Following protests across dozens of Iranian cities, many shops in Tehran’s bazaar remained closed amidst reports of plainclothes security agents, and videos showed clashes between protestors and security forces. Overnight demonstrations were reported in various neighborhoods of Tehran and several provincial cities, fueled by economic pressures like inflation and unemployment, with labor and civil organizations supporting the protests. Internet access was disrupted in areas with intense protests, and opposition figures, including exiled prince Reza Pahlavi, paid tribute to the slain protestors, vowing to hold those responsible accountable. The Komala Party Leader also condemned the alleged actions of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, emphasizing the power of the popular movement.
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The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs addressed the recent developments in Venezuela, specifically the detention of Nicolás Maduro. Ukraine reaffirmed its stance that Maduro’s regime violated democratic principles and human rights, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha underscored Ukraine’s support for the Venezuelan people’s right to freedom and democratic values. Ukraine’s position stems from its consistent defense of nations’ rights to live free from oppression and dictatorship, having refused to recognize Maduro’s legitimacy after contested elections and crackdowns.
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On January 1, Russian forces attacked Feldman Ecopark near Kharkiv with a glide bomb, injuring a volunteer and causing significant damage. The attack destroyed winter houses for predators and birds, with founder Oleksandr Feldman reporting injuries to lions and the likely death of most birds. Additionally, the Russians attacked the Kholodnohirskyi district of Kharkiv and seven settlements in the region, injuring an 84-year-old woman and damaging multiple civilian structures. These attacks, including the use of glide bombs and drones, are part of the ongoing conflict and impact the city of Kharkiv.
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On Monday, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Ukraine of launching 91 drones at Putin’s official residence, claiming Russian air defense systems intercepted them. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denied the accusation, attributing it to Russia’s attempts to undermine peace talks, and accusing Russia of fabricating events to justify further attacks. France also cast doubt on the claim, stating they found no solid evidence to support Russia’s accusations after consulting with their partners, viewing the claims as an attempt to derail the peace process. Despite this, Russia’s claim triggered condemnation from both Russia-aligned countries and the United States.
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Ukraine has recently bolstered its air defenses by deploying two more Patriot air defense systems to protect its cities and critical infrastructure. This deployment follows a defense agreement with Germany, providing significant financial support and spare parts for the systems. The Patriot system, a sophisticated air defense system capable of intercepting various threats, has been crucial in reducing losses from Russian missile strikes. These systems have been instrumental in defending against advanced weapons, while Western allies continue to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses with other systems like IRIS-T, NASAMS, and SAMP/T.
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According to a report in La Verdad, a Spanish investigation suggests the Russian cargo ship Ursa Major, which sank in December 2024, was carrying undeclared components for two nuclear reactors destined for North Korea. The investigation purportedly found the ship had suffered damage consistent with a torpedo strike, including a hull breach. Spanish authorities reportedly discovered two undeclared containers linked to the reactors and believed the cargo’s destination to be Rason, North Korea. Following the sinking, Russia took control of the investigation, citing international maritime law and attempting to impede Spanish involvement.
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According to Ukraine’s foreign intelligence service, the Kremlin is likely planning a false flag operation to disrupt potential peace talks mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Kyiv believes Moscow will stage a high-casualty attack, potentially before Russian Orthodox Christmas, to escalate tensions. The intelligence service suggests the Kremlin intends to blame Ukraine for the attack. The warning is based on observations of a heightened disinformation campaign being prepared by the Kremlin.
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In his New Year’s address, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized wartime unity and the continuation of the conflict, making no mention of peace talks or ending the war. The brief speech, delivered on December 31, focused on praising Russian soldiers and framing their actions within a narrative of patriotism and national defense. This year’s address starkly contrasted with his 2022 speech, highlighting a shift towards normalizing the war without acknowledging its human cost. Furthermore, just days before the New Year, Putin signed decrees solidifying the war’s integration into Russian daily life through year-round conscription and the utilization of reservists.
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In a New Year’s address, President Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to peace, but stressed that it would not come at the cost of the nation’s security. He warned that either the world must stop Russia’s aggression, or Russia will expand the conflict globally, highlighting the necessity of strong security guarantees to prevent future attacks. Zelensky called for increased sanctions on Russia and for the provision of long-range Tomahawk missiles, emphasizing that only a strong response can ensure peace. He concluded by asserting that Ukraine is the shield defending Europe, and that failure to act decisively would embolden Russia’s military ambitions.
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Overnight on December 31, Ukrainian drone strikes caused significant damage to Russian oil and weapons facilities. The attacks targeted the Tuapse Oil Refinery, the Tamanneftegaz oil terminal, a Rosreserv oil depot, a temporary military base for river boats, and ammunition depots in occupied Ukraine. The strikes on the Tuapse refinery caused a fire and damaged key processing units, while the Tamanneftegaz terminal saw damage to two berths. Ukrainian forces also successfully struck the Rosreserv oil depot and several military targets in occupied territories. These actions exemplify the escalation of Ukrainian drone warfare against Russian infrastructure throughout 2025.
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John Q. Hosedrinker