AP News reports the United States condemned Russia’s recent actions in Ukraine as a “dangerous and inexplicable escalation.” Specifically, the U.S. criticized the launch of a nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile near the Polish border and intensifying attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. This occurred amidst ongoing peace negotiations and a backdrop of strained relations between Moscow and Washington. Both European and U.S. leaders see the recent Russian actions as unacceptable and a risk to further intensifying the war.
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The United Kingdom has initiated Project Nightfall, a competition to swiftly develop long-range ballistic missiles for Ukraine. This initiative follows a recent visit by U.K. officials to Ukraine, during which Russia launched an Oreshnik ballistic missile near the Polish border. The Nightfall missiles are designed to carry a 200 kg warhead with a range exceeding 500 kilometers, targeting high-value assets while allowing for rapid redeployment. The project seeks to award contracts in March 2026, with a production rate of 10 missiles per month and a maximum price of $1.07 million each.
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Analysis of videos from the US operation in Caracas, Venezuela in January 2026 reveals that several Russian-made Buk-M2 air defense systems were either disconnected from radar or stored at the time of the attack. These systems, stationed at locations like La Guaira and La Carlota air base, were unprepared for the US strikes, with some destroyed during deployment. The New York Times reports, based on US officials, that the systems may not have been operational for years, potentially due to lack of Russian maintenance, which may have been diverted to the war in Ukraine or part of a strategic agreement with the US. This suggests that Venezuela’s air defenses were caught off guard despite months of warnings.
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French President Emmanuel Macron has discussed the potential deployment of approximately 10,000 soldiers to Ukraine. The deployment would involve two multinational brigades, forming part of a European Union “deterrence force” with a command center near Paris. Discussions included the weapons these brigades would utilize, with parliament set to be involved in the decision-making process within the coming weeks. The composition is likely to lean toward mechanized infantry due to limited tank availability. This initiative is part of a broader coalition supporting Ukraine with logistics, weapons, military training, and air defense, including efforts to secure the Black Sea.
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Over the past week, Russia has launched a barrage of attacks against Ukraine, including nearly 1,100 attack drones, over 890 guided aerial bombs, and more than 50 missiles. President Zelenskyy stated that these attacks, which targeted energy facilities and residential buildings, have no military purpose and are acts of terrorism against civilians. He noted that the attacks were intentionally timed to coincide with freezing weather to exacerbate the suffering of the Ukrainian people. DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy company, has indicated that the current electricity supply situation is the most challenging so far this winter.
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According to sources within the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov’s health has significantly declined and he is reportedly undergoing dialysis for kidney failure. Kadyrov is currently being treated in his private hospital in Chechnya, where family members have gathered. The DIU has indicated that the process of selecting Kadyrov’s successor has intensified. This information aligns with previous reports from the DIU regarding Kadyrov’s deteriorating health.
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Following a visit to Kyiv, the UK has pledged £200 million to prepare British troops for deployment to Ukraine after a ceasefire with Russia. This funding will enhance vehicles, communications, and drone protection, ensuring troop readiness. The announcement came after Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s commitment to send troops as part of a coalition. Reports suggest the UK may provide a significant portion of a potential 15,000-personnel force.
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Recent Russian air strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have left over a million people in the south-eastern region without heat and water, prompting President Zelensky to call for increased Western support. The attacks, targeting crucial infrastructure, are part of a broader strategy aimed at crippling power supplies during the harsh winter. DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy provider, has been struggling to recover from the frequent attacks, leading to lengthy power cuts. Zelensky has been on a diplomatic tour, seeking guarantees from allies, while also participating in ongoing peace negotiations which have included discussions on territorial concessions with Russia.
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Following a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv, almost 6,000 apartment buildings, representing half of the city’s housing stock, are without heat, and the city is facing water supply disruptions. Critical infrastructure damage from the attack on January 8th and 9th, described as the most painful for the capital, has led to emergency conditions for city services. Municipal workers are prioritizing essential facilities like hospitals, while energy workers strive to restore electricity and heat. Kyiv’s mayor has urged residents with the means to temporarily relocate to areas with alternative power and heat sources due to the challenging weather forecast.
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Overnight attacks on Kyiv on January 8-9 resulted in at least four fatalities, including a paramedic, and 24 injuries, while also disrupting electricity and heat for hundreds of thousands of residents. Russian forces launched numerous missiles and drones, targeting critical energy and civilian infrastructure as temperatures plummeted. Damage was reported across multiple districts, affecting residential buildings, and causing disruptions to the metro system. The attacks, which damaged heat-generation and supply facilities, were aimed at destabilizing the social order.
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John Q. Hosedrinker