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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.

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Articles Butusov Yurii

NABU agent Yevhenii Shevchenko: Top corruptionists told me everything, because they took me for their’s own NABU agent Yevhenii Shevchenko: Top corruptionists told me everything, because they took me for their’s own Disclosure of "agent Katerina" attracted the attention of the Ukrainians to a new phenomenon in the fight against the corruption. We talked with Yevhenii Shevchenko, one of those who have been helping the National Anti-Corruption Bureau for two years to send top corruptionists to the court. 89 587 116 Previously in trend: Fighting corruption in Ukraine

INL Director Christopher Smith: "Fight against corruption in Ukraine is a war. Wars take time, battles are won and lost, and there are victims and many sacrifices" INL Director Christopher Smith: "Fight against corruption in Ukraine is a war. Wars take time, battles are won and lost, and there are victims and many sacrifices" The U.S. influence in Ukraine is rapidly growing along with the number of government initiatives the Americans are helping to implement. The U.S. efforts are aimed not only at supporting Ukraine’s foreign policy but also at ensuring political stability inside the country. Christopher W. Smith runs International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) in the Kyiv-based U.S. Embassy in Ukraine. Mr. Smith is one of the key figures involved in implementing reforms in Ukraine’s law enforcement field on behalf of the United States. 10 949 35 Previously in trend: Fighting corruption in Ukraine

Marie Yovanovitch: Ukraine’s achievements are its Army, energy independence, NABU, Patrol Police Marie Yovanovitch: Ukraine’s achievements are its Army, energy independence, NABU, Patrol Police U.S. impact on the situation in Ukraine increases every year. The opinion of Washington matters even in the sectors of national policy, defense, and security. U.S. Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch and other U.S. officials are fostering close connections with the Ukrainian authorities, which connections are now much broader and deeper than those with Russia several years ago. 35 613 68 Ukrainian Politics

13 statements on war and peace 13 statements on war and peace A short list of statements on the situation with explosions and scandals. Is the war close to its end? 60 625 79 Previously in trend: Fire at ammunition depot in Kalynivka

Fire in Viktoria camp in Odesa: a typical Ukrainian tragedy Fire in Viktoria camp in Odesa: a typical Ukrainian tragedy Odesa Mayor’s Office decided to do a good deed — construct a children’s camp for city kids, operating all-year-round and hosting up to 5,000 children per year. 38 946 54 Incidents

Investigation of Ilovaisk tragedy: some conclusions Investigation of Ilovaisk tragedy: some conclusions Yesterday, Prosecutor General’s Office published an official press release on its findings in investigation of the Ilovaisk tragedy, when more than 350 Ukrainian soldiers were killed by Russian troops in a trap near Ilovaisk in August 2014. What conclusions can be drawn from the document? 71 182 126 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

Is there a threat of Russian invasion into Central Ukraine in August 2017? Is there a threat of Russian invasion into Central Ukraine in August 2017? The concentration of Russian troops at Ukraine’s border causes concerns and attracts attention. This is true — Russia continues seeing the war and the invasion as the major factor of influence upon political situation in Ukraine. This is why the war in the Donbas continues, this is why new armies and divisions are being deployed to the Southern and Western military districts of Russia. The drills in Belarus are a convenient legend to cover the exercise of scenario to invade Ukraine. 172 409 234 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

United States Army Europe Commander Ben Hodges: Three priorities for army reform are combat training, critical self-analysis of operations, and sergeant corps United States Army Europe Commander Ben Hodges: Three priorities for army reform are combat training, critical self-analysis of operations, and sergeant corps Commanding General of United States Army Europe Ben Hodges told Censor.NET in an exclusive interview about the threat of Russian invasion, U.S. strategy of aiding Ukraine, capabilities of the Ukrainian Army, and three priorities of military reform in Ukraine on the pattern of the U.S. Army. 56 474 32 World

Shooting in Dnipro: ATO participants Oleksii Vahner and Maksym Ivashchuk killed, Edmond Saakian wounded; four attackers wounded and detained Shooting in Dnipro: ATO participants Oleksii Vahner and Maksym Ivashchuk killed, Edmond Saakian wounded; four attackers wounded and detained At around 8 p.m. July 24, at D.O.M. cafe at 92 Gagarina Avenue in Dnipro, four men approached a group of ATO veterans by car. The men exchanged some phrases, and then these four suddenly opened fire from automated weapons upon the former servicemen. 216 551 116 Previously in trend: Dnipro City shooting

A planned terrorist attack: Why did Russian army down MH17? A planned terrorist attack: Why did Russian army down MH17? As of early July 2014, the situation of Russian mercenaries in the Donbas was catastrophic. In Sloviansk, the most efficient detachments had been stuck. Proper supply from the Russian Federation could not be established since all major highways had been blocked by Ukrainian troops. The delivery was possible only by roundabout routes. 116 796 169 Previously in trend: Russian terrorists downed MH17

In memory of Maksym Shapoval. Why Russian secret services were hunting for intelligence Spetsnaz commander? In memory of Maksym Shapoval. Why Russian secret services were hunting for intelligence Spetsnaz commander? A terrorist attack in Kyiv and the killing of Maksym Shapoval, who was promoted to the rank of major general posthumously, was the first time when the Ukrainian people heard his name. Shapoval’s funeral was attended by thousands. He died on service to his Motherland, and he was well aware of all the risks. 99 800 60 Previously in trend: Murder of Shapoval

US military aid: Trump’s new approach? US military aid: Trump’s new approach? In Washington, D.C., the new president Trump’s administration is currently trying to articulate the future U.S. policy on Russia-Ukraine war. 73 345 51 Ukrainian Politics

Unknown famous victory of 28th Brigade: "Marinka Slaughter" of June 3, 2015 Unknown famous victory of 28th Brigade: "Marinka Slaughter" of June 3, 2015 Two years ago, one of the most successful battles for Ukrainian troops in this Russian-Ukrainian war took place. An important tactical victory was achieved in the course of this battle, no smaller in its implications than the well-known battle for Donetsk airport of May 26, 2014, and the enemy even lost more of their people, according to their own assessments – at least 57, at most – more that 100 men killed, and at least 250 injured. 160 932 74 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

Foreign terrorist attacks by Russian secret services against Ichkeria freedom fighters Foreign terrorist attacks by Russian secret services against Ichkeria freedom fighters Over the period of 2004 through 2017 Russian secret forces committed 14 attempts on freedom fighters for Chechnya. 14 people were killed. 56 781 21 Previously in trend: Attempt on Osmaev

On May 26, 204, Vostok Battalion militants shot dead FSB Iskra unit in Donetsk airport, - a story told by its participant On May 26, 204, Vostok Battalion militants shot dead FSB Iskra unit in Donetsk airport, - a story told by its participant As years pass, Russian mercenaries start publishing their memoirs of the beginning of the Donbas war. Their stories show how Russia initiated the fighting against Ukraine. One of the most vivid events in early months if the war was the elimination of Iskra special unit of FSB, which unit attempted to seize the Donetsk airport and disarm Ukrainian units in the old terminal. 313 889 136 Society

Murder of Pankov Murder of Pankov Back in the day, I had a chance to talk to Viktor Pankov, former acting director of Ukrspyrt SE, who was murdered today. He was appointed to the post of deputy director on legal matters back in 2010. His appointment was made by then Agricultural Minister Prysiazhniuk, as agreed with criminal rings of Oleksii Chebotariov (Cheba) and Yurii Ivaniushchenko (Yura Yenakievsky). 94 916 59 Previously in trend: Murder of former Ukrspyrt head Pankov

Weapon smarter than man Weapon smarter than man To win a war, an army needs hardware. We've been discussing missile complexes, radars, tanks, night vision goggles for a while. But for the army to advance, someone needs to march ahead and conduct reconnaissance. For this purpose, there is one weapon that cannot be designed by any bureau in the world. Even in the 21st century, the best fighter in any point squad is a combat dog. 68 368 91 Society

US military aid to Ukraine: Goals and Political Symbolism US military aid to Ukraine: Goals and Political Symbolism Military aid by NATO countries, the United States in the first place, in Ukraine’s war for independence is of extreme importance for successful countering of Russian aggression. But is this aid suitable to the real situation and how efficient is it? 68 935 42 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine

Obamych, Hero of Maidan Obamych, Hero of Maidan Welcome to ATO: a civil volunteer who looks surprisingly similar to Barak Obama has been photographed at Avdiivka. A fact or a Photoshop? Continue reading this amazing story of a photograph. 85 139 27 Society

Denis Voronenkov was to meet his Moscow acquaintance, who left for Russia right after assassination Denis Voronenkov was to meet his Moscow acquaintance, who left for Russia right after assassination Two major questions arise in connection with investigation of the murder of Voronenkov: how was he found by his killers? How was his safety secured? 120 735 59 Previously in trend: Voronenkov assassinated

37 days of freedom 37 days of freedom Words kill. Sometimes a journalist knows that words can kill, knows that after he presses the “Publish” button the words will start living their own life as if you just pulled the trigger, and they fly like bullets and like death. Yes, articles shoot sometimes. It’s just a part of the job. 76 592 71 Previously in trend: Voronenkov assassinated

State is seeing government management crisis State is seeing government management crisis The Donbas blockade has revealed that the country is experiencing a government vacuum, as in government that is ready to communicate with the public directly and make managerial decisions as the situation demands. 50 239 86 Ukrainian Politics

How trade blockade affected fighting in the Donbas How trade blockade affected fighting in the Donbas To return the Donbas, we need to fight for it at all cost, genuinely, without ‘deals,’ so that the occupation stops benefiting Moscow, so that the occupation costs too much, both resources-wise and, most of all, human-wise. 96 543 125 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Blockade of "DPR/LPR" War

How is the state changing and why is the case of Nasirov now possible? How is the state changing and why is the case of Nasirov now possible? Ukraine is making its first steps as an independent state. New psychology is being created together with a new decision-making logic. As of now, the most important result of Onyshchenko-Nasirov’s case is uncovering of a long-term scheme that resulted from the feudal and corrupt nature of Ukrainian government. 106 236 215 Previously in trend: Trial of Nasirov

Feb. 22, 2014: Putin’s plan to split Ukraine failed; Kolomoiskyi sabotaged Ukrainian Front convention; Turchynov headed Verkhovna Rada; Yanukovych fled to Russia Feb. 22, 2014: Putin’s plan to split Ukraine failed; Kolomoiskyi sabotaged Ukrainian Front convention; Turchynov headed Verkhovna Rada; Yanukovych fled to Russia Three years ago, Feb. 22, 2014 was a key day when Putin’s plans to reinstate Yanukovych failed. Yanukovych and all who wanted to crush the Revolution of Dignity were ousted. 141 296 185 Ukrainian Politics

Maidan assault of Feb. 18, 2014: 14 defenders of Trade Unions house, nine Berkut and Interior Troops soldiers killed Maidan assault of Feb. 18, 2014: 14 defenders of Trade Unions house, nine Berkut and Interior Troops soldiers killed The Revolution of Dignity culminated in the authorities’ attempt to destroy the Euromaidan. This operation had been prepared in advance. However, the anti-Maidan HQ of Yanukovych sprang into action only on Feb. 18. 60 665 28 Ukrainian Politics

Former Russian State Duma Member Denys Voronenkov: "Situation in Russia is like in Nazi Germany. I don’t want to live in lies and hypocrisy. I became citizen of Ukraine and am proud of it" Former Russian State Duma Member Denys Voronenkov: "Situation in Russia is like in Nazi Germany. I don’t want to live in lies and hypocrisy. I became citizen of Ukraine and am proud of it" Former member of the Russian Federation State Duma of the 6th convocation Denys Voronenkov and his wife, also a former State Duma deputy, well-known Russian opera singer Maria Maksakova moved to Ukraine in October 2016 even before their parliamentary powers expired. They received Ukrainian citizenship and do not intend to return to Russia in the near future. 327 660 294 Society

Could terrorist Givi be killed by “Ukrainian secret subversive group”? Could terrorist Givi be killed by “Ukrainian secret subversive group”? This was announced by DPR leaders without hesitation and investigation. Although we would love to pronounce our victory, let’s take a look at the liquidation without emotions. 227 762 228 Previously in trend: Terrorist Givi elimination

Fighting for Avdiivka as seen by Russian military Fighting for Avdiivka as seen by Russian military “We are mopping up the forest with artillery. Local infantryman is brave but useless. So we’ll fire upon them until they leave.” 300 403 195 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Avdiivka fighting

Ukraine totally outwitted Russia around Avdiivka crisis Ukraine totally outwitted Russia around Avdiivka crisis This is for the first time since the war started that our state and society have shown an example of complex and systemic actions in a certain critical situation. I have noticed several innovations, and may God give they become a system. 227 788 166 Previously in trend: Avdiivka fighting

Heavy fighting at Avdiivka area Heavy fighting at Avdiivka area These positions of the 11th motorized rifle brigade of the so-called “Defense Ministry” of self-proclaimed “Donetsk People’s Republic” and the 100th brigade of the self-styled “republican guard” near the Yasynuvata junction have seen heavy fighting since late evening of Jan. 28. 219 837 154 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

Chronicle of Defense of Donetsk airport new terminal on Jan. 13-21, 2015 Chronicle of Defense of Donetsk airport new terminal on Jan. 13-21, 2015 Jan. 21, 2015 was the last day of defense for the new terminal in the Donetsk international airport, often referred to as DAP. 59 405 43 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine

Prisoners exchange in Ukraine: Key Issues Prisoners exchange in Ukraine: Key Issues The official stance of the Russian Federation and its secret services has been voiced by “Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR)” spokesperson Darya Morozova: the RF has no intent to fulfill any agreements on the exchange. 37 786 11 Previously in trend: Ukrainian hostages in Russia

Svitlodarsk: Scenario of the Future War Svitlodarsk: Scenario of the Future War The clashes at Svitlodarsk reminded the society that the war goes on, and only a thin line of strongpoints divides us from the bigger fighting. 154 020 106 Previously in trend: Svitlodarsk fighting

Fighting at Svitlodarsk. Situation report as of Dec. 21. Fighting at Svitlodarsk. Situation report as of Dec. 21. Dec. 18 and 19 were two days of unstopping fighting. On the third day, Dec. 20, the combat continued but the situation got quieter. Shots still could be heard, but the booming abated. 183 621 142 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Svitlodarsk fighting

Svitlodarsk fighting of Dec. 18 and 19: Seven Ukrainian soldiers killed, one missing in action Svitlodarsk fighting of Dec. 18 and 19: Seven Ukrainian soldiers killed, one missing in action The enemy has abandoned the bodies of mercenaries on the battlefield and is disguising its losses. 184 476 80 Previously in trend: Svitlodarsk fighting

British military expert Glen Grant plans a housing reform in Ukraine British military expert Glen Grant plans a housing reform in Ukraine's Defense Ministry British coordinator of the project aimed at providing comfortable living conditions for Ukrainian soldiers told Censor.NET how to reform Ukraine’s Army housing, why he likes working in the tough Ukrainian reality, and how many military facilities stand idle in Ukraine. 33 815 1 Society

Ukraine might become NATO interoperable partner within five years. That’s possible, - Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense Slotkin Ukraine might become NATO interoperable partner within five years. That’s possible, - Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense Slotkin Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Elissa Slotkin visited Ukraine last week. Censor.NET was the only one among Ukrainian media to interview her during her visit. The U.S. is currently the largest donor of military and technical assistance to Ukraine, the volume of which has surpassed $600M since 2014. Ms. Slotkin spoke of achievements in military and defense cooperation between the U.S. and Ukraine, possibilities of interoperability between Ukraine and NATO, the U.S. stance on Russian aggression against Ukraine, and provision of lethal weapons for Ukraine by the United States. 21 632 0 World

YES Annual Meeting in Kyiv opens on 16th anniversary of kidnapping and murder of Ukrainska Pravda founder Heorhii Gongadze YES Annual Meeting in Kyiv opens on 16th anniversary of kidnapping and murder of Ukrainska Pravda founder Heorhii Gongadze The Annual Meeting opens with a welcome speech by its organizer, son-in-law of President Kuchma – Viktor Pinchuk, who did his best to prevent the trial over Kuchma as an alleged contractor behind Gongadze’s killing. Following Pinchuk, the president delivers his speech. 18 688 0 Ukrainian Politics

When will we see the trial on Ilovaisk? When will we see the trial on Ilovaisk? Two years ago, on Aug. 29, 2014, 400 our compatriots were killed and went missing in one single day of the war. 20 406 0 Ukrainian Politics

Investigation: What happened in Crimea on Aug. 7-8 and who killed two Russian military? Investigation: What happened in Crimea on Aug. 7-8 and who killed two Russian military? Epic fail of Russian special services has been recorded in stories by Russian media Lifenews and Kommersant. By reporting on “Panov case” and spreading fake information on his participation in terrorist attacks, the Russian media disclosed new details of what happened near Armiansk in occupied Crimea on Aug. 7-8. 234 300 0 Previously in trend: Putin's provocation in Crimea

Military operation in Crimea aimed at finding “Ukrainian saboteurs”: who is FSB in fact dealing with? Military operation in Crimea aimed at finding “Ukrainian saboteurs”: who is FSB in fact dealing with? Russian sources informed that on Aug. 8, an alleged attack by a Ukrainian saboteur group occurred in Russian-occupied Crimea. Armiansk FSB head and a Russian soldier were killed. The search map suggests that from 20 to four people in Russian army uniform committed the attack. Last night, Ukrainian citizen Panov Yevhen Oleksandrovych, from Zaporizhia, an alleged officer of Main Intelligence Department (MID) of Ukraine’s MoD was detained. Purportedly, he belonged to the group. 211 108 0 Previously in trend: Putin's provocation in Crimea

Murder of Pavel Sheremet: first questions, what we know, and what to expect Murder of Pavel Sheremet: first questions, what we know, and what to expect What can we say for sure? Unlike the murder of Heorhii Gongadze, there are no grounded versions at the moment. Anything could be assumed, and no version should be discarded. 71 432 67 Previously in trend: Murder of Sheremet

News making is advance patrol of civil society. Ukrainian journalist Pavel Sheremet died today in this patrol News making is advance patrol of civil society. Ukrainian journalist Pavel Sheremet died today in this patrol The front line has gone through Kyiv’s downtown. A life of a reporter is not more valuable than a life of any other citizen, especially in the country at war. But this contract killing of the journalist is a challenge to the entire state, because not just him – all of us have been targeted. Quite possible, Aliona Prytula [colleague and partner of Sheremet – ed.] was attempted as well. This is real terrorism. And the killers are confident of their impunity. 40 538 64 Previously in trend: Murder of Sheremet

War notes War notes A war only ends when the enemy understands that it receives more coffins than results. It’s when the war transforms from a foreign policy problem to an interior one. 64 964 116 Previously in trend: War

Strategic Defense Bulletin agreed – big day for military reform in Ukraine Strategic Defense Bulletin agreed – big day for military reform in Ukraine On Thursday, NATO office, the Defense Ministry, and the General Staff have completely agreed on the Strategic Defense Bulletin. For the first time in two years, a document of defense planning of strategic level has been developed in Ukraine. The first innovation was the Military doctrine 2015 – the basic framework document. The Strategic Defense Bulletin is the document of a different level – it includes obligations of the Ukrainian authorities on conducting structural reforms. 23 501 7 Ukrainian Politics

Seven theses: what has the Netherlands referendum showed? Seven theses: what has the Netherlands referendum showed? The fact that we need integration with the EU does not mean that they need Ukraine. If referendums with similar questions were held in other countries of the EU, unfortunately, we would have had more unpleasant surprises. 63 203 158 Previously in trend: Referendum in the Netherlands

Mystery of Wagner’s identity unfolded: he is Russian officer and head of large private military company in Russia, who eliminated Mozgovoy, Dremov, and other terrorist leaders, and now is fighting in Syria Mystery of Wagner’s identity unfolded: he is Russian officer and head of large private military company in Russia, who eliminated Mozgovoy, Dremov, and other terrorist leaders, and now is fighting in Syria I have been long gathering information on activities of the gang of Russian mercenaries of Wagner. It is one of the most combat-ready military units of the Russian occupational troops, organized as a private official military company, which enrolls soldiers of the Russian Federation. In other words, a legalized terrorist unit for dirty business. 225 493 61 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine