Summary of the Day:
Russian forces advanced across multiple sectors, making gains southeast of Kupyansk, northwest of Kreminna, near Vuhledar, and north of Robotyne. Ukrainian forces successfully reclaimed lost positions south of Chasiv Yar, demonstrating continued resistance despite Russian pressure. In a significant development, North Korean troops engaged in their first direct combat with Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast, with Ukrainian President Zelensky estimating approximately 11,000 North Korean personnel now present in the region.
The Russian military continues to struggle with maintaining quality personnel in its elite forces, potentially impacting their operational effectiveness. In a move to strengthen domestic military influence, the Kremlin appointed its first war veteran, Yevgeny Pervyshov, to a federal leadership position as Acting Head of Tambov Oblast, indicating a broader strategy to militarize government structures.
Russia launched two Iranian-made satellites, “Kousar” and “Hodhod,” from the Vostochny Cosmodrome, marking increased space cooperation between Moscow and Tehran. The satellites, designed for Earth imaging and communications capabilities, raise concerns about potential military applications and signal strengthening ties between the two nations under international sanctions.
Picture of the Day:
Military and police members inspect the remains of a Russian drone in the Shevchenkivskyi district after the attack in Kharkiv. As a result of the strike, two women were injured. (Oleksandr Manchenko/Gwara Media/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)
Beyond Ukraine – The March Towards World War
In a concerning development for global security, Russia launched two more Iranian satellites, “Kousar” and “Hodhod,” into orbit from Vostochny Cosmodrome. This growing space cooperation between Russia and Iran raises significant international concerns, as the “Kousar’s” high-resolution Earth imaging capabilities and “Hodhod’s” communications systems could potentially enhance Iran’s military capabilities. Security analysts warn these satellites, following earlier launches of Iran’s “Khayyam” and “Pars-1” satellites by Russia, could be used for long-range targeting operations. This deepening technological partnership between Russia and Iran represents an escalating challenge to regional stability and international peacekeeping efforts.
Estonia’s move to restrict Russian and Belarusian citizens from voting in local elections represents a significant escalation in Baltic-Russian tensions and highlights growing concerns about foreign influence in democratic processes. Prime Minister Kristen Michal’s announcement reflects mounting anxiety about national security among NATO’s eastern members. This constitutional change, affecting 83,000 residents, signals a deepening divide between Russia and former Soviet states, potentially setting a precedent for other European nations. Estonia’s decisive action, coupled with its substantial Ukraine support (€520 million, 1.4% of GDP), demonstrates the Baltic region’s growing role in reshaping European security dynamics. This legislative move could further strain diplomatic relations between Russia and NATO countries at a time when global stability is already precarious.
The deployment of 11,000 North Korean troops to Russia’s war in Ukraine marks a dangerous escalation in global conflict dynamics, with confirmed clashes already occurring in Kursk Oblast. This unprecedented military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has alarmed the G7 nations and key Pacific allies, who warn it could shatter the delicate balance between European and Indo-Pacific security. The potential transfer of nuclear and ballistic missile technology between these nations poses an acute threat to global stability. This expansion of the Ukraine conflict to include North Korean forces represents a severe breach of international law and the UN Charter, potentially marking a historic shift in global alliances and raising the specter of a broader international conflict. The coordinated response being developed by G7 nations reflects growing international concern that this collaboration between nuclear-armed states could fundamentally destabilize the existing world order.
The discovery of Russian-linked bomb threats targeting U.S. polling sites on November 5 marks a serious escalation in international cyber warfare and democratic interference. This direct attack on American electoral infrastructure, coupled with confirmed foreign influence campaigns from both Russia and Iran targeting the 2024 election, signals a dangerous new phase in global political warfare. While the bomb threats were not credible, their timing and origin reveal how digital threats can be used to destabilize democratic processes and increase international tensions. These actions demonstrate how major powers are weaponizing electoral interference to reshape global power dynamics. This pattern of cyber aggression against democratic institutions represents a growing threat to international stability and peaceful international relations, potentially deepening divisions between world powers at a critical time for global security.
Situation On The Land, Sea, and Air in Ukraine
Russian military commanders are reassigning experienced drone operators from specialized units to frontline combat roles, drawing criticism from Russian military bloggers. According to Russian media outlet “Important Stories,” these skilled operators, who previously conducted intelligence and strike missions, are now being placed in assault units despite their valuable expertise with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Military correspondent Roman Saponkov warns this is leading to unnecessary casualties and wastes years of specialized training. The shift appears connected to the formation of Russia’s new Rubicon Center for Advanced Unmanned Technologies, with some commanders possibly trying to prevent losing their best operators to this new centralized drone unit. The decision has already had deadly consequences – in September, veteran drone operators were killed after being reassigned to assault missions.
Russian forces killed six captured Ukrainian soldiers near Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast in late October and early November 2024, according to Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office. Three soldiers were shot after capture in Selydove on October 23, followed by three more near Pokrovsk on November 1. These killings violate the Geneva Conventions. Ukrainian authorities report having evidence of at least 93 prisoners of war being killed by Russian forces, with 80% of cases occurring in 2024. Despite these incidents, prisoner exchanges continue, with the most recent swap in mid-October returning 95 prisoners to each side.
Ukrainian Operations in the Russian Federation – Initiative None
Fighting continues in Ukraine’s Kursk Oblast region with no confirmed territorial changes by either side as of November 5. Russia claims it stopped Ukrainian attacks near several settlements including Darino, Nizhny Klin, and Novoivanovka southeast of Korenevo, as well as near Leonidovo and Plekhovo. Russian forces are reportedly active near Darino and Novy Put. Ukrainian forces maintain their positions near Novoivanovka and are allegedly bringing in reinforcements for counterattacks, though no fighting was reported in the Glushkovsky area.
North Korean troops have engaged in their first combat with Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast, confirmed by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. According to President Zelensky, North Korea has deployed 11,000 troops in the region, with plans to increase this to 15,000 soldiers along the front line. These initial clashes were described as “small-scale,” with North Korean soldiers being integrated into Russian units and disguised as soldiers from the Republic of Buryatia. Additional North Korean troops are expected to complete training in the Russian Far East and deploy within weeks. Russia has positioned these North Korean reinforcements in Kursk Oblast while focusing its experienced units on eastern Ukraine, with the North Korean forces likely being used primarily for defense while gaining modern combat experience. Zelensky noted that Ukraine could target North Korean troop camps in Russia if given permission to use Western long-range weapons.
Kharkiv Front – Initiative Russia
Russian forces continued ground attacks near Vovchansk, northeast of Kharkiv City. A notable tactical shift has emerged: after Ukrainian forces successfully targeted Russian tanks and armored vehicles with artillery and FPV drones, Russian forces have adapted by switching to infantry attacks, with soldiers sometimes using electric scooters for mobility. This change suggests Russian forces are adjusting their tactics in response to Ukrainian anti-armor effectiveness in the Kharkiv region.
Luhansk Front – Initiative Russia
Russian forces made confirmed advances near Kupyansk and Kreminna with verified progress west of Novoselivske and into northern Terny. Russia claims to have captured most of Kolisnykivka, though this remains unconfirmed. Ukrainian officials report that Russian forces have doubled their ground attacks in the Kupyansk area, using small assault units of 3-5 soldiers. Russian offensive operations continue across multiple settlements along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line, with particularly intense activity near Kindrashivka, Petropavlivka, and several other villages in the region.
Donetsk Front – Initiative Russia
Siversk
Russian forces launched unsuccessful ground attacks near Bilohorivka, northeast of Siversk, according to the Ukrainian General Staff. The failed assault represents another unsuccessful Russian attempt to advance in this sector.
Chasiv Yar
Fighting near Chasiv Yar saw both sides making limited gains. Ukrainian forces successfully recaptured previously lost positions south of Chasiv Yar, while Russian forces advanced east of Stupochky. Active combat continues around Chasiv Yar, Stupochky, and Orikhovo-Vasylivka, indicating ongoing competition for control in this strategically important area.
Toretsk
Russian forces achieved a notable advance in the Toretsk area, with confirmed capture of Druzhba village east of Toretsk. Russian forces continue pressing their offensive across multiple axes around Toretsk, conducting attacks toward Kostyantynivka, and near the settlements of Dachne, Shcherbynivka, and Sukha Balka. This activity suggests a concentrated Russian effort to expand their control around Toretsk.
Pokrovsk
Russian forces made confirmed advances in the Pokrovsk direction capturing Vyshneve and gaining ground south of both Lysivka and Petrivka. Russian offensive operations continue across a broad front, with attacks targeting multiple settlements including Promin, Hrodivka, Krutyi Yar, Novohrodivka, Selydove, Novooleksiivka, Yurivka, and Hryhorivka. These gains indicate increasing Russian pressure in the Pokrovsk sector.
Kurakhove
Russian forces made confirmed advances near Kurakhove capturing Vovchenka and Hirnyk. Ukrainian forces have withdrawn from the Izmailivka-Hirnyk-Kurakhivka-Ostrivske area northeast of Kurakhove. While Russians advanced southwest of Maksymilyanivka, Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a large, mechanized assault there. Russian attacks continue across multiple settlements around Kurakhove, with significant forces deployed along the Ukrainsk-Novoselydivka-Novodmytrivka line, suggesting a concentrated Russian offensive effort in this sector.
Southwest of Donetsk City
Russian forces made verified advances near Vuhledar progressing northwest of Bohoyavlenka and west of Shakhtarske. While Russia claims to have captured Trudove and advanced near Kostyantynivka and Zolota Nyva, these gains remain unconfirmed. Russian forces are conducting attacks across multiple settlements around Vuhledar, with various military units deployed operating northeast of Vuhledar. While Russia maintains reserve forces in the area, only one special forces regiment is reported to be at full strength.
Zaporizhia Front – Initiative Russia
Russian forces achieved a small, confirmed advance in western Zaporizhia Oblast reaching a windbreak southwest of Novodanylivka, north of Robotyne. While Russia claims a 1.5-kilometer advance west of Nesteryanka, this remains unverified. Russian forces continue attacks near Orikhiv, Novoandriivka, and Mali Shcherbaky, though with only minimal territorial gains in this sector.
Kherson (Dnipro River) Front – Initiative Russia
Russian forces launched unsuccessful attacks in the Dnipro River region targeting areas on the eastern bank of Kherson Oblast and the Dnipro River Delta islands, according to the Ukrainian General Staff. All attacks were repelled with no reported Russian gains.
Ukraine News
Russian forces launched a major attack against Ukraine overnight, using two cruise missiles and 79 drones. Ukraine’s military shot down both missiles and 48 drones across several cities including Odesa, Kyiv, and Kharkiv. A Russian strike on Zaporizhzhia City killed six people and wounded 24. The attacks targeted civilian infrastructure in Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv City, while Russia claims they hit military targets in Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Chernihiv regions, though these claims remain unverified.
Ukraine’s Air Force reports that Russia launched over 4,300 Shahed-type attack drones against Ukraine between August and October 2024, with October setting a record of 2,000 launches. This represents a dramatic increase from the 1,133 drones launched from May to July. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 71% of these attacks, while 24% were lost due to electronic warfare or other disruptions. Only 5% of the drones reached their targets. President Zelensky has called for increased sanctions against component suppliers, noting that each drone contains over 170,000 parts sourced from China, Europe, and America.
Google has clarified that satellite images showing Ukrainian defense infrastructure on Google Maps are over a year old and from public sources, not recent updates as initially reported by Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council. The company emphasized they deliberately avoid publishing current images of war zones and are working closely with Ukrainian officials to address concerns. This response came after Ukrainian counter-disinformation chief Andrii Kovalenko warned that Russian forces were spreading these maps, prompting public concern and communication between Google and Ukrainian authorities.
A new World Bank-backed initiative called RISE (Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Enterprise Program) will provide $593 million to support Ukraine’s small and medium-sized businesses. The project, which could expand to $1 billion over three years, aims to preserve or create 40,000 jobs and assist 20,000 businesses. Funded through a combination of Japanese support ($283 million), International Development Association funds ($300 million), and trust fund money ($10 million), the program will focus on improving digital services and helping businesses access export markets. The initiative represents a significant effort to maintain Ukraine’s economic stability and business sector during the ongoing war.
Ukraine’s military warns that electronic warfare systems used to counter Russian drone attacks are causing smartphone clock disruptions across the country. The defensive measures, which involve GPS spoofing to misdirect Russian drones, can make phones incorrectly show locations in Russian territory and cause automatic time zone changes. The General Staff advises Ukrainians to disable automatic time updates on their devices. This comes amid intense Russian attacks, with President Zelensky reporting over 900 bombs, 500 Shahed drones, and 30 missiles launched at Ukraine in a single week, plus more than 2,000 Shahed drones in October alone. Russia continues to evade sanctions through shell companies and support from allies China, Iran, and North Korea.
Innocent Victims Of War
The casualty count of civilians in the past 24 hours: (Russian War Crimes)
DEATHS: 6 INJURIES: 25
A Russian missile strike hit an infrastructure facility in Zaporizhzhia killing six people and wounding 23 others.
A Russian drone strike hit near a residential area in Kharkiv injuring two women aged 56 and 72. The attack damaged a five-story apartment building, breaking windows on multiple floors, and damaged nearby cars.
Ukrainian Mobilization and Industrial Defense Base
A new Ukrainian Legion recruitment center in Lublin, Poland has received over 500 applications from Ukrainians living in 30 different countries in just one month. The volunteer military unit, established in July 2024, will be trained by Polish Armed Forces and allows Ukrainian men to serve while maintaining the ability to return to Poland afterward. Most applicants come from Poland and Czechia, though requests have also been received from the UK, Ireland, US, and Canada. About 90% of applicants are men, with 80% having no prior military experience. The first volunteers are expected to begin training in Poland by year’s end. This initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine’s military forces while accommodating the 6.7 million Ukrainians who fled abroad during the Russian invasion.
Ukraine’s Allies
Sweden has pledged a new €9 million ($9.8 million) aid package to Ukraine, including two vessels for maritime security. The package, announced by Swedish Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin on November 5, also includes 40,000 protective masks and respirators for Ukraine’s emergency services.
According to a new report from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, Germany’s support for Ukraine is a wise investment. While Germany currently spends about 0.1% of its GDP on military aid to Ukraine, a Russian victory could force Germany to spend up to 2% of its GDP annually on increased NATO commitments, refugee support, and economic losses. Currently, Germany has provided €10.6 billion in military aid since 2022, ranking 16th among European donors relative to GDP. The report warns that a Russian victory could lead to up to 3.8 million Ukrainian refugees fleeing to Germany and put the Baltic states at risk through the Suwalki Gap, a vulnerable corridor between Kaliningrad and Belarus. The researchers conclude that maintaining or increasing support for Ukraine now would be far less costly than dealing with the consequences of a Russian victory.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited Ukraine on Monday, offering verbal but no concrete support during her eighth trip to the country. While Germany remains Ukraine’s second-largest financial supporter after the United States and has pledged €170 million in emergency winter aid, Chancellor Olaf Scholz continues to deny Ukraine’s requests for long-range Taurus missiles, citing fears of escalating the conflict. Scholz has also rejected Ukraine’s appeal to be invited into NATO. President Zelensky has expressed frustration with Berlin’s cautious approach, stating last month that Germany appears “afraid” of how Russia might respond to Ukraine’s closer integration with NATO.
Russian War Losses (Today/Total)
| Troops +1250
702900 |
Tanks +6
9214 |
Artillery +20
20170 |
Arm. VEH +11
18592 |
Aircraft
369 |
Heli
329 |
Ships
28 |
Russian Mobilization and Defense Industrial Base
Nizhny Novgorod Oblast authorities have increased military signing bonuses to three million rubles ($30,675), according to Idel Realii. When combined with Russian Defense Ministry payments, the total bonus reaches 5.5 million rubles ($56,000) – the highest recruitment incentive in Russia. These escalating financial incentives suggest growing strain on Russia’s wartime economy as it attempts to attract new military personnel.
According to Ukrainian defense expert Viktor Kevlyuk’s assessment, Russia’s military faces severe personnel challenges across all units, with October 2024 seeing some of the highest casualties since the war’s 2022 start. Their special operations forces (SSO) remain limited due to high casualties and strict recruitment standards, while the once-elite Spetsnaz forces have lost about half their original personnel, replacing them with older and less physically capable recruits. Although Russian airborne units remain well-equipped, they now include untrained personnel from regular army units, and naval infantry units are using recruited convicts for assault operations. With approximately 470,000 troops currently in Ukraine, Russia’s losses far exceed replacements – between September 29 and October 24, Russian forces suffered 57,500 casualties while monthly reinforcements only reach 20,000-25,000 personnel. The Russian military is expected to continue unofficial mobilization efforts until formal federal mobilization becomes necessary.
Following anti-Rroma unrest in Korkino, Chelyabinsk Oblast in October 2024, Russian military recruiters issued over 70 military service summonses during police raids, according to opposition outlet 7×7-Horizontal Russia. The raids, triggered by a taxi driver’s murder, reflect an ongoing pattern of Russian authorities targeting migrants and non-ethnic Russian minority communities for military recruitment.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has appointed Yevgeny Pervyshov, a veteran of the Ukraine war and former Krasnodar mayor, as Acting Head of Tambov Oblast, making him the first war veteran to lead a Russian federal region. Pervyshov, who served in the “Grom-Kaskad” UAV Brigade, is a graduate of the Kremlin’s “Time of Heroes” program, which aims to replace traditional oligarchs with war veterans in government positions. Putin also appointed Maria Kostyuk, head of the “Time of Heroes” program, as acting governor of the Jewish Autonomous Oblast. These appointments appear to be part of the Kremlin’s strategy to increase military influence within Russia’s government structure and incentivize military service with promises of political advancement. However, many appointees come from specialized units like BARS Kaskad, which typically keeps elite members away from front-line combat while maintaining military connections.
Source Material
Institute for the Study of War – understandingwar.org
The Kyiv Independent – kyivindependent.com
Kyiv Post – kyivpost.com