Ukrainian Air Force destroys second Russian Su-34 fighter jet in a day

Ukrainian forces have shot down a second Russian Su-34 attack plane on February 27, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. The first Su-34 was reported shot down earlier in the day in the eastern sector. The destruction of the jet adds to a recent increase in downed Russian planes, including two A-50 early warning and control aircraft in the past two months. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, Russia has reportedly lost around 340 planes. The uptick in aircraft losses has indicated a potential shift in Russia's aerial strategy, with a reduction in the number of sorties flown.

Russian Maidan-3 PsyOp to culminate in March-May

The Ukrainian President's Intelligence Committee has stated that Russia's psychological operation against Ukraine is expected to conclude in the coming weeks. Russia aims to shake the situation and inflict a military defeat on Ukraine in the east by the first half of June. The committee emphasizes Russia's goals to disrupt Ukrainian mobilization, spread disinformation about Ukraine's supposed inability to win, and create narratives about 'Ukraine fatigue' globally. Russian special services have reportedly spent nearly US$250 million as part of the Maidan-3 special operation, with a total budget estimated at US$1.5 billion. The Committee urges joint resistance and comprehensive security measures to counter global threats posed by Russia's hybrid war.

 Ukrainian forces retreated from villages near Avdiivka

The Defence Forces of Ukraine have retreated from the villages of Stepove and Sieverne in Donetsk Oblast. Fierce fighting reportedly occurred for Sieverne, with significant losses inflicted on the Russian forces. The Ukrainian forces have stabilized the defense line near the villages of Tonenke, Orlivka, and Berdychi, blocking assault groups of the Russians at the north-eastern outskirts of Orlivka.

Heavy battles in Bakhmut direction as Russia pulls in reserves

Intense fighting is ongoing in the Bakhmut sector in Donetsk Oblast, with Russian forces attempting to advance toward Chasiv Yar. The focus of the attacks is on villages east of Chasiv Yar, such as Bohdanivka. Ukrainian forces are engaged in fierce battles, and Russian troops are using reserves, including units composed of convicts. Chechen forces led by Ramzan Kadyrov are reportedly involved in attacks near Klishchiivka and Kurdiumivka, with one unit reportedly destroyed by Ukrainian forces. Russian forces are employing air support and heavy weapons, with reported high losses in heavy equipment.

Russians strike Sumy Oblast, killing 2 policemen

Two policemen have been killed in a Russian attack on Khotin hromada, Sumy Oblast. The attack occurred when an investigative group was sent to document the aftermath of previous Russian strikes on a farmer building. The Russian forces launched another attack with sighting artillery, resulting in the deaths of two policemen. Additionally, four investigators were injured in the attack. They are currently receiving medical treatment. The attack occurred after 12:00 in the afternoon.