Energy
As a result of the Russian attack on Odesa, a critical infrastructure facility and residential buildings were damaged, and part of the district was left without utility services. One person was injured and taken to a medical facility.
Leading AI developers, including Microsoft, Google, and Nvidia, have entered into an agreement with the US government to participate in "Mission Genesis. " The Trump administration's project integrates AI into scientific research, energy, and manufacturing to strengthen the country's technological leadership.
In the US, a package of regulatory measures has been introduced aimed at stopping the provision of gender-affirming medical care to minors.
Trump's company announced a merger with thermonuclear technology developer TAE Technologies. The $6 billion deal aims to meet the energy needs of data centers serving artificial intelligence.
On December 19, hourly power outage schedules will be in effect in most regions of Ukraine due to the consequences of Russian attacks. Ukrenergo does not specify the number of queues and advises to inquire about information from regional power distribution companies.
Professional astrologer Ksenia Bazylenko presented a general astrological forecast for 2026, which will be a time of changes and trials, as well as great potential. She noted that the world enters 2026 in a state of deep fatigue, but this is also a unique chance for renewal and development.
The Ministerial Council of the Energy Community has allowed Ukraine to operate large combustion plants without complying with strict environmental emission standards until the end of 2028. This decision will support the energy system during the war and ensure supply stability.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a deficit of certain missiles for air defense systems. He noted that partners provide licenses, missiles, or financial assistance.
Political expert Kyrylo Sazonov claims that Ihor Kolomoisky is working to destabilize Ukraine in order to avoid criminal liability. His statements are in line with Russia's interests, which seeks destabilization.
Over 25% of new cars sold globally in 2025 are electric, according to an Ember analysis. This growth is driven by emerging markets, which are now leading the transition to electromobility.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever in Brussels. The main topic of discussion was the use of frozen Russian assets for the benefit of Ukraine, as well as coordination with Europe and the United States on the peace process.
The National Bank of Ukraine considers receiving a reparation loan as the baseline scenario, but in case of delays with external assistance, the government can rely on banks. NBU Deputy Governor Serhiy Nikolaychuk noted that banks have the potential to increase investments in government securities.
Great Britain imposed sanctions against three Russian oil companies: PJSC Tatneft, PJSC Russneft, and PJSC NNK. This expansion of sanctions pressure is aimed at reducing Russia's revenue from energy exports, covering almost 60% of Russian oil exports to key markets.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine and the United States have different views on Donbas, and the issues of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and a reparations loan remain open. He emphasized the need for a positive decision on the reparations loan to avoid a budget deficit of 45-50 billion dollars next year.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine will be forced to significantly reduce drone production if it does not receive funding in the spring, including a reparations loan. These funds are planned to be used for the country's recovery or for drone production if the war continues.
The Center for Countering Disinformation (CPD) has recorded a new campaign in Ukrainian social networks. The enemy uses memes and songs to shift responsibility for the energy deficit from Russian shelling to the Ukrainian authorities.
The European Union has imposed sanctions against 41 vessels of Russia's "shadow fleet. " This decision was made within the framework of the sanctions regime for Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the US proposal to divide the Zaporizhzhia NPP unfair, noting that no agreements have been reached on this issue. He emphasized a number of unresolved problems related to the plant's operation, including its militarization and funding for its restoration.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine must be in a strong position, and Russia must understand that Ukraine will not capitulate. He emphasized the need to reduce the Russian economy through sanctions to force the Russian Federation to move to diplomacy.
At night, Russia attacked 5 regions, blacking out over 180,000 consumers, most of whom have already been reconnected. In Odesa region, 12,000 subscribers remain without electricity, and the cancellation of outage schedules is impossible.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the approval of a 112 billion shekel ($34. 67 billion) deal to supply natural gas to Egypt. This agreement will help Egypt, which has spent billions on importing liquefied natural gas, to ease its energy crisis.
Six people were injured as a result of a drone attack on Cherkasy on the night of December 18. The enemy targeted critical infrastructure, damaging residential buildings and a sports complex.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said that Donald Trump's statements exposed the true intentions of the United States towards his country, accusing them of seeking to appropriate oil, territories, and other assets. Maduro emphasized that Washington seeks to change the government in Venezuela and gain control over its lands and natural resources.
Ukraine receives reinforcements for its air defense systems amid attacks, including automated turrets and missiles to destroy Russian drones, totaling £600 million. The supplies include modern air defense systems, as well as RAVEN and GRAVEHAWK systems for protection against low-flying targets and deep strikes.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine reallocated the 2025 budget, allocating over UAH 25 million for generators and equipment for cultural institutions. This decision will allow museums, theaters, libraries, and reserves to operate continuously during power outages.
On the evening of December 17, Russian drones attacked Odesa region, as a result of which at least seven people were injured. A nine-story residential building and an educational institution in Odesa district were damaged.
On the night of December 18, Russian military attacked the energy infrastructure of Voznesensk. Due to the damage, water supply has been temporarily suspended in one of the city's microdistricts.
US President Donald Trump announced his intention to regain control over oil rights in Venezuela, which, according to him, were lost. He noted that Venezuela illegally seized land and oil rights from American companies.
Venezuelan authorities have instructed the navy to escort oil product tankers. This could escalate tensions with the United States amid Donald Trump's statements about blocking the country's oil industry.
The US presidential administration has temporarily suspended sanctions against several Russian banks involved in settlements in the civilian nuclear energy sector. Financial transactions are permitted until June 18, 2026, for projects initiated before November 21, 2024.