Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced negotiations in the UAE regarding an energy truce. He expressed hope for the implementation of the agreements, which concern the protection of Ukrainian cities from Russian attacks.
In Bukovyna, customs officers discovered a hidden cargo at the Dyakivtsi-Rakovets checkpoint. The driver attempted to smuggle a drone, cigarettes, and non-ferrous scrap metal worth over 10 million UAH into Romania.
First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal met with US Chargé d'Affaires a. i. Julie S. Davis. The parties discussed the supply of American LNG, the use of Ukrainian gas storage facilities, and cooperation in nuclear energy.
US President's Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reported significant progress in the peace process for Ukraine. Negotiations will continue, and the security protocol and prosperity framework are almost complete.
Ukrainian officials learned about Trump's request to Putin to stop shelling from the words of the US president. No signals were received from Russia, the ceasefire agreement has not been confirmed.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has allocated UAH 800 million for the first stage of the "SvitloDIM" program to ensure the operation of key systems in apartment buildings during power outages. Assistance ranging from UAH 100,000 to UAH 300,000 is provided to HOAs, managers, and cooperatives for the purchase of generators, batteries, inverters, and solar panels.
The European Union has blacklisted Russia over money laundering risks, which will complicate financial transactions with Russian banks. The EU is also preparing its 20th package of sanctions against Russia and is discussing a ban on former Russian military personnel entering the Schengen area.
France is working on a bill to ban social media for children under 15, following the example of Australia and Denmark. In Ukraine, restrictions are only discussed at the level of ideas.
Donald Trump stated that he personally asked Vladimir Putin not to strike Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities for a week. Putin agreed to this request.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stated that the world order is transforming, with Russia remaining the main threat. She emphasized the importance of European unity for security.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas confirmed that Ukraine's future is linked to the EU, but enlargement is viewed geopolitically. She emphasized the need for political will and tangible results for new countries to join.
Jamala, producer of the National Selection for Eurovision 2026, held rehearsals with the participants. The final selection will take place on February 7.
In Zakarpattia, a 5-month-old boy died in the intensive care unit of the regional children's hospital after being hospitalized with a cough. Police are investigating the case under an article on improper performance of professional duties by medical workers.
Since the beginning of the year, more than 1,200 fires have been recorded due to emergency power grid modes. Rescuers emphasize the danger of using uncertified devices and overloading power grids.
Ukraine is transitioning to European standards for commercial transport drivers' work and rest starting from July 26, 2026. The new rules include requirements for sole proprietors, a ban on resting in the cabin, and restrictions on night shifts.
On January 30, hourly power outage schedules and capacity restrictions will be applied throughout Ukraine. The reason cited is the consequences of Russian attacks on energy facilities.
In February, the average monthly air temperature in Ukraine is expected to be from 4°C below zero to 2°C above zero, and the monthly precipitation – 29-67 mm. This corresponds to the norm for most regions of the country.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha briefed the EU Council on the situation at the front, emphasizing the need to reach 50,000 Russian losses per month. He called for full strategic autonomy for Europe and funding for the PURL program.
For Kruty Heroes' Day, UNN offers a selection of five compositions that convey the spirit of resilience and courage of Ukrainians. Among them are songs by KOZAK SYSTEM, Alina Pash, Illaria, KALUSH, and an updated version of the OUN anthem.
The EU Council imposed sanctions on 15 individuals and 6 entities in Iran for human rights violations, as well as on 4 individuals and 6 entities for military support to Russia. The restrictions include asset freezes and travel bans.
In Vinnytsia region, a 64-year-old man fell through the ice on the Southern Bug river while fishing with his son. The son tried to save his father, but was unsuccessful, and reached the shore on his own.
Georgia does not plan to impose sanctions against Russia, said Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili. The appointment of Ukraine's ambassador will not affect the country's position on sanctions and sending troops.
The National Bank of Ukraine has lowered its GDP growth forecast for 2026 to 1. 8% due to Russian attacks on energy infrastructure and electricity shortages. The electricity deficit in 2026 will be at least 6%, which will cost Ukraine 0.4% of GDP growth.
The state educational platform "Mriya" has introduced its first AI-based tool – a test generator. It allows teachers to create and evaluate assignments, and also prevents cheating.
China denied media reports about supplying Russia with equipment for the production of 'Oreshnik' ballistic missiles. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the country is not 'adding fuel to the fire' and is not seeking profit.
The European Commission is providing Ukraine with 145 million euros in humanitarian aid and Moldova with 8 million euros to support Ukrainian refugees. Millions of Ukrainians are facing freezing temperatures without electricity due to Russian bombardments.
Under the procedural guidance of prosecutors from the Prosecutor General's Office, two foreign mercenaries and a citizen of Ukraine, who participated in the armed aggression against our state, have been notified of suspicion.
President Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine ensures reliable gas supply, imports sufficient volumes, and diversifies supplies. This is happening despite Russian attacks on oil and gas infrastructure.
Ukraine's Ministry of Defense promptly contacted SpaceX to resolve the issue of Starlink use on Russian drones. Mykhailo Fedorov thanked Elon Musk for his quick response and for starting work on the situation.
Information has appeared online about Russia's alleged ban on strikes against energy infrastructure, but there is no official confirmation. Journalist Denys Kazansky links this to Russia's depletion of missile stockpiles.