Ukraine’s naval forces successfully used fourteen deployed Vampire systems, equipped with APKWS missiles, to intercept a Russian Kh-59 missile targeting the Yuzhny seaport, marking the first confirmed instance of this technology downing such a missile. This follows earlier successful interceptions of Shahed drones using the same system. While initial deliveries were swift, experts highlight the need for a significant increase in the number of systems to effectively counter aerial threats, given the existing capacity for scaling production. The successful deployment underscores the growing effectiveness of this relatively new technology in Ukraine’s air defense efforts.
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Ukraine significantly escalated cross-border strikes into Russia in January 2025, exceeding previous months’ activity, fueled by a booming domestic drone industry. This surge reflects a dramatic increase in Ukrainian drone production, reaching over 1.5 million units in 2024, with domestic manufacturers supplying over 90%. Kyiv plans to further expand production, aiming for at least 30,000 long-range drones, alongside thousands of cruise and missile drones in 2025. These advancements support Ukraine’s stated military objectives of halting Russian advances and intensifying strikes on strategic targets within Russia and occupied territories.
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North Korea’s substantial military support for Russia includes approximately 12,000 troops deployed to the Kursk region, providing an estimated 60% of ammunition used by Russian forces. These troops, lacking modern training and equipment, are reportedly employed as “cannon fodder” in offensive actions, resulting in significant reported casualties. This support, in exchange for technology, funding, and food, underscores the ongoing military cooperation between the two nations despite considerable risks. The captured North Korean soldier incident and reports of disguised rocket launchers further illustrate the nature of this assistance.
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The Russian Navy newspaper warned that relatives of Russian soldiers are inadvertently aiding Ukraine by sharing their loved ones’ locations online, leading to precision strikes. This information is reportedly compiled by Ukrainian intelligence and used to target Russian troops and training grounds. The warning, promoted by pro-war blogger Anastasia Kashevarova, calls for the prosecution of these women. The article notes Kashevarova’s ties to Russian militant groups and Ramzan Kadyrov, highlighting the context of this alarming message within a pro-war media landscape.
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Ukrainian Air Force units, collaborating with other defense forces, successfully struck Russian drone storage sites in Oryol Oblast, Russia. The attack reportedly destroyed over 200 Shahed drones, including reinforced structures containing thermobaric warheads. Significant secondary explosions were reported following the strikes. These operations, targeting infrastructure used to attack Ukrainian civilians, will continue, according to the General Staff.
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Three US Boeing 747 cargo planes, contracted by USTRANSCOM, recently delivered military aid to Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport in Poland. This shipment likely comprises part of a $500 million aid package approved under the Presidential Drawdown Authority, adding to over $65 billion already provided. The cargo is speculated to include various munitions and equipment, such as HIMARS ammunition and F-16 spares. Rzeszów-Jasionka’s proximity to Ukraine and its capacity for large aircraft make it a crucial hub for such deliveries.
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In a coordinated ambush near Sverdlikovo, the Ukrainian 225th Assault Battalion inflicted heavy casualties on a Russian force in Kursk Oblast. Employing a feigned retreat, the battalion lured the Russians into a HIMARS strike, utilizing cluster munitions to decimate their ranks. This successful operation, involving precise coordination between infantry and artillery, highlights the effectiveness of Ukrainian tactics and weaponry against concentrated Russian advances. The ambush contributes to the significant losses—estimated by President Zelensky at 30,000—suffered by Russian and North Korean forces in the region over the past three months.
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Artem Bugorskiy, a 45-year-old Russian national, has been charged with the intentional homicide of his 13-year-old son, Lucas, following an incident on a speedboat near Koh Ra. Bugorskiy allegedly threw his son overboard, then jumped in himself, refusing rescue attempts. Lucas suffered fatal propeller injuries. Bugorskiy denies the allegations.
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Zelenskyy accuses Putin of attempting to manipulate Trump for peace negotiations, alleging Putin’s willingness to continue the war and manipulate world leaders. Meanwhile, a US State Department memo reveals a near-total halt to US foreign aid, excluding Israel and Egypt, raising questions about future aid to Ukraine. Further escalating the conflict, North Korea is reportedly preparing to send additional troops to fight in Ukraine, while recent Russian attacks near Kyiv resulted in casualties. Finally, large-scale protests in Slovakia oppose Prime Minister Fico’s pro-Russia policy shift.
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Massive protests erupted across Slovakia, drawing an estimated 100,000 participants, in response to Prime Minister Robert Fico’s pro-Russia policy shift and attacks against the opposition. These demonstrations, exceeding previous protests in scale, mirror the 2018 demonstrations following a journalist’s murder. Fico, accused of undermining democratic values and EU ties, faces a no-confidence vote but retains a slim parliamentary majority. Protesters demand a return to pro-EU and NATO policies, citing concerns over Fico’s Moscow trip and strained relations with Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker