Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

The Russian army used the ceasefire in Oleshky for regrouping in 2026.

Force MovementMilitary OperationsOperational

The Russian army regrouped troops, equipment, and supplies in Oleshky during a ceasefire in 2026. Ukrainian sources accused Russia of exploiting the ceasefire for military advantage, while reports confirmed the resumption of hostilities shortly after. The ceasefire facilitated logistical improvements for Russian forces, highlighting the operational significance of such pauses in conflict.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Nov 03 2026
Starshield in Ukraine is Restricted by the White House and Changes the Price of European Aid in 2026

Starshield in Ukraine is Restricted by the White House and Changes the Price of European Aid in 2026

Command & ControlPolitical-MilitaryOperational

The U.S. government ordered a slowdown in support for the Starshield system for Ukrainian forces on October 15, 2026, impacting their operational capabilities. This directive has raised concerns among U.S. senators, prompting calls for an investigation into the disruptions. The situation underscores the political control exerted over military support and its implications for Ukraine's sovereignty and operational planning.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Oct 16 2026
Starlink Restrictions in Ukraine in 2026 Turn the Russian Drone War into a Struggle for Dependency

Starlink Restrictions in Ukraine in 2026 Turn the Russian Drone War into a Struggle for Dependency

Command & ControlMilitary OperationsOperational

On October 14, 2026, restrictions on Starlink service disrupted Ukrainian military operations, particularly affecting drone missions. The Ukrainian Armed Forces faced significant challenges in command and control due to the sudden loss of communication capabilities. This incident highlights Ukraine's strategic dependency on commercial satellite services and the need for alternative communication solutions. Meanwhile, Russia is enhancing its electronic warfare capabilities to exploit these vulnerabilities.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Oct 14 2026
Geraniums and Mobilization in Russia After the 2026 Elections — War Approaches NATO's Borders

Geraniums and Mobilization in Russia After the 2026 Elections — War Approaches NATO's Borders

Political-MilitaryForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

Russia is denying plans for mobilization while facing high casualty rates that exceed recruitment, particularly after the parliamentary elections in September 2026. The Kremlin aims to maintain a sense of control as the front lines demand more personnel. Poland has increased its air patrols in response to potential drone threats from Russia, indicating heightened military readiness in the region.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Sep 19 2026

Russian "Shaheds" Use Belarusian LTE Networks — A New Depth of Military Integration in 2026

Command & ControlMilitary OperationsWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russian drones are utilizing Belarusian LTE networks for command and control during attacks on Ukraine, as reported by Ukrainian officials on September 14, 2026. This development allows for more complex operations and enhances the effectiveness of the Shahed drones. The attacks have targeted the Rivne, Volyn, and Lviv regions, indicating a strategic use of Belarusian infrastructure to support Russian military actions.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Sep 16 2026
Exit through Upper Lars — 113 thousand in a week as a harbinger of a new mobilization

Exit through Upper Lars — 113 thousand in a week as a harbinger of a new mobilization

Political-MilitaryForce MovementStrategic

Over 113,000 Russian citizens crossed into Georgia via Upper Lars in August 2023, signaling potential preparations for mobilization. The Russian government is reportedly gathering personal data on reservists and has been denying any plans for mass mobilization. However, the failure of voluntary recruitment efforts has led to speculation about a future conscription announcement, particularly after the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Aug 29 2026
300,000 New Soldiers for Donbas Show the Limits of the Russian Mobilization Model in 2026

300,000 New Soldiers for Donbas Show the Limits of the Russian Mobilization Model in 2026

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryOperational

Russia is preparing to mobilize 300,000 new soldiers for the Donbas region by the end of 2026 in response to significant personnel losses. This move aims to maintain military pressure on the front lines while avoiding public panic associated with formal mobilization. The Kremlin's strategy reflects a need for additional infantry to sustain operations, particularly in light of ongoing losses and the challenges of maintaining troop morale and effectiveness.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon Aug 24 2026

55 Thousand Soldiers a Month for Donbas Show the Limits of the Russian War 2026

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryOperational

The Russian Army requires 55,000-60,000 soldiers per month to sustain its offensive operations in Donbas, as reported by an anonymous general. This figure reflects the need to compensate for ongoing losses while aiming for territorial gains by the end of 2026. The Kremlin's mobilization strategy has evolved, focusing on financial incentives rather than public mobilization, indicating a significant strain on military resources and personnel quality.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Jul 10 2026

The Fractured Ceasefire: Rhetoric and Reality on NATO's Eastern Flank in May 2026

Military OperationsForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

On 9 May 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the war in Ukraine was nearing its end, yet Ukrainian forces reported over 150 clashes the following day. Concurrently, two Ukrainian drones entered Latvia on 7 May, damaging infrastructure. NATO responded by launching Exercise STEADFAST DETERRENCE 2026, demonstrating military readiness amid escalating tensions.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon May 11 2026
The Ceasefire Paradox: How Moscow's Victory Day Truce Masked an Escalating Cross-Border Drone War

The Ceasefire Paradox: How Moscow's Victory Day Truce Masked an Escalating Cross-Border Drone War

Military OperationsForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russian forces launched 78 airstrikes and 9,317 kamikaze drones against Ukrainian positions on May 7, 2026. Ukrainian drones struck the Mosfilm Tower in Moscow, while two drones crashed in Latvia, damaging an oil facility. Total Russian military losses reached approximately 1,342,030 personnel. Three ceasefire proposals were made within a week, but combat operations continued unabated.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon May 11 2026
The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryStrategic AssessmentHybrid

In May 2026, the U.S. announced the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany, marking a significant reduction in its military presence in Europe. This decision, framed as a response to political remarks by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has raised concerns among NATO planners about the implications for European security. Concurrently, European nations are increasing their defense spending and capabilities, while Ukraine continues to innovate in its military operations against Russia.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat May 02 2026
The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryOperational

In May 2026, the U.S. announced the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany, marking a significant reduction in its military presence in Europe. This decision, framed as a response to political remarks by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has raised concerns among NATO planners. Concurrently, European nations are increasing their defense spending, with Poland and Romania maintaining U.S. military support against Russian aggression. The evolving security landscape is further complicated by Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian military assets.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat May 02 2026
Russia's Grand Designs Meet Ukrainian Resilience: The Strategic Deadlock of Spring 2026

Russia's Grand Designs Meet Ukrainian Resilience: The Strategic Deadlock of Spring 2026

Military OperationsForce MovementInformation OperationsHybrid

Russian forces are attempting to seize additional territory in Ukraine, including the remainder of Donbas and buffer zones in various oblasts, but are facing significant casualties and operational challenges. Ukrainian forces have regained drone superiority and are conducting effective counterattacks, leading to Russian redeployments. The conflict remains locked in a strategic deadlock as neither side can achieve decisive military results.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovThu Apr 09 2026

Russia's Strategic Shift: VDV Redeployment and the Evolution of Military Doctrine in Eastern Europe

Force MovementMilitary OperationsLogisticsHybrid

Russian Airborne Forces (VDV) are redeploying elite units to Donetsk Oblast as of April 2026, reflecting a shift in military strategy due to significant personnel losses. The VDV's role has evolved from a strategic reserve to frontline infantry, while military cooperation with Belarus has intensified, including joint exercises and potential permanent basing. Ukrainian forces have regained territory, indicating improved operational capabilities, while Russia plans to target critical infrastructure in Ukraine.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Apr 07 2026

Russian Military Advances in Donbas: April 2026 Strategic Assessment

Military OperationsForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russian forces intensified their offensive operations in the Donbas region, achieving significant territorial gains, particularly in the Luhansk People's Republic, as of April 2026. The Russian Defense Ministry announced the completion of the 'liberation' of Luhansk, with over 99% under their control. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces executed successful strikes against Russian positions, demonstrating resilience despite facing overwhelming odds.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon Apr 06 2026
Russia's Spring 2026 Offensive: Force Buildup and Ukraine's Counteroffensive Disruptions

Russia's Spring 2026 Offensive: Force Buildup and Ukraine's Counteroffensive Disruptions

Military OperationsForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russia is mobilizing over 400,000 additional troops for a Spring-Summer 2026 offensive, while Ukraine's counteroffensive has disrupted these plans. Ukrainian forces regained significant territory in February 2026, forcing Russia to shift to defensive operations. Concurrently, Russia's aerial campaign has intensified, utilizing advanced drone technology to target Ukrainian infrastructure. Belarus is also enhancing its military presence near the Ukrainian border.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Apr 04 2026
Russia's Diplomatic Trap: How Three Rounds of Peace Talks Are Fueling a Spring Offensive

Russia's Diplomatic Trap: How Three Rounds of Peace Talks Are Fueling a Spring Offensive

Military OperationsForce MovementOperational

Russian forces conducted intensified mechanized assaults across multiple sectors in March 2026, including company-sized and platoon-sized operations in areas like Novopavlivka and Pokrovsk. Concurrently, diplomatic negotiations have stalled, allowing Russia to maintain operational freedom on the battlefield. Ukrainian forces engaged in counterattacks in contested regions, while NATO adjusted its posture in response to the ongoing conflict.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon Mar 30 2026

Russia's Spring Offensive Stalls as Ukrainian Counterattacks Reshape the Battlefield

Military OperationsForce MovementLogisticsHybrid

Russian forces' spring-summer offensive against Ukraine stalled in March 2026, with Ukrainian forces successfully counterattacking and liberating Berezove. Ukrainian long-range strikes have disrupted Russian oil exports significantly. Public criticism from Russian military commentators highlights systemic issues within the Russian military. Additionally, Russia plans to train over 70,000 drone operators to address operational challenges.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Mar 28 2026
Russia's Spring Offensive Stalls as Ukrainian Counterattacks Reshape the Battlefield

Russia's Spring Offensive Stalls as Ukrainian Counterattacks Reshape the Battlefield

Military OperationsForce MovementLogisticsHybrid

Russian forces have encountered significant obstacles in their spring offensive against Ukraine, particularly in the Fortress Belt cities. Ukrainian counteroffensive operations have liberated over 400 square kilometers, forcing Russia to redeploy elite units from critical sectors. The Kremlin's strategic focus appears to be shifting towards negotiations as military objectives remain unachievable. Additionally, Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil infrastructure have severely impacted Moscow's war-making capacity.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Mar 27 2026

Russia Launches Spring Offensive: Shift to Mechanized Warfare Marks New Phase in Eastern Ukraine

Military OperationsForce MovementLogisticsHybrid

Russian forces launched a comprehensive spring offensive across eastern Ukraine from March 17 to March 23, 2026, marking a shift to mechanized warfare. They conducted 619 offensive operations, focusing on the strategic town of Lyman in Donetsk Oblast. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces engaged in 134 combat encounters, reporting significant Russian losses. The offensive is supported by extensive airstrikes and drone attacks, indicating a high operational tempo.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Mar 25 2026