A drone attack on January 7-8 ignited a fire at the Kombinat Kristal oil depot in Engels, Saratov Oblast, resulting in a five-day firefighting effort. Two firefighters perished, and one was hospitalized during the extensive operation. Authorities declared a state of emergency in Engels, and while the fire is now under control, Governor Busargin reported decreasing smoke and fire size. The depot, a federal facility supplying the Engels-2 airbase, sustained significant damage.
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Nearly 1,300 Ukrainians residing in various European nations have applied to join the Poland-based Ukrainian Legion, a volunteer military unit trained by the Polish Armed Forces. The Legion, launched in July 2024 to address Ukraine’s manpower needs, allows Ukrainians abroad to contribute to the defense effort while maintaining their foreign residency. A second recruitment wave, including women in medical and communications roles, recently concluded in Lublin. Following contract signing, recruits undergo training using NATO weaponry at Polish Armed Forces facilities.
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Donald Trump’s incoming administration, through special envoy Keith Kellogg, aims to broker a Ukraine-Russia peace agreement within 100 days of the inauguration, rejecting suggestions that this involves territorial concessions to Russia. Kellogg asserts the goal is to preserve Ukraine’s sovereignty, while Trump himself acknowledges Russia’s historical concerns regarding NATO expansion near its borders. This timeline contrasts with Trump’s previous 24-hour claim, and analysts warn that a rushed agreement could undermine Ukrainian democracy and embolden Russia. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy anticipates a “new chapter” with Trump’s presidency.
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Unless substantial new U.S. aid is provided, Ukraine will likely face complete defeat and Russian control within the next 12-18 months. This presents a significant challenge for President-elect Trump, who previously promised a swift resolution to the conflict but now faces a reality where Putin seeks Ukraine’s complete capitulation. Trump must choose between accepting a humiliating global defeat or redoubling U.S. support for Ukraine, a decision impacting both Ukraine’s fate and the success of his presidency. Putin believes he is on the verge of victory and is unlikely to negotiate unless his military position changes drastically. A Russian victory would entail the complete eradication of Ukrainian independence and identity, resulting in widespread suffering and repression.
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Biden is reportedly planning to implement new sanctions against Russia before the end of his term, a move generating significant online discussion. The timing of these sanctions, so close to a potential Trump return to power, has sparked intense debate about their effectiveness and political implications.
Many express frustration with this late-stage action, arguing that stronger, earlier sanctions could have yielded better results. The sentiment reflects a widespread belief that the current measures are largely symbolic, destined to be reversed by a Trump administration. This perceived futility fuels cynicism and underlines the ongoing frustration with the perceived slow pace of action against Russia.… Continue reading
A senior US official warned that North Korea’s deployment of over 12,000 troops alongside Russian forces in Ukraine provides Pyongyang with valuable combat experience, enhancing its military capabilities against neighbors. This collaboration, including the exchange of military technology, strengthens North Korea’s potential for future aggression and arms sales. The UN Security Council convened to address North Korea’s recent missile test, with Pyongyang justifying it as defensive, while the US highlighted the detrimental impact of this military cooperation. Despite concerns, further UN action is unlikely due to Russia’s veto power.
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From January 8th to 31st, Belarusian territorial defense forces, reservists, and military reserves will participate in military exercises in the Gomel district. These exercises, led by the Gomel district executive committee, will focus on personnel management and logistical support utilizing local mobilization resources. The training will involve collaboration with Belarusian Armed Forces engineering units, preparing conscripts for potential operational tasks. Notably, Gomel’s proximity to Ukraine’s Chernihiv Oblast highlights the strategic significance of these drills. This follows previous Belarusian military exercises near Poland and Lithuania, and participation in Russian nuclear weapons drills.
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During a recent interview, President Zelensky revealed that Belarusian President Lukashenko called to apologize for missile launches from Belarusian territory, claiming that Russian President Putin was responsible. Lukashenko reportedly stated, “It’s not me, it’s Putin,” according to Zelensky. Zelensky expressed frustration with the international community’s inability to hold Lukashenko accountable for his actions. He firmly stated that forgiveness for Russia’s actions is impossible.
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On January 5th, 2025, over 160 prominent Ukrainian figures released an open appeal, “Do Not Appease Evil,” to global leaders. The appeal argues that Russia’s war aims extend beyond territorial gains, seeking to dismantle the existing world order. It warns against a negotiated peace that cedes Ukrainian territory, asserting this would embolden aggressors and destabilize global security. Conversely, a decisive defeat of Russia’s aggression is presented as crucial for restoring global stability and averting wider conflict.
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Zelenskyy asserts that Putin is unresponsive to dialogue, likening him to a destructive force rather than a rational actor. He contrasts Putin’s focus on violence with figures like Elon Musk, emphasizing the futility of attempting appeasement. Instead, Zelenskyy advocates for a position of strength, arguing that only demonstrable power can influence Putin’s actions and achieve peace. This approach, he suggests, aligns with the principle of “peace through strength,” rejecting attempts to engage with Putin on a subjective or personal level.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood