Four quick housekeeping notes. First, Rosie is doing great. Thank you for all the good thoughts, well wishes, prayers, and the donations to cover her vet bills.
Second, I have survived the week. But I’m fried. I’m just going to run down the basics.
Third, it looks like all the go to accounts have made it to BlueSky from the hellsite. So the updates should look more normal minus the Starlink Snowflake’s garbage.
Fourth. the other night several of you went at each other pretty hard in the comments. I meant to mention something last night and apologize for not doing so, but let’s not do that. Everyone is stressed right now. Beating each other up in comments isn’t going to make anything better. Just cut yourselves and each other a little slack.
Normal evening in Kharkiv. There is an air raid alert, russian drones in the region, and a ballistic missiles threat.
— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 3:39 PM
Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.
There Will Be No Minsk-3; What We Need Is Real Peace – Address by the President
15 November 2024 – 19:06
I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!
Briefly about today.
We continued to work on the points of our Internal Resilience Plan. Today, two fundamental points were covered: the frontline and human capital. Everything related to our defense. And everything related to our people – military and civilian, adults and children. The goal is clear – it is our defense against Russian aggression right now, and everything we must do to ensure that we do not lose the post-war peace – to preserve and strengthen our people. Both the state and the people. It is imperative.
Today, I continued our international work. Informal diplomacy. I spoke with university students in Latin America. People in all parts of the world must equally understand what is needed now to restore peace in international relations.
And one more thing.
Regarding one of today’s news stories. Chancellor Scholz told me that he is going to call Putin. Olaf’s call, in my opinion, is Pandora’s box. Now there may be other conversations, other calls. Just a lot of words. And this is exactly what Putin has wanted for a long time: it is crucial for him to weaken his isolation. Russia’s isolation. And to engage in negotiations, ordinary negotiations, that will lead to nothing. As he has been doing for decades. This allowed Russia to change nothing in its policy, to do nothing substantial, and ultimately it led to this war. We understand all these challenges now. We know how to act. And we want to warn everyone: there will be no Minsk-3; what we need is real peace.
Glory to Ukraine!
Germany:
👺 Kremlin reveals what ultimatums Putin gave to Scholz
— Ukrainska Pravda 🇺🇦 (@pravda.ua) November 15, 2024 at 6:46 PM
Ukrainska Pravda has the details:
The Kremlin has released a statement following a conversation between Olaf Scholz and Vladimir Putin, during which the Kremlin ruler outlined his ultimatums and repeated his theses.
Source: European Pravda with reference to the Kremlin’s statement
Details: In particular, Putin told the German chancellor that he had unleashed a full-scale war against Ukraine because of NATO’s “long-term aggressive policy aimed at creating an anti-Russian bridgehead on Ukrainian territory”.
He also claimed that he had never refused to negotiate a peaceful settlement, but on Russia’s terms, “taking into account the new territorial realities”.
Putin also lamented the “degradation” of relations between Russia and Germany due to the “unfriendly course” of the authorities in Berlin.
“It was agreed that following the conversation, the leaders’ assistants would be in touch,” the Kremlin concluded.
Background:
- It was reported that Scholz called Putin on Friday, condemned Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and insisted that Putin should be ready for negotiations and to withdraw his troops.
- It was reported that Scholz spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before speaking with Putin and plans to call him again after the conversation with the Russian ruler.
The moral cowardice of Scholz can only hurt #Ukraine, his country and the rest of Europe. Citizens in the west deserve a better, wiser and more courageous breed of politicians than this.
— Mick Ryan (@warinthefuture.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 7:01 PM
Seems like it’s time for me to explain again, why Ukraine cannot simply freeze the war and call it peace. 🧵Thread:
1/
– Without a defense clause and troops on the ground from other countries, Ukraine will need a massive standing army to guard a frontline spanning over a thousand kilometers.— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 6:07 PM
2/
– No deterrence against a new invasion will drive more people to leave as borders reopen, fearing a repeat attack.– Post-war elections in a democratic Ukraine will spark a political crisis if Zelensky is forced into a bad peace deal.
— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 6:07 PM
3/
– A nation in political turmoil, under constant Russian threat, won’t attract investments or recover its economy with high-interest loans– It will embolden those who argue that yielding to Russian demands is the only way to avoid Ukraine’s fate, referring to cheap oil and gas as justification
— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 6:07 PM
4/
– An impoverished, crisis-ridden Ukraine will be no match for a partially recovering Russia, which can leverage eased sanctions and resource exports.– Aid at current levels won’t continue indefinitely, while Russia has more potential to recover than an aid-deprived Ukraine.
— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 6:07 PM
5/ In short, any deal that doesn’t deter Russia from a second invasion is a death sentence for Ukraine
— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 6:07 PM
France:
France completes training of Ukraine’s newly-formed Anna of Kyiv Brigade
The Brigade completed training in France under EU military assistance, receiving cutting-edge weaponry including VAB APCs, CAESAR howitzers, and Milan anti-tank missiles.
— Euromaidan Press (@euromaidanpress.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 3:00 PM
From EuroMaidan Press:
Ukraine’s Defense Ministry announced that the Anna Kyivska Brigade has successfully completed training in France. Defense Minister Rustem Umierov confirmed the brigade is the first Ukrainian unit to be fully trained and equipped by France as part of the European Union’s military training mission for Ukraine.
France has been among Ukraine’s strongest supporters in the EU, supplying weapons such as Caesar self-propelled guns, and Scalp cruise missiles, drones, military combat and transport vehicles. Additionally, France prepares to transfer its Mirage-200F fighter jets next years. The military aid of Ukraine’s allies includes training courses for the Ukrainian soldiers, both under the EU and national programs.According to the Ministry’s report, Umierov stated:
“French partners have provided our soldiers not only with high-quality general and specialized training but also with modern equipment and weaponry: armored personnel carriers, self-propelled artillery, trucks, situational awareness systems, and other essential tools.”
He expressed gratitude to the French people and Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu for their leadership and support, emphasizing that this strengthens Ukraine’s military capabilities and moves them closer to shared victory.
President Emmanuel Macron previously disclosed in October that France was training 2,300 Ukrainian soldiers in the Grand Est region, using the French equipment they would deploy in combat. Highlights of the brigade’s arsenal included VAB armored personnel carriers, AMX-10RC combat vehicles, CAESAR self-propelled artillery systems, Mistral MANPADS, and Milan anti-tank missiles.
In today’s post, Umierov commended the soldiers’ professionalism and high morale, calling it a critical contribution to Ukraine’s defense. He also urged other nations to follow France’s example, stating,
“Together we are stronger.”
The Brigade is named after Anna of Kyiv, Medieval French queen and daughter of Kyiv Prince Yaroslav the Wise.
Last month, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine had secured French support to equip another brigade with similar advanced weaponry. Zelenskyy underscored the urgency of bolstering frontline forces amid the ongoing third year of full-scale war with Russia.
Norway:
Ukraine and Norway signed a deal to accelerate arms production within Ukraine
Earlier, Norway’s announced €500 million in military aid for Ukraine, which included F-16 aircraft and NASAMS air defense systems
— Euromaidan Press (@euromaidanpress.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 2:00 PM
EuroMaidan Press has the details:
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has announced that Norway pledged to fund the production of arms and military equipment at Ukrainian enterprises to support the country’s armed forces.
The Nordic countries remain among Ukraine’s strongest allies, offering military aid, training, and advocacy for Ukraine’s sovereignty on international platforms.
Militarnyi reports that Norway is joining the “Danish format” with its latest assistance to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
This approach includes direct financing of Ukrainian production facilities, which would enable faster manufacturing and delivery of essential arms for Ukraine’s defense forces.
During a visit to Oslo on 14-15 November, Umerov and his Norwegian counterpart, Bjørn Arild Gram, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation. The document outlines the principles, goals, and framework for future projects between the two countries.
Norway’s Ministry of Defense emphasized that its support for Ukraine is closely coordinated with Kyiv and tailored to the needs of Ukraine’s Armed Forces. Under this scheme, Ukraine proposes specific procurement projects, which Danish authorities review and approve before funding is allocated.
“We must empower Ukraine’s defense industry to produce as many products as possible for its armed forces. This agreement will help boost the production of weapons and ammunition, reducing the time required to get critical equipment where needed most,” Gram said.
Earlier, Norway announced a €500 million military aid package for Ukraine, which included F-16 fighter jets and NASAMS air defense systems.
Of this, $118.8 million is allocated specifically for purchasing weapon systems and spare parts for Ukrainian F-16s.
Russian occupied Abkhazia, Georgia:
Protests against a controversial investment agreement with Russia escalated into clashes in Sukhum, the capital of Russian-occupied Abkhazia. The proposed law seeks to permit Russians to purchase property in Abkhazia.
— The Kyiv Independent (@kyivindependent.com) November 15, 2024 at 11:11 AM
From The Kyiv Independent:
Protests against a controversial investment agreement with Russia escalated into clashes in Sukhum, the capital of Russian-occupied Abkhazia. The proposed law seeks to permit Russians to purchase property in Abkhazia.
Abkhazia is internationally recognized as part of Georgia, but is under illegal Russian control.
Demonstrators rallied outside the local proxy parliament, denouncing the agreement as one-sided and advantageous only to Moscow. Despite the parliament’s decision to postpone the agreement’s consideration, protesters demanded an immediate vote to reject it, according to European Pravda.
The protest intensified as demonstrators reportedly surrounded key government buildings.
Echo of the Caucasus, a media outlet affiliated with Radio Liberty, reported that protesters threw eggs and bottles at law enforcement officers. Earlier, they used a car to breach part of the fence, gaining access to the area surrounding the building.
Shots were reportedly fired during the rally, but local media stated there were no casualties. Tear gas was used to disperse the crowd, according to Echo of the Caucasus.
Russian state media outlet RIA Novosti reported via Telegram that protesters managed to enter the parliament building and were advancing further inside.
Additionally, the AMRA-Life Telegram channel reported that Abkhaz opposition leader Levan Mykaa announced protesters would occupy the building until the president resigns. This claim has not been officially confirmed.
Abkhazia has recently drawn attention due to rumors of accelerated construction at the Ochamchire naval base, allegedly being developed by Russia. Despite satellite imagery showing construction activity, Abkhaz Foreign Minister Sergei Shamba claimed in September that there are “no plans” for a Russian naval base in the occupied region, which lacks a navy of its own.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine would target Russia’s Black Sea Fleet “wherever it is stationed,” hinting at potential strikes on Russian-controlled areas of Georgia, including Abkhazia.
As for the news from Abkhazia, the protesters have not dispersed. Earlier, the opposition gave President Aslan Bzhania an hour to resign, but he refused and then allegedly fled to a Russian military base. Video is from a few hours ago.
— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 5:38 PM
Officially, the president’s press service reported that he left Sukhumi after the opposition’s ultimatum for his resignation. In short, it’s still too early to throw the popcorn away, although, of course, the situation is unlikely to lead to anything particularly exciting.
— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 5:38 PM
Toretsk:
🚨 Heavy urban fighting rages in Toretsk, Russian forces gather reserves on Siversk front
— Ukrainska Pravda 🇺🇦 (@pravda.ua) November 15, 2024 at 8:12 AM
From Ukrainska Pravda:
Heavy urban fighting is continuing in the city of Toretsk in Donetsk Oblast, and Russia is gathering reserves of personnel and equipment on the Siversk front.
Source: Anastasiia Bobovnikova, spokesperson for the Luhansk Operational and Tactical Group of Ukrainian forces, on the national joint 24/7 newscast
Quote: “Active urban fighting is raging in Toretsk. Urban battles are always challenging. Even though the equipment isn’t used in such battles… it’s still hard and dirty work. Just so you understand, we take out up to a hundred enemies in one day in Toretsk alone. So imagine how large these battles are and how hard they are for us.”
Details: Bobovnikova explained that Russian forces are launching attacks in small assault groups on the Toretsk front, where intense urban combat is underway. Additionally, the Russians are carrying out numerous airstrikes in the area under the responsibility of the Luhansk Operational and Tactical Group.
The spokeswoman added that Russia is gathering equipment and personnel in the area of the war-torn city of Chasiv Yar and on the Siversk front.
Quote: “The enemy is not active there, compared to other areas, such as Toretsk, for example, but we see that they’re gathering equipment, preparing it… mounting (electronic warfare) protection. And, naturally, they’re amassing personnel because Chasiv Yar is a city, and there will be city battles again, as well as cannon fodder assaults. Similarly, they’re also gathering personnel on the Siversk front and are now attacking mainly with small assault groups.”
💔🇺🇦 “Toretsk, 35.000 people before the war. Russia’s destroyed Ukrainian city to the ground,” — MFA Sybiha
— MAKS 24 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 1:02 PM
Odesa:
#Odesa Last night, one friend’s apartment is damaged and a family member injured; two friends’ buildings are damaged by #Russian Shahid drone attacks.
Buildings in historic downtown ruined.
Every night, Russia targets Odesa with Shahid Drones.
I am in #Kherson but my heart is bleeding.
— Zarina Zabrisky (@zarinazabrisky.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 10:46 AM
The Kursk cross border offensive:
Launch of a Ukrainian Javelin anti-tank missile at an advancing Russian vehicle in the Kursk region.
— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 3:39 AM
This is an episode from a longer video posted today by the 36th Marine Brigade operating in the area as they repelled another mechanised assault.
t.me/ua_marines_3…— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 3:39 AM
Another hard day with large Rusian attacks on the Kursk front. The current phase of Russian waves of attacks in the Kursk region has been ongoing since 7th of November. t.me/officer_alex…
— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 3:49 AM
Kurakhove:
💥🦅 Destruction of Russian tank and MT-LB by FPV drones in the Kurakhove direction, – 46th Air Mobile Brigade
— MAKS 24 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 1:20 PM
Kupyansk:
🫡 Capture of three occupiers who broke into Kupyansk yesterday.
💥 Today, the Russians tried to repeat the assault along the same route, but this time the Ukrainian units were ready and start to destroy enemy in their positions.
— MAKS 24 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 2:18 PM
Left bank of the Dnipro, Kherson Oblast:
An airstrike by the 114th Tactical Aviation Brigade using GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs on a Russian command post on the left bank of the Kherson region.
— NOELREPORTS (@noelreports.com) November 15, 2024 at 11:28 AM
Shizne, Russian occupied Donetsk Oblast:
As the Russians say on the video, those are mass graves near Snizhne, Donetsk region. In which there are about 6,000 bodies of Russian soldiers with the status of “missing in action.” t.me/russianocont…
— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) November 14, 2024 at 12:47 PM
Velyka Novosilka, Donetsk Oblast:
It is so important to show the world the reality of what is happening. The closer the Russian military gets to Ukrainian towns and villages, the less chance there is for human beings and buildings with infrastructure to survive. Velyka Novosilka, Donecko sritis.
— Katerina Horbunova (@blue-eyed.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 9:48 AM
Krymsk, Krasnodar Krai, Russia:
Tonight drones targeted Russian military airfield in Krymsk, Krasnodar region of Russia. Russians claim that 50-60 drones were used. Results of the attack are yet unknown. 330km from the frontline.
— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 3:18 AM
/2. Krymsk military airfield location
— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 3:19 AM
That’s enough for tonight.
Your daily Patron!
There are no new Patron tweets or videos today. Here is some adjacent material.
Happy Thursday, everyone!
Have a great day and support Ukraine.📷: 127th TDF Brigade
— Defense of Ukraine (@defenceu.bsky.social) November 14, 2024 at 11:46 AM
Yes, I’m the kind of dude who would turn his car back and give his sandwich to a stray dog at a supermarket because otherwise, I’d consider myself a terrible person and wouldn’t have any sleep.
— Illia Ponomarenko (@ioponomarenko.bsky.social) November 15, 2024 at 7:43 PM
Open thread!
Jeffro
Excellent report, Adam – thanks for all that you do!
Thanks also for this short reminder
instead of the usual long-winded stuff from others here.
Thanks again
Adam L Silverman
@Jeffro: You’re most welcome.
Adam L Silverman
I’m fried. I’m gonna put the rugby on and rack out.
Catch everyone on the flip.
karensky
@Adam L Silverman: Thanks for making the blue sky platform appear on here!
Lyrebird
@Adam L Silverman: Wishing you and the pups good, restorative rest!
Jay
Thank you, Adam.
Bupalos
@karensky: I was going to say!
I kinda knew A.S. would get here first. Guy thinks in opsec terms!
Jay
Meduzza notes that during the Korean War, ruZZian Buryats and other Asian ethnic minorities were sent into combat disguised as Chinese.
So no surprise that ruZZia is sending NORKs into combat, disguised as Buryats and other “Asian” ethnic minorities.
lowtechcyclist
I see Illia Ponomarenko is on BlueSky. He’s one of the people whose feeds I would regularly read when I was still on Xitter. Starting to add up to enough reason to sign up myself.
Bupalos
@lowtechcyclist: He’s one of the people who fled Russia early, right?
Man do I feel for those folks, going on 3 years on and more complicated and bleak.
So sad for everyone that the West couldn’t just find its soul then.
Gin & Tonic
@Bupalos:
Ponomarenko is Ukrainian. He was part of the ex-Kyiv Post group that started the Kyiv Independent, but he’s fully freelance now, still based in Ukraine.
Jay
@Bupalos:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illia_Ponomarenko
His book, “I will show you how it was”, about the defense of Kyiv is a “must read”.
None of the ruZZian “Coca Cola” expats are worth shit.
frosty
All the BlueSky embeds worked perfectly. Thanks for doing the work to move off of Xhitter.
AlaskaReader
Thanks Adam
way2blue
Morning Adam. Please shift the Twitter/eX links on your Ukraine resource page to Bluesky ones wherever possible. And perhaps. Perhaps. Add links there for the (now at) Bluesky posters that you routinely embed in your evening updates. When you have a moment.. Thanks.