Ukrainian Official Sources Claim More Local Successes

Ukrainian official sources have announced additional successes in their ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The sources claim that they have achieved victories in areas such as Klishchiivka, southwest of Bakhmut, and south and southeast of Robotyne. These claims come as the Ukrainian military continues its efforts to push back against Russian forces.

Ukrainian Attack on Russian Naval Units

In a surprising turn of events, the Ukrainian military launched an attack against Russian naval units in Sevastopol. This attack involved the use of both aerial weapons and uncrewed surface boats. The BBC reports that the Russian port suffered fires and damage to two ships, the large landing ship Minsk and the submarine Rostov-on-Don. Both of these ships were believed to have been undergoing repairs in dry dock. However, Russian state media was quick to assure the public that the ships would soon be repaired and returned to service. Ukrainian officials have suggested that the attack utilized air-launched Storm Shadow or SCALP missiles, which were supplied by the UK and France.

Internal Debate in Russia’s Presidential Administration

There seems to be an internal debate within the Russian government regarding the replenishment of the army’s ranks. Reports based on a Telegram channel close to Russian security services indicate that there are disagreements within the Kremlin’s inner circle about the necessity and preparations for a second wave of reserve mobilization. This mobilization is set to begin on October 1. Some officials are advocating for a second mobilization similar to the one conducted last fall, which brought 300,000 reservists into the ranks. However, this action also prompted around 400,000 Russians to leave the country. The debate centers around whether the mobilization should proceed as planned or if alternative measures should be considered.

Early Deployment of Newly Organized Formations

The UK’s Ministry of Defence has reported that elements of Russia’s new 25th Combined Arms Army (25 CAA) have likely been deployed to Ukraine for the first time. This deployment is significant because recruitment adverts for 25 CAA had previously indicated that it would only be deployed to Ukraine from December 2023. The rushed deployment may be due to Russia’s ongoing struggle with an over-stretched force along the front lines. It is possible that parts of 25 CAA will be used to regenerate an uncommitted reserve force in the theater, providing commanders with more operational flexibility.

Chairman Kim Pledges Support for Russia

North Korea’s Chairman Kim met with Russian President Putin at the Vostochny cosmodrome, pledging his commitment to Russia’s “just fight.” Chairman Kim expressed his solidarity with Russia in its struggle against hegemonic forces and promised to stand with Russia on the anti-imperialist front and the front of independence. It is speculated that Russia hopes to secure artillery ammunition from North Korea, while North Korea aims to acquire Russian missile technology.

US Department of Defense Publishes 2023 Cyber Strategy

The US Department of Defense has released its 2023 Cyber Strategy, which draws on lessons learned from Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Strategy emphasizes the importance of working closely with allies, partners, and industry to ensure the right cyber capabilities, cybersecurity, and cyber resilience. It outlines four complementary lines of effort, including defending the nation, preparing to fight and win wars, protecting the cyber domain with allies and partners, and building enduring advantages in cyberspace. The Strategy also highlights the need for integration with other capabilities and operations as well as the importance of deterrence in cyberspace.

Pegasus Spyware Found in Russian Journalist’s Phone

A journalist for the exiled Russian outlet Meduza, Galina Timchenko, was targeted with Pegasus spyware. Timchenko’s device was infected while she was in Germany, and it is unclear which Pegasus user was responsible. Possible suspects include Russia or its neighboring countries. The use of Pegasus spyware raises concerns about state surveillance and the targeting of journalists.

Decline in Online Advertising Placement and Fraud

During Russia’s war against Ukraine, there has been a decline in ad fraud, which refers to fraudulent traffic drawn to online ads. This finding is surprising considering that periods of social dislocation, such as war, typically result in an increase in most forms of crime. The study conducted by anti-fraud firm Anura and the University of Delaware suggests that wartime may also be a period of depressed economic activity, which could explain the decrease in online advertising placement and fraud.

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