- 1440 Daily Digest
Kherson Battle Looms
Russian President Vladimir Putin declared martial law in Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine and ordered the evacuation of civilians from the city of Kherson yesterday, moves that come ahead of a potential Ukrainian offensive to retake the regional capital. Kherson, a key Black Sea port city, was captured by Russia in March, but a recent push brought Ukrainian forces to within 20 miles of its perimeter (see map).
Separately, Ukraine formally requested air defense technologies from Israel amid increased use by Russia of Iranian-made kamikaze drones. Israel—Iran's long-running regional rival—has used its Iron Dome system to protect against short-range missile attacks (how it works, w/video).
Recent Russian bombardment has destroyed a reported 30% of Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Officials say more than 1,100 towns and villages are without power ahead of a winter season with average low temperatures near 20 degrees Fahrenheit, which typically arrive in December.
See updates on the war here.