In December 2024 alone, Russian forces deployed chemical weapons in 434 separate battlefield incidents, according to a January 18th report from Ukraine’s General Staff. This brings the total recorded instances since February 2023 to 5,389, including the use of prohibited munitions like K-51 and RG-VO. These actions constitute a systemic violation of warfare rules, resulting in over 2,000 Ukrainian soldier hospitalizations and three deaths from chemical poisoning. Ukraine responded to these attacks by assassinating the head of Russia’s chemical defense troops, Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov.
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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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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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Building on prior £12.8bn in aid and a yearly £3bn military commitment, the UK announced further support for Ukraine amidst a renewed Russian offensive. Russia’s recent advances in eastern Ukraine, particularly around Pokrovsk, Toretsk, and Chasiv Yar, mark their fastest territorial gains since the invasion began. This intensified conflict comes as the war enters its third year, with devastating human costs. The UK’s continued support includes supplying Storm Shadow missiles, and a new UK-Ukraine partnership agreement will soon be presented to Parliament.
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During Sir Keir Starmer’s Kyiv visit, a drone attack near the presidential palace underscored the ongoing threat faced by Ukraine. Discussions between Starmer and President Zelenskyy focused on continued UK support, including a new air defense system and increased troop training. While Starmer pledged long-term commitment and open consideration of future troop deployments, Zelenskyy highlighted challenges in securing NATO membership, particularly given potential shifts in US policy under a Trump administration. The visit served as a strong show of support amid ongoing conflict and uncertainty surrounding future peace negotiations.
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President Zelenskyy expressed confidence that the war in Ukraine could conclude in 2024, citing the potential for American and European support to pressure Russia. He highlighted the role of strong partnerships with the US and EU, particularly emphasizing increased European arms production as a deterrent to further Russian aggression. Zelenskyy also suggested that a potential Trump presidency could leverage its influence on Russia to facilitate peace negotiations, contingent upon clear security guarantees for Ukraine. This pressure, combined with strengthened European defense capabilities, could force Putin into diplomatic solutions.
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On January 15th, Ukraine reported its military now numbers 880,000 troops, confronting 600,000 Russian soldiers concentrated in key areas. A massive Russian missile attack targeted Ukraine, prompting emergency blackouts, while Ukraine simultaneously repatriated 25 prisoners of war, including Azovstal defenders. Meanwhile, Senator Rubio urged concessions from both Ukraine and Russia for peace negotiations, and NATO’s potential defense budget could massively surpass Russia’s if European spending mirrored Poland’s.
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Germany’s latest military aid shipment to Ukraine includes thousands of artillery shells (155mm and 122mm), hundreds of combat and reconnaissance drones (HF-1, VECTOR, HEIDRUN, SONGBIRD), and various other supplies such as mortar shells and medical equipment. Further deliveries of armored fighting vehicles (Marder, Boxer, and MRAPs), self-propelled artillery (RCH 155), and the first of 54 ordered howitzers are also confirmed. This follows reported internal German government discussions concerning a substantial additional €3 billion weapons package.
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Zelensky says he discussed the idea of Western troops in Ukraine with Macron. This suggests a potential shift in the strategic conversation surrounding the ongoing conflict, moving beyond the current provision of aid and weaponry to the direct deployment of combat forces. The specific context of this deployment isn’t explicitly detailed, but it’s likely framed within the broader discussions around a potential ceasefire agreement or peace treaty, possibly acting as a peacekeeping force to maintain stability during a transition.
The conversation surrounding Western troop deployment immediately brings to mind the significant risks involved. The fear of escalating the conflict into a wider, potentially catastrophic war is very real and understandable.… Continue reading
Zelensky’s sharp rebuke of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico centers around accusations of “lies and accusations” leveled against Ukraine amidst a dispute over gas supplies. The Ukrainian president directly countered Fico’s portrayal of Ukraine as a “beggar” and “blackmailer,” arguing that the Slovakian PM is the one misleading his own people.
Zelensky pointed to Slovakia’s refusal of Ukrainian assistance during their transition away from Russian gas transit as evidence of Fico’s misrepresentation. He highlighted the warnings from various European nations regarding the dangers of inaction, suggesting Fico is now attempting to deflect blame through public relations maneuvers, falsehoods, and inflammatory accusations.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood