On August 21, Ukraine’s military intelligence reported an attack on a Russian patrol boat near Zaliznyi Port in Kherson Oblast, resulting in the death of five crew members. The attack, which occurred on August 20, utilized a missile guided by a laser designator from a drone, according to HUR. While Ukrainian military officials have previously stated the use of laser technologies, these reports could not be independently verified. Zaliznyi Port, occupied by Russia in 2022, is located south of Kherson, and earlier this month, Ukrainian special forces destroyed Russian assets on the Tendra Spit, off the coast of the occupied area.
Read More
Ukraine destroys Russian radar hub in Black Sea raid, opening new front in coastal war, and it seems this is the latest chapter in a conflict that continues to surprise. The destruction of a strategically important radar hub is more than just a tactical victory; it’s a move that likely alters the landscape of the war, particularly along the Black Sea coastline. We’re talking about a potential shift in the dynamics of the conflict, potentially opening a new front where Ukraine can exert pressure. This is a clear indication that the war is far from over and that Ukraine is actively searching for new avenues to target Russian assets.… Continue reading
A French Mirage 2000 fighter jet executed a demonstration flight over the Black Sea, tracing the Ukrainian trident emblem in its flight path. This symbolic gesture, visible on flight tracking websites like Flightradar24, showcased international support for Ukraine. The Ukrainian Air Force highlighted the action’s significance, emphasizing its value beyond mere symbolism. The display publicly demonstrates the strategic partnership and solidarity between Ukraine and France.
Read More
Following the Soviet Union’s collapse, Russia’s unchecked power in the Black Sea grew significantly. Inheritance of the Black Sea fleet and the Sevastopol base, coupled with Crimea’s annexation, solidified Russia’s regional dominance. This control extends to Ukrainian shipping routes. Furthermore, modernization efforts have established substantial anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) capabilities, challenging NATO’s influence in the region.
Read More
Over a 24-hour period, Ukrainian forces using naval drones successfully destroyed two Russian aircraft in Crimea and over the Black Sea. These strikes, utilizing Magura drones equipped with AIM-9 missiles, also targeted and destroyed Russian military depots in occupied Crimea. One strike marked the world’s first destruction of a fighter jet by a naval drone. President Zelensky praised the actions, highlighting the expanding long-range capabilities of the Ukrainian armed forces.
Read More
A key agreement reached involves a mutual commitment by Ukraine and Russia to refrain from targeting each other’s energy infrastructure. This understanding extends to ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea for civilian vessels, prohibiting strikes on port infrastructure. While details remain to be clarified, the agreement represents an initial step toward de-escalation. Further, the US and Ukraine have also separately agreed to work toward safe Black Sea navigation and prisoner exchanges.
Read More
Romania’s interim president, Ilie Bolojan, participated in a London summit on European defense, hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Key agreements included continued military and financial support for Ukraine until a ceasefire, increased European defense budgets, and the acknowledgment that security guarantees for Ukraine require US support. These guarantees aim to secure the entire eastern flank, from the Baltic to the Black Sea, and necessitate a collaborative transatlantic plan. Further consultations are planned for the coming week to finalize decisions.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood