by Tony Nastas (reporting from Ukraine)
Footage purporting to show the aftermath of a Ukrainian drone attack on the Borisoglebsk military airfield in Voronezh Oblast, Russia, on Oct. 3, 2024.
October 4, 2024
Ukrainian Drone Strike in Voronezh: Ukrainian drones targeted a Russian airfield in Voronezh Oblast, as confirmed by an SBU source, continuing Ukraine's push to disrupt Russian military assets.
Zelensky Urges Joint Missile Interception: During NATO chief Mark Rutte's visit to Kyiv, President Zelensky called for increased cooperation in intercepting Russian missile attacks, stressing the need for coordinated defense efforts.
Russian Attacks on Kursk: Kyiv's military claims that Russia is attacking settlements in Kursk Oblast where no Ukrainian troops are stationed, likely aiming to terrorize civilian populations.
Patriot System from Romania: Ukraine has received a Patriot air defense system from Romania, further strengthening its defense capabilities against Russian air and missile strikes.
October 3, 2024
Ukrainian Drone Strike in Voronezh: Ukrainian drones struck a Russian airfield in Voronezh Oblast, according to an SBU source, continuing Ukraine’s cross-border operations.
Zelensky Urges Joint Missile Interception: During NATO chief Mark Rutte’s visit to Kyiv, President Zelensky called for joint efforts to intercept Russian missiles, further deepening military cooperation.
Russian Attacks on Kursk Settlements: Kyiv’s military claims that Russia is attacking settlements in Kursk Oblast where no Ukrainian troops are present, likely as part of a strategy to disrupt civilian life.
Ukraine Receives Patriot System from Romania: Ukraine has received a Patriot air defense system from Romania, bolstering its ability to defend against Russian missile attacks.
October 2, 2024
Ukrainian Forces Withdraw from Vuhledar: Ukrainian forces have withdrawn from Vuhledar in Donetsk Oblast, as the battle for the city intensifies.
Boosting Missile Production: Ukraine plans to significantly boost its ballistic missile and long-range arms production in 2025, according to Defense Minister Umerov.
Children at Risk of Deportation: Ukraine’s ombudsman reported that 1.5 million Ukrainian children are at risk of being deported to Russia amidst the ongoing conflict.
Civilians Killed in Summer 2024: The UN reports that 589 civilians were killed in Ukraine during the summer of 2024 as a result of Russia's war.
NATO's Readiness Criticized: General Ben Hodges stated that NATO is "inadequately" prepared for a large-scale war with Russia, highlighting concerns about military readiness.
October 1, 2024
Russian Forces Enter Vuhledar: The situation in Vuhledar is described as "extremely difficult," as Russian forces reportedly enter the city, according to the regional governor.
Russian Advances in Zaporizhzhia: Russia is attempting to capture new positions in the Zaporizhzhia sector and preparing for small-scale assaults, according to Ukrainian military reports.
US Permission Not Needed for Strikes: The US State Department stated that Ukraine does not need American permission to strike back at Russia using homemade weapons, affirming Ukraine's right to defend itself.
Executions Near Pokrovsk: Russian forces have reportedly executed 16 Ukrainian prisoners of war near Pokrovsk, according to Ukrainian prosecutors.
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant at Risk: The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant is "on the verge of a blackout" following a Russian attack on a substation, raising concerns about nuclear safety.
September 30, 2024
Russia's Fall Conscription: Russia aims to draft 133,000 new conscripts in its upcoming fall conscription round, continuing efforts to reinforce its military.
Intense Attacks on Vovchansk: Russian forces have intensified attacks on the recently recaptured Vovchansk plant, using the "maximum range of weapons," according to Ukrainian military reports.
72nd Brigade Commander Transferred: The commander of Ukraine's 72nd Brigade has been transferred amid the ongoing battle for Vuhledar, signaling possible strategic changes.
Secret Aspects of Victory Plan: Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine's Presidential Office, stated that certain details of Ukraine's victory plan will remain secret for security reasons.
Kyiv Drone Attacks: Hours of explosions were heard in Kyiv as the capital successfully fended off waves of Russian attack drones, highlighting the continued air defense efforts.
September 28-29, 2024
Zelensky on Putin's Hesitance: President Zelensky stated that Russian President Putin is "afraid" to use nuclear weapons because he "loves his life," suggesting Putin’s personal caution in escalating the conflict.
Russian Attack on Zaporizhzhia: A Russian strike on Zaporizhzhia destroyed an apartment building and injured 16 people, adding to the toll on civilian infrastructure.
Ukraine Strikes Arsenal in Volgograd: Ukraine successfully targeted a Russian military arsenal in Volgograd Oblast, reportedly destroying missiles and drones stored there.
Russian Claims of Drone Interception: Russia claims to have intercepted 125 Ukrainian drones across seven regions, underscoring the ongoing drone warfare between the two nations.
A screenshot from a video showing the moment an ammunition depot in Tver Oblast, Russia. (Olexander Scherba / X)
September 27, 2024
Trump Meets Zelensky: Former US President Donald Trump met with President Zelensky, reiterating that his views on ending the war "as soon as possible" have not changed.
Crimean Bridge Defenses: Reports suggest that defenses on the Crimean Bridge are being strengthened with underwater drone traps, aimed at preventing further attacks.
US Intelligence on Long-Range Strikes: US intelligence has warned of the potential risks involved in permitting Ukraine to carry out long-range strikes, according to the New York Times.
Ombudsman Denies Child Exchange Deal: Ukraine’s Ombudsman denied reports of a Qatar-brokered deal between Ukraine and Russia for the exchange of children.
Lukashenko on Belarus Attack: Belarusian President Lukashenko warned that an attack on Belarus would lead to "World War III," amid rising calls for changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine.
September 26, 2024
US Announces $8 Billion Aid Package: The US has unveiled a nearly $8 billion military aid package for Ukraine, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense.
Germany Approves Additional Aid: Germany has approved an additional $447 million in military aid to Ukraine, further boosting the country's defense efforts.
72nd Brigade Denies Withdrawal in Vuhledar: Ukraine's 72nd Brigade released a video from Vuhledar, refuting claims that Ukrainian forces had withdrawn from the area.
Russian Strikes on Energy Facilities: Ukrainian Prime Minister confirmed that three energy infrastructure facilities were struck in overnight Russian attacks, highlighting continued targeting of critical infrastructure.
Missing Persons in Ukraine: Ukraine has recorded 55,000 of its citizens as missing, reflecting the significant human toll of the ongoing conflict.
September 25, 2024
Russia Preparing Nuclear Plant Attacks: President Zelensky told the UN that Russia is preparing to attack three nuclear plants in Ukraine, raising significant global concerns.
No Russian Troops Near Vuhledar: The governor of Donetsk Oblast stated that no Russian troops are present on the outskirts of Vuhledar, countering previous reports of their proximity.
Russian Soldiers Captured: Ukrainian military intelligence claims that around 20 Russian soldiers were captured during an operation to recapture the Vovchansk aggregate plant.
Ukraine's Defense Production Plan: Ukraine has developed an "extensive" three-year plan for the production of drones and ground robotics, according to the defense minister.
Russia's Drone Program in China: Reuters reports that Russia has established a secret attack drone program in China, further deepening military cooperation between the two nations.
September 24, 2024
Ukraine Regains Control in Vovchansk: Ukrainian military intelligence reports that Ukraine has regained control of the Vovchansk aggregate plant.
Russian Attack on Kharkiv: Russian forces attacked densely populated districts in Kharkiv, killing 3 people and injuring 34 others.
Russia's Defense Spending: Bloomberg reports that Russia plans to maintain record-high defense spending in 2025, signaling a continued military focus.
Chinese Parts in Russian Weapons: Ukraine claims that around 60% of foreign parts in Russian weapons come through China, raising concerns about supply chains.
Czech President on Occupation: The Czech president suggests that the "temporary" occupation of Ukrainian territory is the most likely outcome of Russia's full-scale invasion.
September 23, 2024
Ukraine's Drone Strikes in Russia: Ukraine's Defense Minister Umerov stated that Ukrainian drones have hit over 200 military targets in Russia within the past year.
Zelensky Urges Fast Action: During a speech in the US, President Zelensky emphasized that the next few months will be "decisive" and urged allies to act faster in their support for Ukraine.
Ukrainian Forces Breakthrough: The 95th Brigade of the Ukrainian military claims to have broken through another section of the Russian border, signaling further advances.
Netherlands Faces Patriot Delays: The Netherlands is facing difficulties completing the Patriot air defense system it pledged to Ukraine, according to the Dutch defense minister.
September 21-22, 2024
Ukraine Awaits Mirage 2000 Jets: Ukraine's Defense Minister confirmed that the country is awaiting delivery of Mirage 2000 jets and is in talks about acquiring Gripen and Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft.
Strikes on Russian Arms Depots: Ukraine confirmed that it successfully struck multiple Russian arms depots overnight, dealing another blow to Russia's supply lines.
Iranian Missile Deliveries Without Launchers: According to Reuters, Iran has delivered missiles to Russia but did not supply the launchers.
Russian Strikes on Ukrainian Nuclear Facilities: Ukraine's Foreign Minister warned that Russia is preparing strikes against Ukrainian nuclear facilities ahead of the winter season.
US May Send Medium-Range Missiles: Politico reports that the US is considering sending medium-range missiles for Ukraine's F-16s, potentially boosting Ukraine's air capabilities.
Zelensky on Kursk Incursion: President Zelensky commented on Ukraine's Kursk incursion, stating it is "too early to judge" its overall success.
A screenshot from a video purportedly showing the moment an ammunition depot in Russia's Tver Oblast explodes on Sept. 18, 2024. (Exilenova / Telegram)
September 20, 2024
Russian Commanders Alerted in Advance: Seized documents reveal that Russian commanders were warned months in advance about Ukraine's planned incursion into Kursk.
Ghanaian Fighters Trapped in Ukraine: Ghanaian men who were lured into fighting for Russia are appealing for help from inside occupied Ukrainian territories.
Ukrainian Pilots Complete Training: The first group of Ukrainian pilots has completed their training on French fighter jets, marking a milestone in Ukraine's military capabilities.
Russian Ammo Depot Destroyed: A Ukrainian strike on a Russian arms depot reportedly destroyed up to three months' worth of ammunition, according to Estonia's military intelligence chief.
Norway's Financial Support: Norway has allocated an additional $5.7 billion in aid to Ukraine, to be delivered through 2030, further solidifying long-term support.
September 19, 2024
Russian Attack on Sumy Retirement Home: A Russian attack on a retirement home in Sumy has killed at least one person and injured 14 others.
Russian Troop Redeployment: President Zelensky stated that Russia has redeployed 40,000 troops to Kursk Oblast as Ukraine’s incursion into the region continues.
EU Backs Strikes Inside Russia: The European Parliament has expressed support for Ukrainian strikes inside Russia and backed the delivery of Taurus missiles.
Russia Mining Belgorod Dams: Ukraine's military claims that Russia is mining dams in Belgorod Oblast, raising concerns of potential sabotage.
Germany Delivers Aid: Germany has delivered over 20 Leopard 1 tanks, Gepard anti-aircraft guns, and additional military aid to Ukraine.
September 18, 2024
Russian Weapons Depot Destroyed: A Ukrainian drone attack reportedly "wiped off the face of the earth" a Russian weapons depot, according to an SBU source.
Kursk Counteroffensive Halted: Kyiv claims that Russia's counteroffensive in Kursk has been halted, marking a key development in the ongoing conflict.
French Mirage Jets for Ukraine: Media reports suggest that Ukraine's French-supplied Mirage jets will be equipped to strike ground targets, enhancing Ukraine's air capabilities.
Ukraine Casualty Estimates Disputed: A Ukrainian lawmaker believes that The Wall Street Journal's estimates of Ukraine's casualties are "exaggerated."
Russian Attacks in Dnipropetrovsk: One person was killed and four others injured following Russian attacks in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
September 17, 2024
1 Million Casualties in War: The Wall Street Journal reports that around 1 million people have been killed or wounded during Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Ammunition Depots Destroyed: Ukraine's Navy confirmed the destruction of Russian ammunition depots near occupied Mariupol, dealing a blow to Russian supply lines.
No Ceasefire Plans: Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior Ukrainian official, reiterated that none of Ukraine's plans to end the war involve a ceasefire or ceding territory.
Execution of POW: Russia reportedly executed a Ukrainian prisoner of war with a sword, prompting Kyiv to appeal to the UN and Red Cross for action.
Kharkiv Attack on First Responders: A Russian attack in Kharkiv injured four first responders as Ukraine marked Rescuer's Day, highlighting the risks faced by emergency personnel.
September 16, 2024
Putin Increases Military Personnel: Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree to increase the number of military personnel and staff to 2.38 million.
Ukraine's Victory Plan: President Zelensky announced that Ukraine's Victory Plan is 90% complete, signaling significant progress in strategic planning.
Unmanned Systems Forces: Zelensky signed a law establishing Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces, marking a new phase in military modernization.
Danish F-16s to Ukraine: Ukraine is set to receive another batch of Danish F-16 fighter jets this year, according to the Danish defense minister.
Latvian Armored Vehicle Support: Latvia will supply Ukraine with British-made CVR(T) armored vehicles to bolster its military capabilities.
Starmer's Long-Range Missile Proposal: UK Labour leader Keir Starmer is seeking European support for Ukraine’s long-range missile strike capabilities, aiming to strengthen Ukraine's defense.
September 14-15, 2024
103 Ukrainian POWs Released: Ukraine announced the return of 103 prisoners of war from Russian captivity, including 23 Azov fighters.
Kharkiv Strike: A Russian strike on an apartment building in Kharkiv has killed at least one person and injured 42 others.
Underarmed Brigades: President Zelensky stated that Western aid is insufficient to equip "even 4 out of 14" brigades needed on the front lines.
Ceasefire Reports Denied: Zelensky's office denied reports suggesting that Ukraine's victory plan includes a ceasefire along existing battle lines.
Germany's Stance on Long-Range Strikes: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reiterated that Germany will not permit long-range strikes on Russian territory, even if other countries do.
ATACMS Consultations: National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed that ATACMS missile restrictions are under "intense consultations" between Ukraine and its allies.
Artillery Shell Production: Ukraine has launched production of 155-mm artillery shells, a crucial development for its defense efforts.
Please, pray for Ukraine, Ukrainian Christians and this aweful war to stop...