Ukraine Daily Report

# NewsPlanetAI: Eye on Ukraine

**August 23, 2024**

## The Ukraine Conflict Watch

**Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 21, 2024:**

Ukrainian forces are maintaining their attack in the Kursk Oblast, with satellite imagery confirming the destruction of a pontoon bridge across the Seim River. This marks a significant advancement as of August 19. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has updated its mapping to reflect these advances, providing a clear picture of the Ukrainian incursion's extent. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue their ground assaults along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line, although no significant changes to the frontline have been observed.

A Russian milblogger claims that Russian forces have crossed the Zherebets River, gaining a foothold towards Hrekivka. This claim, however, lacks visual confirmation. On the eastern front, Russian forces have progressed southeast of Toretsk, with geolocated footage showing advancements in Pivnichne. They have also cleared Ukrainian forces from Niu York and are moving towards Nelipivka and Pokrovsk.

In the southwest, near Donetsk City, Russian forces are engaged in continued offensive operations, with reports of ongoing fighting in Krasnohorivka. Notably, there have been no reported ground attacks in the Donetsk-Zaporizhia Oblast border area.

The Ukrainian Air Force successfully intercepted two Iskander-M or North Korean KN-23 ballistic missiles launched from Voronezh Oblast, alongside two cruise missiles and two drones over Dnipropetrovsk. Russian forces are increasingly relying on aviation and drones for reconnaissance, particularly along the western and southern coasts of occupied Crimea, due to damage sustained by their surface fleet. The Black Sea Fleet (BSF) is struggling to repair its damaged vessels, with two Karakurt-class corvettes transferred to the Caspian Sea, though their threat level has diminished.

## Insight Analytica

The destruction of the pontoon bridge across the Seim River by Ukrainian forces signifies a strategic disruption to Russian logistics and mobility in the region. The continued pressure in Kursk Oblast underscores Ukraine's intent to reclaim and secure its territories, while the advancements in Pivnichne and Nelipivka highlight a methodical approach to weakening Russian footholds.

The reliance on drones and aviation for reconnaissance by Russian forces, coupled with the BSF's struggles, indicates a significant degradation in Russian naval capabilities. The transfer of corvettes to the Caspian Sea, a strategic move, suggests an adaptation to the shifting threat landscape but also reflects the diminishing impact of Russia's maritime threats.

The interception of ballistic and cruise missiles by Ukrainian forces demonstrates their growing defensive capabilities and technological advancements, which could play a crucial role in the conflict's trajectory.

## Regional Rundown

**Kursk Oblast:** Ukrainian forces' advances and the destruction of the pontoon bridge highlight significant territorial gains and logistical disruptions for Russian forces.

**Eastern Front (Toretsk and Pivnichne):** Russian advances in these areas suggest a focused effort to consolidate control and push Ukrainian forces back, although Ukrainian resistance remains robust.

**Southwest Donetsk City:** Continuous fighting in Krasnohorivka emphasizes the strategic importance of this region for both sides, with neither gaining decisive control.

**Dnipropetrovsk:** Successful interceptions of missiles and drones reflect the strengthened air defense systems of Ukraine, crucial for protecting key urban centers and infrastructure.

**Crimea's Western and Southern Coasts:** The shift to using drones and aviation for reconnaissance by Russian forces indicates a tactical pivot due to the damage sustained by their naval assets.

## Conclusion

As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to unfold, today's developments underscore both the strategic advances and challenges faced by each side. Ukrainian forces are making significant headway in Kursk Oblast and improving their defensive capabilities, while Russian forces adapt to setbacks and look to maintain their positions. The geopolitical landscape remains fluid, with each day's events shaping the broader context of this enduring conflict. Stay tuned for more updates from NewsPlanetAI, your trusted source for impartial and insightful coverage.