- — From Ukraine To Strategic Stability: The Next Step In Arms Control
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at 4/29/25 2:14pmClick to see the full-size image For years, the West, led by Biden and the EU, supported Ukraines fight against Russia, determined to resist “to the last Ukrainian.” But as current peace talks unfold, new question arises: Could this conflict lead to war “to the last American”? The U.S. has dangerously overlooked the growing threat of intermediate-range missiles, which are set to destabilize global security. Moreover, with the New START treaty expiring in 2026 and the rise of hypersonic weapons, the risk of an unchecked arms race is more pressing than ever. Will current peace efforts lead to meaningful arms control, or will they trigger further escalation? As of April 29, 2025, the conflict in Ukraine remains unresolved, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently announced a three-day ceasefire, timed with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. However, the Ukrainian politician Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the proposal as insufficient, calling for a full, unconditional 30-day ceasefire to pave the way for meaningful negotiations. U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced support for a permanent ceasefire, pushing both sides toward a lasting resolution. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized, “It needs to happen soon. We cannot continue to dedicate time and resources to this effort if it’s not going to come to fruition.” Despite these diplomatic overtures, the core issue of territorial integrity remains contentious. Ukraine has firmly rejected U.S. proposals to recognize Russian control over Crimea, viewing such concessions as politically and legally untenable. The Looming Expiration of New START and Its Implications As the expiration of the New START Treaty looms in 2026, the world faces another significant issue: strategic arms control. This treaty, the last remaining bilateral arms control agreement between the U.S. and Russia, limits the number of long-range nuclear weapons each country can deploy. However, in 2023, Russia suspended its participation in the treaty, citing U.S. failure to keep its end of the deal and involvement in Ukraine conflict as one of significant factors. The impending expiration of New START raises concerns about the potential for an unchecked nuclear arms race, with both nations free to develop more sophisticated and destabilizing systems. The U.S. Military Encirclement of Russia and the Growing Threat of Missiles Amid these concerns, the U.S. is increasing its military presence in Eastern Europe, including missile deployments in Poland, the Baltics, and discussions about placing missiles in Ukraine. These actions are part of a broader strategy to counter Russian influence in the region. The U.S. has also strategically positioned itself in South Korea and Japan, further surrounding Russia with potential missile deployments. This extensive military presence could significantly heighten tensions, especially considering the potential for the deployment of intermediate-range missiles, which would directly threaten Russian security. The Unaddressed Threat: Intermediate-Range Missiles While much of the arms control focus has been on long-range nuclear weapons, one crucial issue is glaringly absent from current discussions: intermediate-range missiles. These weapons, with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers, can be deployed quickly and are difficult to track or defend against, making them a dangerous addition to any military arsenal. Yet, despite their destabilizing potential, they have not been sufficiently addressed in arms control discussions. This oversight is a critical gap in current arms control frameworks, and it has left Europe and other regions vulnerable to the deployment of such missiles. In addition, Russias hypersonic weapons have given it a technological edge over the United States. Russias Kinzhal and Avangard missiles, capable of traveling at speeds over 20 times the speed of sound, pose a direct challenge to U.S. missile defense systems. With these weapons already operational, Russia is in a strong position to lead in the next arms race. Russia has also introduced the Oreshnik missile, a nuclear-capable cruise missile that can achieve hypersonic speeds while maintaining maneuverability. This new technology puts Russia significantly ahead of the U.S., which has yet to deploy such advanced systems. The Russian advantage in this area not only shifts the balance of power but also opens the door for Moscow to potentially dominate a new arms race, should the U.S. fail to catch up. Why Isn’t This Being Addressed? The failure to address the issue of intermediate-range missiles in the peace talks on Ukraine is nothing but a glaring oversight. These weapons, along with hypersonic missiles, represent some of the most immediate and dangerous threats to global security. Their exclusion from arms control discussions suggests a lack of strategic foresight. The reason intermediate-range missiles are sidelined likely stems from political and geopolitical considerations. For the U.S. and NATO, addressing this issue could be seen as a concession to Russia, which has long demanded limits on such weapons. By avoiding the topic, Western powers maintain their military advantage, particularly in Eastern Europe. Moreover, the U.S. has strategic deployments in places like Poland and Ukraine, where intermediate-range missiles provide a key deterrence tool. Any arms control agreement might limit NATOs flexibility in countering Russias influence. In fact, should a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine be reached, the U.S. and NATO could use the situation as a pretext to expand their missile capabilities further around Russia. With an ostensibly peaceful environment, they might justify placing even more intermediate-range missiles in Poland, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries, under the guise of protecting against hypothetical Russian violations of the ceasefire. This could lead to a dangerous escalation, further increasing military tension in the region. This is why the settlement of the Ukraine conflict requires a broader, more comprehensive agreement that goes beyond regional peace. A deal must address the proliferation of these destabilizing missile systems, ensuring strategic stability on a global scale. Additionally, there is insufficient immediate pressure to address the issue. Nuclear weapons and the ongoing war in Ukraine dominate global attention, while the risks posed by intermediate-range and hypersonic missiles are not seen as urgent. This oversight may reflect a reluctance to tackle the complex geopolitics of missile technology, especially given Chinas growing arsenal. Conclusion: The Need for a Broader Arms Control Agenda The ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict present a crucial opportunity to expand the scope of arms control discussions. Achieving peace in Ukraine is important, but addressing the threat posed by intermediate-range missiles and hypersonic weapons is equally vital. The failure to address these weapons leaves the world vulnerable to catastrophic escalation. The U.S. and Russia must recognize that the current arms control framework is insufficient. As the U.S. surrounds Russia with military assets, including potential missile deployments in Ukraine, the failure to engage in discussions about intermediate-range missiles risks pushing both countries into a new arms race. With the expiration of New START in 2026, the window for reaching a new agreement is closing rapidly. However, both sides still have an opportunity to find common ground in the context of ongoing negotiations, addressing these issues and ensuring greater stability. Global security depends on addressing these challenges now to prevent a future conflict from spiraling into catastrophe. MORE ON THE TOPIC: New Ceasefire in Ukraine: Another Battle Of Behind-The-Scenes War Russia Carves Out Strategic Buffer Zone in Sumy Region Final Round: Ukraine Negotiations Reach Critical Point The post From Ukraine To Strategic Stability: The Next Step In Arms Control appeared first on South Front.- — New Ceasefire in Ukraine: Another Battle Of Behind-The-Scenes War
- at 4/29/25 1:09pmTo view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function(){ var player = videojs('content_video', { autoplay: false, loop: false, fluid: true, controlBar: { liveTracker: false } }); var shareOptions = { socials: ['fb', 'tw', 'reddit', 'messenger', 'linkedin', 'telegram', 'whatsapp', 'viber', 'vk'], url: window.location.href, title: "Another Battle Of Behind-The-Scenes War", description: "MONERO (XMR): 86yfEHs6pkoDEKCxc6MAnQX8cVHmzhYxMVrNuwKgNmqpWK8dDxjgGnK8PtUNJMACbn6xEGxmRauNTHJhUJpg9Mwz8htBBND bc1qgu58lfszcpqu6fd8l98m378wgzugyg9y93lcym qr28d80s5juzv2793k5jrq59xrl5fxd8qg9h3zlkk2 If you face any to the addresses given above, please info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. Also be aware that many email services such as etc. may block correspondence from info@southfront.press and some others put it in spam. 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Also be aware that many email services such as Hotmail, Yahoo etc. may block correspondence from info@southfront.press and some others put it in spam. If you want to support SouthFront but have no opportunity to do it via cryptocurrency, please contact us: info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. Russia has announced a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to 10, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The Kremlin framed the move as a goodwill gesture and an opportunity for Ukraine to reciprocate, warning that failure to comply would prompt a proportionate response. This marks the second temporary truce in a month, following a 30-hour Easter pause, and underscores Moscow’s attempt to gain initiative as a pragmatic actor in the stalled negotiation process. While Kyiv demands a 30-day ceasefire and the U.S. pushes for a complete end to hostilities, Russia’s shorter, actionable proposal reflects its skepticism toward Ukraine’s ability and willingness to uphold longer truces, given past violations. The Ukrainian response has been dismissive. Zelensky called the three-day offer a manipulation, insisting on an immediate and unconditional 30-day cessation. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister echoed this, questioning why Russia would delay until May 8 if it genuinely sought peace. Yet, Kyiv’s rhetoric may soften as the date approaches. During the Easter truce, Zelensky initially rejected the proposal before acquiescing under Western pressure. A similar shift remains possible, particularly if European allies urge compliance. However, Kyiv’s fragmented military control raises doubts about its compliance. The previous truces emphasized Ukraine’s inability to guarantee adherence even if its leadership agreed. Behind the diplomatic posturing, the ceasefire reveals deeper strategic calculations. For Moscow, the move offers initiative in negotiations and tests Ukraine’s readiness to engage. The Kremlin reiterated Russia’s openness to unconditional talks but stressed that Kyiv must first repeal its 2022 decree banning negotiations with Putin. The timing also appears to be tailored to U.S. politics. With the Trump administration pressuring both sides for a lasting deal, Russia’s gesture signals cooperation, possibly to keep Washington engaged. Recent backchannel talks, including Lavrov’s call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and a visit by Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow, suggest the ongoing behind-the-scenes maneuvering. Trump’s public frustration with the war’s protracted nature and hints that Zelensky might concede Crimea have further fueled speculation about a potential breakthrough. Yet, resistance of the Kyiv regime stems from existential stakes. A ceasefire risks legitimizing territorial losses, curbing Western aid flows, and triggering a domestic backlash, which are existential threats that could destabilize Zelensky’s government. Meanwhile, Russia’s incremental approach allows it to claim the moral high ground while retaining military leverage. The coming days will reveal whether this gambit fosters dialogue or merely prolongs the deadlock. Either way, the three-day pause underscores a pivotal truth: in a war with no clear winner, even temporary truces are battles of perception. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS The post New Ceasefire in Ukraine: Another Battle Of Behind-The-Scenes War appeared first on South Front.
- — Russia Carves Out Strategic Buffer Zone in Sumy Region
- at 4/29/25 10:34amIllustrative Image The Sumy region is coming under Russia’s northern offensive, with Ukrainian forces increasingly unable to stem the advance of Russian troops. What began as localized border clashes has now escalated into a full-scale push to dismantle Ukrainian defensive lines and sever vital supply routes. Russian forces are methodically advancing toward Yunakovka, a key logistical hub for Ukrainian operations near the Russian border and recently in the Kursk region. Russian troops are advancing in Loknya and launched assault on Basovka. Click to see full-size image Attacks on a wide front from multiple directions, including Vladimirovka, Zhuravka, and Basovka, have stretched Ukrainian defenses thin, forcing Kyiv to throw hastily assembled units into desperate counterattacks. One such attempt near Basovka, involving six armored vehicles and two platoons of motorized infantry, was swiftly repelled by Russian forces with heavy Ukrainian losses. As a result, Russian troops advanced in the village. The Ukrainian military’s reliance on forcibly mobilized personnel, including marines from Odessa, has further degraded morale, with reports of desertions becoming more frequent. In one notable incident, a group of mobilized marines from the 36th Brigade abandoned their positions near Loknya and fled into nearby forests, hiding from Ukrainian barrier squads. Ukrainian efforts to disrupt Russian advances have been further hampered by relentless long-range strikes. Russian artillery, aviation, and guided bombs are constantly pounding Ukrainian reinforcements, including elements of the 225th Assault Brigade and 21st Mechanized Brigade, both of which have suffered significant losses while attempting to regroup near Miropolye. document.createElement('video'); https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/sumy-3.mp4Download video The village of Miropolye, located south of Russian Gornal, has been turned into a fortified stronghold by Ukrainian forces, who forcibly evacuated remaining civilians to militarize the area. However, Russian precision strikes are systematically dismantling these military positions, eliminating Ukrainian assault groups attempting to entrench themselves in the ruins. FPV drone operators and artillery units have proven particularly effective, neutralizing entire units before they could establish defensive positions. As Russian forces solidify their gains, Ukrainian commanders face an increasingly dire situation. Depleted reserves, collapsing morale, and relentless Russian firepower have left defensive efforts in disarray. With each failed counterattack, the Ukrainian military’s ability to hold defense in the Sumy region weakens, further reinforcing Russia’s strategic momentum on northern frontlines. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Russian Long-Range Strike Downed Ukrainian Su-27 300km Behind Frontlines Night of Drones: Russia and Ukraine Exchange Mass Strikes Ahead of Ceasefire The post Russia Carves Out Strategic Buffer Zone in Sumy Region appeared first on South Front.
- — Military Situation In Ukraine On April 29, 2025 (Map Update)
- at 4/29/25 9:33amClick to see full-size image Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Kharkiv region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Donetsk region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Dnipropetrovsk region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Kyiv region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Sumy region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Zaporozhie region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Kherson region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Odessa region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Cherkassy region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Kremenchug region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Poltava region; Russian forces advanced in the Kupyansk direction; Russian forces advanced in the Svatove direction; Clashes continued in the Bogatyr direction; Russian forces advanced in the Toretsk direction; Russian forces eliminated about 205 servicemen, three armoured vehicles, 13 motor vehicles, six artillery guns, one ammo depot the Kharkiv area; Russian forces eliminated about 240 servicemen, one tank, four motor vehicles, three artillery guns, two EW stations, two ammo depots in the Svatove area; Russian forces eliminated about 250 servicemen, one HMMWV, one MaxxPro vehicle, three motor vehicles, one artillery gun in the Chasov Yar area; Russian forces eliminated about 450 servicemen, two armoured vehicles including one M113, two motor vehicles, two artillery guns in Donetsk region; Russian forces eliminated about 160 servicemen, two armoured vehicles, four motor vehicles, one CAESAR system, one EW station, one ammo depot in the Southern Donetsk area; Russian forces eliminated about 80 servicemen, three motor vehicles, one artillery gun, one EW station and materiel depots in the Kherson region; Russian air defense forces shot down seven JDAM guided aerial bombs and 189 UAVs over the past day. Click to see full-size image At least five civilians were wounded by Ukrainian drone strikes in Belgorod border villages; During the past night, Russian air defenses destroyed 91 Ukrainian drones in the rear regions; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 40 UAVs in the Kursk region Peninsula; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 12 UAVs in the Oryol region; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 11 UAVs in the Ryazan region; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 8 UAVs in the Nizhny Novgorod region; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 7 UAVs over the Black Sea; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 6 UAVs over the Crimean Peninsula; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 3 UAVs in the Belgorod region; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 2 UAVs in the Moscow region; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 1 UAV in the Kaluga region; At night, Russian air defense intercepted 1 UAV in the Bryansk region. Click to see full-size image The Russian MOD confirmed control of Doroshovka; Fighting is ongoing near Fygolivka; Fighting continues in Mala Shapkivka; Fighting continues near Kindrashivka; Fighting is ongoing near Boguslavka; Up to 205 Ukrainian servicemen, three armoured vehicles, 13 motor vehicles, six artillery guns, one ammo depot were destroyed in the area. Click to see full-size image Russian forces reportedly took control of Berezovka and cut the Pokrovsk road; Fighting is ongoing in Mirolubovka; Fighting is ongoing in Lysivka; Fighting is ongoing near Kotlyne; Fighting is ongoing in Udachnoye; Fighting is ongoing in Zvirove; Russian forces eliminated up to 450 Ukrainian servicemen, two armoured vehicles including one M113, two motor vehicles, two artillery guns in the area. Click to see full-size image Russian forces launched assault on Belovody; Fighting is ongoing in Volodymyrivka; Fighting is ongoing in Loknya. The post Military Situation In Ukraine On April 29, 2025 (Map Update) appeared first on South Front.
- — Russian Long-Range Strike Downed Ukrainian Su-27 300km Behind Frontlines
- at 4/29/25 9:23amIllustrative Image On April 28, the Air Force of Ukraine lost Su-27 fighter near Cherkasy, sparking a wave of speculation over the cause of the incident. While Ukrainian authorities initially remained tight-lipped, confirming the loss of the aircraft and stating that the pilot survived, Russia’s Defense Ministry later revealed the truth, asserting that the Russian Aerospace Forces had shot down the jet far behind the front lines. Ukrainian media initially floated multiple theories, trying to hide the truth and reduce reputation losses. Reasons reported by Ukrainian media included mechanical failure, pilot error and even friendly fire from Ukrainian air defenses. Soon, Ukrainian military official, a representative of Ukraine’s 3rd Assault Brigade claimed that the Su-27 was mistakenly targeted by the Ukrainian side during the interception of Russian Geran drones, with Ukrainian sources hinting at a human factor behind the incident. Ukrainian reports also widely shared the rumors about the responsibility of F-16 pilot during the chaos of repelling a Russian drone attack on the local airfield. https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/su27.mp4Download video Russian official claims revealed the truth. The Russian military has officially confirmed that its forces shot down a Ukrainian Su-27 fighter jet near Cherkasy, marking a significant demonstration of Russias extended air combat capabilities. This successful engagement, occurring approximately 300 km from the frontlines, provides clear evidence of Moscows growing dominance in beyond-visual-range aerial warfare. Military analysts confirm that Russia possesses several weapon systems capable of such long-range intercepts, including the R-37M (AA-13 Arrow) air-to-air missile with a 300+ km range, the new KS-172 ultra-long-range missile (400 km range), and even ground-based S-400 air defense systems when deployed in forward positions. These systems, when combined with Russias advanced radar coverage and electronic warfare support, create a lethal combination that can threaten Ukrainian aircraft deep behind the front lines. This engagement serves as both a tactical victory and a strategic warning to Ukraines dwindling air force about the futility of continued resistance against Russias overwhelming air dominance. As the special military operation continues, such demonstrations of Russian technical and operational superiority will undoubtedly become more frequent. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Russia Deploys New High-Speed “Banderol” Kamikaze Drone – Report Night of Drones: Russia and Ukraine Exchange Mass Strikes Ahead of Ceasefire The post Russian Long-Range Strike Downed Ukrainian Su-27 300km Behind Frontlines appeared first on South Front.
- — Military Situation In Yemen On April 29, 2025 (Map Update)
- at 4/29/25 8:46amClick to see full-size image During the past 24 hours, US aircraft launched at least 11 strikes in Yemen; Over the past night, US warplanes attacked Sanaa province 7 times; Over the past night, US warplanes attacked Amran province 3 times; Over the past night, US warplanes launched airstrikes in Saada province; On April 28, the Yemeni army attacked USS Harry Truman aircraft carrier and US warships with several cruise, ballistic missiles and drones in the Red Sea. The US army lost an F-18 warplane; LINK On April 28, the Yemeni army attacked Ashkelon with a suicide drone; Saudi artillery shelled the Shada area. A civilian woman was killed The post Military Situation In Yemen On April 29, 2025 (Map Update) appeared first on South Front.
- — Deadly Blast Reported At Alleged Defense Facility In Iran’s Isfahan
- at 4/29/25 8:08amFile image. A large blast rocked the production hall of a company allegedly affiliated with Irans top security body and drone industries in the central city of Isfahan on April 29. Initially, the regional director of the Emergency Management Department of Isfahan Province announced that one person was killed and two others sustained burns as a result of the blast at the production hall of the Ava Nar Parsian Chemical Industries company. Later, Iranian media reported that the death toll rose to two. Iranian authorities are yet to reveal the cause of the deadly blast, which came just three days after a powerful explosion hit the Shahid Rajaei port in the city of Bandar Abbas had risen to at least 70, with more than 1,200 people injured. Ava Nar Parsian Chemical Industries, according to its website, manufactures fireworks and gunpowder and operates under the supervision of Iran’s National Security Council, the country’s highest decision-making body on sensitive security matters. Citing the official company filings, Iran International, a London-based Persian-language news channel with links to the Iranian opposition, reported that certain decisions at Ava Nar Parsian Chemical Industries fall under the authority of the Intelligence Protection Organization for Weapons and Ammunition Management of Isfahan Province. The company is licensed to produce, trade, import, and export commercial, industrial, and chemical explosives, according to the channel. In addition, British newspaper The Guardian reported in the past that the same complex where the blast took place housed the Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company, a key player in the Islamic Republic’s drone program with links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Two days earlier, the head of the Islamic Republic’s Infrastructure Communications Company said that the country foiled a massive cyber attack on its infrastructure. The latest events, which took place amid indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the United States may have been the result of sabotage by Israel. For years now, Israeli intelligence has been waging a covert war against Iran, targeting the military and civilian infrastructure of the country. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Iran Says It Foiled Massive Cyber Attack Days After Deadly Port Blast Chemicals Used In Rocket Fuel Exploded In Iranian Port After Massive Fire – Report The post Deadly Blast Reported At Alleged Defense Facility In Iran’s Isfahan appeared first on South Front.
- — Russia Deploys New High-Speed “Banderol” Kamikaze Drone – Report
- at 4/29/25 7:48amIllustrative Image Ukrainian military sources have recently reported the deployment of a new Russian loitering munition, dubbed Banderol (Parcel) striking targets in Odesa, Mykolaiv, and Kharkiv regions since mid-April 2025. The drone reportedly poses a significant threat due to its high speed, explosive payload, and evasive flight profile, outpacing even the widely used Geran UAVs. According to Ukrainian military intelligence (GUR), the Banderol is a jet-powered kamikaze UAV, capable of reaching speeds between 400–500 km/h, making it difficult to intercept with conventional anti-aircraft guns or small arms. It can be distinguished by howling engine noise. While exact specifications remain unknown, Ukrainian analysts suggest the drone may function as a hybrid between a loitering munition and a guided missile, possibly derived from modified FAB glide bombs with jet propulsion. Its warhead is believed to be larger than that of the Geran, though its precise destructive capacity and operational range are still unknown. Russian forces have reportedly integrated the Banderol into mixed-wave strikes, deploying it alongside Geran, Gerbera (decoys turned into attack drones), and Parodiya electronic warfare UAVs. This tactic appears designed to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses, with the high-speed Banderol serving as the primary penetrator. Ukrainian air defense units have struggled to counter the new threat, as the drone’s velocity exceeds the engagement capabilities of MANPADS and some short-range systems. The lack of detailed technical intelligence suggests that few, if any, Banderoil drones have been successfully shot down so far. document.createElement('video'); https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/odessa-2-1-1.mp4Download video https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/odessa-1-1-1.mp4Download video According to local reports, the Russian military used some new UAVs in the night attack in Odessa on April 22nd. The UAVs supposed to be upgraded Geran-3 UAVs. LINK These could also be the so-called Banderol reported by the Ukrainian military. If confirmed, the introduction of the new UAV underscores Russia’s continued innovation in drone warfare, particularly in long-range strikes against logistical hubs, strategic infrastructure, and military-industrial sites. Its focus on Odessa aligns with Moscow’s campaign to disrupt Ukraine’s military supply routes and naval capabilities. Ukrainian officials have admitted that the new UAV is more dangerous than the Geran, citing its speed and payload as key challenges. Meanwhile, Russian sources have hinted at further upgrades to their drone fleet, including Geran UAVs with 90 kg warheads and real-time video transmission for precision targeting. For Ukraine, countering this threat will likely require accelerated deployment of electronic warfare systems and faster interceptor drones. With no signs of the aerial duel slowing, the skies over Ukraine remain a critical battleground in this protracted war. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Night of Drones: Russia and Ukraine Exchange Mass Strikes Ahead of Ceasefire Russian Forces Expand Kharkiv Front with Victories Near Kupyansk The post Russia Deploys New High-Speed Banderol Kamikaze Drone Report appeared first on South Front.
- — Night of Drones: Russia and Ukraine Exchange Mass Strikes Ahead of Ceasefire
- at 4/29/25 6:14amIllustrative Image In the early hours of April 29, 2025, Russian and Ukrainian forces exchanged waves of drone attacks against each other’s territories, marking one of the largest aerial exchanges in recent days. The strikes targeted military-industrial sites, airfields, and frontline positions, underscoring the intensifying drone warfare as both sides prepare for a three-day ceasefire set to begin on May 8. The Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported intercepting 37 Russian Geran-type drones and 47 decoy UAVs, out of 100 UAVs launched from Russian territory, including Kursk, Millerovo, Orel, Bryansk, and Crimea. The strikes primarily targeted Kharkiv, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, and Kyiv regions, with Ukrainian mobile fire teams and electronic warfare systems engaging the drones. Despite Ukraine’s claims of high interception rates, Russian drones were recorded heavily damaging critical infrastructure. Over the past day alone, Russian strikes were recorded in: Donbass Sumy region Kharkiv region Zaporozhie region Kherson region Chernomorsk, Vilkovo in Odessa region Cherkassy region Kyiv, Vyshgorod in Kyiv region Dnipro, Sinelnikovo, Pavlograd in Dnipropetrovsk region Kremenchug, Mirgorod, Globino in Poltava region. document.createElement('video'); https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kyiv-2-2.mp4Download video https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kyiv-3.mp4Download video The capital of Ukraine came under a series of Russian strikes. Explosions thundered in the industrial zone of Kyiv, as well as in the towns on the outskirts of the city. The satellite imagery revealed a major fire at a former missile and artillery base in Kehychivka in Kharkiv region, where explosions lit up an 800-square-meter area. Local officials confirmed the attack, suggesting the former military site was actively used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Click to see full-size image On April 28th, Russian Iskander-M missile struck the port city of Chernomorsk (Ilyichevsk), while Geran-2 drones struck the area of Vylkove on the Danube River. According to local reports, the towns of Myrhorod and Globino in the Poltava region, where Ukrainian airbases are located, also came under attacks on April 28th, while heavy drone strikes pounded the airfield in Cherkassy. LINK In their turn, the Armed Forces of Ukraine continue attempts to attack Russian rear regions. According to the Ministry of the Russian Federation, in total, 91 Ukrainian UAVs were destroyed in nine rear regions and over the Black Sea by Russian air defense at night. Most of them, 40 UAVs were intercepted in the border Kursk region. According to local reports, drones targeted the area of Obninsk, where the former nuclear power plant is located. 12 UAVs targeted the rear Oryol region, 11 UAVs Ryazan region, 8 UAVs Nizhny Novgorod region etc. No significant damage was reported as a result of the repelled attack. The strikes come just days before Russia’s proposed 72-hour truce for Victory Day celebrations. Ukraine has dismissed the offer as insufficient, demanding a 30-day ceasefire instead. However, Moscow has accused Kyiv of violating past truces, citing hundreds of breaches during the Easter ceasefire on the Pokrovsk, Toretsk, and Orikhiv fronts. With the ceasefire looming, the coming days may see either a lull in fighting or a final surge of attacks before the temporary halt. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Russian Forces Expand Kharkiv Front with Victories Near Kupyansk Overview Of Strikes: Russian Drones Pounded Airfield in Cherkassy The post Night of Drones: Russia and Ukraine Exchange Mass Strikes Ahead of Ceasefire appeared first on South Front.
- — Nine Killed In Sectarian-Fueled Clashes Between Government Fighters And Druze In Syria (18+ Videos)
- at 4/29/25 6:14amClick to see full-size image. (Syrian Arab News Agency) Heavy clashes broke out in a suburb of the Syrian capital, Damascus, early on April 29, between local fighters from the Druze religious minority and forces affiliated with the Islamist-led interim government. The clashes in the suburb of Jaramana, located some three kilometers to the southeast of Damascus, broke out after an audio clip circulated on social media of a man attacking Islam’s Prophet Muhammad. The clip angered many Sunni Muslims who took to the streets to protest in several parts of the country, with some even demanding “the extermination of Druze.” The audio was attributed to Druze cleric Marwan Kiwan, who later denied the accusation in a video posted to social networks. “I categorically deny that the audio was made by me,” Kiwan said in the video. “I did not say that and whoever made it is an evil man who wants to incite strife between components of the Syrian people.” From its side, the Interior Ministry said in a statement it was investigating the audio, adding that its initial probe showed the cleric was not responsible. The ministry urged people to abide by the law and not to act in a way that undermines security. It also deployed security forces around Jaramana in an attempt to stop the clashes, according to the state-run Syrian Arab News Agency. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the clashes claimed the lives of six Jaramana locals and left at least 15 others wounded. At least three pro-government fighters were also killed, according to the London-based monitoring group. While the fiercest clashes took place in Jaramana, exchange of fire between pro-government fighters and Druze locals was also reported in the nearby towns of Sahnaya and Kanaker with heavy weapons, including mortars and anti-aircraft guns, being used. Amid the deadly clashes, Israeli fighter jets and combat drones were reported spotted flying over Jaramana and nearby areas. The clashes also led to tensions in the Druze-majority governorate of al-Suwayda, where local factions which refused to disarm after the fall of the Assad regime last December amassed thousands of heavily-armed fighters. Druze fighters, including those from Jaramana, played a key role in the final assault on Damascus. However, they were sidelined by the Islamists who took over the country. Since then, tensions between the minority group and the government have been on the rise. Government forces were confronted by Druze fighters while attempting to enter al-Suwayda on new year’s eve. In March, a more serious escalation took place when government forces surrounded Jaramana and threatened to attack Druze fighters guarding the city. However, the situation was defused after Israel threatened to defend the city, citing the historic relation between its own Druze population and those in Syria. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders have since publicly warned the Syrian government not to harm the Druze. Druze leaders, including the spiritual head of the group in Syria Hikmat al-Hijri, later took a more bold stance in the face of the government, first rejecting the constitution decree which gave interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa absolute powers, then criticizing the government formed later for its lack of inclusivity. The clashes near Damascus will likely push the Druze to take a more radical stance. This shows how the inability and unwillingness of Syria’s Islamist rulers to build meaningful relations with the minorities, whether Druze, Alawites, Christians or Kurds, is fragmenting the country. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Syrian Government Forces Opened Fire While Russian Aircraft Was Landing In Khmeimim Assad Cousin Claims He Raised Army On Syria’s Coast With Tiger Forces Commander The post Nine Killed In Sectarian-Fueled Clashes Between Government Fighters And Druze In Syria (18+ Videos) appeared first on South Front.
- — Locations Of US Carrier Strike Groups – April 29, 2025
- at 4/29/25 5:31amThis is the newest update of the ‘U.S. Carrier Strike Groups Locations Map’ exclusive series showing the approximate locations of U.S. Carrier Strike Groups. SouthFront: Analysis & Intelligence tracks locations of U.S. aircraft carriers using the available open-source information. No classified information was used in production of the map. click to see the full-size image Carrier strike group (CSG) is an operational formation of the United States Navy. It is centered on an aircraft carrier and a carrier air wing of 65 to 70 aircrafts. It’s composed of roughly 7,500 personnel, an aircraft carrier, at least one cruiser, a destroyer squadron of at least two destroyers and/or frigates. A carrier strike group also, on occasion, includes submarines, attached logistics ships and a supply ship. Carrier strike groups comprise a principal element of U.S. power projection over the world’s oceans ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS The post Locations Of US Carrier Strike Groups – April 29, 2025 appeared first on South Front.
- — Russian Forces Expand Kharkiv Front with Victories Near Kupyansk
- at 4/29/25 5:22amIllustrative Image Russian troops have secured two key victories in the Kharkiv region north of Kupyansk, advancing their strategic goal of consolidating control over the western bank of the Oskol River. On April 29th, the Defense Ministry of the Russian Federation announced the liberation of the village of Doroshovka. Following intense clashes, Ukrainian attempts to hold their positions in the village failed. The victory in Doroshovka marks another step in Russia’s expansion of its foothold north of Kupyansk, where Ukrainian troops have largely relied on drone warfare and tactical withdrawals to slow the advance. At the same time, Russian victory in Doroshovka allows to surround Ukrainian stronghold on a hill between this village and Malaya Shapkovka. Advancing on a wide front, amid battles in Kondrashovka and Malaya Shapkovka, Russian troops are approaching the strategically important road north of Kupyansk, used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine for military supplies and rotation. Battle for Kamenka: https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/KAmenka-1.mp4Download video https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/KAmenka-2.mp4Download video The day before, the Russian army achieved another important victory to the north in the Kupyansk directions. On April 28th, the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation officially confirmed control of Kamenka, located just 7 km from the Belgorod border. After crossing the Oskol River, Russian forces launched assault on the settlement and won the battle. Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov personally commended the 344th Motorized Rifle Regiment for its role in the operation, highlighting the unit’s exceptional bravery in dangerous battles. Kamenka’s fall is particularly significant. It bridges Russian-held footholds on the western bank of the river from Dvurechnaya to the Belgorod border, creating a unified bridgehead that could enable future offensives to the west on a wide front toward Velykyi Burluk, a logistical hub for Ukrainian garrison defending Kupyansk. Click to see full-size image Strategic Implications: Encirclement and Pressure on Kupyansk The recent gains underscore Russia’s broader tactical objective: isolating Kupyansk, a heavily fortified Ukrainian stronghold. By securing villages like Doroshovka and Kamenka, Russian forces are gradually encircling the city from the north, while grinding through Ukrainian defense east, and south. At the same time, the expanding Russian bridgehead could eventually threaten Ukrainian supply lines to the war-torn town Volchansk, where Kyiv’s troops are engaged in fierce counterattacks. Ukrainian forces have responded by reinforcing grouping in Velykyi Burluk, anticipating a potential Russian thrust into their rear. However, Russia’s incremental advances coupled with reported Ukrainian ammunition shortages suggest Moscow retains the initiative. The Defense Ministry’s confirmations of these victories indicate confidence in holding the new positions. https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1-2.mp4Download video With Kupyansk’s defenses proving resilient, Russia appears focused on grinding down Ukrainian resistance through flank maneuvers rather than a direct assault. The Oskol River line, once fully secured, would provide a springboard for deeper pushes into Kharkiv region. Yet the pace remains slow, a reflection of Ukraine’s layered defenses and Russia’s preference for minimizing losses. As fighting rages near Stepovaya Novoselovka (17 km from Kupyansk), the next phase may hinge on whether Russian forces can sever Ukrainian routes to the city. For now, the twin victories at Doroshovka and Kamenka signal Moscow’s unwavering pressure on a critical sector of the front, one that could soon tilt the balance in Russia’s favor. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Trenches of Brotherhood: Russia and North Korea Redefined Alliances Final Round: Ukraine Negotiations Reach Critical Point The post Russian Forces Expand Kharkiv Front with Victories Near Kupyansk appeared first on South Front.
- — U.S. Navy Lost $70 Million F-18 Super Hornet Jet During Houthi Attack On Carrier
- at 4/29/25 4:54amIllustrative image. (The U.S. Central Command) An F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter jet of the United States Navy was lost after it fell into the Red Sea from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier while it was being towed on board, the Navy announced in a statement on April 28. In a statement, the Navy said that personnel aboard are accounted for, and one sailor sustained a minor injury as a result of the incident. “The F/A-18E was actively under tow in the hangar bay when the move crew lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft and tow tractor were lost overboard,” the Navy added. “Sailors towing the aircraft took immediate action to move clear of the aircraft before it fell overboard. An investigation is underway.” A U.S. official told CNN that initial reports from the scene indicated the carrier made a hard turn to evade an attack by the Houthis (Ansar Allah), which contributed to the fighter jet falling overboard. The Super Hornet is a series of supersonic twin-engine, carrier-capable, multirole fighter aircraft derived from the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. The F/A-18E single-seat variant is a larger and more advanced version of the F/A-18C and D Hornet, respectively. A single fighter jet of this type cost upwards of $70 million. The Houthis later confirmed that they were behind the attack on USS Harry S. Truman, saying in a statement that they targeted the carrier with ballistic and cruise missiles in addition to suicide drones in response to a recent wave of U.S. strikes on Yemen that claimed the lives of dozens of people. One of the strikes hit a detention centre for African migrants in the northern province of Saada, the heartland of the Houthis, killing at least 68 people. “The Yemeni Armed Forces will continue to target and pursue the aircraft carrier and all enemy warships in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea until the aggression against Yemen stops,” Houthi military spokesman Brigadier General Yahya Saree said, adding that the group also launched a drone attack against “a vital target” near the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon in response to the war on the Gaza Strip. The U.S. military resumed strikes against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen on March 15 on orders from President Donald Trump, who said that the large-scale operation was launched in response to the group’s renewed attacks on Israel-affiliated shipping in the Red Sea. Since then, the Houthis have been targeting USS Harry S. Truman with missiles and drones on a near-daily basis. Weeks into the operation, the U.S. dispatched another aircraft carrier, USS Carl Vinson, to attack the Houthis. The carrier has also come under several attacks since then. The cost of the ongoing operation against the Houthis exceeded $1 billion in its first three weeks. The number does not likely include the price of the seven MQ-9 Reaper combat drones shot down by the Houthis since then, estimated at around $200 millions, nor the price of the F/A-18E lost at sea. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Houthis Launch Another Wave Of Missile, Drone Strikes (Videos) Houthis Renew Attack On Key Israeli Air Base (Videos) The post U.S. Navy Lost $70 Million F-18 Super Hornet Jet During Houthi Attack On Carrier appeared first on South Front.
- — From Battlefield To Bargaining Table: Russia’s Gains Shape Ukraine War Negotiations
- at 4/28/25 1:02pmTo view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function(){ var player = videojs('content_video', { autoplay: false, loop: false, fluid: true, controlBar: { liveTracker: false } }); var shareOptions = { socials: ['fb', 'tw', 'reddit', 'messenger', 'linkedin', 'telegram', 'whatsapp', 'viber', 'vk'], url: window.location.href, title: "Russia Gains Shape Ukraine War Negotiations", description: "MONERO (XMR): 86yfEHs6pkoDEKCxc6MAnQX8cVHmzhYxMVrNuwKgNmqpWK8dDxjgGnK8PtUNJMACbn6xEGxmRauNTHJhUJpg9Mwz8htBBND bc1qgu58lfszcpqu6fd8l98m378wgzugyg9y93lcym qr28d80s5juzv2793k5jrq59xrl5fxd8qg9h3zlkk2 If you face any to the addresses given above, please info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. Also be aware that many email services such as etc. may block correspondence from info@southfront.press and some others put it in spam. 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Also be aware that many email services such as Hotmail, Yahoo etc. may block correspondence from info@southfront.press and some others put it in spam. If you want to support SouthFront but have no opportunity to do it via cryptocurrency, please contact us: info@southfront.press and southfront@list.ru. Russian forces are making gradual territorial gains on the frontlines while Ukrainian troops struggle to hold their positions amid mounting losses. Over the past week, Russian advances have secured an additional 21 square kilometers. Ukrainian troops are forced to adjust defensive tactics, relying on heavy camouflage and small-unit movements to avoid detection. The skies over the battlefield are increasingly dominated by drones from both sides, leading to a near-parity in aerial reconnaissance and strike capabilities at low altitude. Both sides are implementing countermeasures such as mesh corridors and enhanced concealment to mitigate the drone threat. Russian forces have increased pressure and won control of several important villages on a wide front advancing toward Konstantinovka from the southeastern direction. Fierce battles rage in the mines on the outskirts of Torezk. The South Donetsk front is also marked by the advance of Russian forces toward the borders of the Dnipropetrovsk region. Heavy fighting continues near Bogatyr, with Ukrainian forces launching counterattacks, including armored assaults. The Zaporizhzhia front remains a hotly contested zone where Ukrainian drone operators are slowing the pace of the Russian advance. In Kherson, the frontlines have remained static, though field reports suggested a potential Russian crossing of the Dnipro River—a move that would face significant logistical challenges. The Ukrainian bloody incursion on Russian territory failed. The Russian army liberated the Kursk region and repelled Ukrainian forces from the last border villages in Belgorod. However, the Ukrainian military does not stop reinforcing positions near the border, heavily shelling Russian villages. Threatened by a Russian offensive on Ukrainian territory, Kyiv appears to be regrouping for new possible attacks in the Bryansk and Belgorod directions. In the Sumy direction, Russian forces have already ramped up offensive operations, deploying long-range artillery, airstrikes, and assault brigades to weaken Ukrainian defenses. Key battles are unfolding around Basovka and Yunakovka, with Russian troops advancing toward Loknya, a critical logistical hub for Ukrainian forces. On the diplomatic front, rumors about the possible peace terms are wide spreading. Moscow has reiterated its conditions for possible negotiations. Foreign Minister Lavrov has emphasized that Crimea’s status is non-negotiable and that any ceasefire must come with guarantees against further Ukrainian rearmament. Moscow also insists on maintaining control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and has noted the absence of any U.S. proposals regarding sanctions relief. While Russia remains open to discussions, it has made clear that any agreement must reflect the current realities on the battlefield. In his turn, Zelensky is pushing a controversial deal to European nations, ready to mobilize an additional 600,000 troops in exchange for €100 billion. His plan includes lowering the conscription age to 18 and extending martial law, ensuring that Zelensky retains power. The move underscores Kyiv’s strategy of prolonging the war despite heavy casualties, banking on Western support to sustain its war effort. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS The post From Battlefield To Bargaining Table: Russias Gains Shape Ukraine War Negotiations appeared first on South Front.
- — Military Situation In Ukraine On April 28, 2025 (Map Update)
- at 4/28/25 11:20amClick to see full-size image Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Cherkassy region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Sumy region; Russian strikes destroyed targets in the Dnipropetrovsk region; The Russian MoD confirmed control of Kamenka in the Kupyansk direction; Russian forces advanced in the Svatove direction; Russian forces advanced in the Bogatyr direction; Russian forces advanced in the Toretsk direction; A civilian was killed and six other were wounded in the DPR over the past day; Russian forces eliminated about 220 servicemen, an armoured vehicle, 16 motor vehicles, six artillery guns, two ammo depots the Kharkiv area; Russian forces eliminated about 240 servicemen, eight motor vehicles, three artillery guns, one Kvertus EW station, six ammo depots in the Svatove area; Russian forces eliminated about 230 servicemen, two armoured vehicles including a M113, two pickups, an artillery gun in the Chasov Yar area; Russian forces eliminated about 375 servicemen, two armoured vehicles, two motor vehicles, an Israeli RADA radar in Donetsk region; Russian forces eliminated about 170 servicemen, two armoured vehicles, four motor vehicles, three artillery guns in the Southern Donetsk area; Russian forces eliminated about 75 servicemen, three motor vehicles, a artillery gun, an EW station in the Kherson region; Russian air defense forces shot down three U.S.-made JDAM guided bombs and 234 UAVs over the past day. Click to see full-size image The Russian MOD confirmed control of Kamenka; Fighting is ongoing near Fygolivka; Fighting continues in Mala Shapkivka; Fighting continues near Kindrashivka; Fighting is ongoing near Boguslavka; Up to 220 Ukrainian servicemen, an armoured vehicle, 16 motor vehicles, six artillery guns, two ammo depots were destroyed in the area. Click to see full-size image Russian forces advanced on the outskirts of Grigorovka; Clashes continued in Verkhnokamyanske; Clashes continued near Vyimka village; Clashes continued in Pereezdnoye village; Russian forces eliminated up to 375 servicemen, two armoured vehicles, two motor vehicles, an Israeli RADA radar in the area. Click to see full-size image Russian forces expanded their zone of control near Sukhaya Balka; Russian forces secured the Komsomol district and entered the northern part of Shcherbinovka; Fighting is ongoing in the western part of Petrovka; Fighting is ongoing in northern part of Toretsk; Russian forces eliminated up to 375 Ukrainian servicemen, two armoured vehicles, two motor vehicles, an Israeli RADA radar in the area. Click to see full-size image Russian forces advanced north of Andriivka; Russian forces advanced near Troitskoye; Fighting continues near Alekseevka; Fighting continues near Fedorovka; Russian forces eliminated up to 375 Ukrainian servicemen, two armoured vehicles, two motor vehicles, an Israeli RADA radar in the area. The post Military Situation In Ukraine On April 28, 2025 (Map Update) appeared first on South Front.
- — Trenches of Brotherhood: Russia and North Korea Redefined Alliances
- at 4/28/25 10:13amClick to see full-size image In a historic move confirming months of speculation, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has officially acknowledged the deployment of Korean Peoples Army (KPA) troops to Russia’s Kursk region, where they participated in combat operations against Ukrainian forces. The announcement, made through the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), frames the intervention as a fulfillment of the Russia-DPRK mutual defense pact signed earlier this year. According to KCNA, North Korean soldiers were sent to Kursk to help repel neo-Nazi Ukrainian invasion backed by the West. The report highlights that in August 2024, Ukrainian forces equipped with modern Western weapons launched a large-scale incursion, occupying over 1,200 square kilometers of Russian territory and committing atrocities against civilians. Kim Jong Un declared the intervention a sacred duty to uphold the traditional friendship between Pyongyang and Moscow. He also announced plans to erect a memorial in Pyongyang honoring North Korean soldiers who fell in battle, which is a tacit admission of combat losses. document.createElement('video'); https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/northkorea1.mp4Download video North Korean fighters on training grounds and in battles: https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/northkorea2.mp4Download video While operational details remain scarce, the Russian military shared footage showing North Korean soldiers training at Russian bases before deployment. The clips reveal drills in urban combat, drone defense, and small-unit tactics, suggesting they were prepped for the asymmetric warfare seen in Kursk. North Korean troops accustomed to harsh conditions and rigid discipline may have been used in high-risk assault roles, particularly in clearing fortified Ukrainian positions. Their presence also served a psychological purpose, demonstrating Russia’s ability to mobilize unconventional allies despite Western sanctions. In the case of escalation or deployment of any NATO troops in Ukraine, Moscow has an experienced, combat ready ally to respond. The deployment carries far-reaching implications. The move cements the Russia-DPRK alliance, complicating Western efforts to isolate Moscow. Any attack on North Korea now risks drawing Russia into conflict. Notably, Western warmongers have downplayed North Korea’s involvement, assured that their efforts had isolated, but now Moscow has a battle-tested ally. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Secret War: North Korean Fighters Helped To Turn the Tide in Kursk Russian Armed Forces Сompletely Liberate Kursk region From Ukrainian Neo-Nazi Groups – Vladimir Putin The post Trenches of Brotherhood: Russia and North Korea Redefined Alliances appeared first on South Front.
- — Military Situation In Yemen On April 28, 2025 (Map Update)
- at 4/28/25 10:12amClick to see full-size image During the past 24 hours, US aircraft launched at least 17 strikes in Yemen; Over the past night, US warplanes attacked Amran province 8 times; Over the past night, US warplanes attacked Saada province 6 times, killing 68 people; Over the past night, US warplanes launched several airstrikes in Sanaa province, killing 8 civilians, including women and children; US strikes in Saada prison, which serves as a shelter for African migrants, resulted in the deaths of 68 individuals. The post Military Situation In Yemen On April 28, 2025 (Map Update) appeared first on South Front.
- — Final Round: Ukraine Negotiations Reach Critical Point
- at 4/28/25 9:29amClick to see the full-size image The protracted conflict in Ukraine appears to be approaching a pivotal moment. Negotiations aimed at ending the war have intensified, bringing together key players from Washington, Brussels, Kyiv, and Moscow. Yet, even as diplomatic efforts gain momentum, hostilities persist on the ground. U.S. Push for Resolution President Donald Trump is eager to conclude the “Ukraine file,” viewing the conflict as both costly and prolonged. He has been pressing Kyiv to show more flexibility, recently meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Vatican— a meeting he described as “very productive.” “I see [Mr Zelensky] as calmer. I think he understands the picture, and I think he wants to make a deal.” – Donald Trump Click to see the full-size image https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Ukraine-Negotiations-2.mp4Download video Behind the diplomatic courtesies lies a clear message: Washington expects Kyiv to be more pliable. Trump has suggested that Zelensky might be ready to “give up” Crimea to achieve a peace agreement. This marks a significant shift for Zelensky, who had previously vowed to recapture the peninsula at any cost. The U.S. aims to quickly declare a “peacekeeping victory” while conserving resources, publicly maintaining support for Ukraine in a classic “good cop” diplomatic approach. “It needs to happen soon. We cannot continue to dedicate time and resources to this effort if it’s not going to come to fruition.” – Marco Rubio European Dynamics and Diverging Interests Europe welcomes the negotiations, weary of the prolonged crisis, though unity within the EU is lacking. Paris and Berlin pragmatically seek stability, with French President Emmanuel Macron actively facilitating the Trump-Zelensky meeting in Rome to inject new momentum into the talks. Click to see the full-size image France and Germany are keen to restore stability in Europe, even if it means Ukraine must make concessions. Publicly, they continue to emphasize Ukraines territorial integrity — no one wants to overtly urge Ukrainians to cede land, even if the outcome seems inevitable. Eastern European EU members, particularly Poland and the Baltic states, view any compromises with Moscow with trepidation, fearing that the Kremlins ambitions could eventually target them. Consequently, the EU strives to maintain a facade of unity: officially supporting Kyiv and its peace terms, while tacitly ready to accept any scenario that halts the bloodshed and secures Europe. Ukraines Predicament Ukraines leadership finds itself in perhaps the most challenging position. On one hand, Kyiv continues to project confidence and uphold its victory slogans. Zelensky publicly vows not to compromise on sovereignty and loudly decries Moscows duplicity, attempting to portray Russia as the obstacle to peace. However, behind the scenes, the rhetoric softens. Pressure from Washington and Europes fatigue are taking their toll: Zelenskys circle increasingly speaks of “realistic goals.” Privately, Kyiv acknowledges that regaining all lost territories by force has failed. Moreover, continuing the war threatens to exhaust the country entirely. Thus, Ukraine is now urgently seeking a way to save face. Kyivs primary interest is to secure maximum guarantees and financial aid in exchange for compelled territorial concessions. In other words, if it must de facto relinquish Crimea (and possibly parts of Donbas), it aims to at least negotiate EU membership, special relations with NATO, or guarantees of continued military support. Continued Hostilities Ironically, just as Kyiv is compelled to sit at the negotiating table, it simultaneously attempts to display “strength” on the battlefield. Instead of genuinely ceasing fire, Ukraine continues to launch incursions into Russian territory — perhaps out of sheer desperation or as a tactic to raise the stakes. From April 27 to 28, 2025, the Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted a series of strikes on Russian territory, deploying a total of 115 drones, focusing on border regions and strategic targets. Click to see the full-size image Russias Stance Moscow approaches the final phase of negotiations from a position of strength, bolstered by successes on the battlefield. The Russian leadership has consistently indicated that peace is possible only on its terms. The key demands have long been stated and are unlikely to change: recognition of new territorial realities — affirming that Crimea and other liberated regions remain part of Russia; a neutral and non-aligned status for Ukraine, ensuring no NATO presence near Russia; demilitarization of the Ukrainian regime — at a minimum, the withdrawal of long-range strike systems threatening Russian territory. Additionally, Moscow is evidently seeking the lifting of the most painful Western sanctions, although this issue is likely being addressed separately from official negotiations. Russias interest in these talks is straightforward: to solidify military gains through political means and ensure that threats from Ukraine do not recur. Unlike Kyiv, the Kremlin is candid in articulating its “red lines.” Any peace agreement, according to Moscow, must be backed by concrete commitments from Ukraine and its sponsors. Otherwise, as repeatedly stated by the Russian MFA, the option remains to continue the military operation until all objectives are fully achieved. Notably, as negotiations conclude, Russia demonstrates readiness for decisive action should peace efforts collapse. The military initiative remains with the Russian army. This is likely recognized in Kyiv: the proposal for a ceasefire was met with a painful reaction — Ukraine accused Russia of provocation while simultaneously pleading with the West for additional guarantees. The Road Ahead While diplomats draw lines of compromise on maps, the war still rages on the ground. Paradoxically, the final phase of negotiations coincides with intensified combat activity — each side seemingly aiming to strengthen its position ahead of a potential truce. Particular attention is drawn to the recent surge in Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian territory. Overall, as negotiations near their conclusion, both sides approach the brink of renewed escalation, seeking to bolster their respective positions. The front lines have stabilized: Russia controls eastern and southern Ukraine, while Kyiv holds major cities, hoping for a ceasefire. Both sides avoid large-scale offensives, awaiting a political resolution. The negotiations resemble a chess match: the U.S. aims to appear as a peacemaker, Europe seeks stability, Kyiv is torn between ambition and reality, and Russia insists on its terms. The outcome depends on the parties actual actions, and while Kyiv strives to save face, territorial losses seem inevitable. For Ukraine, a moment of truth is approaching, which, judging by Moscows sardonic tone, will expose the futility of its ambitions. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Overview Of Strikes: Russian Drones Pounded Airfield in Cherkassy BREAKING: Putin Declares Victory Day Ceasefire Kursk and Belgorod Liberated as Kyiv Plots Bryansk Offensive The post Final Round: Ukraine Negotiations Reach Critical Point appeared first on South Front.
- — Ukrainian Attacks Kill Nearly 300 Russian Civilians In First Months Of 2025
- at 4/28/25 8:54amIllustrative Image Russian officials have recorded escalating civilian casualties from Ukrainian cross-border strikes, with drone attacks emerging as a particularly deadly threat. According to the Ambassador-at-large of the Russian Foreign Ministry for crimes of the Kiev regime Rodion Miroshnik, 292 civilians were killed and 1,197 wounded in Ukrainian attacks between January and March 2025, including 68 children among the casualties. The data reveals a disturbing trend: Ukrainian forces have increasingly turned to drones to strike civilian areas, with 23 people killed, three of them children, in UAV attacks over the same period. Miroshnik accused Kyiv of numerous war crimes of deliberately targeting homes, vehicles, and even rescue teams and ambulances. https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/church.mp4Download video The conflict’s toll on civilians continues to mount, with Russian authorities reporting 21,002 civilian casualties since February 2022, including 6,715 dead, among them 218 children. The hardest-hit regions include Belgorod, the Donetsk and Luhansk Peoples Republics, as well as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, where shelling remains frequent. Miroshnik also highlighted Ukrainian attacks on Orthodox churches intensified during the festive Easter weeks, citing as example the shelling of the Gornal Monastery as part of a broader pattern of religious persecution. He called for an international investigation into what he termed crimes against religious freedom. MORE ON THE TOPIC: Overview Of Strikes: Russian Drones Pounded Airfield in Cherkassy BREAKING: Putin Declares Victory Day Ceasefire The post Ukrainian Attacks Kill Nearly 300 Russian Civilians In First Months Of 2025 appeared first on South Front.
- — Overview Of Strikes: Russian Drones Pounded Airfield in Cherkassy
- at 4/28/25 7:45amIllustrative Image On April 28th, Russian forces launched another series of strikes across Ukraine. Depleted Ukrainian air defense can no longer repel either night of day attacks. One of the most massive waves of drone strikes targeted the city of Cherkassy on the morning of April 28th. Russian Geran-type kamikaze drones struck the city’s international airport. Multiple explosions thundered in the area of aviation hangars and storage facilities, with at least ten impacts recorded. According to local reports, the attack destroyed a workshop and warehouse used for assembling and storing Ukrainian military drones. https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/chrk.mp4Download video Click to see full-size image The Ukrainian military confirmed the loss of a Su-27 fighter jet, lost during an attempted interception of the incoming drones. While Kyiv attributed it to unclear circumstances, Russian sources suggest the jet was either hit by drone shrapnel or fell victim to friendly fire, probably when trying to repel the attack in Cherkassy. This marks at least the second time a Ukrainian fighter has been downed while engaging Russian loitering munitions, following a similar incident involving a MiG-29 in 2022. Beyond Cherkasy, Russian drones and missiles destroyed military targets in the eastern Sumy region, preventing the deployment of Ukrainian reserves near the Russian border. Strikes also damaged the local Impulse plant, used including for cluster munitions production, and the Shostka Chemical Plant, where weapons were stored and military equipment repaired. Russian drones were also filmed flying over Dnipropetrovsk region, where the locals note the daily increasing intensity of strikes. https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dnipro-2-3.mp4Download video https://s5.cdnstatic.space/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dnipro-1-3.mp4Download video Meanwhile, Ukraine attempted another massive drone offensive against Russian territory overnight, with 115 UAVs intercepted, mostly over Bryansk region, where one civilian was killed and infrastructure was damaged. Additional drones were shot down over Crimea, Kursk, and Belgorod, though Russian air defenses largely prevented significant losses. As both sides intensify their drone campaigns, the conflict continues to evolve into a war of attrition, with strikes pounding rear logistics, industry, and military facilities. While Russia maintains pressure on Ukrainian military infrastructure, Kyiv’s persistent drone raids demonstrate its ability to retaliate with low effectiveness. MORE ON THE TOPIC: BREAKING: Putin Declares Victory Day Ceasefire Kursk and Belgorod Liberated as Kyiv Plots Bryansk Offensive The post Overview Of Strikes: Russian Drones Pounded Airfield in Cherkassy appeared first on South Front.
- — Syrian Government Forces Opened Fire While Russian Aircraft Was Landing In Khmeimim
- at 4/28/25 6:59amIllustrative image. The forces of Syria’s interim government opened fire from anti-aircraft guns while a Russian military cargo aircraft was landing in Khmeimim Air Base on the Syrian coast over the night of April 27 and 28. The source of fire was reportedly the Naval Academy, just two kilometers to the southwest of the air base, according to Syrian activists, who said on social networks that government forces deployed there, including foreign fighters, were attempting to target the aircraft. It is possible, however, that the anti-aircraft fire was directed at a drone flying by. Khmeimim and another Russian base located within Tartus port, further south along the coast, have been repelling drone attacks for the past week. Attempts to target the Russian bases on the coast with drones began shortly after the fall of the Assad regime last December. Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service warned at the time that the United States and British intelligence services were preparing “terrorist acts” against Russian bases in Syria, including the use of drones. Last March, the rate of attacks increased following a brutal government crackdown on the coast that claimed the lives of more than 1,600 civilians, mostly members of the Alawite religious group that makes up the majority of the region’s population. Some 10,000 civilians fled to Khmeimim during the killings and to this day they are refusing to leave. The Russian military expanded its controle around Khmeimim and resumed helicopter patrols over the coast in response to the threat. However, the situation worsened last week with interceptions being reported on a near-daily basis. So far, all the attacks have been rebelled. No group has yet claimed responsibility, which left the door open for many speculations. While Russia and the Syrian government maintain high levels of communications, an agreement on the future of Russian bases on the country’s coast is yet to be reached. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence NOW hosted at southfront.press Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org. The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com SOUTHFRONT.PRESS MORE ON THIS TOPIC: Assad Cousin Claims He Raised Army On Syria’s Coast With Tiger Forces Commander American Researcher Warns Violence Against Alawites In Syria Is Surging (Video) The post Syrian Government Forces Opened Fire While Russian Aircraft Was Landing In Khmeimim appeared first on South Front.
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