Ukrainian forces successfully targeted a Russian oil depot in Engels, Saratov Oblast, disrupting fuel supplies to the nearby Engels-2 airbase. The joint operation, involving military intelligence and Unmanned Systems Forces, aimed to hinder Russian strategic aviation capabilities. This attack, approximately 600 kilometers from the front lines, reportedly caused damage to the Kristal Plant with no reported injuries. The General Staff asserted that the depot’s destruction significantly impairs Russia’s ability to launch attacks on Ukrainian civilians.
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Czech President Petr Pavel criticized recent meetings between Russian President Vladimir Putin and European politicians, emphasizing the importance of EU unity against Russia. Martin Dvorak, Czech Minister for European Affairs, specifically condemned Viktor Orbán and Robert Fico for their visits to Moscow, highlighting their actions as undermining EU solidarity. Meanwhile, Hungary granted political asylum to a Polish official facing corruption charges, prompting Poland to recall its ambassador and threaten further action against Hungary within the EU framework. Despite these tensions, Viktor Orbán stated his focus on bilateral diplomacy while advocating for a stronger Europe.
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From January 8th to 31st, Belarusian territorial defense forces, reservists, and military reserves will participate in military exercises in the Gomel district. These exercises, led by the Gomel district executive committee, will focus on personnel management and logistical support utilizing local mobilization resources. The training will involve collaboration with Belarusian Armed Forces engineering units, preparing conscripts for potential operational tasks. Notably, Gomel’s proximity to Ukraine’s Chernihiv Oblast highlights the strategic significance of these drills. This follows previous Belarusian military exercises near Poland and Lithuania, and participation in Russian nuclear weapons drills.
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Ukrainian forces launched a precision strike on the headquarters of Russia’s 810th Naval Infantry Brigade in Belaya, marking the second such attack in two weeks. This follows a previous strike on Christmas Day and repeated unsuccessful Russian assaults near Pogrebki. The 810th Brigade, significantly weakened after months of fighting, has suffered heavy losses and is being targeted with a variety of long-range weapons systems. These attacks highlight Ukraine’s growing deep-strike capabilities and the continued pressure on Russian forces in the Kursk region.
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The body of Youssef al-Ziyadne, a 53-year-old hostage abducted by Hamas in October 2023, was discovered in a Rafah tunnel alongside two terrorists. Israeli security forces confirmed the finding, stating Youssef’s death appeared not to be recent and that evidence suggests the death of his son, Hamza, was also discovered at the site. Bilal and Aisha, two of Youssef’s children who were also abducted, were previously released. Israeli officials expressed condolences and reiterated their commitment to securing the return of all remaining hostages, both living and deceased.
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Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (SSO) recently reported eliminating 13 North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, employing both ground combat and drone strikes. The operation, part of ongoing SSO activity in the region since August 2024, involved multiple regiments and resulted in the recovery of weapons and documents suggesting the presence of North Korean officers. These actions are a response to Russia’s deployment of North Korean troops to bolster its forces facing Ukrainian offensives. The SSO’s actions have resulted in significant losses for both Russian and North Korean forces in the Kursk Oblast.
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Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement responding to Hungary’s accusations regarding Ukraine’s decision to not renew a Russian gas transit agreement. The statement, delivered via X, sarcastically offered to replace Hungary in the EU and NATO should Budapest choose to join Russian-led blocs like the CIS or CSTO. Kyiv dismissed Hungary’s claims of increased gas prices as a politically motivated campaign, highlighting Hungary’s continued support for Moscow’s narratives and obstruction of Western aid to Ukraine. Ukraine urged Hungary to prioritize ending the war by fostering EU unity and strengthening its own energy independence.
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Senator Sanders vehemently opposes the Biden administration’s proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel, citing the Israeli government’s use of American weaponry in atrocities against Gaza civilians. This sale, including JDAMs and other munitions, adds to billions already provided, some bypassing Congressional oversight. Sanders vows to utilize all available means to block the sale, arguing it violates laws prohibiting aid to nations obstructing humanitarian assistance. The sale, occurring days before Biden leaves office, underscores a four-year policy criticized for failing to address Israel’s actions and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
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President-elect Trump expressed understanding of Russia’s concerns regarding Ukraine’s NATO aspirations, blaming the Biden administration for provoking the conflict. He aims to meet with Vladimir Putin within six months to negotiate an end to the war, a goal he believes he could achieve swiftly. Trump’s approach reportedly favors a peace deal involving Ukrainian territorial concessions, a stance potentially contributing to the resignation of a senior Pentagon official overseeing Ukraine aid. This policy shift prioritizes a rapid resolution, even if it necessitates significant Ukrainian territorial losses.
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Damascus International Airport resumed full international operations on January 7th, with the arrival of a Qatar Airways flight, marking the first such flight in nearly 13 years. A Syrian Airlines flight to the UAE also departed, signifying a return to international commercial travel after a month-long closure following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad. This event coincides with renewed diplomatic efforts by Syria’s new authorities to re-engage with the international community and rebuild the war-torn nation. The airport’s reopening, following damage and theft, is seen as a symbol of hope and a new beginning.
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John Q. Hosedrinker