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Today, Russian President Vladimir Putin breaks his silence on TV for the first time since the war, as he answers questions in a joint press conference and TV show "The Direct Line." This event, titled "Results of the Year," airs at 10 a.m. CET, featuring Putin's Q&A session and opportunities for citizens to describe their problems.
Meanwhile, Russian authorities add Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukrainian military intelligence service (HUR), to their wanted list. Budanov, accused of Criminal Code violations, has been blamed for several attacks against Russia since February 2022, including the attack on the Crimean Bridge. Kiev counters this claim, accusing Moscow of poisoning Budanov's wife, Marianna Budanova, last November.
The Ukrainian air force reported shooting down 41 of 42 attacking drones in the south of the country last night. The drones were launched from three directions, including Crimea, while six missiles hit Russian-occupied Kherson around midnight.
German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Robert Habeck, addresses accusations of government "trickery" in Ukraine aid. If the Ukrainian conflict scenario changes, the coalition reserves the right to suspend the debt brake and secure additional loans to support the defense campaign against Russia.
Russia reports repelling nine Ukrainian drone attacks Thursday night, intercepted over Moscow and Kaluga regions. No injuries or damages were reported, as it frequently happens when Russia claims successful interception of attacks followed by reports of damage.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi demands proof of the EU's unwavering support and unity before the EU summit. With the 60 billion aid package for Ukraine still stalled in the USA, Europe is being urged to provide stronger and more consistent aid.
Russia shells several communities in the Sumy region, with at least 68 explosions reported and no casualties or infrastructure damage. The Kremlin suggests that US support for Ukraine is dwindling, as the "Americans are asking themselves what they are actually spending the money on."
First responders are busy clearing debris in Odessa after air strikes injure 11 people and damage multiple buildings. Three children are among the injured. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selenskyj calls for EU accession talks in a phone call with the Italian head of government, Giorgia Meloni.
International political tensions persist as military operations, sanctions, and diplomatic efforts shape the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. Meanwhile, humanitarian concerns such as displacement, military casualties, and equipment losses continue to impact both sides.
Enrichment Insights:
- Putin's press conference focuses on defending Russia's stance in the war, downplaying the impact of sanctions, and emphasizing peace negotiations
- North Korea continues to provide military support to Russia by transferring short-range ballistic missiles and supplying soldiers
- International leaders, including the US and European leaders, express support for Ukraine and its democratically elected leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- Sanctions and diplomatic efforts pose challenges in resolving the conflict and launching negotiations between Russia and Ukraine
- Civilian casualties and displacement represent significant humanitarian challenges amid the ongoing conflict
- Ukraine has faced high military casualties and equipment losses, with estimates of over 700,000 people killed or injured on both sides.
