Russo-Ukrainian war, day 949: Ukrainian drones hit Russian ammo depot 300 km from border

Exclusive

Inside Sudzha, where Russia's war comes home to bite. In Kursk Oblast, some stranded civilians still cling to Kremlin propaganda, while others begin to question everything they've been told about the war.

Military

Russian soldiers shelled by own forces while surrendering in Donetsk. Amid heavy losses from Ukrainian FPV drones and minefields, Russian troops attempting to surrender were struck by their own artillery, leading to multiple deaths near Kostiantynivka. HUR: Russian soldiers abandoned to die by their commanders in Vovchansk battle. Ukrainian forces reclaimed control of the Vovchansk Aggregate Plant in a critical special operation, with reports highlighting the ruthless treatment of Russian soldiers by their own commanders, who forced them into futile resistance. Ukrainian drones strike Volgograd ammunition depot 300 km from border. A fleet of 120 Ukrainian drones struck a Russian ammunition warehouse in Volgograd Oblast. Drones attack Russia's Rostov Oblast, Voronezh Oblast and Yeysk. An ammunition depot in Kotluban, Rostov Oblast, was allegedly struck in a series of drone attacks on Russia. As of 29 SEP 2024, the approximate losses of weapons and military equipment of the Russian Armed Forces from the beginning of the invasion to the present day:

• Personnel: 651810 (+1170)
• Tanks: 8869 (+9)
• APV: 17476 (+38)
• Artillery systems: 18795 (+62)
• MLRS: 1204 (+1)
• Anti-aircraft systems: 962
• Aircraft: 369
• Helicopters: 328
• UAV: 16186 (+93)
• Cruise missiles : 2610
• Warships/boats: 28
• Submarines: 1
• Vehicles and fuel tanks: 25495 (+84)

Intelligence and technology

British Intelligence: Ukraine's strikes inflict heavy losses on Russian munitions supplies. Recent drone strikes by Ukrainian forces on ammunition depots in Tikhoretsk and Toropets are expected to cause at least short-term disruptions to the supply of critical munitions for the Russian army, as intelligence sources indicate significant losses in their artillery and small-arms supplies. Denmark and Ukraine sign $ 629 mn arms procurement agreement. A new Danish-Ukrainian agreement will see $435 million in frozen Russian assets used to fund weapons production in Ukraine.

International

Norway considers border fence with Russia to ehance security amid fears of refugee influx. The Norwegian government is exploring the possibility of building a fence along its 200-kilometer border with Russia to strengthen national security. Zelenskyy claims Trump promised support for Ukraine in private meeting. Following a meeting at Trump Tower, President Zelenskyy claims to have received "direct information" about potential support from Donald Trump if elected. European nations snub Swiss weapons over Ukraine export restrictions. Switzerland's neutrality-based restrictions on re-exporting arms to Ukraine have prompted European countries, led by Germany, to avoid Swiss-made weapons, prompting Swiss debates on policy changes and defense industry future. "World is not black and white": Austrian foreign minister calls for continued dialogue with Russia . Alexander Schallenberg also acknowledged Russia's current unwillingness to engage in meaningful talks about Ukraine.

Humanitarian and social impact

Commemorating Babyn Yar: 83 years since the Nazi massacre of 33,000. The Babyn Yar massacres, which began with the execution of 752 psychiatric patients, continued for two years, ultimately claiming over 100,000 lives. Russia strikes Zaporizhzhia with over 10 attacks overnight, injuring 13 people. Ukrainian air defense intercepted 15 out of 22 Shahed drones in an overnight attack, while three districts in Zaporizhzhia suffered significant damage

Political and legal developments

Zelenskyy on Putin's nuclear threats: "No one knows what's in his head". Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced updates to Russia's nuclear doctrine, detailing new conditions for using nuclear weapons. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded, saying no one can predict Putin's actions, but he believes the Russian leader fears the consequences of such escalation. Zelenskyy: Ukraine would target only military sites in Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated a more positive outlook on potential US authorization for long-range strikes on Russian territory, following talks with American officials. Zelenskyy: Only through strength can Russia be forced to respect rules. Ukrainian president claimed his strategy of "peace through strength" received full endorsement from US officials. Read our earlier daily review here.