On June 17th, a significant Russian offensive involving up to 100 soldiers and 23 armored vehicles targeted Yablunivka and Oleksandro-Kalynove in Donetsk Oblast. Ukrainian forces successfully repelled this multi-wave assault, destroying 18 armored vehicles and all accompanying motorcycles. The defense resulted in the elimination of the attacking personnel. This follows reported Russian attempts to encircle Kostiantynivka from multiple directions on June 16th.
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Ukrainian forces are making incremental gains, pushing back Russian troops in Sumy Oblast, according to President Zelensky’s June 12th address. This follows weeks of intensified Russian attacks and the establishment of a claimed “security buffer zone” by Russia along the border. Despite Russia’s reported seizure of territory and troop buildup, Zelensky refutes claims of significant Russian gains, highlighting the Ukrainian military’s defense against the renewed offensive. Sumy Oblast, bordering Russia, has experienced ongoing attacks since the start of the full-scale invasion. Recent Russian strikes on Sumy city resulted in civilian casualties.
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Russia claims its forces have entered the Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time, a strategic advance that would significantly challenge Ukrainian defenses. This alleged incursion follows recent Russian gains in Sumy and near Lyman, putting further pressure on Ukrainian forces already stretched thin amidst stalled peace talks. Ukraine denies the Russian advance, while the extent of any potential incursion remains unverified. The conflicting claims highlight the ongoing intensity of the conflict and the continued pressure on Kyiv.
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President Zelensky warned of an imminent Russian offensive in Ukraine’s north, citing 50,000 troops amassed near Kursk, aiming to recapture lost territory and push into the Sumy region. Despite Russia’s claims of expelling Ukrainian forces from Kursk, Zelensky asserted continued Ukrainian presence and recent Russian advances in the Sumy region. Simultaneously, Russia is attempting to breach the Dnipropetrovsk region, while Ukraine launched a major drone strike targeting Russian military infrastructure near Moscow. Amidst these escalating events, peace negotiations remain ongoing, although Russia’s demands for Ukrainian concessions, including Nato restrictions and territorial surrender, present significant obstacles.
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Vladyslav Selezniov, a Ukrainian Armed Forces colonel, predicts a renewed Russian offensive in southern Ukraine, focusing on crossing the Dnipro River near Kherson. This offensive, involving over 120,000 Russian troops and amphibious assets, aims to establish bridgeheads on the right bank, mirroring previous Ukrainian successes. Selezniov anticipates continued reconnaissance efforts and costly assaults, highlighting the Ukrainian military’s ability to effectively counter these attacks. Despite the low probability of Russian success, these actions will pose significant challenges to Ukrainian defenses in the Kherson region.
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Ukrainian forces repelled a recent Russian offensive near Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast, maintaining full control of the city and its environs. Russian attempts to cross the Oskil River have been met with heavy losses, with only a small fraction of attacking units successfully reaching the opposite bank. This success follows earlier repelling of Russian attempts to break into Kupiansk. The city’s strategic importance as a key transportation hub underscores the significance of this Ukrainian victory.
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Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a major Russian offensive in the Kursk region, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy. The 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade destroyed ten units of armored vehicles, including three blown up by mines, using FPV drones, Stugna anti-tank systems, and coordinated efforts with adjacent units. The Russian offensive, which involved multiple waves of attacks, resulted in the deaths of hundreds of soldiers and significant equipment losses, highlighting the significant challenges the Russian military faces in this key strategic area.
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The recent news of the Ukrainian Army annihilating more than 90% of the Russian offensive forces in the Kharkiv Oblast is indeed a significant feat. Colonel Viktor Solymchuk’s declaration of Russia’s losses in this area is staggering. With 2939 killed, 6509 wounded, and 45 Russians surrendering, it is evident that the Ukrainian Army has dealt a severe blow to the invading forces. The destruction of the 138th motorized rifle brigade in Vovchansk and the obliteration of the 83rd and 157th tank regiments showcase the effectiveness of the Ukrainian defense.
The continuous losses suffered by Russia’s 83rd Air Assault Brigade and the need for the Russian military command to withdraw units and deploy reserves reflect the dire situation the invaders find themselves in.… Continue reading
Russia is preparing 100,000 soldiers for a possible summer offensive, Ukraine says. The increase in Russian recruitment was precisely for a near summer offensive, and the expectation is a more aggressive approach this time around. It is a worrisome situation as Ukraine must now focus on minimizing losses with a strong defensive posture until the allies can provide the necessary support to resist more effectively.
These are indeed very challenging times for Ukraine, and the need for immediate military aid approval from congress is paramount. The prospect of yet another 100,000 soldiers being mobilized in a conflict that seems unprovoked is deeply concerning.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker