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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Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to restore diplomatic relations and economic cooperation with Syria, including the provision of Ukrainian grain through the “Grain from Ukraine” program. An initial shipment of 500 tonnes of wheat flour has already been delivered, with the initiative aiming to stabilize the situation and contribute to broader Middle Eastern peace. This aid is part of a larger effort that has already delivered over 221,000 tonnes of agricultural products to various countries. The move reflects Ukraine’s commitment to expanding its global trade partnerships while countering Russia’s influence in the region.
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Following a conversation between President Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Ishiba, Japan will provide an additional US$3 billion to Ukraine, sourced from frozen Russian assets. This funding will support crucial energy infrastructure repairs and shelter construction, vital given Russia’s recent attacks. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Japan’s ongoing commitment to Ukraine’s defense and pursuit of peace. This contribution builds upon previous aid, including a US$1 billion transfer from frozen Russian assets.
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On Christmas Day, Russia launched a major missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, causing widespread power outages and casualties across the country, including Kyiv, where residents sought shelter in metro stations. President Zelensky condemned the attack as an “inhumane” and “conscious choice” by Russia, highlighting the targeting of critical energy facilities for the 13th time this year. Despite the attacks, many Ukrainians remained resilient, celebrating Christmas as best they could amidst the ongoing conflict. The attack left cities like Kharkiv with widespread damage and hundreds of thousands without essential services.
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On Christmas Day, Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, striking a thermal power plant and causing widespread blackouts and heating disruptions, particularly in Kharkiv. Over 70 missiles and 100 drones were fired, with Ukrainian forces shooting down a significant number. The attack resulted in casualties, with at least seven people wounded and one killed. This marks the 13th such attack on Ukraine’s power grid this year, prompting accusations of inhumane terror tactics by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
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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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Zelenskyy’s accusation against Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico centers on allegations that Slovakia’s energy deals with Russia actively undermine European efforts to lessen dependence on Russian gas and inadvertently aid Russia in circumventing sanctions. The accusations are made amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine and Slovakia’s participation in EU sanctions against Russia, creating a complex and highly charged situation.
The crux of Zelenskyy’s criticism lies in Slovakia’s recent energy agreements, which he believes provide substantial financial benefits to Russia. He claims these deals, estimated to be worth a billion dollars annually, effectively reward Russia’s aggression while simultaneously hindering the collective European goal of weaning itself off Russian energy.… Continue reading
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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On December 21st, Russian forces launched a guided aerial bomb attack on a Kherson oncology center, a heinous act targeting a vital medical facility. Although no casualties were reported due to timely sheltering, the attack destroyed the city’s only radiotherapy linear accelerator. This incident follows a pattern of Russian attacks on Ukrainian medical infrastructure, including previous strikes on children’s and cancer hospitals. Zelensky condemned the attack and reiterated his plea for increased Western air defense systems to protect civilian targets.
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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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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood