European Union leaders have not reached an agreement on using frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine. Discussions on providing a loan will continue on December 19 at the summit in Brussels.
A new batch of 6,995 hearing aids has arrived in Ukraine for children and adults. The equipment is being prepared for free distribution to the regions during December-January.
A 49-year-old Swiss national who fought as a sniper on the side of Ukraine has been sentenced to 18 months in prison with a four-year probationary period. Swiss citizens are prohibited from serving in foreign armies.
On the evening of December 18, a Russian UAV struck the Kharkiv region. As a result of the attack, there is one fatality and several wounded.
The General Staff released its evening report as of 10:00 PM on December 18, 2025, recording 183 combat engagements. The Russian army carried out 49 airstrikes, 2409 kamikaze drone attacks, and 3104 shellings.
Trump expressed hope that Ukraine would quickly conclude a peace agreement, as Russia is on the ground. He also noted that 82% of Ukrainians demand a peace agreement and called on Zelenskyy to be realistic about the elections.
The Russian Prosecutor General's Office announced that British citizen Aiden William Davies has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for "mercenary activities. " He fought in Ukraine against Russia, having signed a contract with the International Legion for the Territorial Defense of Ukraine.
In 2026, the Armed Forces of Ukraine will receive 200 "Bohdana" self-propelled artillery systems based on German Mercedes-Benz Zetros chassis. 750 million euros have been allocated for the implementation of the program from Germany's support package of 1.2 billion euros.
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde expressed confidence that EU leaders will agree on a way to support Ukraine. She expects a solution to be found, despite possible difficulties, as the issue is too important.
The Indian government has confirmed the recruitment of over 200 of its citizens by Russia to participate in the war against Ukraine. At least 26 Indians have died, and seven more are missing.
Professor Vadym Popko highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in Ukrainian diplomacy, referring to student works. Young people propose to institutionalize counter-disinformation and implement ethical AI mechanisms.
Ukraine announced a successful restructuring of GDP warrants worth $2. 6 billion, which will avoid significant payments in the post-war period. This transaction will strengthen debt sustainability and increase the country's budget predictability.
The Russian army is attacking bridges in Odesa region, seeking to cut off the western part of the region from transport communications. Expert Serhiy Beskrestnov reported on strikes on bridges in Zatoka and Mayaky.
Israel's Ministry of Defense announced an expansion of its contract with Germany for the supply of Arrow-3 missile defense components, increasing its value to $3. 1 billion.
In Odesa region, due to a Russian air attack, traffic has been restricted to certain border crossing points with Moldova. Traffic on the Odesa-Reni highway has been suspended due to an attack on a critical infrastructure facility.
An enemy attack drone hit a civilian car moving on a bridge in the Odesa district. A woman in the car was killed, and her three children were taken to the hospital with injuries and an acute stress reaction.
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.
Traffic on the Odesa-Reni highway has been temporarily stopped in both directions. The head of the Odesa Regional Military Administration, Oleh Kiper, urged people to refrain from using this section of the road.
The Lviv City Council has approved a new award, the "Iron Lion," to honor people for their courage and service during wartime. The award will be presented to military personnel, medics, and civilians.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Hungary, the US, Slovakia, and possibly a few other allies oppose Ukraine's membership in the Alliance. He noted that at the 2024 Washington Summit, allies agreed on Ukraine's irreversible path to NATO, but in practice, some members are against it.
The European Commission and Belgium are negotiating the use of 210 billion euros of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine. Belgium seeks additional financial guarantees due to concerns about legal and financial risks.
Nearly 7,300 demonstrators and 1,000 tractors are present in Brussels' European Quarter to protest against the EU-Mercosur agreement. The demonstration marched through the streets of Brussels earlier in the day but was eventually dispersed.
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.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that partners have informed about the possible adoption of a final decision on financing Ukraine before the end of the current year. This decision will not be postponed until January or later.
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.
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.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in Brussels. The leaders discussed the coordination of positions regarding the negotiation process with Donald Trump's team and the importance of involving Europe to guarantee Ukraine's sovereignty.
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.
The 12th separate army aviation brigade reported the death of the Mi-24 helicopter crew. Fundraising has been opened to help the four families of the deceased pilots.
