Exclusives
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Russia’s war devastates Black Sea ecosystems and communities. A year after the Kakhovka dam attack, activists are racing against the clock to prevent an eco-collapse fueled by drifting mines and war-driven pollution. |
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The real problem with Zelenskyy’s victory plan. Ukraine’s ambitious victory plan runs into the lack of political will among its allies, some of whom believe Russia could still be pulled back to Europe |
Military
Frontline report: Ukrainian forces repel Russian frontal attacks in Vuhledar but face encirclement risk. Russian forces intensify their assault on Vuhledar, threatening Ukrainian supply routes. While Ukrainian troops repelled frontal attacks, they may withdraw to Novoukrainka if Russian pressure continues. The upcoming rainy season could slow further Russian advances.
“Less than 3 minutes”: Russian drone enters Romania’s NATO airspace again after attacking Ukraine. Search is underway.
Forbes: Russian forces may capture Vuhledar amid heavy personnel, vehicle losses. The potential capture of Vuhledar by Russian forces highlights the enormous cost of their offensive, with losses amounting to nearly 6% of their total vehicle casualties in Ukraine.
Intelligence and technology
UK intel: Russia to continue forcing conscripts into post-service contracts to fight in Ukraine amid high attrition. Russia’s conscription cycle begins on 1 October, with the use of conscripts in war zones remaining a sensitive issue for the Kremlin.
ISW: FSB forces now fighting in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. The deployment of FSB special forces in Kursk Oblast revealed coordination issues within Russia’s security apparatus, a recent analysis suggests.
Russian troops use UAVs for nighttime mining of Kharkiv front lines. Despite the intensified attacks, Ukrainian forces continue to resist the Russian offensive, while enemy units reinforce positions and strengthen defenses in other key areas.
Ukraine downs Russia’s Starlink-equipped Shahed-136 suicide drone. Starlink on Shahed UAVs suggests Russia’s potentially enhanced ability to control long-range attack drones for reconnaissance, escalating security risks for Ukraine.
International
Biden to lead a Ramstein-format meeting on 12 October in Germany. President Joe Biden will lead a crucial meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Germany soon, following talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in DC.
UK Foreign Minister awaits approval to strike deeper into Russian territory before winter. As Ukraine approaches a difficult winter, the UK Foreign Secretary stresses the importance of Ukraine’s ability to use long-range weapons against targets in Russia.
Bloomberg: US, EU finalize $ 50 billion aid for Ukraine amid disputes over frozen Russian assets. The final proposal from the G7 nations is expected to come at a ministerial meeting on 25 October.
Humanitarian and social impact
Lithuanian gas transportation company to transfer cars and generators to Ukraine. Lithuania continues its support for Ukraine with Amber Grid’s approval of a $70,000 humanitarian aid package.
Russia strikes Ukrainian National Police HQ in Kryvyi Rih. Four police officers are missing and might be trapped under the rubble.
UN lacks funds to assist Ukrainians through winter. UNHCR reports it has less than half the necessary funds to aid Ukrainians displaced by the ongoing war, as the country faces a harsh winter with damaged power infrastructure.
Russian attack on Izmail in Odesa Oblast kills three people, injures 14. Ukrainian authorities report significant damage to residential buildings and infrastructure following a deadly Russian UAV strike on Izmail.
Political and legal developments
Trump emphasizes relationships with Putin and Zelenskyy during New York meeting with Ukrainian president. Trump emphasized his relationship with Putin, while Zelenskyy stressed the need to pressure Russia. Both agree on ending the war, but differ on how to do it.
Donald Trump said he would meet with Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Republican presidential candidate is set to meet Ukrainian President at Trump Tower, following contradictory statements about whether the talks would occur.
Zelenskyy, Biden meet to discuss Ukraine’s victory plan and strategy to counter Russian aggression. The presidents discussed Zelenskyy’s “Victory Plan” and long-term objectives, including NATO membership and further strengthening Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
Russian losses
Read the daily review for Fri Sep 27 2024 here
