8:02 Ukraine reports triple takedown of Russian jet jockeys
The Ukrainian air forces have left the Russos with a scorching sense of defeat, announcing the downing of three Russian fighter jets in the south. The Sukhoi Su-34 bombers got their comeuppance in the southern operational zone at noon, as per the boast of Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Olechuk on Telegram. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed gratitude to the soldiers responsible for the feat, tagging their success to the Odessa anti-aircraft missile brigade. The Kremlin, however, was mum about this casualty count until Russian military blogs Fighterbomber and Wojennyj Oswedomitel came forward with reports of losses, potentially from the Patriot air defense system supplied by the US. The Russian bombers had attempted to ravage the Ukrainian village of Krynky, near Kherson, situated on the Russian-controlled eastern bank of the Dnipro River. Ukrainian soldiers had successfully crossed the river back in November and had taken up positions in Krynky, marking a significant tactical victory.
The ISW: West should heed Russia's subterranean victories in Ukraine
The leading think-tank on global security, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), has issued a cautionary statement to Western officials. High-ranking Western officials, like NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have reportedly made comments suggesting a Russian defeat in Ukraine. However, the ISW warns of the potential consequences of such statements. They reason that these comments could fuel Russian propaganda, which could be misconstrued as a withdrawal of support for Ukraine. The analysts also emphasize that Russian forces remain resilient, having absorbed significant losses without succumbing to defeat. They advise Western officials to maintain a prudent stance and continue their assistance to Ukraine.
Progress on Polish truck driver blockade, but tensions persist
Talks between the Polish government and Polish truck drivers have halted the blockade at several border crossings between Poland and Ukraine. The drivers have been blocking these crossings since November 6, demanding the EU reintroduce mandatory permits for Ukrainian truck drivers entering the EU and vice versa. The EU abolished these controls following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However, the truck drivers resumed their blockade at one of the most important border crossings this week after a brief pause. The waiting time at the Dorohusk border crossing surged to 78 hours on Friday.
Diplomats must conquer hearts: Zelensky's message to Ukraine's diplomats
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged Ukraine's diplomats to secure hearts, in addition to weapons, for their home countries in 2024. In his meeting with top diplomats, Zelensky tasked them with strengthening relations with the EU and NATO and expanding Ukraine's arms industry partnerships. He also rejected the notion of seeking closer ties through political offices and emphasized the importance of rallying public support, as seen during the early stages of the war.
Germany dispatches ammunition and demining equipment to Ukraine
Germany has confirmed the delivery of additional military aid to Ukraine, including tank ammunition, demining equipment, and anti-aircraft guns. These items, sourced from Bundeswehr stocks and private companies, were funded by German government support. The package included additional reconnaissance drones, border protection vehicles, and medical supplies. Germany's commitment to Ukraine's defense has been consistent, with the country playing a pivotal role in aiding Ukraine since the Russian invasion in 2022.
Scholz's "diplomatic masterstroke" acknowledged by Ukrainian ambassador
Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, has praised Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz for his diplomatic savvy at the EU summit. Makeiev highlighted Scholz's "diplomatic masterstroke," which effectively sidestepped a potential Hungarian veto on Ukraine's EU accession negotiations. This allowed the remaining 26 EU member states to proceed with the vote in Hungary's absence, paving the way for Ukraine's accession talks.
No chinks in Putin's system, as German ambassador to Russia sees it
German ambassador to Russia, Alexander Graf Lambsdorff, reportedly sees no shift in Russian President Vladimir Putin's stance or health, highlighting the resilience of Putin's reign. Lambsdorff stated that Putin has remained unwavering in his war aims and has not shown any signs of weakness, suggesting that Western efforts to weaken Putin's grip on power have yet to bear fruit.
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