The Duran Podcast Dobropillia Falls; Kramatorsk Cauldron Looms; Ukraine Out of Air Defense
Oct 18, 2026
Russian forces advance around Dobropillia, Kramatorsk and Slavyansk as a possible encirclement takes shape. Intensifying strikes target Ukraine’s energy network, bridges, ports and railways. The discussion examines Ukraine’s dwindling air defenses, the disappearance of its fighter aircraft, Russia’s expanding industrial advantage, and increasingly depleted Western weapons inventories.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Dobropillia Threatens A Kramatorsk Encirclement
- Alexander Mercouris argues that Dobropillia’s capture enables a Russian outflanking operation threatening to encircle Sloviansk and Kramatorsk.
- Advances north of the city, fighting near logistics hub Bilozerske, and pressure south and east could cut Ukrainian supply and retreat routes.
Operation Vivaldi Ends With Heavy Ukrainian Losses
- Russia claims Ukraine’s Operation Vivaldi in the Lyman area was repelled despite temporary territorial gains, including withdrawal from Sviatohirsk.
- Alexander Mercouris says Russia stabilized the sector while Ukrainian Azov units suffered heavy losses and may need redeployment south.
Russia Expands Its Infrastructure Air Campaign
- Russian strikes increasingly target Ukraine’s energy network and Dnieper crossings as part of a sustained campaign rather than isolated attacks.
- Putin reportedly instructed commanders to maintain the air offensive without slackening.