Russian ammunition use has ‘practically halved’ due to Kyiv strikes, Ukrainian commander-in-chief says. This is a significant claim, suggesting a dramatic shift in the dynamics of the conflict. It raises immediate questions about the feasibility and implications of such a reduction in Russian firepower. What precisely accounts for this alleged drop? Is it due to a decline in Russian production capacity, a strategic shift in tactics, or perhaps a combination of both?
Russian ammunition use has ‘practically halved’ due to Kyiv strikes, Ukrainian commander-in-chief says, and the assertion prompts further consideration of the methodology behind this assessment. How exactly is the daily ammunition expenditure being calculated?… Continue reading
Weapons and notes found on deceased North Korean soldiers fighting in Ukraine offer a fascinating, albeit grim, window into their mindset and their surprisingly rapid adaptation to modern warfare. The battlefield scraps – weapons, personal writings, even seemingly simple tactical notes – paint a picture of a fighting force learning at an astonishing pace, though often through devastating trial and error.
The sheer fact that these soldiers are leaving behind notes detailing basic infantry tactics, such as the importance of dispersing under artillery fire, reveals a level of tactical awareness not previously attributed to the North Korean military. It indicates a concerted effort to improve their performance, though their lessons are seemingly drawn from outdated doctrines.… Continue reading
In 2024 alone, Russia suffered over 150,000 military personnel killed, significantly exceeding losses from 2022 and 2023. Total Russian losses for 2024 surpassed 434,000, according to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. This represents a dramatic increase in casualties compared to previous years of the conflict. Syrskyi emphasized that Russian losses vastly outnumber those of Ukraine.
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A newly announced 100-year UK-Ukraine partnership agreement, including military cooperation in the Azov Sea, has drawn sharp criticism from Russia. Moscow views the Azov Sea as its internal water and considers the agreement a publicity stunt, vowing firm resistance to any joint UK-Ukraine activity there. The Kremlin specifically expressed concern over potential British military deployment in the region. This rejection underscores persistent tensions over the strategically vital Azov Sea and foreshadows potential obstacles to the strengthened UK-Ukraine cooperation.
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Amidst discussions of a potential Ukraine ceasefire, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated Germany’s openness to contributing troops to a subsequent European peacekeeping mission. This follows similar considerations by the U.K. and France, who are also exploring troop deployments. While Germany’s role would be significant given its NATO standing, the deployment is contingent upon future discussions and has elicited varied opinions among German politicians, including conditions such as Russian consent. Ukraine’s acceptance hinges on a clear NATO membership timeline.
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In December 2024 alone, Russian forces deployed chemical weapons in 434 separate battlefield incidents, according to a January 18th report from Ukraine’s General Staff. This brings the total recorded instances since February 2023 to 5,389, including the use of prohibited munitions like K-51 and RG-VO. These actions constitute a systemic violation of warfare rules, resulting in over 2,000 Ukrainian soldier hospitalizations and three deaths from chemical poisoning. Ukraine responded to these attacks by assassinating the head of Russia’s chemical defense troops, Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov.
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The Finnish Defence Forces are modernizing sniper training, incorporating lessons from the Ukraine conflict. This includes constructing a new 600-meter rifle range to address a current lack of long-range training facilities, and integrating “dynamic shooting” exercises involving moving targets. These changes aim to improve sniper effectiveness and are driven by increased demand for range use, both by the FDF and civilian users. The initiative also reflects a broader commitment to environmental sustainability in range development and operation.
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A second Ukrainian drone strike on January 14th further damaged the oil depot at the Kristal plant in Engels, Russia, causing a four-day fire. The attack, confirmed by Ukraine’s General Staff, resulted in the deaths of two emergency responders and significant damage to fuel storage, reducing Russian military logistical capabilities. Governor Busargin reported the fire is largely contained, despite ongoing emergency response efforts and citizen complaints about smoke. The strike reportedly destroyed three and damaged six fuel tanks, impacting nearly 800,000 tons of storage capacity.
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Building on prior £12.8bn in aid and a yearly £3bn military commitment, the UK announced further support for Ukraine amidst a renewed Russian offensive. Russia’s recent advances in eastern Ukraine, particularly around Pokrovsk, Toretsk, and Chasiv Yar, mark their fastest territorial gains since the invasion began. This intensified conflict comes as the war enters its third year, with devastating human costs. The UK’s continued support includes supplying Storm Shadow missiles, and a new UK-Ukraine partnership agreement will soon be presented to Parliament.
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During Sir Keir Starmer’s Kyiv visit, a drone attack near the presidential palace underscored the ongoing threat faced by Ukraine. Discussions between Starmer and President Zelenskyy focused on continued UK support, including a new air defense system and increased troop training. While Starmer pledged long-term commitment and open consideration of future troop deployments, Zelenskyy highlighted challenges in securing NATO membership, particularly given potential shifts in US policy under a Trump administration. The visit served as a strong show of support amid ongoing conflict and uncertainty surrounding future peace negotiations.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker