Ukrainian military chief seeks to silence frontline map project
The Chief Commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrski, allegedly wants to shut down the DeepState analytical project, according to Ukrainian deputy Mariana Bezhukha. This project provides an interactive map displaying the current situation on the front lines, which has shown unfavorable updates for Ukraine in recent days.
The DeepState project offers an interactive map detailing military operations in Ukraine, allowing users to track changes along the front line. Initiated in 2020 to report conflicts globally, the map has focused exclusively on the Ukrainian conflict since the full-scale Russian invasion began in 2022.
For a long time, the project has been a crucial source of information for analysts and journalists worldwide. Ukrainian authorities also seemed to appreciate the project. The Ministry of Defense's information agency even conducted interviews with its creators, and the team participated in fundraisers for the Ukrainian military and soldiers.
Recently, commentators have observed that DeepState has been silent. There have been no updates since December 21. Some speculate this might indicate serious challenges for Ukrainians on the front line, but the situation is likely more complex.
Deputy: Syrski wants to dismantle DeepState
According to Supreme Council deputy Mariana Bezhukha (formerly a member of Volodymyr Zelensky's Servant of the People party until 2024), the Ukrainian army is targeting DeepState administrators.
"Syrskyi, instead of stabilizing the defense, has launched an offensive against the DeepState team — the last bastion of more or less adequate information about the front line.," she wrote on social media.
According to her, the army's plan includes conscripting the DeepState team into the military. "No people, no problem," wrote Bezhukha.
The deputy suggests the military might also want the Security Service of Ukraine and law enforcement agencies to investigate the analysts for "disclosure of information." It's possible the army will attempt to discredit the project and ultimately shut it down.
"We have all known DeepState since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Every day, it remains one of the few sources to understand what is happening, both for civilians and even for the military. The attack of the "old-timers" on the project is yet another dimension of their complete backwardness and evidence that we have truly become hostages of Soviet-style @#&%" Bezhukha argues.
She also urged support for the Ukrainian OSINT community, hoping the generals would "choke on their actions."
She addressed Zelensky as well, asking, "Volodymyr Oleksandrovych, where are we headed?"
DeepState: Not all commanders appreciate the truth
The information from the deputy seems to be corroborated by DeepState administrators themselves, who published a post online.
"We have always worked hard to contribute to our soldiers' and our country's victory. Therefore, we enjoy a strong reputation and valuable trust among the public, and most importantly, among the military. That's why we have the most recognized map of the Russian-Ukrainian war in Ukraine and worldwide," the analysts wrote.
"But unfortunately, not all chief commanders appreciate the truth, which is a pity," they added.
The analysts expressed gratitude for the support they receive. They assured readers that they are "not giving up," emphasizing that "lies will destroy us all."
