Throughout 2024, Russian forces made significant territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, capturing key cities like Avdiivka and Vuhledar and steadily advancing towards Pokrovsk. Simultaneously, a Russian offensive in northeastern Kharkiv Oblast, though initially rapid, failed to achieve major breakthroughs, while a Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast resulted in substantial territory loss. The year concluded with Ukraine facing a manpower shortage, looming defeats in several key battles, and the threat of a major Russian counteroffensive involving North Korean troops. The ongoing battles in Donetsk and Kharkiv Oblasts, coupled with a precarious situation in Kursk Oblast, paint a grim picture for Ukraine’s military prospects.
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President Zelensky announced that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Kursk Oblast have been killed or injured. This figure, based on Ukrainian intelligence, significantly surpasses previous reports and highlights the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. The deployment of approximately 12,000 North Korean troops since August has reportedly aided Russia in limited territorial gains, despite high casualty rates among inexperienced soldiers. Zelensky warned of the escalating global risks associated with this collaboration, including the potential for further troop and arms transfers from North Korea.
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For the seventeenth time this year, Russia convened a UN meeting to rewrite history and justify its Ukraine invasion, ignoring the UN Charter. Russia’s actions, including the deployment of weapons supplied by North Korea and Iran, have caused over 12,000 Ukrainian civilian deaths and widespread destruction. This aggression necessitates continued international support for Ukraine’s self-defense and pursuit of a just peace, founded on the UN Charter’s principles. Only Russia’s complete withdrawal from Ukraine can resolve this conflict. The international community must reject Russia’s attempts to distort reality and uphold the truth.
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Following a report from Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, President Zelenskyy announced that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in Kursk Oblast. This estimate stems from preliminary data following a December 23rd staff meeting. The President highlighted the escalating risk of regional destabilization due to the growing Moscow-Pyongyang partnership. He further emphasized the global threat posed by the transfer of Russian military technology and expertise to North Korea.
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A video circulating online allegedly shows Australian citizen Oscar Jenkins, a prisoner of war in Ukraine, being interrogated and assaulted by Russian forces. The Australian government is working to verify the video’s authenticity and confirm Jenkins’ well-being, while urging Russia to uphold its international legal obligations regarding POWs. The government is providing consular support to Jenkins’ family and has reiterated its travel advisory warning against travel to Ukraine. Social media profiles seemingly belonging to Jenkins reveal a background in biology and a history of advocating for veganism.
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Ukraine will continue to target Russian military sites with domestically produced drones and missiles, focusing on bases and infrastructure used in attacks against Ukrainian civilians. This follows a recent Russian attack on a Kherson oncology clinic, a deliberate act of cruelty according to President Zelenskyy, highlighting the ongoing need for increased defense support for Ukraine. The rubble from a Kyiv missile attack on December 20th has been cleared, while efforts continue in Kherson. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for international support, particularly efforts to bolster European defense spending.
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Intense Russian attacks across multiple front lines, particularly in Donetsk Oblast targeting Pokrovsk and Kurakhove, have been repelled by Ukrainian forces, according to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Despite the “extremely difficult” situation, Ukrainian defenses held firm against approximately 250 clashes in a single day. Syrskyi confirmed increased UK support for Ukraine is planned for 2025. Further, Russia is also offensively active in Kursk Oblast, employing North Korean troops.
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The Russian government has designated The Satanic Temple (TST) an “undesirable” organization, accusing it of promoting “occult ideology” and discrediting traditional values. Authorities allege TST supports extremist groups, criticizes the Ukraine conflict, and advocates for regime change in Russia, claims the group denies. The designation stems from a 2015 law expanded earlier this year, resulting in the group’s forced dissolution and prohibiting any involvement with it. This action follows Russia’s characterization of its invasion of Ukraine as a battle against satanic forces.
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Two large explosions near Russia’s Severomorsk Arctic naval base, home to key military assets, shook nearby cities. The cause remains undetermined, with speculation ranging from accidental munitions detonation to sabotage, potentially involving drones. The explosions’ proximity to airfields, weapons depots, and other military installations raises significant concerns about potential damage to Russian military capabilities. While the distance from Ukraine suggests a sophisticated attack, Moscow simultaneously launched missile strikes on Kyiv, potentially signaling escalation.
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The assertion that President Biden’s strategy cost Ukraine its chance at victory is a complex one, sparking heated debate and raising important questions about the nature of the conflict and the role of the United States. While the US has undeniably provided significant military and financial aid to Ukraine, far exceeding any other nation’s contribution, criticisms persist regarding the timing and scope of this support.
The argument centers around the claim that delays in providing crucial weaponry and the imposition of restrictions on their use hampered Ukraine’s ability to launch effective offensives and potentially achieve a decisive victory. Concerns have been voiced that a more proactive and aggressive approach, including earlier and more extensive provision of long-range weaponry, could have altered the course of the war.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood