Zelenskyy says Ukraine will not abandon its bid to join NATO, and honestly, the implications of that statement are pretty layered. It’s not as simple as a clear “yes” or “no” situation, and it feels like there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface. While the headline might suggest a steadfast commitment to immediate membership, the reality appears a bit more complex. From what I gather, Ukraine understands that direct NATO membership is probably off the table, at least for the foreseeable future. However, they aren’t withdrawing their application, and that’s significant.
The interesting thing is this: the discussion around a defense plan, mirroring the spirit of Article 5 without being *within* NATO.… Continue reading
President Zelensky has unveiled a revised 20-point peace plan, which is currently under discussion with the US. This revised plan, a reduction from the original 28 points, includes provisions like a cap on Ukraine’s peacetime forces while dropping others. The 20-point plan is one of four documents in development, alongside agreements for security guarantees and economic recovery. While progress has been made, several provisions remain unacceptable, and a durable ceasefire is not yet in sight.
Read More
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that Chinese satellite imagery has coincided with Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities, according to information received from the Head of Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service. The intelligence also indicated Russia’s efforts to evade sanctions on its energy companies through alternative management schemes. Zelenskyy also addressed the deployment of Oreshnik missiles in Belarus, emphasizing the need for international awareness and a coordinated response. Furthermore, the briefing highlighted increased ties between Russia and Chinese entities providing space intelligence data, potentially prolonging the war and hindering diplomatic efforts.
Read More
In Moscow, a car explosion resulted in the deaths of two traffic police officers and a third individual. The incident occurred when the officers approached a “suspicious person” near their vehicle, triggering an explosive device. Russian authorities are investigating the crime, reviewing CCTV footage, and establishing a crime scene. A Ukrainian military intelligence official reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack, which happened near the site where a senior Russian military officer was killed by a car bomb earlier in the week.
Read More
Zelensky Proposes Demilitarized Zone in Eastern Ukraine as Way to Peace, that’s the heart of the matter. It’s a concept being floated, and it’s definitely sparking a lot of thought. The idea, as I understand it, is to carve out a specific area in eastern Ukraine where military forces from both sides would be prohibited. The aim, of course, is to dial down the conflict, prevent further bloodshed, and potentially pave the way for a more lasting peace.
However, the general feeling seems to be a sense of cautious skepticism, bordering on outright doubt. Many feel that Russia simply wouldn’t adhere to such an agreement.… Continue reading
Pope Leo expressed his sadness over Russia’s rejection of a Christmas ceasefire in the ongoing war with Ukraine. Speaking from Castel Gandolfo, he appealed to people of goodwill to observe Christmas Day as a day of peace, hoping for at least a 24-hour cessation of hostilities. This follows a previous rejection by the Kremlin of a potential ceasefire, citing a preference for a comprehensive peace agreement over a temporary respite for Kyiv.
Read More
According to sources in Ukraine’s military intelligence, two Russian police officers involved in the torture of Ukrainian prisoners of war were killed in a Moscow explosion. The attack, which occurred when an improvised explosive device was thrown into a police car, targeted individuals implicated in war crimes. This incident, which the HUR sources said was a protest against the Kremlin’s policy, is part of a pattern of targeting Russian officials allegedly involved in abuses against Ukrainian captives. The Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case, and the event follows another high-profile attack earlier in the week.
Read More
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker