The Diplomat
Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Chrystia Freeland, former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, as a non-staff advisor on economic development. She has significant experience in attracting investments and implementing economic transformations.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys recalled that Nicolás Maduro's regime supported Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine. Lithuania did not recognize Maduro as the legitimate president of Venezuela.
Delcy Rodríguez called Nicolás Maduro the "only" legitimate president of the country. She called for his immediate release and emphasized Venezuela's sovereignty, rejecting US statements about its intention to govern the country.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas reacted to the events in Venezuela, where the government of Nicolas Maduro was overthrown. The EU calls for restraint, emphasizing adherence to international law and the protection of EU citizens.
Delcy Rodriguez arrived in Russia after the US President announced the capture of Nicolas Maduro. Rodriguez's brother, the head of the National Assembly, is in Caracas.
Head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sybiha supported the Ukrainian ambassador after criticism from the Czech Foreign Ministry, calling the diplomat's actions professional and justified. Sybiha emphasized that the ambassador's reaction was a response to unacceptable attacks against Ukraine.
EU diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas announced the strengthening of critical infrastructure after damage to underwater cables between Estonia and Finland. The EU will invest in new cables, enhance surveillance, and counter Moscow's shadow fleet.
The US Coast Guard has suspended its pursuit of the tanker Bella 1, suspected of violating sanctions against Venezuela. The ship's crew painted a Russian flag on board, complicating the seizure operation.
EU diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas said that Russia's statements about Ukraine's attack on government facilities are a deliberate distraction. She emphasized that Moscow seeks to disrupt the progress of Ukraine and its Western partners towards peace.
President Zelenskyy reported on the daily work of Ukraine and the United States, despite Russian attempts to disrupt negotiations. He also announced upcoming meetings of advisors on January 3 in Ukraine and leaders on January 6 in France.
Ursula von der Leyen held talks with European leaders on support, security and reconstruction of Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of the country's accession to the EU.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha commented on Russia's statements about an alleged attack on Putin's residence. He noted that Russia has still not provided any credible evidence for its accusations, and there was no attack.
The European Union has called for the preservation of Somalia's unity and territorial integrity after Israel officially recognized the breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state. This decision has provoked a strong reaction from African and Middle Eastern countries and international organizations.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, representatives of President Trump. Significant details of work and ideas for achieving lasting peace were discussed.
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže announced a ban on entry for 14 Russian citizens. This decision was made ahead of the Luge World Cup stage in Sigulda, which the International Federation allowed "neutral athletes" from Russia to participate in.
US Democratic senators have urged Donald Trump not to recall nearly 30 career ambassadors, warning of a threat to national security. They believe this would create a vacuum that Russia and China would fill, leaving more than 100 embassies without leadership.
Representatives of the embassies of Great Britain, Germany, and France presented a joint creative greeting for the winter holidays, performing Mykola Leontovych's legendary composition in the Kyiv subway. The recording took place at the Zoloti Vorota station with the participation of Ukrainian musicians.
The United States Ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Matthew Whitaker, added that Russia has never been willing to acknowledge the loss of millions of its troops.
The Ministry of Defense has identified the comprehensive renovation of the military rehabilitation system as a priority area of work, which requires about UAH 8 billion. Next year, the state budget will allocate over UAH 700 million for the development of the network of military hospitals, and the NATO project "RENOVATOR" has already accumulated 80 million euros.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul believes that Russia could use a ceasefire in Ukraine to prepare for an attack on NATO. He emphasizes the need for reliable security guarantees for Ukraine, especially from the United States, in the event of territorial concessions.
The US has suspended the lease of five major offshore wind farms along the US East Coast. The reason cited was classified risks identified by the Pentagon related to radar interference.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he does not plan to change the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine neither today, nor tomorrow, nor the day after tomorrow. He emphasized that they work as a team, refuting rumors about personnel changes.
The US presidential administration has begun recalling career diplomats, terminating the mandates of mission chiefs in 29 countries by January 2026. This decision aims to replace personnel appointed during the Biden era with individuals who support Trump's ideology.
US President Trump has appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as the US special envoy to Greenland, underscoring intentions to strengthen US influence in the Arctic. This decision raises questions, as Landry only took office as governor of Louisiana in January 2024.
Moscow believes that Ukraine's and Europe's amendments to the American proposals for ending the war worsen the document. Putin's advisor, Yuri Ushakov, stated that Russia does not see any chances for achieving stable peace in these changes.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the need for consultations with European partners after diplomatic work in the USA. He emphasized that genuine signals from Russia remain negative, despite constructive negotiations.
On December 20, temporary traffic restrictions will be introduced in the central part of Kyiv. This is due to the visit of foreign delegations, as reported by the State Guard Administration.
The European Commission has published a report on the visa suspension mechanism, with a special focus on Georgia. Brussels will gradually begin to restrict privileges for Georgian citizens, starting with holders of diplomatic passports.
Commander of NATO's Allied Maritime Command, Mike Utley, stated that the Alliance has an advantage over Russia but is not ready for prolonged hostilities. Member countries have recognized the problem and plan to invest in increasing resilience.
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.