The European Commission has reduced its public criticism of the Orban government to avoid accusations of interference and to not fuel his anti-Brussels campaign. Brussels fears that strong statements could be used by Orban as proof of pressure from the EU.
Donald Trump is not confident in the effectiveness of pressuring Russia and fears disrupting the negotiation process. Expert Stanislav Zhelikhovsky explained that Trump needs quick results for the elections, and sanctions do not provide an immediate effect.
Ukraine's partners have announced a new defense support package worth $38 billion. The priority remains strengthening the air defense system and interceptor missiles.
Ukraine intends to increase technological pressure on the enemy after restricting Russian troops' access to Starlink. Minister Fedorov stated that this is just the beginning, and such actions have already yielded results.
Ukraine will soon announce decisions regarding the first manufacturers to receive permission to export weapons. The priority remains to provide for the Defense Forces and scale up drone production.
In Bukovyna, police detained a 37-year-old man suspected of abducting a 13-year-old girl. The child was found unharmed, and her life and health are not in danger.
Ukraine is counting on the announcement of new contributions from partners to strengthen its defense, particularly in the areas of air defense, drone provision, and ammunition. Minister of Defense Mykhailo Fedorov emphasized the importance of strengthening sanctions against Russia.
Germany's largest airline, Lufthansa, canceled about 800 flights due to a strike by pilots and flight attendants, affecting about 100,000 passengers. The reason for the strike was demands regarding pension provisions and other labor claims of the staff.
Monobank will pay 1 million hryvnias to skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych for his principled stance. The athlete withdrew from the 2026 Olympic Games due to his refusal to change his helmet depicting deceased Ukrainian athletes.
President Zelenskyy accepted the US proposal to hold talks on ending the war, where the issue of territories will be discussed. International expert Stanislav Zhelikhovsky believes that Russia is not interested in a ceasefire and does not expect quick results.
NATO is stepping up military exercises and security initiatives, recognizing the long-term threat from Russia and China's growing interest in the Arctic. Alliance Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the changing security environment and the need to protect the Arctic region.
NATO is deepening its focus on the Arctic region without compromising the security of its eastern flank, possessing sufficient resources to respond to threats from all directions. This is a response to the growing military presence of Russia and China and strengthens the Alliance's overall security architecture.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted a resolution that allows for faster and more effective sale of confiscated assets. Funds from the sale will be directed to the Fund for the Elimination of the Consequences of Armed Aggression.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the US remains a key player in supporting Ukraine and pressuring Russia. Washington is a leader in sanctions policy, provides military assistance, and plays a role in diplomatic efforts.
NATO defense ministers will meet to discuss the implementation of the decisions of the Hague summit, including increasing defense spending and developing the defense-industrial base. A key topic will also be further support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
The United Kingdom will provide Ukraine with an additional £500 million to strengthen its air defense. The funds will be used to protect cities and critical infrastructure from missile attacks.
Vladyslav Heraskevych proposed that the IOC conclude the "Helmet of Memory" scandal by calling for the ban to be lifted and an apology issued. He also suggested providing electricity generators for Ukrainian sports facilities.
NATO notes China's increased activity in the Arctic, viewing it as a long-term security challenge for the Alliance. NATO Secretary General Marko Rutte called for strengthening the protection of this strategically important region.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the decision on holding elections in Ukraine during the war is an internal matter of the state. The Alliance sees no grounds for external pressure on the Ukrainian leadership regarding this issue.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that any diplomatic initiatives to end the war could be supported. He emphasized the key role of US leadership in this process.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that security guarantees for Ukraine are being formed as a multi-level system that will come into effect after a peace agreement. Key elements are the Armed Forces of Ukraine, an international support coalition, and US participation.
The absence of the US Secretary of Defense at the NATO meeting is not a signal of a diminished role for the Alliance for Washington. Europe has significantly strengthened its own responsibility for collective security over the past year.
NATO has announced the launch of the Arctic Century initiative to consolidate military activities in the High North. This will strengthen deterrence in the face of increasing Russian military activity and China's growing interest.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Ukraine received almost all military aid from the Alliance. Partner support is critically important for Ukraine.
On February 12, Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov will participate in a meeting of NATO defense ministers. They will discuss military support for Ukraine and strengthening collective security in Europe.
NATO countries have agreed to gradually increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. This will be accompanied by strengthening the Alliance's defense industry and capabilities.
NATO countries are investing tens of billions of euros in strengthening their defense capabilities. This is happening ahead of the Alliance's summit in Ankara, which will take place in July this year.
The Swiss Federal Council has approved an aid package for Ukraine worth up to 32 million Swiss francs to overcome the energy crisis. The aid includes 18 gas power generation modules and 80 diesel generators.
In Kyiv, the danger of snow falling and icicles falling from roofs is increasing. The State Emergency Service urges residents to be careful and follow safety rules.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that Ukraine's plan to join the EU by 2027 is a "declaration of war" against Hungary. He called on Hungarians to stop these processes in the upcoming elections.
