...Copy-pasting a freebie 12-October-2025 top news & updates from the “Meanwhile in Ukraine” patreon-page:
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Ukraine’s Defense & Military Developments (1/2)
>>> The Armed Forces of Ukraine liberated Mali Shcherbaky on the Zaporizhzhia axis and advanced roughly 3–3.5 km north of Orikhiv, with clearing operations continuing in Stepove; the push improved observation over approach routes and complicated Russian resupply toward Tokmak.

>>> 24th Separate Assault Battalion “Aidar” together with the 33rd Separate Mechanized Brigade spearheaded the operation in the Mali Shcherbaky sector, capturing prisoners and degrading Russian strongpoints integrated into trench and tree-line defenses.

>>> Eduard Bodnyuk (“Shtyk”), commander of the 3rd company, Black Raven drone-systems battalion, 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigade “Kholodnyi Yar,” stated that Ukraine must not pursue a premature “peace” with Russia; the strategic goal remains victory and full restoration of control, with sustained pressure needed to prevent renewed aggression.

>>> Ukrainian air defenders shot down an Iskander-K cruise missile over Sumy region with a Buk-M1, demonstrating the continued relevance of upgraded Soviet-era systems for point defense of critical nodes.

>>> FrankenSAM integration progressed: a Buk launcher adapted to fire RIM-7 Sea Sparrow expands short-to-medium-range coverage and eases ammunition sourcing for layered air defense.