Leader Zelensky Declares The Nation Is 10% Off from a Peace Deal, But Not at Any Possible Price

During his New Year's Eve message, Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a possible treaty was ninety percent prepared. "This deal is 90% complete, 10% is left," he said. "And that is far more than simply numbers."

An Agreement Needs Robust Guarantees, Not a Fragile Ceasefire

The president stressed that Ukraine desires an end to the war but not at "any possible price". "What does Ukraine desires? An end to hostilities? Yes. At any cost? Certainly not," he declared. "We want an end to the conflict but not the destruction of our country."

"Is the nation tired? Very. Does this mean we are ready to give up? Anyone who thinks so is deeply wrong," he continued.

He voiced skepticism about Russian intentions, stating that even if troops pulled out from the eastern Donbas, the conflict would not end. "Withdraw from the Donbas, and everything will end. That is how a lie sounds," he commented.

EU Allies to Plan Post-War Security

Separately, France's President Emmanuel Macron stated that EU allies and partners meeting in Paris on 6 January will make firm pledges towards ensuring the security of Ukraine after any agreement with Russia is reached.

Cross-Border Strikes Continue

Meanwhile, accounts of military strikes continued. A source from Ukraine's SBU reported that Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles struck a fuel storage facility in the Russian city of Rybinsk, sparking a large blaze.

In Ukraine, a Russian-launched drone attack struck apartment buildings and energy infrastructure in Odesa, wounding six people, among them minors. Local authorities confirmed four apartment buildings were damaged and significant harm was reported to two power facilities.

Contested Allegations Over Drone Incident

Concerning recent allegations of a UAV attack aimed at a property of Russian president, US and European authorities agree that Ukraine did not target the incident. An article stated that American national security officials determined the alleged attack "did not happen".

Reacting, Russia's ministry of defense released a footage claiming to show debris of a downed Ukrainian drone. An official from Ukraine's ministry of foreign affairs dismissed the footage as "laughable" and stated it showed a lack of credibility in creating the narrative.

European Diplomat Calls Claims a "Diversion"

The EU's top diplomat described Russia's claims "an intentional distraction". "Nobody should believe baseless allegations from the aggressor," she said.

Additional Updates

  • North Korean Role: North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-un, according to state media hailed troops serving in an "alien land" in a New Year address. Intelligence assessments suggest the country has sent thousands of personnel to aid the Russian invasion in the region.
  • Restrictions Reprieve: United States authorities have reportedly granted a short-term reprieve from restrictions to a Serbia-based, majority Russian-owned energy firm until 23 January. The company operates the country's sole oil refinery.
Jessica Romero
Jessica Romero

A seasoned casino enthusiast and gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in reviewing online casinos and slot games.