Oleh Pendzin, a member of the Economic Discussion Club, expressed this opinion on Espreso TV."No one expected India and China to refuse Russian oil. But it is clear that these countries will withdraw Russian oil from those volumes of oil refining that will then go for export, so as not to fall under sanctions restrictions. Turkey will definitely refuse, withdraw from those volumes. We are expecting the 20th sanctions package, which will strengthen control over Russia's shadow tanker fleet. In reality, everything will depend on many factors in the global oil market. This includes the Venezuela question, and the extent to which Europeans can refuse the oil that comes through the shadow tanker fleet. There are many elements there," the economist commented.According to him, looking at the processes currently taking place, the overall volume from Russian oil sales is decreasing."The question is - how quickly will this affect Russia's ability to continue waging war? Experts estimate that the end of the first quarter will be quite indicative - the extent to which Russia has managed to resolve issues with the main sanctions restrictions. By the way, Russia's main goal when entering the negotiation process will be the weakening of sanctions pressure, because it is precisely the sanctions that are putting pressure on the Russian economy today. It should be said that neither Iran nor China does anything for free. And when China supplies something to Russia, Russia pays for it. If it has something to pay with, then China will support it. But if Russia has no money, then, excuse me, China will supply nothing," Pendzin noted.The European Union plans to adopt the 20th package of sanctions against Russia by the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The new restrictions aim to intensify pressure on the Kremlin and deal a more significant blow to the Russian economy.

Lieutenant Colonel Viktor Trehubov, the head of the communications department of the Joint Forces Grouping, stated this on Espreso TV."Regarding the situation on the front in our zone of responsibility - the Kharkiv, Luhansk and Sumy regions - the enemy appears to be in something like an alcoholic stupor, though with some peculiarities. Right now, the attacks we're seeing are not as intense as they were a few weeks ago. We're observing constant regroupings and infiltration attempts as they reposition their forces. Most likely, the Russian invaders are preparing for something," commented the head of the communications department of the Joint Forces Grouping.According to him, the Russian army is now trying to create favorable conditions for launching further offensive operations in January."However, this doesn't mean everything has completely quieted down here - absolutely not. The shelling of civilian cities continues. I'm currently in Kharkiv, and an explosion occurred not far from where I am. We can clearly see that the Russians are by no means sitting quietly. But at the moment, the intensity of combat operations has decreased somewhat, which is clearly connected to their preparations for new 'encounters' in the new year," Viktor Trehubov concluded.On January 2, the General Staff reported that since the beginning of the day, 45 combat clashes occurred on the front, 14 of which were recorded in the Pokrovsk direction.

American diplomat Kurt Volker, former U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO and State Department Special Representative for Ukraine in 2017–2019, expressed this opinion in an interview with Espreso."Putin seeks to seize all of Ukraine: change the government, destroy the military, and subordinate the country to Russian rule. This is absolutely obvious. He will never achieve this, but this is precisely his strategic goal. He will never abandon these intentions and will not accept a peace agreement that does not provide for their achievement. Therefore, I do not believe that Putin will ever agree to a genuine peace agreement. The goal lies elsewhere - for the United States, Ukraine, and European partners to agree on a shared vision of what a just and reasonable peace should be. This makes it possible to clearly demonstrate that it is Putin who rejects peace proposals - something we already understand, but it is important to formalize this in a diplomatic format," he said.In his opinion, the purpose of the 20-point plan is to preserve Western unity with Ukraine and demonstrate Putin's intransigence."Next, in terms of further steps, it is necessary to increase pressure on Russia so that it itself becomes interested in a ceasefire and ending the war. Currently, it does not seek this. This involves strengthening financial pressure - not only through already implemented sanctions on oil and gas, but also through secondary sanctions against those who circumvent Western restrictions, striking the shadow fleet, holding accountable financial institutions that service Russian payments, as well as ensuring stable and predictable financial and military support for Ukraine for as long as necessary.Putin must realize that this support is sustainable, particularly through the lifting of restrictions on the use of weapons supplied to Ukraine. Restrictions on long-range use must be lifted. All these measures are needed to increase pressure on Putin so that he is forced to seek a ceasefire. If they are implemented, there are grounds to believe that a ceasefire can be achieved within several months. If not - the process will continue longer. Despite this, the prospect remains, because the fundamental indicators of the Russian economy are deteriorating. Russia does not have unlimited financial and human resources, access to components and technologies, and faces increasingly serious economic difficulties within the country. We can either accelerate this outcome or delay it, but ultimately, a moment will come when Russia will be forced to agree to a cessation of fire," the American diplomat added.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this."Starting today, Oleh Ivashchenko will continue to serve our state and carry out tasks to limit Russian military potential in the position of Ukraine's military intelligence," he declared.Zelenskyy also held a meeting with Ivashchenko, who reported on the overall situation around our state and current threats."We continue to focus on reducing Russia's economic potential: the less the aggressor earns, the more opportunities there will be for diplomacy. This particularly concerns Russian oil exports, which will be restricted and become cheaper," the president wrote.What preceded thisUkrainska Pravda, citing sources, as well as MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak and journalist Yulia Zabelina, wrote about the likely appointment of Ivashchenko as head of the Main Intelligence Directorate."An interesting appointment is expected at the Main Intelligence Directorate. According to my information, it's the head of the Foreign Intelligence Service, Ivashchenko. Interestingly, there was a lot of information that Budanov would be allowed to choose one of his deputies from the Main Intelligence Directorate for this position. And Ivashchenko was previously considered to be part of Yermak's quota. Now I'm not convinced that's the case," the MP wrote.On January 2, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that he offered intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov the position of head of the President's Office, and Budanov accepted.

The Main Intelligence Directorate reported the information."To preserve the life of the Russian Volunteer Corps commander within the Tymur Special Unit of Ukraine's Defense Ministry Intelligence Directorate and to expose an enemy intelligence network, military intelligence officers conducted a complex, multi-stage special operation during which his death was staged," the statement says.To support the cover story, Ukrainian intelligence operatives created video footage that simulated an attack by two strike drones: the first drone hit a minivan in which Kapustin was supposedly traveling, while the second filmed the "aftermath of the strike" — the burning vehicle.Those who ordered the killing within the Russian intelligence services believed the recording was authentic and paid Ukrainian intelligence officers $500,000.The funds received will be directed toward strengthening the combat capabilities of the Intelligence Directorate's special forces.The video can be viewed at the link.Previously, the Russian Volunteer Corps reported that on the night of December 27, the corps commander Denis 'WhiteRex' Kapustin (Nikitin) was killed at the front.However, the Intelligence Directorate later stated that he is alive. The Russians paid Ukrainian intelligence half a million dollars for his "killing."

He wrote about this on his Telegram channel."I met with Kyrylo Budanov and offered him to head the President's Office," the president noted.In his view, the state currently needs greater focus on security issues, development of Ukraine's Defense and Security Forces, as well as on the diplomatic direction of negotiations. These tasks, he said, should become key priorities for the work of the President's Office."Kyrylo has specialized experience in these areas and sufficient strength to achieve results. I have also instructed the new head of the President's Office, in coordination with the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine and other necessary leaders and institutions, to update and present for approval the strategic foundations of defense and development of our state and further steps," Zelenskyy concluded.BackgroundOn November 28, Andriy Yermak submitted a letter of resignation from the position of head of the President's Office. Volodymyr Zelenskyy approved the resignation with a corresponding decree.That same day, employees of NABU and SAPO conducted searches at the home of the now-former head of the President's Office. In a message to a journalist from the New York Post, former head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak said he would go to the front.On November 29, Ukrainska Pravda, citing sources, reported that NABU and SAPO seized several phones and laptops during searches at Andriy Yermak's location.On December 8, Zelenskyy, while speaking with journalists, confirmed that he was considering the candidacies of Fedorov, Shmyhal, and Budanov for the position of the head of the President's Office, but later frankly admitted that appointing a new person to the role of the head of the President's Office now appears to be an extremely challenging task.

Serhii Bratchuk, spokesman for the Ukrainian Volunteer Army, stated this on Espreso TV."The situation in the south and southeast is definitely not easy. It is extremely difficult, both in the Huliaipole area and along the vector from Stepnohirsk. Today, the Russians have indeed concentrated quite large forces here. They have pulled in troops and units, this is the 'Dnipro' grouping. These are primarily Russian airborne assault divisions, VDV units. They are attacking very actively near Stepnohirsk, near Prymorske, if we're talking about this vector, and Huliaipole itself. Obviously, the enemy's goal today is to flank this defense node of our Armed Forces. They want to encircle this Orikhiv area, let's call it that, in order to try to advance further. They want to reach new lines and create a bridgehead to plan their further actions," he said.Serhii Bratchuk noted that perhaps the enemy sees certain prospects for advancing further in the near future."Therefore, today I understand how difficult the decisions are that our General Staff and our Armed Forces must make in a timely manner. These decisions are needed to bring the situation here closer to signs of stabilization, or at least leveling the situation. The enemy is very active here. And if we talk about the fact that today the Russians are pulling in units with unmanned systems, we understand this is to maximize coverage of their advances and use infiltration tactics. The same tactics they used and continue to use on other parts of the front. So indeed, the south, despite it being winter, is extremely hot," he added.

'Vovk,' deputy commander of the Khartia search-and-strike group, stated this on Espreso TV."Within the city, up to 100 Russians remain. They are hiding in basements and shelters. They are very difficult to detect. Every day we conduct search-and-strike operations and find them. But it requires going through literally every square meter so as not to miss anyone. The Russian forces are concentrated in the central part of the city. They are disoriented and disorganized," he said.The serviceman noted that the Russian forces have almost no logistics."They are trying to make situational supplies with the help of their drones. However, this cannot fully compensate for the logistics limitations we have created for them. Every day they try to send reinforcements, which do not reach the city. They are destroyed either at the exits from the pipes or during attempts to cross the river. No one reaches the city itself," he noted.

Military observer Oleksandr Kovalenko discussed the issue, Obozrevatel reports.Russia's military suffered catastrophic losses throughout 2025, with December proving particularly deadly as Moscow's forces sustained 35,050 casualties—including a record 22,000 killed in action—according to Ukrainian military assessments.The staggering death toll reflects a dramatic shift in Russian military doctrine. Facing critical shortages of tanks and armored vehicles, commanders have increasingly relied on lightly-protected infantry and civilian vehicles for offensive operations. This tactical pivot has produced an alarming 65% fatality rate among casualties for three consecutive months, far exceeding historical norms for modern warfare."We're seeing Russian forces conduct assaults on motorcycles, civilian SUVs, and light trucks," said military analysts tracking the conflict. "When these vehicles are hit, survival rates plummet compared to armored personnel carriers."Over the full year, Russian forces captured 4,329 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory at a cost of 418,010 casualties—approximately 96 troops per square kilometer. December's offensive in the Siversk sector, where Russia seized 200 square kilometers including the city itself, exemplified this costly approach with 72 casualties per square kilometer.The pivot away from armor reflects deeper equipment crises. Russia lost 1,814 tanks and 3,792 armored fighting vehicles in 2025, with monthly losses declining sharply after May as commanders began rationing their dwindling mechanized forces. Once boasting one of the world's largest tank fleets, Russia now appears unable to offset battlefield losses through either factory production or refurbishment of Soviet-era stockpiles.Artillery systems fared similarly, with 14,017 pieces lost throughout the year. Multiple rocket launcher losses totaled 322 units, forcing Moscow to seek additional systems from North Korea. Russia also lost 231 air defense systems, creating vulnerability across vast stretches of Russian territory. The occupied Crimean peninsula has become particularly hazardous for Russian air defenses, with Ukrainian intelligence services regularly targeting systems there.Perhaps most striking were vehicle losses: Russia destroyed 42,225 automobiles in 2025, a record driven by the shift toward using civilian cars and motorcycles for combat operations instead of proper military transport."Russia is essentially betting everything on the one resource it has historically never valued: people," the assessment concluded, warning that Moscow's demographic advantage remains Ukraine's primary challenge heading into 2026 despite the Kremlin's mounting equipment shortages.Throughout 2025, Russia lost over 418,000 servicemen, dozens of aircraft and helicopters, and thousands of units of weapons and equipment.

A number of Russian Telegram channels reported the information.In particular, the channels Shot and Ateo Breaking, citing eyewitnesses, stated that around 01:30 local time, more than ten powerful explosions were heard. Witnesses also reported bright flashes in the sky. At the same time, the Ukrainian monitoring Telegram channel Exilenova+ also reported that two refineries could have been under attack: Novokuybyshevsk and Kuybyshevsk. There is no official confirmation of this information.Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that during the night, 64 Ukrainian drones were allegedly intercepted or destroyed, of which 20 were over the territory of the Samara region.On the night of January 1, an oil depot in the Kaluga region and the Ilsky refinery in the Krasnodar region were hit by drone strikes.

The New York Times reported the information.Russia delivered a diplomatic protest to the State Department on New Year's Eve, demanding that American forces stop chasing the oil tanker Bella 1, according to sources familiar with the matter. The message was also transmitted to the White House's Homeland Security Council.The dispute centers on a vessel that departed from Iran and was heading to Venezuela to load oil when the U.S. Coast Guard attempted to intercept and board it in the Caribbean Sea. American authorities maintain the ship was operating without a legitimate national flag, classifying it as a stateless vessel subject to seizure under international law. Officials say they possess a valid warrant for the tanker's seizure.However, the crew refused to comply and turned back toward the Atlantic. In subsequent days, the ship's crew painted a Russian flag on its hull and radioed the Coast Guard claiming to operate under Russian authority. The vessel recently surfaced in Russia's official ship registry under the new name Marinera, with Sochi listed as its home port.A U.S. official, speaking anonymously about the ongoing enforcement action, said the Trump administration continues to regard the tanker as stateless because it was flying a false flag during the initial Coast Guard approach. The White House declined official comment, while the State Department and Russian Embassy did not respond to inquiries.The confrontation adds complexity to President Trump's efforts to broker a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Earlier this week, Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago, where both leaders expressed hope for ending the war despite limited progress on critical issues including security guarantees and territorial arrangements.The tanker incident stems from Trump's aggressive stance against the Venezuelan government of Nicolás Maduro. The administration has implemented a quasi-blockade targeting vessels transporting Venezuelan oil, primarily to China, which represents a crucial lifeline for the country's struggling economy. U.S. forces have already seized two other tankers in the Caribbean, with officials indicating plans for additional interdictions.David Tannenbaum, a former Treasury Department sanctions compliance officer, previously noted it remains uncertain whether Russia's rapid flag registration of the vessel would hold up under international law scrutiny.The situation has prompted Maduro to order Venezuelan naval escorts for departing oil tankers, with consideration being given to placing troops aboard the vessels—a move that could significantly increase the risk of armed confrontation with American forces in international waters.

Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service reported the information.According to intelligence data, this operation has a comprehensive character. After the "drone attack" on Putin's residence, Russia has intensified the spread of new falsified information narratives to prepare domestic and foreign audiences for further escalation."With high probability, we predict a transition from manipulative influence to an armed provocation by Russian special services with significant human casualties. The expected timeframe is on the eve of or during the celebration of Christmas according to the Julian calendar. A religious structure or another object with high symbolic weight either in Russia or in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine may be selected as the location for the provocation," the statement reads.To falsify evidence of Ukraine's involvement, according to Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service, the use of fragments of strike drones of Western manufacture is planned, which may be delivered to the incident site from the line of combat contact.Intelligence emphasized that the use of fear and committing terrorist attacks with human casualties "under a false flag" fully corresponds to the established tactics of Russian special services."Putin's regime has repeatedly applied this tactic inside the Russian Federation, and now this same model is being exported outward, which is indirectly confirmed by public statements of high-ranking officials of the Russian Federation," the intelligence concluded.BackgroundRussian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that on the night of December 28-29, Ukraine allegedly attacked Vladimir Putin's residence in the Novgorod region with 91 strike drones.On the same day, December 29, U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone conversation with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin regarding Ukraine.Trump stated that he had heard about the alleged attack by Ukrainian UAVs on the Russian dictator's residence, but at the same time he "knows nothing."The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the National Security Agency stated that Ukraine did not target Russian leader Vladimir Putin or one of his residences as part of possible drone operations.

DeepState reported this."From January 1, 2023, to January 1, 2026, the increase in occupied territory amounted to 7,463 sq km, or 1.28% of the entire territory," the analysis states.The largest growth in the share of occupied territories was recorded in:Dnipropetrovsk region by 0.6%;Sumy region by 1%;Kharkiv region by 1.3% (to 4.7%);Kherson region remains 72% occupied, unchanged over the year;In the Zaporizhzhia region, the occupation level increased by 2.1% and reached 74.8%;In the Donetsk region, the indicator grew by 10.6% to 78.1%;Luhansk region is almost completely under Russia's control — 99.6%.Compared to 2022, over three years the share of occupation increased substantially, primarily in:Dnipropetrovsk region – from 0% to 0.6%;Sumy region – from 0% to 1%;Kharkiv region – from 1.9% to 4.7%;Kherson region remains unchanged - 72%;Zaporizhzhia region – from 72.8% to 74.8%;Donetsk region – from 56.7% to 78.1%;Luhansk region – from 97.9% to 99.6%.Overall, according to DeepState's calculations, 116,165 sq km of Ukrainian territory is under Russian occupation. This is 19.25% of the state's area, or every fifth sq km. Crimea remains 100% occupied, the analysts note.

Ukrainian and American historian Serhii Plokhy expressed this opinion in an interview with Vitaly Portnikov on Espreso TV. "The reality is that for peace to happen, even a bad peace, Trump's desire or that of the United States is not enough. I've already mentioned that this is the biggest war in the world, or in Europe, since World War II. The closest parallel is the Korean War. There, both the war and peace negotiations dragged on for years. And peace actually came only when both sides realized they wouldn't be able to move the front line significantly. That they had far better chances as negotiators than as warriors. And as long as Putin holds onto the illusion that he can push the front line forward, from my perspective, we can basically forget even about a bad peace," he said. Serhii Plokhy pointed out that a crisis in the Russian economy doesn't necessarily have to lead to an end to the fighting. "In other words, the aggressor has no incentive to reconsider. We have very high hopes—myself included—that the Russian economy has finally begun to falter. What people have been talking about for months, for years, we're now seeing it happen today. But knowing Russian history and understanding the regime that exists today, an economic crisis doesn't necessarily have to lead to an end to military operations. It can actually fuel the desire to keep fighting as a way to deal with the internal crisis. It can lead to stopping the war only when there's both an economic crisis at home and no success on the front. So forcing Putin toward peace really needs to come from two components. The economy is extremely important, and it's finally moving in the right direction—the direction that's needed and desired, and that many people had hoped for. But as long as there's momentum and the front line keeps moving... I don't see any willingness for peace in Putin, no matter how many times Trump sends Witkoff, no matter how much Witkoff smiles, no matter how much Jared Kushner tries to reinforce his charisma with some business approach—I simply don't see Putin agreeing based on a struggling economy alone," the historian noted.

War has given years wings, and they rush through us in a flock. They touch us: you blink, and already there are new people, a different horizon, children—no longer children.The once-great empire is now ruled by savages, greedy for gold and false honors. For a whole year Russia deceived the savages, stringing promise upon promise. For a whole year the entire world ignored the war and listened to conversations. What comes next will be the same.Instead of studying this futuristic war, in which a new reality emerges, instead of becoming experts in copters and ground drones, in communication protocols and network architecture—an army of journalists and commentators around the world watches the savages' mouths, obsesses over their every foolish word, searches for deep meanings in it. As if negotiations matter.But it's actually very simple. They are savages.I've always been amazed at how in the same U.S., terrible savagery coexisted with such wonderful flourishing of technology, law, and finance. Remarkably, literally behind the fences of the best and wealthiest universities, homeless people rummaged around in quantities unheard of for us. People who were poorly educated by our standards somehow managed to rule the world's smartest elite. But now, it seems, the savagery has finally broken through the weakened fences.How good it is that we've almost learned to get by without them. ***Everything is very simple. Putin lost touch with reality long ago. Everything is much worse than we can imagine. His true state breaks through when he stubbornly repeats lies about Kupiansk. And the entire Russian system works for the lie, the entire country lives and breathes this lie.Does such a clouded person control the processes in his country? Does he make conscious decisions? Of course not. That's why he'll push his troops forward, waste money, and his officials will run around to finance all the illusions."The best tool for predicting Putin is Dugin's beard, which with all its fibers is attuned to the sovereign's madness, senses its slightest nuances, and translates them into words quite understandable to us. It's all written there. Dugin has never been wrong."And everything is heading toward the Leviathan's demise.SourceAbout the author. Ihor Lutsenko, journalist, soldier with the Ukrainian Armed Forces.The editorial staff does not always share the opinions expressed by blog authors.

ERR reported the information.As is known, the vessel Fitburg was taken under control by Finnish authorities on Wednesday, December 31, after damage was detected to a communications cable belonging to Elisa company.According to Finnish customs, the investigation established the presence of sanctioned steel products in the ship's cargo. On the evening of December 31, armed government representatives were working at the port, unloading items from the ship. Access to the port was temporarily restricted.As noted, during the inspection of the vessel, law enforcement officers examined the captain's bridge and removed a large object. Also, a rusty anchor was spotted on the ship's stern, which, according to preliminary data, could have caused the damage to the communications cable.The investigation is in its initial stage. Police are not yet commenting on a possible connection of the incident with the actions of other states.Also in previous days, three more cables were damaged – so in total, five underwater cables running from Estonia have experienced disruptions in operation.

Defense Express reported the information.Swedish Gripen fighter jetsAmong the most significant additions are up to 14 Swedish Gripen C/D fighter jets, which Ukraine anticipates receiving in 2026. Sweden finalized the number of aircraft component kits for transfer back in 2024, and these jets will come equipped with Meteor air-to-air missiles—the West's longest-range aerial combat weapon with a reach of up to 125 miles. This capability surpasses what Ukraine's current F-16 and Mirage 2000-5 fleets can deliver.Saab 340 AEW&C early warning aircraftThe Swedish package also includes two Saab 340 AEW&C early warning aircraft, first announced in May 2024 but delayed due to ongoing modernization work. These radar planes are crucial for detecting low-altitude threats like drones and cruise missiles, and will enable Ukrainian fighters to fully exploit their long-range missiles through enhanced targeting data. Their delivery may be coordinated with the arrival of the Gripen fighters to ensure compatibility.French SAMP/T NG air defense systemFrance plans to supply Ukraine with its first SAMP/T NG air defense system in 2026, potentially one of the prototype units recently tested in December 2024. This represents Europe's most advanced ground-based air defense platform, designed specifically to intercept ballistic missile threats—a critical capability as Ukraine faces continued missile bombardment.Ukrainian FP-7 and FP-9 ballistic missilesOn the domestic front, Ukrainian defense manufacturers are preparing to field new long-range strike weapons. Fire Point's FP-7 ballistic missile, with a 125-mile range and 330-pound warhead, completed certification by year-end 2025 and should begin deliveries to Ukrainian forces in early 2026. A more powerful FP-9 missile, boasting a 530-mile range and 1,760-pound warhead, is expected to complete testing by mid-2026.U.S. ERAM cruise missilesAdditionally, Ukraine will receive approximately 3,350 extended-range cruise missiles through the U.S. ERAM program, funded by an $825 million commitment from Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway. These weapons—the Rusty Dagger and RAACM systems—can strike targets up to 250 miles away at roughly $246,000 per unit, making them a cost-effective option for Ukraine's long-range strike needs. With Norwegian defense giant Kongsberg acquiring a 90% stake in one of the manufacturers in December 2025, supply volumes could potentially increase beyond initial projections.These weapons deliveries represent a substantial enhancement to Ukraine's ability to defend its airspace and strike strategic targets, potentially altering the military balance as the conflict continues into its third year.

Aviation expert and analyst Kostiantyn Kryvolap shared this on Espreso TV."Regarding the possibility of striking Valdai, in 2022 there were about two air defense systems protecting Valdai. The Kremlin was counting on 'Kyiv in three days,' 'Ukraine in two weeks,' 'Ukrainian leadership will flee,' so why place more anti-aircraft missile systems around Putin's residence? To understand the difference, there are now 14 such systems. We don't really fly there much because it's far, and within half a day they can figure out where our drones are heading, and Putin has time to hide, as he is very attentive to his own security," Kryvolap commented.The analyst noted that we don't need to focus on Valdai, where Putin doesn't visit that often, because we have plenty of other tasks - destroying Russian military-industrial complex facilities.On December 29, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that on the night of December 28-29, Ukraine allegedly attacked Vladimir Putin's residence in the Novgorod region with 91 strike drones.

Professor Igor Aizenberg from Manhattan University discussed this on Espreso TV."There could be changes in the United States related to the fact that congressional elections will take place in November. If we listen to what Republican congressmen are saying about the so-called Ukrainian attack on Putin's estate, they disagreed with their president's words, refuting them. Several Republican members of Congress openly expressed their disagreement with Trump on this matter in their television interviews. An election campaign for congressional elections will unfold in the United States, and this entire year will pass under the banner of this campaign. This will be especially noticeable after March-April, when rivals will compete not within a single party, but when Democrats will debate with Republicans," commented Igor Aizenberg.In his opinion, one can expect that a certain portion of Republican legislators will become bolder, and regardless of how the congressional elections conclude, this will have a very serious impact on White House policy."Many things could change. Imagine, for example, that the new House of Representatives considers and passes a law on restoring aid to Ukraine. And the Senate will also be forced to consider this law. And the White House will be forced to think about what to do with it. I think there could be such a majority in Congress for such a bill that Trump won't be able to veto it, because the veto will be overridden. Accordingly, this will lead to changes in U.S. policy. Of course, this won't happen tomorrow, but after November, or even closer to November, it could occur," the Manhattan University professor concluded.Previously, Igor Aizenberg said that part of the conservative political establishment is already distancing itself from Trump, and the congressional elections could lead to him having to defend himself against constant investigations and even possible impeachment during the last two years of his presidency.

The Main Intelligence Directorate reported the information."Welcome back! First of all, Mr. Denis, I congratulate you on your return to life. This is always pleasant. I'm glad that the funds received for the contract on your liquidation went to support our struggle. I wish all of us, and you personally, success," said Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukrainian intelligence, in his greeting to Kapustin.The complex intelligence special operation lasted over a month, and as a result, the life of the Russian Volunteer Corps commander was preserved. Russian special services had previously ordered his assassination for half a million dollars. These funds will now strengthen the special units of the Main Intelligence Directorate."Our side also received the corresponding sum of money allocated by Russian special services to carry out this crime. As of now, the Russian Volunteer Corps commander is on Ukrainian territory and is preparing to continue carrying out his assigned tasks," said the commander of Tymur's Special Unit.Intelligence officers also identified the individuals who ordered the crime within the Russian special services, as well as the intended executors."My temporary absence did not affect the quality and success of combat mission execution. I am ready to head to the mission area and continue commanding the Russian Volunteer Corps unit," Kapustin emphasized.Earlier, the Russian Volunteer Corps reported that on the night of December 27, Denis 'WhiteRex' Kapustin (Nikitin) was killed at the front.

Reuters reported the information.He also stated that he expects their return to the homeland."Be brave. Behind you are Pyongyang and Moscow," the dictator said in his address.Additionally, the publication notes that the North Korean leader received New Year's greeting cards from a number of foreign leaders, including from China's leader Xi Jinping and his wife. However, Xi Jinping's name was not directly mentioned in the announcement, and additional details were not disclosed.On December 13, Kim Jong Un publicly confirmed for the first time the participation of DPRK military personnel in demining operations in Russia's Kursk region, acknowledging that nine soldiers died during the mission.

DW reported the information.There was also likely an attack on an oil industry facility in Tatarstan, Russia.Additionally, a number of Russian military and infrastructure facilities were struck in temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories. Specifically, in Crimea, the radar station at Gvardeyskoye airfield was damaged, along with a KASTA-2E2 radar system, as well as deployment and launch preparation sites for Iskander-M missile systems and Shahed-type drones.In the Luhansk region, an oil depot and power substation in Rovenky were hit again. In the Zaporizhzhia region, the Balashivka substation was struck, and in the Donetsk region, a Tor air defense missile system was damaged.Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have "intercepted and destroyed" 168 Ukrainian drones, including over the Krasnodar, Kaluga regions, and drones allegedly heading toward Moscow.Update from the General StaffDuring the night of January 1st, Ukrainian Defense Forces units carried out strikes on several important enemy targets as part of measures to reduce Russia's military-economic potential. In particular, the Ilsky Oil Refinery in the Krasnodar region was hit, with fires reported after strike drones made direct hits. The Almetyevsk oil preparation facility in the Republic of Tatarstan also came under fire; the results of that attack are still being confirmed.Furthermore, Defense Forces struck targets in the temporarily occupied Donetsk region. A drone storage facility was hit in the Donetsk area, and near the settlement of Shevchenko, a Tor-M2 air defense system was destroyed. A fire was recorded at a fuel and lubricants depot of the enemy's 51st Army near Ilovaisk, and near Avdiivka, a command observation post of an assault unit was struck.On the morning of December 31, long-range drones from the Ukrainian Security Service's Special Operations Center Alpha struck the Temp oil depot located in the city of Rybinsk, Yaroslavl region, Russian Federation.

DemilitarizationRussia lost:The entire regular army of the Russian Federation was destroyed (there were 900,000+, of which nearly 300,000 were professional ground forces) along with all modern military equipment, including old stockpiles in warehouses.Russia gained:Ukraine built the strongest army in Europe. It was the first in the world to create Unmanned Systems Forces. Monthly, from 2,000 to 3,000 drones and missiles strike Russian Federation territory, which has never happened in history. Moreover, the share of domestically produced weapons is already over 50%. In parallel, the European Union is investing hundreds of billions in rearmament.DenazificationRussia lost:Support for Russian narratives (the Great Patriotic War, St. George ribbon, Immortal Regiment, and so on) could reach 15% before 2022. Currently it fluctuates within the margin of error even in Russian-speaking regions of the country.Russia gained:As a result of the aggression, Ukrainians began massively supporting everything related to the historical struggle for freedom: from the UPA and Bandera to rethinking the USSR—now seen as a period of Ukraine's occupation. Total national revival and correct narratives (World War II, Remembrance Day, and so on).Ukraine's neutralityRussia lost:Before 2022, the idea of neutrality was quite widespread among Ukrainians, potentially reaching 25%. Ukraine's prospects for joining NATO were extremely vague. Moreover, there was no military threat to Russia from Ukraine. A weak army, absence of modern weapons. No drones and missiles over Russia every night.Russia gained:"Ukrainians no longer consider neutrality as a form of existence. Military agreements with dozens of countries, domestic production of modern weapons, a large and combat-ready army, domestic long-range missiles and drones, NATO integration enshrined in the Constitution and a primary goal in foreign policy."Conquest of UkraineRussia lost:Moscow expected to quickly capture Kyiv and install a puppet regime. However, the war dragged on for years and cost the collapse of the Russian economy. All resources accumulated by Russians over more than 30 years have been burned on the war—which the Russian Ministry of Finance officially acknowledged.Russia gained:From 2014 to today (over ten years of war), Russians have captured and hold less than 18% of Ukraine's territory (including Crimea). Even a significant part of Donbas remains under Ukrainian control. At the current pace, it would take Russians 400 to 600 years to capture all of Ukraine and realize their plan.Status in the world and recognition of occupied territoriesRussia lost:The Russian economy had tremendous influence on Europe and the world. Joint ventures with the world's wealthiest corporations. Joint production and projects worldwide. The Russian economy was developing dynamically, and society was becoming wealthier. Russia monopolistically controlled many markets in specific segments. All of this is hopelessly lost.Russia gained:Collapse of trade relations, sanctions, embargo, and capital withdrawal from the Russian Federation. Russia lost key international trade connections. Everything built over decades has declined and lost meaning. Russia is no longer at the table of great affairs. It doesn't earn money. It's rapidly impoverishing and degrading. And Crimea as Russian was recognized only by a few puppet entities.Russian language and Russian ChurchRussia lost:Broad support for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Moscow Patriarchate (Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine) and millions of Russian-speaking Ukrainians—this was the reality of January 2022. High influence of Russian culture on Ukrainian society.Russia gained:The Ukrainian Orthodox Church Moscow Patriarchate is effectively banned in Ukraine. The number of parishes is constantly decreasing. Use of Russia's language has also sharply declined. Russian culture has almost no demand. It's even shameful to discuss anything Russian.Myth of Russia's invincibilityRussia lost:At the beginning of 2022, the Russian army was considered one of the strongest in the world. Russian confidence in the quick capture of Ukraine was based on this. The idea that Russians could be defeated on the battlefield was considered absurd. And a probable attack on Russian Federation territory was considered suicide. The Russian Federation fleet in the Black Sea was considered an insurmountable force.Russia gained:Thousands of Russians ended up in captivity. The number of Russian corpses and wounded crossed the one million mark. The Black Sea Fleet effectively no longer exists, the flagship was destroyed. Russians lost the battle for the Black Sea, failed to organize a naval blockade of Ukraine."The Battle of Kyiv—defeat of the Russian army. The Battle of Chernihiv, Sumy, and Kharkiv—defeat. The Battle of Kherson, Mykolaiv, and Odesa—defeat. Russia failed to capture a single regional center of Ukraine, consistently losing the war for each one. The last attempt—the occupation of Kherson—ended with the Russian army's flight."One of the glaring episodes of the war was the defeat of the elite Russian airborne forces, routed near Hostomel. Abandoned to their fate, the paratroopers had no chance of survival in encirclement. And from the helicopters that attacked Kyiv, Ukrainians now make souvenir trophies.The multi-month operation in the Kursk region and the Wagner PMC's march on Moscow underscored the weakness of the Russian regime. The myth of Russia's strength disappeared. As did respect in the world.By 2025, the greatest achievement of the once-great Russian army is capturing a small town or village in Donbas. For this, Putin personally conducts switch-on ceremonies. But conquering Ukraine is no longer discussed—Russia is weak.Degradation of Russia's demandsThere's a myth that Russia's conditions are constantly growing.This is untrue.To summarize, at the beginning of 2022, Russia planned Ukraine's complete capitulation, the capture of Kyiv, and full control over Ukraine—politically, militarily, economically. This plan—blitzkrieg—collapsed almost immediately.But Russians still felt they could win. Therefore, in Istanbul in 2022, they demanded reducing the Armed Forces of Ukraine to 80,000.In 2025, in "Plan 28," the Kremlin is no longer opposed to 600,000 in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.There's also no longer talk of restrictions on military equipment (previously only 300 tanks, MLRS with only 40 km range, and so on).Moreover, compared to 2022, Russia no longer asks Ukraine to recognize occupied territories as Russian.Russia also undertakes to legislatively promise not to attack Ukraine and Europe again (however ridiculous that sounds. However, in 2022 there were no such promises).Russia also agreed that $100 billion of its frozen assets will go toward Ukraine's reconstruction. In 2022, of course, there was no talk of this.Furthermore, "Plan 28," developed by the Russians, no longer mentions either the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Moscow Patriarchate (Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine) or the Russian language. Now it would suit Russians if Ukraine (within the E.U.) adopted "rules of religious tolerance and protection of minority languages."Russia also agreed that Ukraine will receive security guarantees from the West. In 2022 there was no such thing."That is, year by year, Russia's demands are, on the contrary, decreasing—under pressure from defeats at the front, sanctions, and economic decline. And the initial goals of the "special military operation" are now mentioned without specifics."Thus, we can state that none of Russia's goals—military or humanitarian—have been fulfilled by the end of 2025. Moreover, the situation for Russia on every point has significantly worsened.Furthermore, Russia has no more resources to continue the war. Accordingly, next year we can expect another round of "urgent negotiations" for "urgent peace." But the list of demands will be even shorter and even more formal.We continue working.Russia must be finished off.SourceAbout the author. Petro Shuklinov, journalist.The editorial board does not always share the opinions expressed by blog authors.

The Wall Street Journal reported the information.U.S. intelligence agencies concluded Wednesday that no Ukrainian attack targeted Russian leader Vladimir Putin or his residences, contradicting the Kremlin's dramatic claims that Kyiv attempted to assassinate the Russian dictator.A CIA assessment found no evidence of an assassination attempt against Putin, according to a U.S. official with knowledge of the intelligence. Instead, American officials determined that Ukraine had been planning to strike a military installation in the same general region as Putin's countryside residence, known as Dolgiye Borody, but not in close proximity to it.The disclosure comes as President Trump signaled skepticism about Russia's narrative. On Wednesday, Trump shared a New York Post editorial on Truth Social with the headline: "Putin 'attack' bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace." The post marked one of Trump's sharpest recent criticisms of Moscow, which he has previously characterized as eager to end the war.CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed the president on the matter before Trump's social media post, according to a person familiar with the discussion. U.S. intelligence maintains multiple methods of monitoring Russian airspace and military operations, including satellites, radar systems, and communications intercepts.The controversy erupted after Putin told Trump in a Monday phone call that Ukrainian drones had targeted his lakeside residence in northwestern Russia. When asked whether the U.S. possessed evidence of such an attack, Trump told reporters: "You are saying, maybe the attack didn't take place—that is possible too, I guess, but President Putin told me this morning it did."Ukraine has firmly denied any involvement in targeting Putin's residence. Ukrainian officials argue that Moscow is fabricating the incident to damage relations between Washington and Kyiv and undermine Ukraine's position in ongoing U.S.-brokered peace negotiations.Russia's defense ministry claimed Wednesday it intercepted 91 Ukrainian drones allegedly aimed at Putin's Novgorod residence, releasing video footage of what officials said was a downed explosive-laden Ukrainian drone in the snow.The alleged attack came just after Trump's nearly three-hour Sunday meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which Trump described as "excellent" and suggested he might visit Kyiv to advance peace efforts.Moscow has used the allegations to threaten a harder negotiating stance in peace talks and has launched drone strikes on Ukraine's Odessa port region in response.Russia's claims appeared to gain traction internationally. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed being "deeply concerned" about the alleged operation, while Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned it as "a heinous act." The United Arab Emirates also voiced concern.Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff said Wednesday he discussed next steps toward peace with British, French, and German national security advisers, with Ukrainian official Rustem Umerov joining the call. The discussions focused on potential security guarantees and "deconfliction mechanisms" to help end the war and prevent its resumption.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces' General Staff reported the information.The Russian army's losses for 2025 include:personnel – 418,170 in killed and wounded;tanks – 1,816;armored combat vehicles – 3,806;artillery systems – 14,146;MLRS – 331;air defense systems – 234;aircraft – 65;helicopters – 17;tactical-level UAVs – 77,322;cruise missiles – 1,133;submarines – 1;vehicles and fuel tanks – 39,743;special equipment – 363."Every destroyed invader, every burned tank brings us closer to a just peace. We thank everyone for their professional combat work," summarized the General Staff.On December 31, 2025, the Russian army lost at least 1,060 military personnel. Ukrainian defenders also destroyed 36 artillery systems and 7 enemy tanks.