A Moscow court sentenced three lawyers—Vadim Kobzev, Alexei Liptser, and Igor Sergunin—to prison terms ranging from three and a half to five and a half years for allegedly conveying messages from Alexei Navalny. The lawyers’ actions, deemed participation in an “extremist organization,” are viewed by rights groups as part of a broader crackdown on dissent. Kobzev, a prominent member of Navalny’s legal team, received the harshest sentence. This case highlights Russia’s continued suppression of Navalny’s legacy and those associated with him, even after his death. The sentences have drawn international condemnation.
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In response to the execution of two Ukrainian prisoners of war by Russian soldiers from the 40th Arctic Brigade, Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces conducted a targeted operation. The operation resulted in the deaths of three Russian soldiers and the capture of three others, who have reportedly confessed to the killings under orders from their commander. These actions followed numerous documented violations of the Geneva Conventions by Russian forces, including the reported execution of at least 124 Ukrainian POWs. The captured soldiers’ testimonies and the recovered bodies of the Ukrainian soldiers are now being used as evidence of these war crimes.
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A fire broke out at an oil depot in Lyudinovo, Russia, on January 17th, following a reported Ukrainian drone attack. Regional Governor Vladislav Shapsha confirmed the fire at an industrial facility, stating there were no casualties. The extent of the damage remains unclear, but the incident is part of a broader pattern of Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure to disrupt its war effort. Ukraine’s military has yet to claim responsibility.
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SAS Captain Johan Lester reported GPS spoofing during an Oslo to Kirkenes flight, a phenomenon increasingly common near the Russian border. This spoofing, confirmed by Norwegian authorities, occurs alongside consistent GPS jamming originating from Russia, forcing airlines to implement alternative navigation procedures. The incident marks the first confirmed case of GPS spoofing on the Norwegian side of the border, prompting investigations and increased monitoring by Norwegian authorities. These actions include contacting international organizations and increasing their presence in the affected area.
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During a visit to Poland, Keir Starmer urged continued, strengthened support for Ukraine, emphasizing the necessity of peace achieved on Ukraine’s terms. Discussions with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk focused on a proposed defense treaty and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to NATO and Ukraine’s defense. Starmer’s trip follows a meeting with President Zelenskyy, resulting in a strengthened UK-Ukraine defense partnership. While declining to comment directly on Donald Trump’s potential impact, Starmer stressed the US’s crucial role in Ukraine’s defense.
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The Finnish Defence Forces are modernizing sniper training, incorporating lessons from the Ukraine conflict. This includes constructing a new 600-meter rifle range to address a current lack of long-range training facilities, and integrating “dynamic shooting” exercises involving moving targets. These changes aim to improve sniper effectiveness and are driven by increased demand for range use, both by the FDF and civilian users. The initiative also reflects a broader commitment to environmental sustainability in range development and operation.
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Following a Russian drone attack on Ukraine near the Romanian border on January 17th, Romanian airspace was violated. Two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled, and subsequent investigations uncovered potential drone impact traces near Plauroo. The Romanian Ministry of Defense condemned the attacks, maintained constant contact with allies, and continues monitoring the situation. The affected area is currently secured pending further investigation.
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On January 15-16, 2025, a French Atlantique 2 aircraft, on a NATO mission in the Baltic Sea, was targeted by a Russian S-400 air defense system’s radar, prompting condemnation from French authorities. This aggressive action, likely originating from Kaliningrad, occurred amidst heightened tensions and increased NATO patrols aimed at protecting critical infrastructure in the region following suspected Russian sabotage. The incident, while serious, underscores the ongoing geopolitical rivalry and risks of operating near Russian forces. The sophisticated S-400 system, with its advanced capabilities and long-range detection, plays a key role in Russia’s regional defense strategy.
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Following a trial, three lawyers who previously represented Alexei Navalny—Vadim Kobzev, Igor Sergunin, and Alexei Liptser—received prison sentences ranging from three and a half to five and a half years. The lawyers’ legal work involved defending Navalny against a 19-year prison sentence. These convictions are the latest in a series of crackdowns targeting those associated with the opposition leader. The sentences highlight the increasingly repressive environment for lawyers and activists in Russia.
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A second Ukrainian drone strike on January 14th further damaged the oil depot at the Kristal plant in Engels, Russia, causing a four-day fire. The attack, confirmed by Ukraine’s General Staff, resulted in the deaths of two emergency responders and significant damage to fuel storage, reducing Russian military logistical capabilities. Governor Busargin reported the fire is largely contained, despite ongoing emergency response efforts and citizen complaints about smoke. The strike reportedly destroyed three and damaged six fuel tanks, impacting nearly 800,000 tons of storage capacity.
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John Q. Hosedrinker