Ukraine’s military has launched multiple successful operations against invading Russian troops, showcasing both technological superiority and battlefield grit. From targeted airstrikes to fierce ground defence, Ukrainian forces continue to challenge the Russian dictator’s war machine in key areas of the front.
Ukrainian MiG 29 fighter jets carried out a precise airstrike that eliminated an entire Russian assault group hiding within a destroyed building. This mission was executed using US supplied GBU 62 JDAM-ER bombs, known for their effectiveness against fortified positions. The cost of one such bomb is approximately 17,000 US dollars, which equals about £13,300. These advanced weapons have significantly enhanced Ukraine’s ability to take out entrenched Russian forces with surgical accuracy.
Footage and intercepted audio from the frontlines paint a grim picture of morale within Russian ranks. Russian soldiers can be heard complaining that even wounded comrades were denied water. “No one gives even a sip,” one says, reflecting the disarray and lack of solidarity among Russian troops. Meanwhile, Ukrainian brigades remain united and focused, despite facing constant bombardment.
On the ground, the 92nd Assault Brigade of Ukraine repelled a heavy Russian attack near the village of Zhuravlivka, located in Russia’s Belgorod region. The Russian assault included armoured vehicles and makeshift “biker infantry” — soldiers riding motorcycles and all terrain vehicles. This unconventional tactic has become increasingly common as Russia struggles with a shortage of traditional armoured equipment. Despite the use of mobility focused tactics, the Russian forces suffered severe losses and were forced to retreat, thanks to the fierce resistance of Ukrainian troops.
This engagement further reveals two crucial realities. First, Ukraine’s capacity to strike and defend beyond its borders is increasing. Second, Russia’s reliance on makeshift combat methods highlights a growing crisis in logistics and equipment availability. These ad hoc tactics may allow for quick movement, but they also expose troops to high risk when facing organised and well equipped Ukrainian units.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has unveiled a new artificial intelligence tool, Avengers, capable of detecting enemy targets in just 2.2 seconds. This AI technology is integrated into the Delta combat system and can automatically identify up to 70 percent of enemy equipment from video feeds. This technological leap significantly improves Ukraine’s real time battlefield intelligence and target acquisition capabilities.
Elsewhere, the K2 Battalion of Ukraine’s 54th Brigade continues to dismantle Russian supply infrastructure in Donetsk. By targeting storage facilities and ammunition depots, Ukrainian forces are choking off critical supply lines, hampering the Russian ability to resupply their frontline units. These strikes are turning once secure Russian positions into smoky ruins, further eroding their operational capacity.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron has raised concerns that US President Donald Trump plans to contact Russia before coordinating with European allies regarding the war in Ukraine. Trump’s reluctance to apply pressure on the Russian dictator has drawn criticism from European leaders who continue to push for tighter sanctions. Trump’s posture stands in stark contrast to Europe’s real time support of Kyiv.
Russian state propagandist Vladimir Solovyov has called for missile strikes against European decision making centres in response to the European Union’s 17th round of sanctions. His threats, broadcast to a domestic audience, suggest targeting places like the Élysée Palace in Paris and the Reich Chancellery in Berlin, revealing a desperate and unhinged response to mounting international pressure.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has accused Ukraine of running a coordinated smear campaign against Hungary, demanding NATO take action. Orbán claims it is unprecedented for a prospective NATO member to target a current one and blames Ukrainian intelligence for the perceived affront. These comments come amid strained relations as Hungary continues to obstruct key aid packages intended for Kyiv.
In a sombre development, Ukraine has recovered the remains of 99 of its soldiers from eight different frontline regions. These include some of the most contested areas such as Bakhmut, Vuhledar, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia. The bodies, including those previously stored in Russian held morgues, are being transported for identification and proper military honours. This marks the ninth such repatriation since October, with over 500 bodies returned in total. In contrast, Russia has not reported its casualty numbers since 2022, maintaining a shroud of secrecy despite independent reports suggesting at least 100,000 Russian soldiers have died.
In the skies over Latin America, China has offered to sell up to 24 J-10CE fighter jets to Colombia for approximately 40 million US dollars each — about £31.3 million. This proposal includes air to air missiles and rapid delivery options. If accepted, it would mark a significant geopolitical shift for Colombia, traditionally aligned with the United States. Sweden has also entered the fray with an offer of JAS-39 Gripen fighters, with a letter of intent already signed.
