On September 27, a Ukrainian intelligence operation in the North Caucasus resulted in the death of a Russian National Guard lieutenant colonel, his aide, and a driver near Tambukan, Stavropol Krai. The HUR released footage of the attack, targeting the commander of the Avangard unit. The operation was reportedly supported by the “Caucasus Liberation Movement,” according to HUR. The attack occurred far from the Ukrainian front lines in a historically volatile region of Russia.
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In April 2020, Ukraine’s navy successfully used a modified R-360 Neptune anti-ship missile in a long-range strike against a Russian factory in Bryansk, targeting a facility specializing in electrical parts for military and aerospace components. The strike, conducted over a range of 240 km, suggests the use of the “Long Neptune” version, initially designed for naval targets but modified to hit land targets with an extended range. This follows a previous strike on an oil refinery in March and reflects Ukraine’s efforts to expand its homegrown long-range arsenal, reducing reliance on Western-provided weapons. The Neptune missile, based on the Soviet Kh-35 and manufactured by Luch Design Bureau, was revealed to have a significantly extended range compared to its original capabilities.
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Ukraine will soon receive Gripen fighter jets from Sweden, as confirmed by the First Deputy Defense Minister. While details regarding the timeframe and quantity were not disclosed, it was affirmed that the Gripen is included in the list of aircraft Kyiv will be receiving. Discussions regarding the transfer have been ongoing since September 2024, with initial hesitations due to the complexities of managing multiple aircraft systems. The Gripen’s agility and suitability for air combat make it a valuable asset, as evidenced by its recent use in intercepting Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea.
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In a move further distancing Russia from Western institutions, President Putin signed a law withdrawing the country from the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture. The Kremlin’s decision, which follows Russia’s expulsion from the Council of Europe, cites alleged “discrimination” by the organization. While the Russian foreign ministry claims this withdrawal won’t negatively impact citizens, UN special rapporteurs have expressed concern, viewing the move as a red flag regarding human rights in Russian detention facilities. This action comes amid international condemnation of Russia’s human rights record, particularly allegations of abuses against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees.
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Recent drone strikes on Russian refineries have led to widespread gasoline shortages across the country, with prices soaring and rationing becoming common. The situation has worsened significantly from initial reports, prompting long queues, limited sales, and even closures at some gas stations. Reports indicate that the Russian people, who have largely tolerated the conflict, are beginning to feel the impact and express their frustration. Some analysts suggest that the impact of the attacks has disrupted fuel supplies to the Russian military.
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In late September, Russia officially denounced the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, ceasing its obligations to allow international inspectors into penitentiary institutions. This action, prompted by alleged restrictions within the Council of Europe, significantly alters monitoring mechanisms and transparency regarding detention conditions. The denunciation follows Russia’s expulsion from the Council of Europe in 2022 and raises concerns about human rights, particularly in light of reports of violence against Ukrainian prisoners of war. Consequently, there is a pressing need for heightened scrutiny from the international community and human rights organizations to address potential shifts in the protection of prisoners’ rights.
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In response to Ukraine’s ban on several Hungarian media outlets, the Hungarian government has prohibited access to a selection of Ukrainian news websites, including Ukrainska Pravda and European Pravda. According to Minister Gergely Gulyás, this decision is based on the principle of reciprocity, following Ukraine’s actions against Hungarian media, which were accused of disseminating Russian propaganda. Gulyás stated that Ukraine’s actions were prompted by critical reporting on sanctions against Russia and military support for Ukraine, as well as the depiction of the EU and NATO. This decision mirrors Russia’s prior bans on Hungarian media, raising questions about press freedom and political tensions in the region.
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Ukraine anticipates receiving a variety of fighter jets, including Swedish Gripens, French Mirages, and additional F-16s, as confirmed by Deputy Defense Minister Lieutenant General Ivan Havryliuk. While the exact delivery timelines and quantities remain undisclosed, the request for at least ten medium-range Patriot systems has also been made. The general refrained from specifying the specifics, stating that the public would see the aircraft in Ukrainian skies before details were released. This follows previous announcements of increased air defense support, including the commitment of two Patriot systems from Germany.
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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stirred controversy by stating Ukraine is not a sovereign nation, responding to allegations of Hungarian drone airspace violations. While acknowledging potential drone incursions, Orban dismissed Ukraine’s sovereignty, citing its territorial losses during the ongoing war with Russia. This stance drew sharp criticism, with Ukrainian officials accusing Orban of being influenced by Russian propaganda. Orban’s position aligns with his history of Kremlin-friendly policies, including blocking sanctions and aid to Ukraine, and opposing its EU accession.
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Speaking at the Warsaw Security Forum, Ukrainian Foreign Minister expressed that there will be no safe haven for Russia, and Ukrainian weapons will target any military objective within its borders. This statement followed remarks by US President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, suggesting Trump authorized Kyiv to launch long-range strikes on Russia. Sybiha emphasized Ukraine’s right to self-defense, citing Article 51 of the UN Charter. Meanwhile, reports indicate the potential supply of Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine is under consideration by the Trump administration.
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John Q. Hosedrinker