Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned of Russia’s preparation for a large-scale war in Europe, potentially starting by 2029 or 2030, citing increased Russian military production and a desire to continue the conflict. Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for increased pressure on Russia, particularly through sanctions, especially targeting energy exports. These warnings align with those of other European leaders, prompting increased defense spending and efforts to bolster Europe’s defense capabilities, despite concerns about readiness and dependence on U.S. security guarantees.
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The skies above Pokrovsk, Ukraine, are heavily saturated with drones, making military movement risky. However, recent foggy weather has allowed Russian forces to infiltrate the city using motorcycles and vehicles, as evidenced by social media footage. Ukrainian military experts estimate a significant Russian troop presence in the city, with a pincer-like strategy underway to encircle Pokrovsk. The constant threat of drones forces both sides to alter logistics and tactics, with Ukrainian forces outnumbered and fighting for control amidst a dwindling civilian population.
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According to sources, Russian forces are urgently redeploying troops to the Pokrovsk sector in eastern Ukraine due to manpower shortages and depleted reserves. Military convoys are reportedly transferring personnel and armored vehicles from other fronts, such as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. New arrivals are being deployed into combat with little to no preparation, aligning with Ukraine’s assessment that Russia is prioritizing the capture of Pokrovsk, a crucial logistical hub, at any cost. The rapid troop transfers highlight the strain on Russia’s military capacity, with new arrivals experiencing low morale.
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Russian occupying forces are attempting to hold their positions in the northern districts of Kupiansk, Kharkiv region, while Ukrainian units are actively conducting counterattacks to dislodge the enemy. According to Viktor Tregubov, head of the communications department of the Joint Forces group, the fighting is ongoing, with urban combat occurring. Logistics for accessing Kupiansk is difficult for both sides, with drones and assault infantry playing a significant role in the battles. The proximity of the region to the Russian border complicates the situation due to the use of guided aerial bombs.
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A recent investigative report reveals the Russian Ministry of Defense has recruited convicted murderers and violent offenders for combat operations in Ukraine, offering early release in exchange for service. The report details the cases of Vagan Safaryan and Yuriy Hrytsenko, both convicted of multiple murders, who were deployed to the “Special Military Operation” zone after signing military contracts. These individuals, despite their violent histories and, in Hrytsenko’s case, a history of mental instability, were released from prison under this controversial program. The practice, which began with the full-scale invasion, has prompted concerns about public safety and a potential surge in violent crimes committed by returning ex-convicts.
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Ukraine is seeking to procure 27 Patriot air defense systems from the U.S. to protect against intensified Russian strikes on its energy infrastructure, and is also requesting temporary loans of the systems from its European allies. President Zelensky emphasized the continued need for aid, asserting that support is only “enough when the war ends,” as attacks in regions like Donetsk and Kherson resulted in casualties. Despite existing support from allies, it hasn’t stopped Russia, and Zelensky expressed a positive relationship with U.S. President Trump despite the latter’s previous and planned communications with Putin that have spurred controversy.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy anticipates that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will attempt to negotiate the purchase of Russian energy resources during his meeting with former US President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy believes Orbán will prioritize securing Hungary’s oil dependence on Russia, aiming to maintain its energy supply. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that Ukraine will actively prevent Russia from profiting from its energy sector, particularly in the context of recent reports indicating Orbán’s efforts to obtain exemptions from US sanctions on Russian energy companies. Zelenskyy also expects Orbán to advocate for a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
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Fighting in the Pokrovsk area of the Donetsk region is intense, with Ukrainian forces repelling numerous Russian attacks throughout the day. Ukrainian troops have engaged in building-by-building combat within Pokrovsk, working to detect and eliminate enemy forces attempting to advance into the city’s outskirts. Despite logistical challenges, Ukrainian forces are holding their positions and preventing the enemy from securing the outskirts of the city. While acknowledging the difficult situation, the Armed Forces are focused on blocking Russian logistics and disrupting reinforcements in an effort to push the invaders out.
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October saw a significant rise in Russian casualties, with approximately 25,000 confirmed killed on video and an estimated 2,000–3,000 more, marking the highest monthly toll since the invasion’s start. Intense fighting centered on the Pokrovsk front, a crucial logistical hub, where Russian forces launched numerous assaults with heavy equipment. Ukrainian forces are defending their positions despite Russian efforts to break through eastern defenses and secure a strategic victory. The “Timur Special Unit” is actively involved in defending key supply lines in the Pokrovsk region.
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On November 6, a drone attack caused explosions and a fire at the Kostroma State District Power Plant (GRES), one of Russia’s largest energy facilities, located in the Kostroma region. Despite the regional governor claiming that Russian air defenses repelled the attack, residents reported multiple explosions and visible flames. The plant, which supplies electricity to much of central Russia, has a significant installed capacity and a very tall smokestack. Also on November 6, Ukrainian forces conducted a successful strike on a Shahed drone storage and launch complex at the occupied Donetsk airport.
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John Q. Hosedrinker