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In a year-end speech, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a possible peace agreement was ninety percent prepared. "This deal is 90 percent complete, 10% remains," he remarked. "This is much more than simply figures."

An Agreement Requires Robust Assurances, Not a Weak Truce

Zelenskyy made clear that his country wants an end to the war but not at "any cost". "What does Ukraine want? Peace? Yes. At any cost? Certainly not," he said. "We want an end to the war but not the end of Ukraine."

"Are we tired? Very. Does this mean we are prepared to give up? Anyone who believes that is profoundly mistaken," Zelenskyy added.

He voiced doubt about Russian intentions, suggesting that even if troops withdrew from the eastern region, the war would not cease. "Withdraw from the Donbas, and everything will end. This is how a lie sounds," he remarked.

European Allies to Discuss Post-Conflict Security

Separately, France's President Emmanuel Macron stated that European allies and partners meeting in Paris on 6 January will establish solid commitments towards protecting the country after any peace deal with Moscow is reached.

Cross-Border Strikes Continue

At the same time, reports of military actions continued. A source from Kyiv's SBU said that Ukrainian long-range drones hit an oil depot in the Russian city of Rybinsk, sparking a significant fire.

In Ukraine, a Russian drone attack hit residential blocks and energy infrastructure in Odesa, wounding several people, including children. Local authorities confirmed multiple buildings were damaged and considerable damage was caused to two energy facilities.

Disputed Allegations Over Aerial Attack

Regarding previous claims of a UAV strike targeting a property of Russian president, US and European authorities are in agreement that Ukraine did not target the event. A report indicated that US security officials determined the alleged incident "never occurred".

In response, Russia's defence ministry released a footage claiming to show debris of a destroyed Ukrainian-made drone. An official from Ukraine's ministry of foreign affairs dismissed the footage as "absurd" and suggested it showed a lack of seriousness in creating the story.

EU Official Labels Allegations a "Diversion"

Kaja Kallas called Russia's assertions "an intentional diversion". "No one should believe unfounded claims from the aggressor," she remarked.

Additional Developments

• DPRK Role: The DPRK's leader, Kim Jong-un, reportedly praised troops serving in an "alien land" in a New Year address. Reports indicate the country has sent a significant number of troops to support Russia's invasion in Ukraine.
• Sanctions Reprieve: The US have according to a minister given a short-term exemption from sanctions to a Serbian, largely Russian-controlled oil company until 23 January. This entity operates the country's sole oil refinery.