??Operational information of the past 24h on 14.08.2024 regarding the Russian invasion.

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has entered another intense phase, marked by relentless battles and a determined Ukrainian defense. Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces have faced a significant escalation in Russian military operations, yet they continue to hold their ground, repelling numerous attacks across multiple fronts. This period has seen some of the most intense fighting since the conflict began, with Ukrainian defenders showing exceptional resilience against a well-coordinated and aggressive Russian offensive.

The day was characterized by a series of heavy engagements, with 111 major combat incidents reported. These encounters reflect the sheer scale and intensity of the conflict, as Russian forces deployed an array of military tactics, including missile strikes, air raids, and drone attacks, in an attempt to break through Ukrainian defenses. Despite these efforts, Ukrainian forces have successfully repelled many of these assaults, inflicting substantial losses on the Russian military.

In the Kharkiv region, the situation remains particularly volatile. Russian forces launched 12 separate attacks on Ukrainian positions in areas such as Hlyboke, Lyptsi, Tykhe, and Vovchansk. The Ukrainian defenders, displaying remarkable determination, managed to thwart most of these attacks. However, the battle around Vovchansk continues, with both sides locked in a fierce struggle for control. The strategic significance of Kharkiv, close to the Russian border, cannot be overstated, as it serves as a critical defensive point for Ukraine. The continued resistance in this region underscores Ukraine's commitment to holding this vital area.

Further east, on the Kupiansk axis, the situation has also been intense. Russian forces attempted two major assaults aimed at advancing towards Synkivka and Novosynove. These attempts were met with strong resistance from Ukrainian forces, who successfully repelled the attacks, inflicting heavy casualties on the Russian troops. The defense of Kupiansk is crucial, as it protects key supply routes essential for sustaining Ukrainian operations in the region. The ability of Ukrainian forces to hold these positions highlights their strategic acumen and the effectiveness of their defensive tactics.

The Lyman direction has seen particularly aggressive Russian maneuvers. Throughout the day, Russian troops launched 11 assaults on Ukrainian positions near Terny, Nevske, Makiivka, and the Serhiyivka Forest. Despite the intensity of these attacks, Ukrainian forces managed to repel most of them, although two engagements remain unresolved, with heavy fighting continuing into the night. The battles in Lyman are of significant importance, as control over this area would allow Russian forces to threaten key Ukrainian-held territories in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. However, the steadfast defense by Ukrainian forces has so far prevented any major Russian breakthroughs.

In the Seversk sector, Ukrainian forces have once again demonstrated their capability to hold the line against superior Russian numbers. The Russian military attempted five separate assaults aimed at improving their tactical positions near Verkhnokamianske and Spirne. All these attempts were met with determined resistance, forcing the Russian units to withdraw with substantial losses. The defense of Seversk is critical, as it prevents Russian forces from encircling key Ukrainian positions and disrupting the broader defensive network in the Donetsk region. The ability of Ukrainian forces to maintain control in this area is a testament to their discipline and the effectiveness of their defensive preparations.

Kramatorsk remains a vital defensive hub for Ukrainian forces, with Russian forces launching five separate attacks aimed at breaking through Ukrainian lines in the Chasiv Yar and Bila Hora areas. Despite their efforts, Russian forces have been unable to breach Ukrainian defenses, and a sixth engagement is still ongoing. Ukrainian defenders have inflicted heavy casualties on the attacking forces, ensuring that Kramatorsk remains firmly under Ukrainian control. The town of Kramatorsk is of strategic importance due to its role as a logistical and command center for Ukrainian operations in the eastern Donbas region. Maintaining control over this area allows Ukrainian forces to continue their operations and resist Russian advances in this crucial sector.

The Toretsk sector has seen continuous pressure from Russian forces, who launched seven attacks against Ukrainian positions near Zalizne and Toretsk. These assaults were supported by extensive bombing campaigns, with Russian aircraft targeting Ukrainian positions with precision-guided munitions. Despite these overwhelming odds, Ukrainian forces have managed to repel five of these attacks, with two engagements still ongoing. The situation in Toretsk highlights the broader Russian strategy of using overwhelming firepower to try and break through Ukrainian defenses. However, the resilience and determination of Ukrainian forces have so far blunted these efforts, preventing Russian forces from making significant advances in this area.

The Pokrovske direction remains one of the most fiercely contested areas on the battlefield. Russian forces launched 48 separate assaults throughout the day, focusing their efforts on the regions surrounding Hrodivka, Yelyzavetivka, Skuchne, and Zhelanne. Ukrainian forces successfully repelled the majority of these attacks, with nine engagements still ongoing as night falls. The importance of the Pokrovske area lies in its proximity to key supply routes and its strategic position within the broader Donetsk region. Control of this area would allow Russian forces to disrupt Ukrainian supply lines and potentially encircle Ukrainian units. However, the ferocity of Ukrainian resistance has so far prevented any significant Russian gains.

In the Kurakhove sector, Russian forces launched four separate attacks against Ukrainian positions in Krasnohorivka and Kostyantynivka. Despite their efforts, these attacks were repelled, with Ukrainian forces maintaining control over their defensive positions. The situation in Kurakhove reflects the broader pattern of Russian attacks across the front. While they have been able to launch large-scale assaults, the effectiveness of Ukrainian defenses has largely negated these efforts, preventing any significant breakthroughs.

On the Vremivka front, Russian forces have intensified their efforts, with six attacks recorded near Vodyane and Kostyantynivka. These engagements are ongoing, with Ukrainian forces continuing to hold their ground against the advancing Russian troops. Vremivka is strategically important due to its position on the southern front, where Russian forces have sought to break through Ukrainian lines and push towards the coast. The ability of Ukrainian forces to hold this line is critical to preventing a broader Russian advance.

The Dnipropetrovsk region has also seen an uptick in Russian activity, with nine separate assaults conducted by Russian forces. Despite the intensity of these attacks, Ukrainian forces have successfully repelled all attempts, inflicting heavy losses on the attackers. The situation in Dnipropetrovsk is indicative of the broader Russian strategy of stretching Ukrainian defenses across multiple fronts. However, the effectiveness of Ukrainian resistance has prevented any significant gains by Russian forces.

The past 24 hours have also seen a significant escalation in the air war, with Russian forces conducting 63 airstrikes across various fronts. These strikes included the deployment of 83 guided bombs (KA-500s), aimed at softening Ukrainian defenses and providing support for ground operations. However, Ukrainian air defenses have proven to be highly effective, successfully intercepting a significant number of Russian missiles, aircraft, and drones. The use of kamikaze drones by Russian forces has increased dramatically, with 489 such attacks recorded over the past day. These drones, often targeting civilian infrastructure and military positions, have become a key component of the Russian strategy to undermine Ukrainian defenses. Despite the intensity of these drone strikes, Ukrainian forces have successfully neutralized a significant number of them, preventing them from causing widespread damage.

While the Ukrainian forces have been successful in defending their positions, they have also launched several counteroffensives aimed at disrupting Russian operations and inflicting additional casualties. These counterattacks have been particularly effective in areas such as the Pokrovske direction, where Ukrainian forces have managed to destroy several Russian artillery positions and neutralize enemy troops. In addition to these counteroffensives, Ukrainian artillery and rocket forces have continued to target Russian supply depots and command centers. Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces have conducted multiple precision strikes against Russian logistical hubs, further complicating the ability of Russian forces to sustain their offensive operations.

The human cost of this ongoing conflict continues to mount, with significant casualties reported among Russian forces. Ukrainian defense efforts have inflicted heavy losses on the attackers, but the intensity of the fighting has also led to widespread destruction in the contested areas. In the Kharkiv region, for example, Russian artillery and airstrikes have caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including residential areas and critical facilities. Despite the devastation, the local population remains defiant, with many civilians continuing to support Ukrainian forces through volunteer efforts and the provision of supplies.

One of the key factors contributing to the resilience of Ukrainian forces has been the effectiveness of their air defense systems. Ukrainian air defenses have successfully intercepted a significant number of Russian missiles, aircraft, and drones, preventing them from causing widespread damage. In the past 24 hours alone, Ukrainian air defense units have shot down several Russian drones and missiles, including kamikaze drones aimed at civilian and military targets. These successes have not only prevented casualties but have also boosted the morale of Ukrainian forces and the civilian population.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has continued to draw international attention and support. Several countries have provided Ukraine with military aid, including advanced air defense systems, artillery, and other critical equipment. This support has been instrumental in bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities, allowing them to effectively counter Russian attacks and maintain their defensive positions.

As the conflict continues to evolve, Ukrainian forces remain resolute in their defense of their homeland. The past 24 hours have demonstrated their ability to adapt to the changing dynamics of the battlefield, utilizing both defensive and offensive tactics to counter Russian aggression. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for further engagements in the days to come. However, the determination and resilience of Ukrainian forces continue to stand as a testament to their commitment to defending their country against all odds. The conflict is far from over, but the past day has shown that Ukraine's resolve remains unshaken, and their ability to resist and repel Russian advances continues to grow stronger. As the world watches