War in Ukraine
More than 200 refugees from the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, including families with children and people with disabilities, are being forcibly evicted from a sanatorium near Lipetsk. They have been ordered to "return from where they came," despite their homes being destroyed.
Units of the "Hart" border brigade delivered effective strikes against the invaders' positions in the South-Slobozhansky direction. Drones hit a truck, SUVs, communication antennas, shelters, and enemy personnel.
Russian occupiers are trying to advance in the Siversk area of Donetsk Oblast, pulling infantry into the city. According to DeepState, half of Siversk is under enemy control, and the Bakhmutka River serves as a containment line.
Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha discussed the planned delivery of F-16 fighter jets and military aid to Ukraine with Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken. The conversation also touched upon Belgium's contribution to multinational NATO initiatives aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities.
G7 countries are ready to consider confiscating all frozen Russian assets to achieve a just peace in Ukraine. The Group of Seven will work on financial support for Ukraine, including the use of sovereign Russian assets.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, after meeting with Zelenskyy, declared the unwavering support of the European Union for Ukraine. She confirmed that proposals for financing Kyiv are already being considered.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing increasing pressure from the United States to agree to significant territorial losses and other concessions as part of Donald Trump's peace plan. Ukrainian officials believe that aspects of the current US plan favor Moscow, with negotiations focusing on Russia's demand for Donbas and Ukraine's request for security guarantees.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President of the European Council António Costa, and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. The diplomatic track, security guarantees, the PURL initiative, and a reparations loan were discussed.
In the occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russia launched the propaganda project "Primary Source" for children. Its goal is to impose Russian identity on Ukrainian children through pseudo-historical lectures and master classes.
Ukraine's Defense Forces carried out an organized maneuver in the area of Lysivka and Sukhyi Yar near Myrnohrad, moving to more advantageous positions. Over the past day, 17 occupiers were eliminated and one infantryman was taken prisoner.
On December 8, Kramatorsk was hit by a KAB-250 guided aerial bomb with UMPK, striking a residential building. Four people, including two children, were injured, and at least five multi-story buildings were damaged.
Two more victims, previously considered missing, have been found in Ternopil, bringing the death toll from the enemy attack to 38, including 8 children. Three more adults are still considered missing after the missile strike.
Donald Trump criticized financial aid to Ukraine from Biden, comparing it to his administration, which provided only "Javelins. " He also made a harsh personal statement to the reporter, calling her "disgusting."
Putin signed a decree on the conscription of Russians in the reserve for military training in 2026. The conscription applies to the armed forces, the National Guard, rescue units, state security agencies, and the FSB.
President Zelenskyy reported 24/7 communication with partners, which confirms Europe's maximum involvement in resolving the Ukrainian issue. He discussed support for Ukraine, strengthening air defense, and energy assistance with representatives of many countries and international organizations.
Over the past day, 131 combat engagements took place at the front. Most battles were recorded in the Pokrovsk direction, where the enemy suffered significant losses.
President Zelenskyy stated that China does not benefit from a weak or losing Russia. He believes this is the reason for Beijing's reluctance to facilitate a quick end to the war, even though China has influence over Russia.
Kremlin "mouthpiece" Peskov stated that a meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump before the end of the current year is "not yet on the table. " Its holding requires thorough preparation and effectiveness, which is currently being carried out at the expert level.
Most of Sumy is without power due to a massive attack by Russian kamikaze drones on the city's energy system. The city's water utility is switching to backup power, and healthcare facilities are operating on generators.
The President of Ukraine arrived in Brussels for meetings with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, as well as with the Presidents of the European Council António Costa and the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with partners for common security.
The President of Ukraine announced that the draft peace plan had been reduced from 28 to 20 points. It still contains provisions that do not suit Ukraine, and the questions are more for the Russians than for the Americans.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa in Brussels. The issue of using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction or armament will be discussed.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine has no right to cede its own territories to Russia. The US is looking for a compromise on this issue, as Ukraine does not want to give up anything.
President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine could receive the strongest security guarantees from the United States if they are voted on in Congress. The main question remains the readiness of partners in case of repeated Russian aggression.
A military court sentenced three Russian soldiers to long prison terms for torturing and murdering 63-year-old US citizen Russell Bentley. Two soldiers were sentenced to 12 years in prison, and the third to 11 years.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in occupied Enerhodar will not operate normally without Ukrainian specialists. He also noted that Russia does not understand this.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is considering Denys Shmyhal and Mykhailo Fedorov as the main candidates for the position of Head of the Presidential Office. However, according to him, the Verkhovna Rada may have difficulties finding replacements for these ministers.
The President of the European Commission also emphasized that "Europe's defense is our responsibility," summarizing plans to increase defense spending and production.
South African state broadcaster presenter Nonkululeko Mantula, accused of recruiting citizens to fight for Russia, has been released on bail along with four co-accused. The court rejected her request for the return of her passport, as she had repeatedly visited Russia.
The President of Ukraine summarized his meetings in London with European leaders. The unity of allies, security guarantees, reconstruction, and further defense support for Ukraine were discussed.