President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow will increase attacks on military targets in Ukraine following a deadly week of large-scale attacks on both sides. This comes after a Ukrainian strike on the Russian city of Belgorod killed 25, including five children. Putin, during a visit to a military hospital, stated they would intensify strikes, focusing on what he called “military installations.” However, recent Russian strikes targeted a university and a museum.
Kyiv reported a “record” number of drone attacks on New Year’s Day, with Moscow launching 90 Iranian-made Shahed drones, 87 of which were destroyed. Two people were killed in a drone attack in the Sumy region, and additional casualties were reported in Odesa and Kherson. Moscow launched another drone attack on Kyiv, causing a fire in a residential building.
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy, in an interview with The Economist, disputed the notion that Russia was winning the nearly two-year-old war, citing heavy losses in Avdiivka. While acknowledging challenges, he highlighted Ukrainian forces breaking a Black Sea blockade and the importance of defending Ukraine globally.
Zelenskiy rejected Moscow’s interest in peace talks, attributing it to a lack of missiles and ammunition. Putin claimed Russia had the “strategic initiative” in the conflict and expressed a desire to end it quickly, but only on their terms. The situation remains tense as violence escalates, with global leaders urged to recognize the significance of defending Ukraine in the broader context.
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