Analysis & Reports

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

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
"Not Planned, But We'll See" — Nebenzya and the Ritual of Denying Mobilization Before the State Duma Elections

"Not Planned, But We'll See" — Nebenzya and the Ritual of Denying Mobilization Before the State Duma Elections

Political-MilitaryForce MovementStrategic

Vasily Nebenzya, Russia's permanent representative to the UN, stated on August 20, 2026, that mass mobilization is not currently planned but hinted at potential future actions. This statement comes ahead of the Russian parliamentary elections scheduled for September 18-20, 2026, where mobilization could be announced post-election. Ukrainian President Zelensky indicated that Russia might mobilize several hundred thousand troops by the end of the year, suggesting a strategic approach to manage public perception and political stability during the election period.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Aug 21 2026
Hundreds of Thousands After September 20 — What "Internal Documents" Show About Mobilization

Hundreds of Thousands After September 20 — What "Internal Documents" Show About Mobilization

Political-MilitaryForce MovementStrategic

Internal Russian documents indicate a planned mobilization of hundreds of thousands of troops after the parliamentary elections on September 20, 2026. Current recruitment efforts are insufficient to cover significant losses, with estimates suggesting over 1.2 million casualties. The Kremlin's strategy appears to involve mobilization as a political tool to demonstrate support for the ongoing conflict.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovThu Aug 13 2026
30,000 North Korean Soldiers for Russia Show the Personnel Limit of War 2026

30,000 North Korean Soldiers for Russia Show the Personnel Limit of War 2026

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryOperational

North Korea is preparing to send 30,000 soldiers to Russia, as reported by Ukrainian intelligence in July 2026. This move indicates a significant shift in Russia's military strategy, reflecting challenges in domestic recruitment and the need for foreign troops. The North Korean contingent is expected to support various military operations in the region, particularly in Voronezh Oblast.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSun Jul 26 2026
Translators for "Geraniums" in Belarus fell silent on June 22 — how the Russian strike scheme is changing

Translators for "Geraniums" in Belarus fell silent on June 22 — how the Russian strike scheme is changing

Command & ControlMilitary OperationsOperational

Relay stations in Belarus used for coordinating Russian drone strikes stopped functioning on June 22, 2026, impacting the operational capabilities of the Russian Armed Forces. Ukrainian Air Force reported intercepting 83 out of 90 Russian drones on June 25, indicating ongoing drone operations despite the communication disruption. This situation may alter the routes and tactics of Russian drone attacks, as Belarusian infrastructure played a crucial role in their operations.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovThu Jun 25 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 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
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 Armored Reconstitution and AI Command Architecture: Preparing for Extended Confrontation

Weapons & EquipmentCommand & ControlMilitary OperationsHybrid

Russia is modernizing its armored forces and command architecture, focusing on AI and unmanned systems, while refurbishing existing tanks. The Russian Armed Forces plan to produce over 2,000 advanced main battle tanks by 2036, with significant increases in T-90 production. Concurrently, Russia is enhancing its command capabilities through the Glaz/Groza software and integrating UAVs into military operations. These efforts indicate preparations for extended military confrontation with NATO.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Mar 27 2026

Russia's Spring 2026 Offensive: Strategic Redeployments Signal Shift in Eastern Ukraine Campaign

Military OperationsForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russian forces launched a Spring 2026 offensive in eastern Ukraine on March 19, employing battalion-sized mechanized assaults in the Lyman direction. Despite initial attacks being repelled by Ukrainian forces, Russia is redeploying elite units to bolster its operations. Concurrently, Ukrainian counteroffensives have disrupted Russian plans, leading to significant territorial gains. The air campaign has intensified, with numerous drone strikes targeting Ukrainian infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Mar 24 2026
Russia's Drone Evolution Amid Battlefield Constraints: From Starlink Dependency to Communications Alternatives

Russia's Drone Evolution Amid Battlefield Constraints: From Starlink Dependency to Communications Alternatives

Military OperationsForce MovementWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russian forces are adapting their drone operations and redeploying units in response to Ukrainian advances and communication challenges across the eastern and southern fronts. The 40th Naval Infantry Brigade and 120th Naval Infantry Division have been redeployed to the Oleksandrivka direction, while over 100 Molniya drones were destroyed by Ukrainian forces. Russia plans to expand its Unmanned Systems Forces to 101,000 personnel by April 1, 2026, amid ongoing operational setbacks.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Mar 20 2026

Ukrainian Counteroffensive in Dnipropetrovsk Disrupts Russian Spring Campaign Plans

Military OperationsForce MovementLogisticsHybrid

Ukrainian forces liberated over 400 square kilometers in Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhia oblasts since late January 2026, significantly disrupting Russian operations. Russian forces, including the 39th Motorized Rifle Brigade, are likely withdrawing to defensive positions. The 656th Motorized Rifle Regiment was observed engaging Ukrainian forces after months in reserve. Russian command has redeployed several units to counter the Ukrainian counteroffensive, indicating a shift from offensive to defensive operations.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Mar 18 2026
Russian Force Redeployments Signal Growing Strain as Ukrainian Counteroffensive Gains Momentum

Russian Force Redeployments Signal Growing Strain as Ukrainian Counteroffensive Gains Momentum

Force MovementMilitary OperationsLogisticsHybrid

Ukrainian forces advanced in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, liberating over 400 square kilometers and forcing Russian units to shift to defensive operations. Elements of the 39th Motorized Rifle Brigade and other units are redeploying to respond to the Ukrainian counteroffensive. The Russian military is also expanding its drone capabilities amid ongoing operational challenges.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Mar 17 2026
Ukraine Intensifies Deep Strikes as France Delivers Next-Generation Air Defense

Ukraine Intensifies Deep Strikes as France Delivers Next-Generation Air Defense

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentCommand & ControlHybrid

Ukrainian forces intensified their medium and long-range strike campaign against Russian military infrastructure in March 2026, targeting locations such as Krasnodar Krai and Belgorod City. France committed to supplying Ukraine with SAMP/T NG air defense systems for battlefield testing. Ukrainian operations included strikes on oil facilities and air defense systems, while Russian forces launched a significant number of drones and missiles. The situation indicates a strategic effort by Ukraine to degrade Russian capabilities ahead of anticipated offensives.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon Mar 16 2026

Russia's Southern Redeployment: Strategic Shifts on the Zaporizhia Axis Signal New Phase in Ukraine Conflict

Force MovementMilitary OperationsWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russia redeployed the 76th Guards Air Assault Division and 40th Naval Infantry Brigade to the Zaporizhia sector from January to March 2026, indicating a strategic shift towards defense. Concurrently, Russia expanded its drone warfare capabilities, launching 99 drones against Ukrainian targets, including civilian infrastructure. The ongoing conflict has seen Ukraine liberate 244 square kilometers in the Zaporizhia area, while Russia's economic situation has improved due to rising oil prices, enabling continued military operations.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon Mar 16 2026

Russian Force Redeployment to Zaporizhia: Strategic Shift or Operational Gamble?

Force MovementMilitary OperationsOperational

Russian military command redeployed elements of the 76th Guards Air Assault Division and 68th Army Corps from Pokrovsk to the Zaporizhia direction in March 2026. This strategic shift reflects Moscow's response to Ukrainian counteroffensives, with significant territorial gains reported by Ukrainian forces. The redeployment indicates a transition from offensive to defensive priorities for Russian forces in the region.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Mar 14 2026

Russia's Strategic Redeployment in Zaporizhia: Elite VDV Forces Signal Shift in Southern Theater

Force MovementMilitary OperationsOperational

Russian elite airborne forces, including the 76th Guards Air Assault Division, were redeployed to Zaporizhia from Donetsk Oblast between January and February 2026 to prepare for intensified operations. This strategic shift aims to counter Ukrainian advances, as Ukrainian forces have liberated significant territory in the region. The redeployment reflects a broader Russian military strategy emphasizing elite units capable of complex operations.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Mar 14 2026