Following a meeting with military commanders, Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed the military to advance its offensive and capture Zaporizhzhia. Putin also reiterated the need to establish a “security zone” along Ukraine’s northern border in the Sumy and Kharkiv regions. These instructions mirror previous directives issued in November and May. These actions were taken not long after US President Donald Trump commented on Moscow’s potential interest in ending the war.
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DeepState reported that Russian forces executed three unarmed Ukrainian soldiers south of Huliaipole in the Zaporizhzhia region on December 20. The execution constitutes another documented instance of Russian forces killing Ukrainian prisoners of war, highlighting further violations of warfare customs. The incident occurred when Ukrainian servicemen from a mechanized brigade were ambushed while attempting to occupy previously abandoned positions. Analysts stress the need for continued documentation and international dissemination of these events, emphasizing the roles of Ukrainian human rights officials and civil society in gathering evidence.
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Zelenskiy says Ukrainian troops advance in Zaporizhzhia region, and it’s a development that, frankly, sparks a mix of feelings. On the one hand, there’s a sense of cautious optimism. Any territorial gain, however small, represents a step forward, a push against the tide of aggression, and a potential shift in the momentum of this brutal conflict. The very act of advancing, of pushing back, is a testament to Ukrainian resilience and determination, something the world has certainly noticed. It’s clear that the fighting is still incredibly intense, and the terrain in Zaporizhzhia is no picnic. Every meter gained must be earned, and that’s a brutal reality.… Continue reading
Ukrainian assault units achieved a successful counteroffensive on the Zaporizhzhia front, liberating Mali Shcherbaky, Shcherbaky, and part of Stepove. Colonel Valentyn Manko of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed the advance of 3.5 km and expansion of the front line by over 5 km, crediting the 24th Aidar Separate Assault Battalion and the 33rd Assault Regiment. The operation resulted in enemy losses and captured prisoners, with further liberation efforts expected. This offensive occurred as Russian forces were reportedly redeploying troops to the Zaporizhzhia region, as reported by Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood