Summary of the Day:
Russian forces have recently advanced in several areas, including Kursk Oblast and near Kupyansk, Toretsk, and Pokrovsk. These troop movements indicate continued Russian offensive operations in key sectors of the front.
In a significant development, the Kremlin is leveraging its June 2024 strategic partnership agreement with North Korea to address force generation and border security needs. This move allows Russian President Vladimir Putin to avoid further mobilization of Russian citizens. Reports suggest that North Korean troops may be forming a 3,000-strong unit within Russia’s military structure.
To address controversies surrounding the use of conscripts in repelling Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk Oblast, the Russian government is now offering financial incentives to personnel involved in border defense. This includes expanding combat veteran status and associated benefits to those defending against “invasions into Russia” or “armed provocations on the state border.”
In internal political maneuvering, Putin signed a law allowing Alexander Bastrykin, head of the Russian Investigative Committee, to remain in his position past the standard retirement age. This decision underscores Putin’s preference for maintaining longtime loyalists in key positions of power.
Lastly, criticism has emerged from within Russian military circles regarding the use of the Discord platform for communications, following Russia’s recent ban of the service. A former Russian Storm-Z instructor and military blogger heavily criticized this reliance on partially-encrypted communication methods.
Picture of the Day:
An elderly man walks past a destroyed building in Mykolaiv after a Russian missile attack that destroyed local restaurants, shopping pavilions, and residential buildings. One person was killed, and 23 others were injured because of the attack. (Serhii Ovcharyshyn/NikVesti.com/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)
Beyond Ukraine – The March Towards World War
Russia’s intelligence activities against Germany are intensifying, according to German intelligence chiefs. Bruno Kahl, head of foreign intelligence, warned that Russia could attack NATO countries by 2030. Domestic intelligence chief Thomas Haldenwang reported increased Russian espionage and sabotage in Germany, citing a near-miss involving an exploding package at Leipzig airport. Military intelligence chief Martina Rosenberg noted a significant increase in Russian espionage targeting German arms deliveries to Ukraine and military operations. The officials emphasized that Germany is in direct confrontation with Russia, which aims to weaken the West. As Ukraine’s second-largest military backer after the US, Germany is a prime target for Russian interference.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has denied accusations of supplying drones to Malian rebels, as reported by some international media. The denial follows a Le Monde article claiming Ukraine’s military intelligence was cooperating with Tuareg fighters against Mali’s government and Wagner mercenaries. Ukraine also rejected allegations from Mali and Niger about supporting terrorists or supplying arms. The ministry emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to maintaining good relations with African states and its adherence to strict monitoring of Western-supplied weapons.
The Path to Peace
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to present his “victory plan” to parliament on October 16, with some details shared publicly and more sensitive information revealed only to faction leaders. The five-step plan, which Zelensky has already discussed with U.S. President Joe Biden and European leaders, aims to garner international support for Ukraine’s path to peace. It includes requests for more advanced weapons, an invitation for Ukraine to join NATO, and increased sanctions on Russia. While some Western officials have reportedly been unimpressed with the plan, Ukrainian officials emphasize its importance in pressuring Russia to end the war. The presentation comes at a critical time, with the U.S. presidential election approaching and concerns about potential changes in support for Ukraine.
European Council President Charles Michel has invited President Volodymyr Zelensky to present his plan for defeating Russia at an upcoming EU summit in Brussels. The meeting of 27 EU leaders will focus on military aid and strengthening Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This comes as Zelensky recently toured European capitals seeking support, while Ukraine faces challenges including Russian advances on the eastern front and potential changes in international backing. The summit aims to address these concerns as Ukraine prepares for its third winter at war.
Situation On The Land, Sea, and Air in Ukraine
Ukrainian Navy Spokesperson Captain Dmytro Pletenchuk reported that the Dniprovska Gulf is likely heavily mined due to mines washed in after the destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant in June 2023. The area remains a combat zone, preventing investigation of the mining extent. Pletenchuk noted that Russian forces are trying to bring small boats into the gulf, which must be easily transportable over land.
A former Russian Storm-Z instructor and military blogger criticized Russian forces’ heavy reliance on Discord for communications, even at high command levels. This comes after Russia recently banned the platform. The blogger noted that Russian troops often use Discord and Starlink instead of official communication software. The ban, implemented on October 8 by Russian federal censor Roskomnadzor, is likely to disrupt some frontline Russian forces’ makeshift communication systems in the short term.
Ukrainian Operations in the Russian Federation – Initiative Russia
Russian forces have made advances in the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast. Geolocated footage shows Russian troops advancing northwest of Ulanok, southeast of Sudzha. A Russian source claims Russian forces are advancing along the Borki-Ozerki line, attempting to outflank Ukrainian forces southeast of Sudzha. There are unconfirmed claims of Russian forces seizing Leonidovo and advancing southeast of Olgovka. Fighting continues throughout the Kursk Oblast salient, including areas near Tolsty Lug, Zeleny Shlyakh, Nizhny Klin, Lyubimovka, Novoivanovka, Russkaya Konopelka, and Borki.
Limited fighting continued west of the Kursk Oblast salient in Glushkovsky Raion with no confirmed changes to the frontline. Russian sources reported ongoing clashes near Novy Put, southwest of Glushkovo.
Recent reports indicate growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine. Ukrainian intelligence claims a 3,000-strong North Korean unit is forming within Russia’s 11th Airborne Brigade, likely for defense in Kursk Oblast. A Western diplomat suggests North Korea has sent up to 10,000 soldiers to Russia. This development follows a Russia-North Korea strategic partnership agreement signed in June 2024, which Putin recently submitted for ratification. The agreement includes a “mutual defense” provision, potentially justifying North Korean troop deployment in Russia. Reports of North Korean soldier desertions in Bryansk and Kursk have emerged, with 18 soldiers allegedly deserting about 7 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.
Russia faces a severe manpower shortage on the front lines due to heavy casualties, and North Korea’s support may help Russia avoid further mobilization of its own citizens. North Korea is reportedly providing large-scale support, including weapons, equipment, and personnel. Some sources suggest North Korean troops may form a “Special Buryat Battalion” within the Russian Armed Forces, potentially deploying near Sudzha and Kursk. Both Ukrainian and U.S. officials claim North Korea has been supplying Russia with ballistic missiles, artillery shells, and other military equipment since fall 2023. There are also unconfirmed reports of North Korean officers being killed in a Ukrainian missile strike in occupied territory. While details about the North Korean troops’ roles remain unclear, experts view this development as a sign of Russia’s growing need for resources to continue its war in Ukraine.
Russian sources are criticizing the poor organization of anti-tank defenses in Kursk Oblast. “Dragon’s teeth” roadblocks, intended to stop vehicles, have reportedly caused accidents involving both civilians and military personnel. One incident involved a first responder’s evacuation vehicle in Rylsky Raion crashing into these obstacles in the dark. Russian milbloggers claim that “dozens” of service members and civilians have died in similar accidents, suggesting a lack of communication between field commanders, local law enforcement, and engineering troops regarding the placement of these fortifications.
Kharkiv Front – Initiative Russia
Recent footage from October 14 shows Ukrainian drones repelling a Russian attack near the Belgorod-Kharkiv Oblast border. The assault took place in Zhuravlevka, about 10km northwest of Hlyboke. This Russian operation was likely an attempt to support their ongoing offensive near Hlyboke and Lyptsi, north of Kharkiv City, but appears to have been unsuccessful. The use of drones by Ukrainian forces demonstrates their effective defensive capabilities in this border region.
Russian forces continued limited offensive operations in northern Kharkiv Oblast without making confirmed advances. The Ukrainian General Staff reported Russian ground attacks near Vovchansk, Tykhe, and Starytsya. A Russian source claimed that Russian reconnaissance and special operations groups are active around Vovchansk, and that Russian forces are heavily targeting the road between Vovchansk and Lyptsi to disrupt Ukrainian communications and logistics. These actions suggest ongoing Russian efforts to pressure Ukrainian positions in this area, despite no significant territorial gains.
Luhansk Front – Initiative Russia
Russian forces have made recent advances southeast of Kupyansk, specifically into southeastern Kolisnykivka. Unconfirmed reports suggest Russian progress near Kruhlyakivka, Makiivka, and Terny. Due to the worsening military situation, Ukrainian authorities have ordered mandatory evacuations from Kupyansk, Kindrashivka, Kurylivka, and Borova areas. Russian attacks continued along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line, targeting numerous settlements including Synkivka, Petropavlivka, Lozova, Vyshneve, Novoyehorivka, and Torske. The situation remains tense with ongoing Russian offensive operations in this region.
Donetsk Front – Initiative Russia
Siversk
Russian forces attacked near Verkhnokamyanske, east of Siversk. No frontline changes were confirmed.
Chasiv Yar
Russian forces continued attacks near Chasiv Yar targeting Orikhovo-Vasylivka, Kalynivka, Predtechyne, and Dyliivka. No confirmed frontline changes were reported. Russian sources claimed advances near Kalynivka and west of Ivanivske. Chechen and airborne units are reportedly active in the area. Ukrainian officials noted increased Russian artillery and drone strikes, taking advantage of dry weather before winter, with the most intense assaults occurring near Toretsk.
Toretsk
Russian forces have made significant advances in and around Toretsk, a key logistics hub in Ukraine’s Donetsk region. Footage confirms their progress west of Niu York, near Toretsk, and they continue to attack areas around the city, including Dachne and Shcherbynivka. DeepState has verified the presence of Russian troops in Toretsk’s southeastern suburbs, with their area of control expanding over the past month. While Russian officials claim to control over two-thirds of Toretsk, independent confirmation suggests they hold about 42% of the settlement. Local authorities estimate that Ukraine controls only 40-50% of Toretsk as of October 11.
The situation in Toretsk is dire, with no intact buildings or shelters remaining in the town. Ukrainian military spokesperson Anastasia Bobovnikova reported that Russia is occupying new areas of the devastated town. Ukrainian defenses in high-rise buildings are reportedly slowing Russian progress, but Russian troops are allegedly using civilian clothes to approach Ukrainian positions. The potential capture of Toretsk could enable Russia to move against Kostyantynivka, a strategic target in their effort to take the entire Donetsk region. It would also impact Ukrainian supply lines and represent another setback for Ukraine in the region, following the withdrawal from Vuhledar. Additionally, Russian forces are pushing towards Kurakhove and Pokrovsk, a crucial logistics hub west of Toretsk.
Pokrovsk
Russian forces advanced in western Krasnyi Yar, southeast of Pokrovsk, as shown in footage. They continued attacks in numerous settlements around Pokrovsk, including Myrolyubivka, Selydove, and Novopavlivka. Russian sources claim advances near Selydove and Tsukuryne, but these are unconfirmed.
West of Donetsk City
Russian forces attacked near Maksymilyanivka and Heorhiivka, east of Kurakhove. However, no confirmed advances were reported in these areas.
Southwest of Donetsk City
Russian forces attacked near Vuhledar targeting areas like Kostyantynivka, Antonivka, and Bohoyavlenka. No confirmed territorial gains were reported.
Zaporizhia Front – Initiative Russia
Zaporizhia-Donetsk Border Area
Russian sources claim their forces made advances in the Donetsk-Zaporizhia border area. They reportedly attacked near Novodonetske, Levadne, and Rozdolne, all in the vicinity of Velyka Novosilka. However, independent verification of these claims is lacking, as no visual evidence has been observed to support them.
Zaporizhia Line
Russian forces attacked near Mala Tokmachka and Novodanylivka in western Zaporizhia Oblast. Russian units are reportedly operating near Kamyanske and Verbove. Ukrainian spokesperson Colonel Vladyslav Voloshyn reported ongoing Russian strikes and offensive actions in southern Ukraine, with increased activity between Velyka Novosilka and Pryyutne, and near Orikhiv and Hulyaipole. Russian forces are reportedly preparing for assaults near Robotyne but are not conducting large-scale operations or major troop redeployments in the area.
Kherson (Dnipro River) Front – Initiative Russia
Russian forces reportedly advanced on islands in the Dnipro River Delta, though no confirmed frontline changes in the Kherson direction were observed. Ukrainian officials reported Russian assaults in the area, while Russian sources claimed to have pushed Ukrainian forces from some islands. Colonel Voloshyn stated that Russian forces are attempting to control these islands and may intensify operations soon.
Ukraine News
Russian forces launched missile and drone strikes against Ukraine. They fired S-300/S-400 missiles from Crimea, Kh-59 missiles at Chernihiv and Sumy oblasts, and 17 drones from Kursk Oblast and Krasnodar Krai. Ukrainian air defenses downed 12 drones over several oblasts, while electronic warfare disrupted four more. Mykolaiv City suffered infrastructure and civilian area damage from S-300 missiles. A Russian source claimed a Ukrainian airfield in Oleksandriya, Kirovohrad Oblast, was hit.
A Ukrainian soldier from a mobile air defense unit reported that Russian Shahed drones have been upgraded to fly faster and higher, improving their performance from earlier versions. In response, Ukrainian mobile fire groups have also enhanced their equipment and tactics to maintain their ability to intercept these drones.
Multiple institutions across Ukraine, including Radio Liberty, received bomb threats on Oct. 14, causing widespread evacuations and affecting over 1,500 facilities and 60 diplomatic institutions. The threats targeted specific journalists who had recently investigated Russian recruitment of Ukrainians for arson attacks on military vehicles. Ukrainian police investigated over 2,000 bomb threats sent nationwide, targeting schools, businesses, embassies, and media outlets. All threats were determined to be false, with most originating from Russian IP addresses. Investigators traced the likely sender to occupied Crimea. The group behind the threats is offering rewards for attacks on military recruitment centers and government officials. The Security Service of Ukraine suspects this is part of a psychological operation to create panic among Ukrainians, with police suspecting Russian intelligence services of waging a hybrid war. No explosive devices were found in initial checks. RFE/RL’s president Stephen Capus stated the organization would continue reporting without intimidation and cooperate with authorities in the investigation.
Ukraine is bracing for potential mass Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure during the upcoming autumn and winter months, according to National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksandr Lytvynenko. This follows a similar campaign last year that caused significant damage and led to rolling blackouts across the country. Ukrainian officials warn that Russia may target nuclear facilities as well. The International Energy Agency estimates Ukraine could face an electricity shortage of up to one-third of peak demand this winter due to previous attacks on power plants.
Ukraine’s presidential adviser Dmytro Lytvyn dismissed allegations of government pressure on Ukrainska Pravda newspaper as “incorrect.” The outlet had claimed officials were ordered not to communicate with its journalists and businesses pressured to stop advertising. Lytvyn, President Zelensky’s former speechwriter, denied the accusations in an interview with Liga.net. Ukrainska Pravda’s editor-in-chief Sevgil Musayeva compared the current situation to pressures faced during Leonid Kuchma’s presidency (1994-2005). The newspaper, founded in 2000, has lost two journalists to violence: co-founder Georgiy Gongadze and editor Pavel Sheremet. Musayeva emphasized the importance of press freedom in maintaining Ukraine’s democracy.
Innocent Victims Of War
The casualty count of civilians in the past 24 hours: (Russian War Crimes)
DEATHS: 5 INJURIES: 34+
Russian forces launched attacks across southern Ukraine, causing casualties and damage in multiple areas. In Mykolaiv, a missile strike killed one woman and injured 23 people, damaging various structures. In Donetsk Oblast, three villages were hit, resulting in five injuries. Kherson Oblast faced widespread attacks, with 22 settlements targeted, including Kherson city. The attacks in Kherson resulted in four deaths and six injuries.
The aftermath of a Russian attack on the city of Mykolaiv. (State Emergency Service)
Ukrainian Mobilization and Industrial Defense Base
Ukraine is facing pressure from U.S. lawmakers to lower its military conscription age from 25 to 18, according to Presidential Office advisor Serhii Leshchenko. This comes after Ukraine recently lowered the minimum conscription age from 27 to 25. President Zelensky has so far resisted further changes, instead focusing on securing more U.S. military aid. The lawmakers cited America’s Vietnam War experience, where men aged 18-26 were drafted. Ukraine’s new mobilization law, effective May 18, required military-aged men to update their personal data, with nearly 4.7 million complying by the July 17 deadline.
Ukraine’s Allies
Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin outlined five key challenges Ukraine will face with the next U.S. president, regardless of who wins the upcoming election. These include declining U.S. public support for Ukraine, the importance of congressional elections, America’s shifting focus away from Europe, unclear strategies from presidential candidates on helping Ukraine, and a lack of understanding of the war by both candidates. Klimkin emphasizes that Ukraine’s survival depends on securing U.S. aid, but notes that American priorities are changing. He warns that future U.S. administrations may pressure Ukraine to make concessions to end the war, which could have significant consequences for the country’s future. The outcome of the U.S. election is crucial for Ukraine, as it will shape U.S.-Ukraine relations and impact support for Kyiv in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently claimed he had a good relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his presidency, suggesting Putin often discussed his ambitions regarding Ukraine. These comments were made at a town hall event in Oaks, Pennsylvania, three weeks before the U.S. presidential election. Trump asserted that the ongoing war wouldn’t have happened under his leadership, despite Russia’s aggression in Crimea and Donbas during his term. He also mentioned his positive relationship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. At a subsequent Chicago Economic Club interview, Trump declined to confirm if he had spoken with Putin since leaving office in 2021, suggesting that maintaining relationships with world leaders is beneficial. His statements have raised concerns about his potential future policy toward Ukraine if re-elected, with some reports suggesting he might pressure Ukraine to cede territory or abandon NATO aspirations. These comments have also raised questions about potential impacts on U.S. support for Ukraine.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reaffirmed the alliance’s continued support for Ukraine, stating that NATO will not be intimidated by Russian threats. Speaking during a visit to NATO’s mission in Germany, Rutte emphasized the defensive nature of the alliance and its commitment to Ukraine’s cause. The NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) mission is seen to ensure ongoing support, especially given concerns about potential changes in U.S. policy following the upcoming election. Despite these assurances, there are growing worries about the future of Western aid, particularly if former President Donald Trump, who has expressed a desire to disengage from the conflict, returns to office.
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen has warned of growing Western fatigue in supporting Ukraine, as reported by the Financial Times. She highlighted concerns about the upcoming U.S. election and its potential impact on aid to Ukraine, particularly given Donald Trump’s stance on the conflict. The ongoing Middle East crisis has also diverted attention from Ukraine. Valtonen stressed the importance of maintaining support for Ukraine to preserve Western credibility.
The latest Shell Youth Study reveals growing concerns among young Germans about war, climate change, and political polarization. The survey of 2,509 adolescents aged 12-25 shows that 81% worry about war in Europe, up from 46% in 2019. Fear of poverty also increased to 67%. In response to ongoing conflicts, 69% support a strong NATO presence. Regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, 60% believe Russia should be punished, while opinions on Germany providing military aid to Ukraine are split, with 50% in favor and 24% against. The study highlights how global events are shaping young Germans’ perspectives on politics and security.
Russia News
Putin signed a law allowing Alexander Bastrykin, head of the Russian Investigative Committee, to remain in his position past the retirement age of 70. Bastrykin, who turned 71 in August 2024, has held this role since 2011. This move reflects Putin’s preference for keeping longtime loyalists in power. Putin has previously raised retirement ages for government and military officials, allowing him to maintain his inner circle in key positions. Bastrykin, a university classmate of Putin’s, has recently aligned himself with Russia’s ultranationalist community, which may benefit the Kremlin’s efforts to appeal to this group.
Russia’s economy is facing significant challenges despite official claims of growth. Economist Steve Hanke estimates real inflation at 27%, far higher than the official 9.1%. The ruble is also experiencing devaluation, recently trading at 97 to the dollar, with predictions it could fall further if oil prices drop. These economic issues are linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine and its response to sanctions. The situation could lead to a substantial loss of purchasing power for Russians, with food costs becoming a particular concern. Experts warn that Russia’s current economic strategy, including increased military spending and labor shortages, may not be sustainable in the long term. The ongoing war in Ukraine is exacerbating these economic problems, creating a quagmire that appears to be worsening over time.
Russian War Losses (Today/Total)
| Troops +1450
672850 |
Tanks +9
8997 |
Artillery +29
19459 |
Arm. VEH +30
17969 |
Aircraft
369 |
Heli
329 |
Ships
28 |
Russian Mobilization and Defense Industrial Base
Recent reports indicate Russia is using North Korean troops in its war against Ukraine, following a strategic partnership agreement signed in June 2024. This move highlights Putin’s reluctance to declare further mobilization of Russian citizens. Instead, he’s relying on alternative force generation methods, including crypto-mobilization, volunteer formations, and now North Korean personnel. This approach extends to addressing Ukraine’s August 2024 incursion into Kursk Oblast, where Putin has focused on creating new territorial defense units, redeploying existing units from Ukraine, and using conscripts rather than initiating wider mobilization.
The Russian government is expanding combat veteran status to include soldiers defending against “invasions into Russia” or “armed provocations on the state border.” This move, costing about $35 million from 2025-2027, likely covers conscripts and territorial defense units involved in repelling Ukraine’s recent incursion into Kursk Oblast. It provides these personnel with veterans’ pensions and benefits, despite legal restrictions on conscripts participating in combat. This approach allows Russia to use conscripts for border defense without changing laws, while offering financial incentives to avoid public backlash. It also aims to boost recruitment for new territorial defense units like BARS-Kursk and BARS-Belgorod.
Russian authorities have increased one-time payments to recruit contract soldiers, with Krasnodar Krai raising its regional payment to 1.5 million rubles. The total sum of federal and regional payments in the area now reaches 2.3 million rubles. Despite these efforts, Russia is struggling to attract new personnel, recruiting only about 36,000-38,000 new soldiers per month. This barely covers their daily losses, which averaged around 1,200 in September 2024, totaling approximately 36,000 casualties for the month. These recruitment efforts appear to be primarily aimed at replacing battlefield losses rather than building up reserves.
Russian military bloggers shared footage of new munitions for Russian TOS thermobaric artillery systems. They claim these new rockets have a much longer range than previous versions and are already being used by Russian forces in the Kupyansk area.
Russia’s Allies
Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto announced that Budapest is negotiating with Russia’s Gazprom to increase gas purchases in 2024. This move could further increase Hungary’s reliance on Russian energy, despite EU efforts to reduce dependency. Hungary currently receives about 4.5 billion cubic meters of Russian gas annually under a 15-year deal signed in 2021. Szijjarto stated that Russian fossil fuels cover 70-80% of Hungary’s yearly demand. This development comes as the EU works to reduce Russian gas imports, with Ukraine planning to end its gas transit agreement with Russia in December 2024. Europe and Ukraine are exploring alternative gas supplies from Azerbaijan.
Controlling the Narrative and Russian Propaganda
Russian officials, including RT editor Margarita Simonyan, spread false claims about a Ukrainian woman’s death in detention for raising a Russian flag in Odesa. The Odesa police confirmed the woman is alive and under house arrest. These false narratives likely aim to deflect attention from Russia’s mistreatment of captives, notably following the confirmed death of Ukrainian journalist Viktoriya Roshchyna in Russian custody.
Russian media and military bloggers amplified Polish officials’ statements about Ukrainian refugees in Poland. This effort likely aims to create discord between Ukraine and its European allies, especially Poland.
Russian military bloggers falsely portrayed Ukraine’s self-defense as attempts to seize Russian territory. They claimed Ukraine is spreading narratives about historical land claims in eastern Russia to justify its recent incursion into Kursk Oblast. This likely aims to distract from Russia’s own territorial ambitions in Ukraine and discredit Ukraine’s actions.
Steam, a major video game platform owned by U.S. company Valve, has agreed to remove content banned in Russia from its online store, as reported by Russian state media Interfax on Oct. 15. The platform, with around 10 million users in Russia, complied with federal censorship agency Roskomnadzor’s demands, removing 260 “banned materials” and blocking 11 websites. This move follows Russia’s recent crackdown on online platforms, including the ban on Discord in September. Reports also suggest potential blocks on WhatsApp and YouTube soon.
Source Material
Institute for the Study of War – understandingwar.org
The Kyiv Independent – kyivindependent.com
Kyiv Post – kyivpost.com