Updated Analysis of the Military Situation in Ukraine - December 31, 2024, 10:17 UTC

Strategic Overview

The military situation in Ukraine remains highly dynamic, with intense fighting concentrated in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions. Russian forces continue to make advances, particularly around Kurakhove, Pokrovsk, and along the Vremivka direction. They are leveraging their advantage in drone warfare, with widespread use of FPV drones and confirmed reports of AI integration into Shahed drones. Ukrainian forces are engaged in a fighting withdrawal towards the Dnipro River in some areas, employing counter-drone measures and inflicting losses on Russian troops and equipment. The withdrawal is focused on the areas around Novooleksandrivka, Novoselivka Persha, and Sokil.

Russian forces have reportedly liberated Novotroitske (DPR), repelling 11 Ukrainian counterattacks. Fighting is ongoing in Chasiv Yar, with Russian forces controlling over half the city and having now taken control of the railway station. The loss of the railway station is a significant blow to Ukrainian forces. Russian forces are advancing near Dzerzhinsk, with fighting ongoing in the center of the town. Russian artillery disrupted a Ukrainian rotation in the Krasnoarmiisk (Pokrovsk) direction.

Ukrainian forces have reportedly been withdrawn to the main defense line near the border with Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Russian forces have reportedly taken control of a garage cooperative in Kurakhove, advancing from the industrial zone. They are advancing in the western part of the city near the Kurakhove thermal power plant. The space controlled by Ukrainian forces in the city is shrinking. Ukrainian forces no longer control the territory of the Kurakhivska Thermal Power Plant. Video evidence suggests that Russian forces have captured the Kurakhivska Thermal Power Plant. This is considered a key point in the battle for the city.

In the Kursk region, Russian forces have reportedly secured a foothold in Cherkaska Konopelka and made progress in the wooded areas of the Sudzhansky district. There are reports that Russian forces are advancing towards Sudzha from the east, following their liberation of Cherkaska Konopelka and progress in Makhnovka. Video and photographic evidence confirm the liberation of Lozova by Russian forces.

A captured Russian soldier's account alleges that Ukrainian command is not providing adequate cover for its troops on the Pokrovsk direction.

Slovak Minister of Defense, Robert Kaliňák, stated that Ukraine might have to cede territory to Russia, emphasizing the need for immediate peace talks. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated that Russia will not participate in the "peace summit" organized by Ukraine, also declaring that there are currently no preconditions for ending the conflict.

Ukrainian Air Force reports that overnight, Russian forces attacked with 43 drones, 21 of which were shot down and 22 missed their targets. Damage to private residences was reported in Kharkiv and Odesa oblasts due to falling debris.

Russian forces have improved positions in Novovasylivka and Novoelizavetovka. They also advanced in Vozdvyzhenka. Russian forces have captured Peschanoe and entered Shevchenko.

Ukrainian border guards from the "Revenge" brigade conducted precise strikes in the Luhansk region, destroying a tank, two cannons, an ammunition depot, and 15 vehicles.

Ukrainian forces repelled a Russian assault near Velyka Novosilka, destroying Russian equipment and capturing Russian soldiers.

Ukrainian forces repelled a Russian assault near Klishchiivka, destroying Russian equipment and personnel.

Ukrainian forces conducted a drone strike operation in the Pokrovsk direction, targeting a Russian command post and destroying a Starlink station.

Ukrainian forces conducted a drone operation in the Kursk region, targeting a Russian T-90 tank and an ammunition depot.

Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy a Russian command post near the Toretsk mine.

Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy three Russian field howitzers near Volchansk.

Ukrainian forces used drones to destroy a Russian communication tower and a supply depot in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Ukrainian forces used drones to target Russian positions in the Kurakhove direction.

Ukrainian forces used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian T-64BV tank near Kupyansk.

Ukrainian forces used FPV drones to destroy a German Leopard 1 tank.

Ukrainian forces used FPV drones to shoot down an enemy UAV.

Ukrainian forces report shooting down 15 out of 16 drones, with one drone "lost."

Ukrainian forces report shooting down two more Russian drones over the Belgorod region.

Ukrainian air defenses reportedly shot down 7 drones over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Ukrainian Air Force reports updates on the movement of Russian drones, with drones on the border of Vinnitsa and Kyiv oblasts moving southwest, drones in northern Kyiv moving west, drones north of Poltava moving northwest, drones in northern Sumy constantly changing course, and drones south of Sumy moving east.

Ukrainian Air Force reports no threat of attack drones.

Ukrainian Air Force reports increased drone activity in Poltava and Myrhorod, as well as in Kyivska and Chernihivska regions.

Ukrainian air defense forces successfully detected and neutralized about ten hostile drones near Kyiv.

Ukrainian forces report a 19-fold increase in the supply of drones to their units in 2024, compared to the previous year.

Ukrainian forces report a Russian drone strike on the central market in Nikopol, causing damage to the market and injuring 8 civilians, 7 of them being hospitalized.

Ukrainian forces report that a Russian drone control center near Velyka Novosilka was destroyed by drone operators.

Ukrainian forces report that their drones can strike targets up to 2000 km away.

Ukrainian Ambassador to the EU, Vsevolod Chentsov, reported that Russia is integrating AI into Shahed drones to enhance their target recognition capabilities, even when offline.

Overnight, Russian forces actively attempted to attack Tokmak, Energodar and Melitopol. Ukrainian air defense successfully shot down hostile objects.

Russian forces used approximately 100 Geran drones to deplete Ukrainian air defenses overnight.

Russian forces report needing more Mavic drones to break through enemy defenses on all fronts, from Kursk to Kurakhove.

Russian forces report that operators of drones from the 20th Motorized Rifle Division of the 8th Guards Army discovered and destroyed a disguised Ukrainian communications repeater, thereby ensuring the security of Russian positions from enemy drone strikes.

Russian forces report that operators of drones from the 110th Brigade spotted moving Ukrainian soldiers and dropped a munition, killing one.

Russian forces are reportedly using FPV drones to target Ukrainian positions in the Kurakhove direction.

Russian forces are reportedly pressing Ukrainian forces on all fronts in the Kursk region.

Russian forces used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a forest.

Russian forces used drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a wooded area.

Russian forces reportedly used drones to eliminate a Ukrainian special forces group near Kupyansk.

Russian forces reportedly used drones to eliminate Ukrainian troops in a forested area in the Kharkiv region.

Russian forces report destroying a Ukrainian Baba Yaga drone.

Russian forces tracked the route of a Ukrainian "Baba Yaga" drone and destroyed a supply drop.

Russian forces used drones to eliminate Ukrainian troops in a forested area in the Kharkiv region.

Russian forces reportedly used drones to eliminate a Ukrainian special forces group near Kupyansk.

Russian forces have used drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a wooded area.

Russian forces have used FPV drones to destroy a Ukrainian armored vehicle in a forest.

Russian forces are using FPV drones to target Ukrainian positions in the Kurakhove direction.

Russian forces report that operators of drones from the 20th Motorized Rifle Division of the 8th Guards Army discovered and destroyed a disguised Ukrainian communications repeater.

Russian forces report that operators of drones from the 110th Brigade spotted moving Ukrainian soldiers and dropped a munition, killing one.

Operators of drones from the 20th Motorized Rifle Division of the 8th Guards Army detected and destroyed a camouflaged communications repeater of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Operators of FPV drones from the 20th Motorized Rifle Division of the 8th Guards Army detected and destroyed a camouflaged communications repeater of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in a forest plantation, ensuring the security of Russian positions from enemy drone strikes.

Operators of drones from the 95th Air Assault Brigade repelled an attack by North Koreans in the Kursk region.

Operators of drones from the 110th Brigade, operating in the Kurakhove direction, spotted moving Ukrainian soldiers and dropped a munition, killing one.

Operators of drones from the "Center" group reportedly eliminated a Ukrainian observation post in the Pokrovsk direction.

Operators of drones from the "Center" group continue to hunt for Ukrainian forces in the Pokrovsk direction.

Operators of FPV drones from the 20th Motorized Rifle Division destroyed a camouflaged communications repeater.

Operators of drones from the BARS-3 "Rodina" unit destroyed a Polish self-propelled gun "Krab" on the Kupyansk front.

Operators of the 80th Airborne Assault Brigade destroyed an enemy along with equipment in the Kursk region.

Latvia plans to transfer 1000 drones to Ukraine by the end of 2024 and allocate 20 million euros for drone procurement in 2025.

Attack FPV drone teams of the Yug Group of Forces eliminated a stronghold and a mortar position of the AFU in Kurakhove direction.

Aerial reconnaissance from the "Mad Dogs" brigade detected a night raid by Ukrainian forces from the 32nd Brigade. A Russian FPV drone operator, "Dolgiy," reportedly destroyed four Ukrainian soldiers and wounded two during this raid in the Pokrovsk direction.

A Russian soldier detonated a grenade near his head after being attacked by a Ukrainian FPV drone in Kursk Oblast.

A Russian attack drone unit successfully eliminated Ukrainian troops in a forested area in the Kharkiv region.

A new FPV-drone "Hortenzia" with support of management for optical fiber started to be used.

A Leopard tank was destroyed in the Kupyansk Direction.

Video evidence of drone attacks on Ukrainian forces personnel.

Video evidence of Ukrainian forces dropping a flag on Russian positions near Robotyne.

Video evidence of Ukrainian forces dropping a flag on Russian positions near Robotyne.

Video evidence shows the destruction of a Ukrainian UAV control point by the 1194th Motorized Rifle Regiment.

Video evidence shows a mobile, vehicle-mounted "Repellent-Patrul" anti-drone system.

Video evidence shows a systematic process of preparing aerial bombs, specifically focusing on the installation of guidance fins or wings.

Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces targeting Russian positions with drones, resulting in multiple explosions and fires.

Video evidence shows Ukrainian forces targeting and destroying Russian military equipment and personnel near Novoelizavetivka.

Video evidence shows a masked individual setting fire to a shop.

Video from Sudoplatov shows Russian forces towing a captured American M113 armored personnel carrier in the Kursk region.

Video shows a systematic process of preparing aerial bombs, specifically focusing on the installation of guidance fins or wings.

Video shows a drone observation of Russian forces ambushing and engaging enemy personnel in a wooded area.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows a systematic process of preparing aerial bombs, specifically focusing on the installation of guidance fins or wings.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Video shows a systematic process of preparing aerial bombs, specifically focusing on the installation of guidance fins or wings.

Video shows a systematic process of preparing aerial bombs, specifically focusing on the installation of guidance fins or wings.

Video shows a drone observation of Russian forces ambushing and engaging enemy personnel in a wooded area.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video footage shows the destruction of a Starlink station by the "Southern Front" group.

Video footage shows the destruction of a German Leopard 1 tank by Russian FPV drones "VT-40".

Video footage shows the destruction of an enemy UAV control point by drone operators of the 36th Army.

Video allegedly shows a Ukrainian drone strike on a command post of the 810th Marine Brigade at the Lgov sugar factory.

Video shows a systematic process of preparing aerial bombs, specifically focusing on the installation of guidance fins or wings.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Video shows a drone strike on a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle near Sudzha.

Video shows drone footage from the 80th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces engaging Russian infantry in the Kursk region.

Video shows a drone recording of a military engagement near a road.

Changes to the Situation from New Messages (last 6 hours)

• Continued Air Activity: Reports indicate ongoing air activity with the take-off of a MiG-31K from Savasleyka and the launch of X-22 missiles from Tu-22M3 bombers. There's also a high-speed target in the northern part of Chernihiv Oblast and reports of multiple missiles targeting Shostka.
• Continued Air Activity Over Russia: Russian forces launched six Tu-22M3 strategic bombers from the Olenya and Engels air bases. They also launched X-22 missiles.
• Air Activity Over Sumy Oblast: A high-speed target was reported in the direction of Shostka, Sumy Oblast.
• Attacks in Kharkiv Oblast: There were no attacks on Kharkiv city overnight. However, an enemy drone caused a fire in a residential building in Vidrodzhenivske, Bohodukhiv district. In Kivsharivka, Kupiansk district, a 51-year-old woman was killed by artillery shelling. A multi-story residential building was also damaged.
• Fighting in Kharkiv Oblast: On the Kharkiv direction, the enemy attacked twice near Vovchansk and Lyptsi. On the Kupiansk direction, the enemy attempted to advance 16 times near Holubivka, Stepova Novoselivka, Kruhliakivka, and Zahryzove. Six clashes are ongoing.
• Evacuations: 28 people, including one child, were evacuated from the Kupiansk and Borivskyi directions.
• Military Engagements: The Ukrainian General Staff reports 168 combat clashes over the past day. The enemy launched one missile strike and used 1864 kamikaze drones. Ukrainian aviation, missile, and artillery forces struck four areas of enemy concentration, an ammunition depot, and six other important enemy targets.
• Russian Losses: Over the past day, Russian losses amounted to 1,610 personnel, five tanks, 27 armored fighting vehicles, 34 artillery systems, 12 operational-tactical UAVs, 75 vehicles, and one unit of special equipment.
• Russian Drone Usage: The "Ghost Khortytsia" battalion, a unit of the 15th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine, has conducted 1797 drone missions since its formation on December 13, 2024. They claim to have killed or wounded 232 enemy personnel, destroyed 220 infrastructure points, 13 armored vehicles, 3 logistics vehicles, 2 electronic warfare/SIGINT units, and conducted 26 remote mining missions.
• New Year's Celebrations: The main Ded Moroz (Russian Santa Claus) wished all soldiers participating in the special military operation the fulfillment of their desires and a reliable rear. In Moscow, there are no exceptions for violating the silence on New Year's Eve, and the launch of fireworks after 23:00 is prohibited.
• War Crimes Accusations: Some of the military personnel participating in the New Year's shows on Russian television channels are accused of war crimes in Ukraine.
• Propaganda: A video from the Telegram channel "T.ME/RUSICH_ARMY" shows a drone targeting Ukrainian personnel and positions, followed by artillery strikes. This is likely a propaganda effort to showcase the effectiveness of Russian forces. Another video shows a Russian soldier in a Ded Moroz costume delivering a holiday message, which can be seen as a soft power campaign to maintain morale and project an image of normalcy.
• Explosions in Kyiv: Explosions were reported in Kyiv, with debris falling in the Darnytskyi district. No casualties or significant damage were reported.
• Air Defense Activity in Kyiv: Air defense systems are active in Kyiv, indicating ongoing threats.
• Missile Attacks on Shostka: Russian forces launched multiple missile attacks on Shostka, Sumy Oblast.
• Drone Attacks in Smolensk Oblast: Reports of drone attacks on an oil depot in Smolensk Oblast, with the local governor claiming "debris" fell.
• Explosions in Sevastopol: Reports of loud explosions in Sevastopol overnight, with claims of drone attacks.
• Drone Attacks in North Ossetia: A drone was reportedly shot down over a training ground in North Ossetia. Vladikavkaz airport was closed for arrivals and departures.
• Drone and Missile Attacks on Crimea: 17 drones were reportedly shot down over Crimea overnight, with 4 near Sevastopol. Two unmanned boats were also reportedly destroyed near the coast of Sevastopol.
• SpaceX and Starlink: SpaceX has reportedly entered into a new agreement to provide satellite communication services to Ukraine through Kyivstar, a mobile operator. This will provide satellite connectivity to Kyivstar subscribers starting in 2025. Additionally, SpaceX has a contract with the US Department of Defense to provide 2,500 Starlink terminals to Ukraine with access to the Starshield system, a secure and encrypted signal.
• Potential Assault in Kherson Region: Reports from a partisan group "ATESH" suggest that Russian forces are preparing for an assault in the Kherson region, expecting heavy losses. The information reportedly comes from an agent within the 1218th Motorized Rifle Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces.
• Alleged Attempted Assassination in Donetsk: Reports of an attempted assassination of an illegally mobilized individual in Donetsk. The victim is reportedly in serious condition.
• Russian Military Training: The Russian Minister of Defense inspected combat training of Black Sea Fleet marines, focusing on tactical and special training, including the use of FPV drones.
• Drone Attack: A Ukrainian drone reportedly struck a Russian helicopter using an R-73 missile.
• Fundraising Campaigns: Several fundraising campaigns for both Ukrainian and Russian forces are ongoing, highlighting the continued need for resources and equipment on both sides of the conflict.
• Ukrainian Morale-Boosting Video: A video from the 97th Separate Mechanized Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade shows Ukrainian forces targeting a Russian soldier with a drone strike on the Lyman direction of the front.
• Ukraine's Commitment to Syria: Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that Ukraine will "do everything possible to help Syria get rid of Russian influence."
• Continued Air Activity Over Russia: Reports that 8 TU-22M3 bombers (4 from Olenya and 4 from Engels) were active.
• Attacks on Infrastructure in Shostka: Reports that 12 apartment buildings, 2 educational institutions, and several infrastructure facilities were damaged in Shostka.
• Air Defense Activity in Kyiv: Reports that air defense systems were active in Kyiv, with a combination of Iskander and 6 guided air missiles being used.
• Drone Attacks in North Ossetia: Reports that a drone was shot down over a training ground in North Ossetia, causing the closure of Vladikavkaz airport.
• Air Defense Activity in Kyiv: Reports that air defense systems were active in Kyiv, with a combination of Iskander and 6 guided air missiles being used.
• New Drone Attacks: Reports of a massive drone attack on Russian regions, with 68 drones shot down overnight.
• Subway Shelter Usage: Images from Kyiv's subway system show civilians using it as a shelter during air raids.
• New Drone Attacks: Reports of a massive drone attack on Russian regions, with 68 drones shot down overnight.
• New Drone Attacks: Reports of a massive drone attack on Russian regions, with 68 drones shot down overnight.
• New Drone Attacks: Reports of a massive drone attack on Russian regions, with 68 drones shot down overnight.
• Drone Attacks in North Ossetia: Reports that a drone was shot down over a training ground in North Ossetia, causing the closure of Vladikavkaz airport.
• Public Opinion Poll: A poll by the "Rating" group indicates that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are the most trusted institution in Ukraine, with over 70% of respondents having relatives who have fought or are fighting in the war. The poll also shows a high level of distrust towards employees of the Territorial Recruitment Centers (TCC).
• Frontline Report from Seversk Direction: Reports from the "Diary of a Paratrooper" Telegram channel indicate that Ukrainian forces are continuing to destroy Russian forces near Verkhnokamyanske, with the goal of expanding control towards a field reservoir east of Seversk. Ukrainian forces also reportedly advanced 900 meters south of Vyimka after clearing a forest belt.
• Russian Naval Successes: The Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy reported that the Pacific Fleet was ranked first among Russian fleets in 2024, with over 350 exercises conducted. The report also mentions the participation of Russian ships in joint naval exercises with foreign countries and a seven-month deployment of a ship detachment to the Mediterranean Sea.
• HIMARS Strike in Kherson Oblast: Reports of a Russian missile strike targeting HIMARS launchers in Kherson Oblast.
• New Year's Greetings from Russian Celebrities: A video message from the rector of the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, Nikolai Tsiskaridze, wishing readers of TASS a happy new year.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for a special forces unit operating in the Donetsk direction, requesting quadcopters, their components, and personal protective equipment.
• New Year's Greetings from Ukrainian Forces: A video message from the 97th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, showing a drone strike on a Russian soldier.
• New Year's Greetings from Ukrainian Forces: A video message from the 97th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, showing a drone strike on a Russian soldier.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for an evacuation vehicle for the 3rd Mechanized Battalion of the Separate Presidential Brigade named after Bohdan Khmelnytsky.
• Arrest Warrant for Former South Korean President: Reports that an arrest warrant has been issued for the impeached former president of South Korea, Yoon Suk-yeol, on charges of imposing martial law, organizing a rebellion, and abuse of power.
• New Drone Attacks: Reports of a massive drone attack on Russian regions, with 68 drones shot down overnight.
• Drone Attack on Russian Helicopter: Reports that a Ukrainian Magura V5 naval drone shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea, using an R-73 "SeeDragon" missile. Another Mi-8 was reportedly damaged but able to reach its base.
• Air Raid Alerts Lifted: Reports that air raid alerts have been lifted across Ukraine.
• Ukrainian Military Losses in Kurakhove Direction: Reports from TASS, citing sources in the security forces, that Ukrainian forces have lost at least three battalions in the Kurakhove direction in recent weeks.
• New Year's Greetings from Ukrainian Airborne Forces: A video message from the communications department of the 95th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade, wishing viewers a happy new year and thanking them for their support.
• Drone Attack on Russian Helicopter: Reports that a Ukrainian Magura V5 naval drone shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea, using an R-73 "SeeDragon" missile. Another Mi-8 was reportedly damaged but able to reach its base.
• Drone Attack on Russian Helicopter: Reports that a Ukrainian Magura V5 naval drone shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea, using an R-73 "SeeDragon" missile. Another Mi-8 was reportedly damaged but able to reach its base.
• New Drone Attacks: Reports of a massive drone attack on Russian regions, with 68 drones shot down overnight.
• No Lump-Sum Payments for Contracted Prisoners: A new decree from the Russian government denies lump-sum payments to prisoners who sign contracts to join the military.
• Drone Attack on Bryansk Oblast: Reports that a Ukrainian drone was shot down over Bryansk Oblast, with no casualties or damage reported.
• Increase in Crimes Committed by Migrants in Russia: Reports of a significant increase in crimes committed by migrants in Russia in 2024, including a 40% increase in rapes.
• New Year's Greetings from the Police of Khabarovsk Krai: A photo message from the police of Khabarovsk Krai, wishing everyone a happy new year.
• New Year's Greetings from the Police of Khabarovsk Krai: A photo message from the police of Khabarovsk Krai, wishing everyone a happy new year.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for a special forces unit operating in the Donetsk direction, requesting quadcopters, their components, and personal protective equipment.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for a special forces unit operating in the Donetsk direction, requesting quadcopters, their components, and personal protective equipment.
• Drone Attack on Russian Helicopter: Reports that a Ukrainian Magura V5 naval drone shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea, using an R-73 "SeeDragon" missile. Another Mi-8 was reportedly damaged but able to reach its base.
• New Advertisement for a Mobile Game: A new advertisement for a mobile game called "Battle of Drones: Ukraine," created by "real commanders during the war."
• New Advertisement for a Mobile Game: A new advertisement for a mobile game called "Battle of Drones: Ukraine," created by "real commanders during the war."
• New Russian Missile and Drone Attacks: Reports of new Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, with damage reported in Shostka and Kyiv. Air raid alerts have been issued across the country.
• Praise for Russian General: A photo and message praising Colonel-General Andrei Mordvichev as the "commander of the year," highlighting the successes of his troops in 2024.
• Praise for Russian General: A photo and message praising Colonel-General Andrei Mordvichev as the "commander of the year," highlighting the successes of his troops in 2024.
• Drone Attack on Russian Soldier: A video message from the 97th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, showing a drone strike on a Russian soldier.
• Drone Attack on Russian Soldier: A video message from the 97th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, showing a drone strike on a Russian soldier.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for an evacuation vehicle for the 3rd Mechanized Battalion of the Separate Presidential Brigade named after Bohdan Khmelnytsky.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for an evacuation vehicle for the 3rd Mechanized Battalion of the Separate Presidential Brigade named after Bohdan Khmelnytsky.
• Air Raid Alerts Lifted in Kyiv: Air raid alerts have been lifted in Kyiv, indicating a temporary de-escalation in the immediate threat.
• Ukrainian Drone Strikes Russian Helicopter: Ukrainian forces successfully used a Magura V5 naval drone equipped with an R-73 "SeeDragon" missile to shoot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea. This marks a significant development in Ukraine's naval drone capabilities.
• Ukrainian Military Losses in Kurakhove Direction: Russian sources claim that Ukrainian forces have lost at least three battalions in the Kurakhove direction in recent weeks. This indicates the intensity of the fighting in this area and the heavy toll it is taking on Ukrainian forces.
• New Year's Greetings from Ukrainian Airborne Forces: A video message from the communications department of the 95th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade, thanking viewers for their support. This is a morale-boosting effort aimed at maintaining public support for the military.
• Russian Government Denies Lump-Sum Payments to Contracted Prisoners: A new decree from the Russian government denies lump-sum payments to prisoners who sign contracts to join the military. This could potentially impact recruitment efforts among this demographic.
• Increase in Crimes Committed by Migrants in Russia: Reports of a significant increase in crimes committed by migrants in Russia in 2024, including a 40% increase in rapes. This could potentially lead to increased social tensions and impact domestic security.
• Propaganda Efforts: A video from a Russian soldier in a Ded Moroz costume delivering a holiday message and a video from the Telegram channel "T.ME/RUSICH_ARMY" showing a drone targeting Ukrainian personnel and positions, followed by artillery strikes, are examples of ongoing propaganda efforts by both sides to maintain morale and showcase their effectiveness.
• Report of Ukrainian delegation visit to Damascus: Ukrainian delegation visited Damascus and presented a traditional Ukrainian shirt to al-Julani.
• Report of non-public part of negotiations between Ukrainian delegation and Damascus: Kyiv is reportedly interested in acquiring jihadists, particularly Chechens, and weapons from the remnants of the Syrian government army.
• Claim of potential appearance of Chechen fighters in the Special Military Operation zone: The report suggests that Chechen fighters who previously fought in Aleppo and Homs might soon appear in the conflict zone, fighting on the Ukrainian side.
• Report of Russian forces being attacked by soldiers from the Foreign Legion under Pokrovsk: Russian forces attacked soldiers from the Foreign Legion near Pokrovsk.
• Three Russian soldiers were released from hospitals: The condition of three other soldiers remains critical.
• Report of renewed attack on Lgov with 8 Storm Shadow missiles: The attack suggests the use of Western long-range precision weapons against targets in Russia.
• Appointment of former head of Kyiv Regional State Administration: Ruslan Kravchenko has been appointed head of the State Tax Service of Ukraine.
• Inspection of combat training of Black Sea Fleet marines: Russian Minister of Defense inspected combat training, focusing on tactical and special training, including the use of FPV drones.
• Report on the downing of a Russian helicopter by a Ukrainian drone: A Ukrainian drone reportedly struck a Russian helicopter using an R-73 missile.
• Sabotage in Tver: The Legion "Freedom of Russia" claimed responsibility for setting fire to a communication tower in Tver. This indicates internal resistance and potential sabotage operations within Russia.
• Map Updates: Several changes to the map were reported, including:
  • Russian forces advancing past the Solen River near Dachenskoye.
  • Russian forces capturing the railway station in Chasiv Yar.
  • Russian forces advancing near the Agronom farm.
  • Russian forces improving positions in Toretsk.
  • Russian forces advancing west of Uspenovka.
  • Russian forces expanding the control zone north of Dachenskoye.
  • Russian forces entering Makhnovka.
  • Russian forces advancing in Vozdvyzhenka.
  • Russian forces expanding the control zone northwest of Uspenovka.
  • Russian forces liberating Volkovo.
  • Russian forces controlling most of Terny.
• New Year's Greetings from Russian Celebrities: A video message from the rector of the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, Nikolai Tsiskaridze, wishing readers of TASS a happy new year.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for a special forces unit operating in the Donetsk direction, requesting quadcopters, their components, and personal protective equipment.
• New Year's Greetings from Ukrainian Forces: A video message from the 97th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, showing a drone strike on a Russian soldier.
• Drone Attack on Russian Helicopter: Reports that a Ukrainian Magura V5 naval drone shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea, using an R-73 "SeeDragon" missile. Another Mi-8 was reportedly damaged but able to reach its base.
• New Drone Attacks: Reports of a massive drone attack on Russian regions, with 68 drones shot down overnight.
• No Lump-Sum Payments for Contracted Prisoners: A new decree from the Russian government denies lump-sum payments to prisoners who sign contracts to join the military.
• Drone Attack on Bryansk Oblast: Reports that a Ukrainian drone was shot down over Bryansk Oblast, with no casualties or damage reported.
• Increase in Crimes Committed by Migrants in Russia: Reports of a significant increase in crimes committed by migrants in Russia in 2024, including a 40% increase in rapes.
• New Year's Greetings from the Police of Khabarovsk Krai: A photo message from the police of Khabarovsk Krai, wishing everyone a happy new year.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for a special forces unit operating in the Donetsk direction, requesting quadcopters, their components, and personal protective equipment.
• Drone Attack on Russian Helicopter: Reports that a Ukrainian Magura V5 naval drone shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea, using an R-73 "SeeDragon" missile. Another Mi-8 was reportedly damaged but able to reach its base.
• New Advertisement for a Mobile Game: A new advertisement for a mobile game called "Battle of Drones: Ukraine," created by "real commanders during the war."
• New Russian Missile and Drone Attacks: Reports of new Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, with damage reported in Shostka and Kyiv. Air raid alerts have been issued across the country.
• Praise for Russian General: A photo and message praising Colonel-General Andrei Mordvichev as the "commander of the year," highlighting the successes of his troops in 2024.
• Drone Attack on Russian Soldier: A video message from the 97th Battalion of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, showing a drone strike on a Russian soldier.
• New Fundraising Campaign: A new fundraising campaign for an evacuation vehicle for the 3rd Mechanized Battalion of the Separate Presidential Brigade named after Bohdan Khmelnytsky.
• Air Raid Alerts Lifted in Kyiv: Air raid alerts have been lifted in Kyiv, indicating a temporary de-escalation in the immediate threat.

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Previous Report (2024-12-31 10:01:40Z)