The IDF's operations in Gaza's Khan Yunis have resulted in the killing of over 30 terrorists, with combat soldiers from the 7th Armored Brigade and Nahal Brigade carrying out targeted attacks, raids on terrorist infrastructures, and sniper ambushes. The soldiers also identified and killed terrorists attempting to hide among civilians and carrying explosives on motorcycles, as well as those preparing to launch an anti-tank missile at IDF forces.
Israel has resumed combat operations against Hamas in Gaza after a temporary truce expired. The Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health reported that 14 people, mostly women and children, were killed in Israeli strikes on Friday. The Hamas-controlled Government Media Office blamed the US and international community for the resumption of fighting. The Israeli military aims to destroy Hamas and protect its citizens, according to an IDF spokesperson. Negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas are ongoing despite the resumed fighting. The US has urged Israel to protect Palestinian civilians and minimize casualties.
Ukrainian forces have established bridgeheads on the east bank of the Kherson region, near Krynky, Poyma, and Pishchanivka, as they continue combat operations against Russian forces in eastern and southern Ukraine. The objective is to prevent Russian shelling of Ukrainian civilians on the west bank of the Kherson region, particularly near Kherson City.
Both the Russian and Ukrainian militaries are facing a shortage of junior officers, hindering their ability to effectively lead large forces in battle. This issue has long plagued Russia and is now impacting Ukraine's military as it expands. The lack of trained officers is limiting the scale at which offensive action can be synchronized, and Ukraine's headquarters units are struggling to control the troops under their command. As a result, Ukraine has shifted to smaller, bite-and-hold attacks. Russia, on the other hand, is holding a defensive position but still faces challenges due to a lack of officers. Both countries may be caught in a cycle where a shortage of officers leads to less effective command and control, resulting in increased casualties and the need to deploy more inexperienced officers and soldiers.
Meduza provides an updated combat map documenting the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the latest developments in Bakhmut and southern Ukraine. The Russian command has shifted its strategy from passive defense to synchronized attacks in different directions, indicating a new phase of the war of attrition. Both sides aim to exhaust each other's reserves before launching their own offensives. The Ukrainian Armed Forces continue their attempts to break through Russian fortifications in southern Ukraine, while also launching a new offensive in Bakhmut. Russian forces are countering with local attacks along the front lines. The situation remains fluid and the combat map reflects data that is at least 48 hours old.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine have launched a counteroffensive against Russian invasion forces, with at least five offensives underway. Ukraine has spread out its forces, which may have led to tactical issues, including the loss of equipment and an inability to advance deeper into Russian defenses. The AFU's greatest success so far has been in the western Donetsk region, where they were able to advance and capture several Russian positions. However, Ukrainian troops have suffered heavy losses, particularly from Russian artillery fire, and have encountered difficulties in cutting off a Russian "wedge" near Velyka Novosilka. The data on the interactive combat map are typically at least 48 hours old and mistakes are possible.
Ukraine is preparing for a counteroffensive by attempting to tax Russian reserves in Bakhmut and at the Belgorod border. The Ukrainian army has assembled over 20 shock brigades and is "stretching" Russian forces in preparation for a large offensive. The front lines have changed little in the past week, but Ukraine is attempting to open a new front along the internationally recognized border with Russia. The lack of activity is due in part to heavy rains that fell on May 30 along the entire line of contact.
