonize anti-RF groups. Шеф Hayabusa provides a video message implying a civilian fight in "Piter" (St. Petersburg) between "Banderites and fascists," and another of an elderly man crying while mentioning "fascists" and "Banderites," clear RF disinformation. WarGonzo's post about Bessarabia (Moldova) indicates historical revisionism and a broader RF information operation. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА posts a video message with the caption "#HumanFate #DNR." TASS posts video messages and text reports regarding State Duma deputy Nikolai Burlyaev's statements about "revisiting the attitude" towards certain films due to their content and potential for "propaganda of Ukrainian unity" or "Russian criminal unity." Операция Z, citing "Russian Spring Military Correspondents," posts video claiming a "bloodbath in Odessa" where "TCC militants beat civilians." WarGonzo provides a video of an excavator, with the caption suggesting "Lubyanka" (FSB) involvement. Alex Parker Returns posts a video titled "Еще не поздно избежать позора." Операция Z posts a video message with a caption of Trump speaking about reducing NATO troops, suggesting an RF attempt to amplify perceived divisions. MoD Russia shows a video of a platoon leader 'Zatvor' presenting captured foreign weaponry. ASTRA reports a federal judge killed in Volgograd Oblast by an "SVO participant," with STERNENKO reporting a "veteran of the Special Military Operation" as the killer. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА posts a video message appealing to "SVO participants." Два майора posted a video featuring a "Frontline Armor" fundraiser, which serves as a domestic propaganda and morale-boosting effort. ASTRA also reports on a "Solovyev LIVE" propaganda video featuring dancing individuals symbolizing Russia and the US, an overt attempt to shape perceptions of international relations. Alex Parker Returns posted similar videos with anti-Western and anti-BRICS narratives. Старше Эдды comments on the increasing "insider" reports and contradictory information ahead of the Putin-Trump summit, suggesting an active information manipulation environment. Воин DV's new video with the text "Soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Aleksandrogra and Kamyshevakha" and a surrender plea is a direct PSYOP against UA forces (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Colonelcassad posts a video with "#HumanFate #DNR" which is a domestic propaganda piece (HIGH CONFIDENCE). WarGonzo posts photos with the caption "While the Georgians plundered, the Abkhazians formed a front," indicating historical revisionism and potential incitement in the region (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Новости Москвы posting photos of Putin and Lavrov flying to Alaska is an IO effort to portray diplomatic activity (HIGH CONFIDENCE). Alex Parker Returns contains video message of Boris Yeltsin speaking on historical political context, likely for domestic informational purposes (LOW CONFIDENCE for direct military relevance, HIGH for informational intent on historical political narratives). ТАСС provides photo message "Киев может использовать три направления для провокаций, чтобы попытаться сорвать саммит РФ — США на Аляске," which is a clear RF information operation aiming to preemptively blame Ukraine for any disruptions to the summit or portray Ukraine as a destabilizing actor (HIGH CONFIDENCE). TASS reports Melania Trump supported her husband's lawsuit against Hunter Biden. This is primarily a domestic US political news item, but RF IW may leverage it to highlight internal US discord (LOW CONFIDENCE for direct military relevance, HIGH for informational intent). Операция Z provides two photo messages, including a screenshot of a webpage from the U.S. Department of State, with captions stating "Пытки, жестокие аресты и репрессии против СМИ: вышел отчет Госдепа США о правах человека на Украине," indicating a direct RF information operation to discredit Ukraine using alleged human rights abuses (HIGH CONFIDENCE). ТАСС provides video footage with caption "Лондон хочет смены Зеленского, чья политика "на грани шизофрении", на Залужного. Такое мнение высказал в интервью ТАСС член постоянной комиссии по международному сотрудничеству СПЧ Александр Ионов," representing a direct RF information operation targeting Ukrainian leadership (HIGH CONFIDENCE). РБК-Україна provides a photo message captioned "Час змиритися або замовкнути: Бессент дорікнув Європі за купівлю нафтопродуктів Індії, вироблених з російської сировини," indicating an RF information operation designed to create divisions among Western allies regarding sanctions (HIGH CONFIDENCE). New (22:20Z-23:08Z): НгП раZVедка reports on new legislation in Russia proposing fines for bullying and cyberbullying, possibly an attempt to enhance internal information control or suppress online dissent. (MEDIUM CONFIDENCE) TASS reports former US Ambassador Jack Matlock stating that the "rupture between Russia and the US is not in the interests of either side," and that "Western refusal to isolate Russia and progress on Ukraine would benefit everyone," reflecting an RF effort to influence Western opinion. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) TASS reports that "meeting between Putin and Trump will be an exam for Zelenskyy's survival," amplifying narratives of Ukrainian leadership instability. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) Военкор Котенок posts photo message claiming "Ukrainian Nazis continue terrorist attacks on Russian territory," explicitly linking the Kursk incident to this narrative and aiming to frame UA as a terrorist entity. (HIGH CONFIDENCE) TASS explicitly reports "panicked moods" in the "Kiev-controlled part of Zaporizhzhia," a clear RF information operation to demoralize UA population. (LOW CONFIDENCE, RF propaganda) TASS features video of Konstantin Yaroshenko, promoting the idea that Putin-Trump dialogue can aid convicted Russians, framing the summit in a positive light for domestic consumption. (HIGH CONFIDENCE)
Intentions:
Russian Forces:
Ukrainian Forces:
Russian Forces:
Ukrainian Forces:
3.1. Ukrainian Force Posture and Readiness
Defensive Posture: UA forces are primarily engaged in defensive operations, particularly in Donetsk Oblast (Chasiv Yar, Pokrovsk), facing intense RF pressure. The General Staff of AFU reports 56 offensive actions by the aggressor were stopped. Silly oborony Pivdnya Ukrayiny reports UA units holding positions and conducting counteroffensive actions in the southern sector. ЦАПЛІЄНКО_UKRAINE FIGHTS video showing destruction of an RF tank and BM-21 Grad MLRS by border guards in Donetsk Oblast demonstrates active and effective UA defensive operations. Operatyvnyi ZSU posts a video showing "collective suicide of Russian motorcycle assault troops" being turned into "meat lego," indicating effective UA defensive operations and attrition against RF ground assaults. Оперативний ЗСУ provides video footage titled "Нічні удари FPV-дронами по противнику в зоні відповідальності 3-го армійського корпусу," confirming continued UA offensive-defensive FPV drone strikes (HIGH CONFIDENCE).
Readiness:
Cross-border Operations: UA airborne forces engaging Russian assaults near Kursk demonstrates continued cross-border offensive capabilities. ARCHANGEL SPETSNAZ photo caption "Attempted attack on Tetkino" implies UA cross-border activity into Russia. Два майора reports Belgorod governor warning of probable provocations on the border. АРХАНГЕЛ СПЕЦНАЗА posts two photo messages captioned "💬Сумское направление💬", indicating continued RF intelligence gathering or operational activity in Sumy Oblast, which implies UA cross-border activity prompting RF responses (HIGH CONFIDENCE).
3.2. Recent Tactical Successes or Setbacks
Successes:
Setbacks:
3.3. Resource Requirements and Constraints
4.1. Propaganda and Disinformation Campaigns
Russian Propaganda (HIGH):
Ukrainian Counter-Propaganda (HIGH):
4.2. Public Sentiment and Morale Factors
4.3. International Support and Diplomatic Developments
Support for Ukraine (HIGH):
Support for Russia (HIGH):
5.1. Most Likely Enemy Courses of Action (MLCOA)
5.2. Most Dangerous Enemy Courses of Action (MDCOA)
5.3. Timeline Estimates and Decision Points
INTELLIGENCE GAPS:
RECOMMENDATIONS:
END REPORT
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