Internal documents obtained by Ukraine’s “I Want to Live” project reveal “catastrophic” losses within Russia’s 41st Combined Arms Army operating in eastern Ukraine. These documents, provided by Russians, detail casualties including over 8,625 killed, 10,491 missing, and 7,846 deserters as of June 1, 2024. The 74th Motor Rifle Brigade, in particular, suffered severe losses, significantly impacting its original size, with other brigades also showing heavy losses. High desertion rates persist, especially among soldiers recruited from penal assault units, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of Russia’s war efforts.
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On July 17, Russian media and officials reported widespread Ukrainian drone attacks across multiple regions, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. Russian officials claimed to have shot down numerous drones, with some reports indicating temporary airport closures and injuries. Attacks were also reported in regions closer to the front lines, such as Belgorod and Voronezh, with casualties and damage reported. These reported attacks follow a series of Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, including a double-tap attack in Nikopol and an aerial bomb dropped on a shopping center in Donetsk Oblast.
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Overnight, Russia launched a large-scale drone and missile attack on key regions in Ukraine, targeting cities like Odesa, Kharkiv, and Kryvyi Rih, resulting in infrastructure damage and casualties. Ukrainian forces intercepted a significant number of the drones, while lawmakers in Kyiv approved increased defense spending and a cabinet reshuffle occurred. The attacks follow a shift in US policy, with a new package of weaponry for Ukraine and threats of economic sanctions against Russia. The Kremlin responded to these developments, closely monitoring the Western long-range missile deliveries and considering them a signal to continue the conflict.
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A far-right terrorist organization, the Base, with suspected Russian ties, has claimed responsibility for the assassination of a Ukrainian intelligence officer in Kyiv. The group, which has been offering money for attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, made the claim via a Telegram channel. Ukrainian authorities have stated that they killed the two suspects who were instructed by Russian special services to carry out the assassination. The Base’s activities in Ukraine have escalated recently, with the group now endorsing or commissioning treasonous murders and threatening further attacks.
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Zelenskyy suggested that Russian attacks have decreased significantly since the arrival of Keith Kellogg, the US Special Envoy for Ukraine. According to Zelenskyy, there were no massive bombings for two nights following Kellogg’s arrival, which some Ukrainians found noteworthy. This observation led Zelenskyy to believe that Putin is intimidated by the presence of the US, as the attacks seem to have ceased when Americans were present. He humorously suggested that Kellogg should remain in Ukraine and that more Americans should visit.
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In a collaborative effort, Ukrainian cyber activists and military intelligence successfully crippled Gaskar Integration, a major Russian drone manufacturer. The attack resulted in the destruction of over 47 TB of critical data, including technical documentation and backup materials. This cyber assault blocked internal systems and paralyzed the plant’s operations, halting production and development activities. Furthermore, access to company employee data and drone production details was obtained and provided to Ukrainian defense forces.
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France and Italy have declined to participate in a new NATO-led initiative to finance the delivery of U.S. weapons to Ukraine. France cited its commitment to bolstering European defense industries and budget constraints as reasons for opting out, while Italy cited fiscal limitations and a focus on alternative technological systems. The initiative, designed to supply Ukraine with air defense systems and other advanced arms, was pitched by Germany and the NATO Secretary General. While Italy is evaluating a NATO request for logistical support in transporting weapons, other European countries like the U.K. and the Netherlands have backed the arrangement, with additional deliveries already underway.
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Responding to reports, former US President Donald Trump stated Ukraine should not strike Moscow, a stance he reportedly discussed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump denied intentions to send long-range weapons to Ukraine, dismissing claims of a plan to sell US arms through NATO. These comments followed media reports that Trump had inquired whether Kyiv could target Moscow and St. Petersburg. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt confirmed Trump raised the issue but denied encouraging further violence, amid reports of potential Tomahawk missile shipments.
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Denmark and Sweden have expressed their willingness to aid in the delivery of U.S.-made weapons to Ukraine through NATO, including Patriot air defense systems. This follows a plan initiated by the U.S. to sell approximately $10 billion in advanced arms to NATO allies for Ukrainian support, with the first shipments potentially including missiles and air defense weaponry. Danish and Swedish officials have indicated their intention to contribute financially and logistically, with discussions underway to determine specific details and procurement methods. This effort is in addition to existing support, as the U.S., Germany, and a European coalition have already provided Patriot batteries to Ukraine.
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The international community, including Russia, has ratified the Chemical Weapons Convention, which prohibits chemical weapons use and production. Amidst intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine, concerns are growing in the EU. While the U.S. has announced support for sanctions and weapon purchases for Ukraine, the timeline and financial burden-sharing remain points of contention for European officials.
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John Q. Hosedrinker