Italy backs Ukraine military aid through 2026 after a period of internal coalition tensions, a move that solidifies its commitment to supporting Kyiv. The decision, though seemingly straightforward on the surface, reflects a complex interplay of political ideologies and economic realities within the Italian government. The financial commitment itself is significant, with the total military aid package currently standing at €3 billion. This figure represents a considerable investment, providing Ukraine with essential weaponry and equipment to defend itself against the ongoing conflict. It’s important to understand the scale of this aid, especially since some information sources might not fully capture the breadth of Italy’s contribution.… Continue reading
During a joint press conference, President Trump stated that Vladimir Putin expressed a desire for Ukraine’s success and indicated Russia’s willingness to assist with its reconstruction. Trump claimed Putin was generous in his sentiment towards Ukraine, even mentioning the possibility of providing energy and other resources at low prices. Trump was responding to a question regarding discussions about Russia’s role in Ukraine’s post-war rebuilding. The former President concluded that “a lot of good things came out of that call today”.
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Due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Hyundai is unable to repurchase its former manufacturing plant in Russia, according to a source familiar with the internal deliberations. The automaker sold the plant in St. Petersburg in 2024 to AGR Automotive Group, including a buyback option set to expire in January. Although a final decision has not been made, the source cited the conflict as the primary reason for the situation, making a buyback impossible. This development mirrors a trend among foreign carmakers exiting the Russian market, with several other companies also facing expiring buyback options.
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Following a reported Ukrainian drone attack on Vladimir Putin’s residence, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of fabricating the event to justify further attacks, particularly on Kyiv, and to undermine peace efforts with the US. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated Moscow would review its negotiating position in response to the alleged attack, which Russia claimed to have repelled. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump, who met with Zelenskyy, expressed being “angry” about the news and suggested it was not the “right time” for such actions, without condemning Russia’s actions. Zelenskyy proposed a demilitarized zone and a referendum on a peace plan, while also seeking longer-term security guarantees from the US.
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Following a meeting with military commanders, Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed the military to advance its offensive and capture Zaporizhzhia. Putin also reiterated the need to establish a “security zone” along Ukraine’s northern border in the Sumy and Kharkiv regions. These instructions mirror previous directives issued in November and May. These actions were taken not long after US President Donald Trump commented on Moscow’s potential interest in ending the war.
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President Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine holds a fundamentally different position than Russia regarding the future of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions, asserting that territorial questions must be decided by Ukrainians themselves. He indicated that a referendum would be necessary, including participation from Ukrainians abroad, while acknowledging the need for the proper infrastructure. While Zelenskyy noted substantial progress on a proposed 20-point peace framework, President Trump also stated that sensitive issues remain, though a solution is moving closer. European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, welcomed the progress and underscored the importance of ironclad security guarantees.
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DeepState reported that Russian forces executed three unarmed Ukrainian soldiers south of Huliaipole in the Zaporizhzhia region on December 20. The execution constitutes another documented instance of Russian forces killing Ukrainian prisoners of war, highlighting further violations of warfare customs. The incident occurred when Ukrainian servicemen from a mechanized brigade were ambushed while attempting to occupy previously abandoned positions. Analysts stress the need for continued documentation and international dissemination of these events, emphasizing the roles of Ukrainian human rights officials and civil society in gathering evidence.
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The United States has offered Ukraine security guarantees for 15 years as part of a proposed peace plan, though Ukraine would prefer a longer commitment. Negotiations, led by the U.S. and Russia, continue to search for a breakthrough on key issues such as troop withdrawal. The talks come as Russia claims its forces are advancing and also reports an attack on Putin’s residence. A national referendum to approve the 20-point peace plan is under discussion, though it requires a ceasefire.
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During an online briefing after returning from Europe, President Zelenskyy stated that the United States and Europe would persist in supporting Ukraine if Russia prolongs its war efforts. He emphasized the necessity of ending the conflict through diplomatic means and pressuring Russia, highlighting the unified stance shared with the Americans. Zelenskyy also noted the importance of robust security guarantees, including bilateral agreements with the U.S. and European partners, to be ratified by their respective parliaments, aiming to avoid the ineffectiveness of past agreements. Zelenskyy also mentioned that the 20-point plan should be endorsed by a referendum.
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President Zelenskyy believes Russia is fabricating justifications for strikes on Kyiv, potentially targeting government buildings. He stated this following a successful Ukraine-US meeting in Florida, which seemingly displeased Russia. Zelenskyy cited Russia’s history of inventing pretexts, such as a drone strike claim, to justify military actions, referencing the prior missile attack on the Cabinet of Ministers building. He urged vigilance and called for international intervention to pressure Russia into ending the war.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker