Yurii Butusov, editor-in-chief, has become a notable figure in Ukrainian defense by enlisting in the National Guard. His analyses cover a range of topics, from the transformation of units like the Rubizh Brigade into NATO-compliant forces to the strategic failures and successes in the Kursk and Donbas regions. Butusov highlights the dynamic on the frontline and provides critical insights into leadership decisions, military accountability, and political influences affecting Ukraine's defense posture. His commentary on the lack of strategic coherence sheds light on the broader challenges faced by the Ukrainian Armed Forces amidst ongoing Russian offensives and political intricacies involving international diplomatic efforts.
How has Yurii Butusov contributed to Ukraine's defense strategies?
Yurii Butusov has contributed by enlisting in Ukraine’s National Guard and providing detailed analyses of military operations, strategic decisions, and political influences affecting Ukraine's defense strategies. He offers insights into the shortcomings and achievements of military units adapting to NATO standards and addresses ongoing challenges in conflict zones like Kursk and Donbas.
What is the significance of the Rubizh Brigade in Ukraine's defense?
The Rubizh Brigade exemplifies Ukraine's shift towards NATO standards, transforming from a volunteer unit into an effective force within the National Guard. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the brigade's evolution reflects broader efforts to enhance operational effectiveness and align with allied military practices amidst an ongoing conflict with Russia.
What are the critical issues identified by Yurii Butusov in the Kursk region?
Yurii Butusov identifies significant tactical challenges in the Kursk region, including leadership missteps, inadequacies in military strategy, and the threat of Russian advancements. He emphasizes the need for a cohesive and responsive command structure to fortify defenses and prevent encirclement by enemy forces.
How does Yurii Butusov assess the impact of international politics on Ukraine’s war efforts?
Yurii Butusov analyzes how international politics, including US diplomatic negotiations and President Trump's suspension of military aid, significantly impact Ukraine's war efforts. He discusses how geopolitical dynamics influence military strategy and preparedness, impacting frontline conditions and overall defense effectiveness.
What leadership and accountability issues does Yurii Butusov highlight?
Yurii Butusov highlights a lack of accountability in Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, criticizing leadership for failing to adequately prepare for Russian aggression. He underscores the implications of these deficiencies, emphasizing the need for transparent, effective governance and military readiness to combat ongoing threats.
What role does Yurii Butusov see for NATO standards in Ukraine's defense?
Yurii Butusov advocates for aligning with NATO standards to enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities. This alignment includes integrating NATO tactics and operational standards, as seen with the Rubizh Brigade, to bolster the effectiveness and resilience of Ukraine's forces against external aggression.
Articles Butusov Yurii
Yurii Butusov: Instead of recruiting foreign assault troops, state is taking taxpayers away from their jobs Yurii Butusov, commander of a UAV company of the 23rd Assault Regiment within the 2nd Corps of the National Guard’s Khartiia, spoke during a livestream about the advantages of bringing in foreign fighters, recruitment problems, and the need for Ukraine to adopt a systematic approach to scaling up this area. 8 791 40 Previously in trend: Foreign troops in Ukraine Foreigners in AFU
Yurii Butusov: "We lag behind Russia in terms of number of foreign fighters involved" Ukrainian drones have significantly hampered the Russian army’s offensive operations and enabled the establishment of fire control over key enemy logistics routes. However, as Yurii Butusov, commander of the UAV platoon of the 13th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine "Khartiia, emphasizes, tactical successes are not enough to turn the tide of the war: this requires systemic changes in troop management and a reduction in personnel losses. 5 136 51 Previously in trend: Fighting in the Kupіansk direction Foreigners in AFU
Captured Russian penal unit soldier: One route where everyone dies Soldiers of the 72nd Mechanized Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine killed another assault group of Russian troops near the village of Starytsia. It so happened that in this assault group, among the latest batch of prisoners who survived the battle, there was another Russian penal unit soldier. 11 231 23 Previously in trend: captured occupiers
Battalion of soldiers who refused to fight captures Akhmat regiment command post and survives four encirclements The battalion commander, who took over a unit with 274 soldiers listed as having refused to fight, speaks in detail for the first time about what really happened, why they withdrew from Kursk Oblast, and how he brought every fighter out alive. 37 264 20 Previously in trend: Butusov Plus
Shortage of artillery on battlefield of drones In forested terrain, it is only possible to suppress and destroy fortified infantry positions and UAVs through combined firepower, where drones follow immediately behind artillery shells, thereby suppressing enemy gunners and destroying the infrastructure of enemy positions. 9 183 32 Previously in trend: War
Foreign volunteers in Armed Forces of Ukraine: experience of deployment and current challenges in recruitment Yurii Butusov, commander of the unmanned systems platoon of the "Khartiia" Brigade, answered questions about the course of the war in May 2026. 5 124 10 Previously in trend: Situation at front foreign volunteers in the armed forces
Yurii Butusov: Currently, global warfare experience is not working for us due to very low education level of leaders Yurii Butusov on the Russian Federation’s strategy of permanent offensive, organizational problems within the Defense Forces, obstacles to army reforms, and more. 7 242 57 Previously in trend: Butusov on the strategy for victory in the war
How to ensure army is manned? Thoughts on mobilisation from platoon commander Yurii Butusov I’m looking everywhere for people to join the UAV company—the majority of my new recruits are military personnel against whom criminal cases have been opened due to violations of military discipline; there are also volunteers from 2022, young people on 18–24-year contracts, soldiers who have returned to service after being discharged, and those who have been forcibly mobilized. 14 827 134 Previously in trend: Mobilisation in Ukraine
Stopping Russia right now is purely managerial and organizational issue, - Yurii Butusov The stream is dedicated to the situation at the front. In literally one more week, greenery will emerge everywhere, flowers and grass will bloom, and these will be the optimal conditions for the enemy to advance and conduct offensives, or for Ukrainian infantry to carry out effective counterattacks. 10 933 25 Previously in trend: Situation at front Butusov Plus
Yurii Butusov: Thoughts on terrorist attack in Kyiv All police officers must gain combat experience, because the willingness to defend the country is the ultimate test in wartime. 16 569 92
Yurii Butusov: Year of corps. "Triika" and Khartiia The livestream is devoted entirely to the topic of the army corps. A few days ago, Brigadier General Andrii Biletskyi, commander of the Third Corps, and Colonel Ihor Obolienskyi, commander of the Second Army Corps, held a meeting and discussed the results of a year of work by their corps and their joint work plans. 9 931 20 Previously in trend: The Third Assault Brigade became the Third Army Corps Corps system in AFU
Audit of losses and mass UAV procurement: Defense Ministry’s new course Platoon commander with Ukraine’s National Guard 13th Brigade Khartiia, Yurii Butusov, analyzes in a live broadcast the 2026 war plan presented by Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. 6 214 9 Previously in trend: losses of Ukraine Procurement of drones
Outstanding achievements of soldiers of 63rd Brigade’s unmanned systems battalion and some conclusions based on results of their work At the solemn ceremony, Army of Drones. Bonus, where the best UAV units of the year were honoured, the unmanned systems battalion of the 63rd Mechanised Brigade was recognised, and the award was received by the battalion commander, Lieutenant Oleh Liashko. It is worth adding some details here. 15 349 64
Chance for reform: what Fedorov’s appointment means for front and army We are dedicating this stream to a very important event that took place in the Verkhovna Rada. A new Minister of Defense has been appointed — Mykhailo Fedorov. The position of defense minister, which effectively shapes Ukraine’s entire defense policy, has always drawn close attention. And this appointment is truly worth a separate discussion and a clear assessment so that you and I can understand where we are headed in the war. 10 262 54 Previously in trend: Personnel changes in government
Battles for Kupiansk On Christmas, we were operating in Kupiansk. Ukrainian soldiers are clearing the area house by house despite fierce enemy resistance. 14 845 39 Previously in trend: Fighting in the Kupіansk direction
Underestimating work of Mavics is one of key factors that enables enemy to carry out infantry infiltration Some time ago, at one sector of the front, I established coordination with UAV units of one brigade where the enemy managed to breach our defenses and penetrate to a significant depth. In the view of some commanders, the reason for the breakthrough was that the infantry was weak and did not engage in combat. 6 357 15
What happened in Kupiansk? Successful counterattack by "Khartiia" group I have been working in Kupiansk for two months as part of the "Khartiia" search and strike group, and now I can give a detailed report on the operation in which I am directly involved. 15 801 15
Reboot of President’s Office An event of major significance for Ukraine’s leadership and for what is happening to Ukraine in the world and in this war. 9 686 23 Previously in trend: Butusov Plus Yermak’s dismissal
Yermak can prove his "honesty and integrity" on front line, where he himself sent other honest and decent people Andrii Yermak stated that he is "an honest and decent person" and intends to "go to the front." 19 452 79 Previously in trend: Yermak’s dismissal
How will politics affect battlefield? Yurii Butusov, a platoon commander with the 13th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine’s "Khartiia," is analyzing live the "peace plan" proposed by the United States to Ukraine to end the war with Russia. How will politics affect the battlefield? 6 862 12 Previously in trend: US peace plan Peace plan Butusov Plus
What "peace plan" from Trump and Putin means and how politics will affect battlefield US representatives handed the Ukrainian leadership 28 points. These are not the points the peace is meant to be built on; they are the points from which a conversation about peace is supposed to start, a set framework that Ukraine would have to agree to if it wanted Russia to immediately cease hostilities. 6 536 24
In memory of Sergeant Anton Bondarenko (Banderas) of 13th Brigade of National Guard of Ukraine "Khartiia" Sergeant Anton Bondarenko, callsign "Banderas", of the 13th National Guard Brigade "Khartiia", was killed on 15 September during an assault operation, leading into battle the foreign fighters he himself had trained. A philologist and founder of "Osvitarnia", he became one of the brightest examples of a new generation of warriors – educated, well-rounded and devoted to his country. 5 741 10 Previously in trend: losses of Ukraine
Prudent use of funds is necessary for survival and combat planning To achieve success in modern combat, a commander must plan the key factors, the sequence of which determines the pace of the operation. 4 943 12
Situation on frontlines in October. Yurii Butusov’s livestream Livestream by Yurii Butusov, platoon commander of the 13th "Khartiia" Brigade, on the situation on the frontlines in October 7 531 9 Previously in trend: Butusov Plus
How formation of strike UAV platoon of 13th Brigade "Khartiia" proceeding to destroy enemy UAVs positions I received a lot of requests after the post about the creation of a new unit, which "Khartiia" entrusted me to form, and I am very grateful to everyone who contacted me. 5 368 13
Regarding Trump-Putin talks in Alaska 1. Putin did not announce any new conditions prior to these negotiations. The conditions effectively mean Ukraine’s capitulation and voluntary surrender of 25% of its territory. Russia has already proposed this on numerous occasions. 21 935 55
On first results of 3rd Army Corps’ combat performance I have been writing about the need to create army corps for three years and have been monitoring how their formation affects the situation on the front, since the main reason for our losses is not the enemy’s skill but systemic problems in the organization and command of the troops. 16 588 26
How Russian intelligence hacks into commanders’ phones: real detective story Two years ago, the battalion commander of one of the Ukrainian infantry battalions shared a photo of his dugout, which had been completely destroyed. I’ve always tried to find out exactly what happened. 18 970 23 Previously in trend: Russian intelligence hacks into Ukrainian commanders’ phones
15 opinions on training of mobilised infantrymen 1. Those mobilised to combat units should be immediately enrolled in a specific corps or brigade regiment and receive training under the leadership of their future military unit, only then will they receive adequate attention and interest. 10 834 76 Previously in trend: basic military training Training of infantrymen
Details of elimination of General Gudkov and headquarters of 155th Brigade: Russia accuses Generals Gerasimov and Akhmedov of leaking information on rival On July 2, the Armed Forces of Ukraine delivered one of the most powerful strikes against Russian military command during the entire war. In the village of Korenovo, Kursk region, approximately 17 km from the front line, Ukrainian intelligence detected significant Russian military activity and movement. The strike on the Russian concentration exceeded all expectations. 15 274 16 Previously in trend: liquidation of Russian military command
Only winning strategy is attrition rate that enemy cannot sustain – Butusov Why did Yurii Butusov, editor-in-chief of Censor.NET and the journalist who was the loudest whistleblower of problems in the army and a critic of the military-political leadership, decide to join the military now? Also, about the Defense Forces’ transition to corps-level formations, those responsible for the constant drone shortages, the absent and inadequate fortifications on the critical offensive directions, and the two scenarios left for us as a country: the current pessimistic one and another, more challenging, that demands political will. 11 655 47 Previously in trend: Butusov on the strategy for victory in the war
Outstanding sabotage operation by Security Service of Ukraine For the first time in world history, the main strategic aviation force carrying nuclear weapons was defeated right at its bases by a group drone strike. The outstanding sabotage operation of the Security Service of Ukraine will go down in all military history books, as this defeat of Russia is one of the most costly in terms of consequences and losses, which seriously reduces the number of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces. 24 895 47 Previously in trend: Massive destruction of Russian aircraft
I enlisted in 13th Brigade of National Guard "Khartiia" A few days ago, I enlisted in the 13th Brigade of the National Guard "Khartiia", at the rank of private, assigned as a rifleman and currently undergoing training. I have many friends in the military who say that journalism is just as important as the frontline because someone has to highlight army problems and the state from the outside. Without external criticism, there can be no internal change. 18 430 63
Report of Battalion commander Shyrshyn on incompetent decisions by Ukrainian command requires immediate response from Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff and military commanders The statement by Oleksandr Shyrshyn, commander of the 1st Battalion of the 47th Mechanized Brigade, regarding his intention to resign in protest against incompetent decisions by the Ukrainian command in the Kurakhove direction, is a significant event for both the military and society. 12 143 33
Commander of Second Corps of NGU Ihor Obolienskyi: Ukrainian army can halt Russian offensive but only with proper planning and drone deployment Commander of the Second Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine, Ihor Obolienskyi, outlined the key principles of managing such units and the decision-making system. 6 073 7
Can peace talks force Putin to halt? The situation is difficult both for us and for the enemy. The Russians are advancing — but at the cost of heavy losses. 11 032 29
Biletskyi’s Doctrine: "100 fallen fighters—that’s ₴1.5B. $2B to secure entire frontline" Censor.NET Editor-in-Chief Yurii Butusov interviewed Andrii Biletskyi, who was recently appointed commander of the Third Army Corps. They discussed command structure principles within the Armed Forces, the importance of timely funding, and the "Biletskyi’s Doctrine." 61 138 67 Previously in trend: War
Who will be held accountable if front falls in Oskil, Kupiansk and Borova? The enemy is continuing its offensive in the Lyman direction, trying to seize the dominant heights near the village of Nove. Capturing this area will allow the enemy to cut off the logistics at our bridgehead beyond Oskil, and then they will not be able to hold, nor will they be able to hold Borova or Kupyansk. The enemy’s offensive cannot be stopped, although additional forces and equipment have been gradually deployed to the area. 9 523 26 Previously in trend: Fighting in Kharkiv direction
On detention of defense plant executives According to Censor.NET sources, today officers of the Security Service of Ukraine detained the Director General of a state-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Strategic Industries, Technical Director, as well as two military officers — heads of military acceptance — over the supply of 120,000 faulty mortar shells to the AFU (Armed Forces of Ukraine). 15 603 29 Previously in trend: defective ammunition for frontline Supply of faulty mortar shells
War creates incredible stories Some time ago, two Ukrainian paratroopers on the territory of the Russian Federation were captured during a massive Russian assault by two Russian stormtroopers who suddenly jumped into their position. There was heavy shelling, and the enemy succeeded. 12 137 10 Previously in trend: captured occupiers
On US peace plan The broadcast is dedicated to the current developments in global politics. President Trump’s peace plan has been made public for the first time. 15 289 22 Previously in trend: US peace plan
Ukrainian fighter went in alone to clear tree line near Siversk and capture six Russian assault troopers A soldier from the 4th National Guard Brigade "Rubizh," "Syla Svobody" (Power of Freedom) Battalion, tells the story of his own heroic act — an incredible wartime episode captured by a drone. 10 107 13 Previously in trend: captured occupiers
Chaos and corruption in ammunition procurement: why it happens and what it leads to Censor.NET Editor-in-Chief Yurii Butusov shares his views live on air about the problems with ammunition procurement for Ukraine’s Armed Forces, analyzes the frontline situation, and comments on the terms of Trump’s peace plan. 8 434 11 Previously in trend: US peace plan defective ammunition for frontline Supply of faulty mortar shells Scandals with procurement for AFU
Zelenskyy appoints Russian Senator Derkach’s man as head of Sumy Civil–Military Administration Zelenskyy appoints Russian Senator Derkach’s man, Oleh Hryhorov, who fled Luhansk on day one of the invasion, abandoning his subordinates and their weapons, as head of the Sumy Regional Civil–Military Administration (CMA). This appointment endangers the security of the Sumy region. 26 659 83
Is any ceasefire noticeable on frontline? The broadcast is entirely dedicated to answering pressing questions. 8 370 7
Russian company commander with five soldiers surrendered A significant development occurred near Kharkiv. A Russian company commander, a lieutenant from St. Petersburg, withdrew the remnants of his company from their position, and they voluntarily surrendered to the soldiers of the 13th National Guard Brigade "Khartiia." 13 490 11 Previously in trend: interview with captured occupier captured occupiers
Russian command is preparing new offensive Against the backdrop of numerous peace negotiations, intense fighting continues along the entire frontline, and there are systemic indications that the Russian command is preparing for another offensive in Donbas. 29 128 5
Russian assault trooper threw grenade into his commander’s dugout and surrendered to Ukrainian drone An incredible story. In front of a Ukrainian drone operator from the 13th Brigade of the National Guard "Khartiia," a Russian fighter-assault trooper threw grenades and killed his company commander. After the elimination, the Russian raised his hands and surrendered to the drone. 6 172 6
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