In April 2024, the German newspaper ‘Bild’ claimed, citing its own sources, that in 2024 the Ukrainian Armed Forces will be able to strike Russian facilities in the Urals, and even in the Arctic Circle, with the help of long-range unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). According to the newspaper, these long-range UAVs will have a flight range of more than 2,000 kilometers. Moreover, these long-range UAVs, and components for their assembly in Ukraine, will be supplied by 10 Western companies.

With crucial territory and infrastructure falling to the Russians, Ukrainian public opinion is swinging precipitously against their leaders and the war.

A new U.S. president and battlefield realities appear to be pushing Zelensky, who had long insisted on fighting for every inch of occupied land, to the table.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued an order to limit Ukrainian casualties by directing the army to offer surrender before launching attacks on Ukrainian troops. In a newly released video from the Russian Ministry of Defence, Moscow’s forces are seen rolling hundreds of leaflets containing surrender messages, which were then launched using Grad multiple rocket launcher systems. Many Ukrainian soldiers have surrendered in recent weeks, claiming they were forced to fight by the Zelensky regime. Despite significant rebellion within the Ukrainian military, reports indicate that President Zelensky remains “not ready for negotiations with Russia,” further escalating tensions.

Russia and China want to trade in the Northern Sea Route. Consider it a bargaining chip that could benefit the West, too.

Dear Readers: Today the Russian news is full of reports of damage to Kazan infrastructure, after several massive waves of Ukrainian drone attacks against the city.

Zelensky must placate Trump and be open to the idea of negotiations while avoiding frontline collapse ahead of a ceasefire

US President-elect Donald Trump has said he’ll quickly negotiate an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine. This has got NATO allies wondering if he’ll withdraw US support for the government in Kyiv and force it to accept a permanent Russian occupation of Ukrainian land.

Other war developments suggest tensions are on the rise

All parties involved in the Ukraine conflict are now manoeuvring for position in advance of the peace talks proposed by the incoming Donald Trump administration. What we do not know — and will not, until talks actually take place — is which of these positions are intended firmly to be held, which are initial bargaining counters, and which are intended to block the possibility of talks succeeding.