On the Dobropillia axis, Russian forces have suffered significant losses since the counteroffensive began, totaling approximately 3,520 personnel, including 1,988 killed. General Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that Ukrainian forces are improving strike effectiveness and disrupting Russian logistics in the area. Additionally, the situation near Yampil has been stabilized, with Ukrainian forces conducting operations to eliminate remaining enemy groups. Furthermore, 991 units of Russian weapons and military equipment have been destroyed or damaged in this area.
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Russian government plans to raise value-added tax (VAT) to 22% in 2026, alongside other tax reforms, are expected to accelerate inflation. Deputy Governor of the Russian Central Bank, Aleksei Zabotkin, anticipates the VAT increase will add 0.6-0.7 percentage points to the consumer price index, as it is Russia’s main turnover tax. The government also plans to lower the threshold for the simplified taxation system (STS) and abolish tax breaks for IT companies. These measures, coupled with existing tax hikes and declining oil and gas revenues, are intended to fund the war against Ukraine and address a soaring budget deficit.
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Multiple casualties in Ukraine after Russian strike hits passenger train – it’s just absolutely heartbreaking. The gut reaction is a mix of anger and profound sadness, isn’t it? Knowing innocent people, likely families, were simply trying to get somewhere, maybe even to safety, and then this happens. It’s hard to wrap your head around the intentionality, the complete disregard for human life. The imagery of Kramatorsk train station, where children waiting for evacuation were killed, instantly comes to mind – a stark reminder of the cruelty and the patterns that seem to be repeating. This is not just an isolated incident; it’s part of a devastating trend.… Continue reading
Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SZR) alleges that China has provided Russia with satellite reconnaissance data used to guide missile strikes against targets in Ukraine, including those owned by foreign investors. According to the SZR, this high-level interaction between Russia and China has allowed for the identification and refinement of strategic targets. While specific targets were not detailed, a US-owned electronics factory operated by Flex was destroyed in August, and the SZR noted China’s role in supplying specialized chemicals, gunpowder, and industrial machinery for Russia’s defense sector. The report highlights a significant dependence on Chinese resources, as approximately 80% of critical drone electronics used by Russia originate from China.
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Ukraine’s foreign intelligence service (SZRU) has evidence suggesting China is providing satellite data to Russia, which is being used to target missile strikes on Ukrainian facilities, including those used by foreign companies. SZRU employee Oleh Alexandrov stated there is evidence of high-level cooperation between the two countries in conducting satellite reconnaissance to identify strategic targets. Although no specific details were released, the Ukrainian government alleges that these attacks are a direct result of China’s support for Russia, despite China claiming neutrality in the ongoing war. This information further highlights the complex relationship between China and Russia.
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Denmark’s military intelligence has accused Russian warships of engaging in aggressive actions within the Danish straits connecting the Baltic and North Seas. These actions reportedly included aiming weapons at Danish vessels and helicopters, conducting dangerous maneuvers, and jamming navigation systems. Director Thomas Ahrenkiel presented evidence of these provocations, including the extended presence of a Russian warship in Danish waters, which is viewed as a signal from Moscow. The intelligence also registered Russian ships using sonar and electronic warfare equipment, which is believed to have caused GPS disruptions. The White House has stated it takes the reports of Russian naval provocations seriously and is in contact with NATO allies.
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Ukraine dismantles Russian assault on Lyman before it even begins, new artillery brigade turns river crossings into kill zones.
It seems like a consistent theme throughout this conflict – Russia consistently struggles with river crossings. It’s almost as if Ukrainian forces, armed with ample ammunition, are able to effectively neutralize any Russian attempts the moment they reach the water. This isn’t a new development; it’s almost predictable at this point. The Russians are apparently facing a reality check across the board, and it’s a sight to behold. Slava Ukraine, indeed.
This whole scenario just highlights the inherent difficulty of wet gap crossings.… Continue reading
During his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned global leaders about the perilous implications of artificial intelligence, asserting that the world is currently experiencing the most destructive arms race in history. He emphasized the threat posed by the rapid advancement of weapons technology, including AI-powered autonomous systems, and the inadequacy of current global safeguards. Zelenskyy advocated for the establishment of international regulations governing the use of AI, highlighting the potential for AI-driven drones to autonomously target infrastructure and individuals. He further underscored the ease with which dangerous weapons can be accessed and deployed, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
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Following the completion of upgrades, the Czech Army plans to donate 30 modernized T-72M4CZ tanks and recovery vehicles to Ukraine. The upgrades, which include improved engines, fire control systems, and enhanced armor, will bolster Ukraine’s armored forces. This move will strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities, particularly against Russian T-72B3s and T-80s. The donation also allows the Czech Republic to support Ukraine while transitioning to a Leopard-based armored corps.
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Ukrainian Special Operations Forces successfully struck the Russian small missile ship “Grad” in Lake Onega, Republic of Karelia on October 4th. The strike targeted the right section of the ship’s engine compartment. The “Grad,” commissioned in December 2022, was en route from the Baltic Sea to the Caspian Sea and is equipped with the Kalibr-NK missile system. This operation followed other strikes on Russian facilities reported by the General Staff of Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood