Descriptions Archive

April 1

Putin to Bolster Russian Army by 160,000 Troops 

Amidst ongoing ceasefire and peace talks between Ukraine and the USA, Putin has ordered at least 160,000 men between 18 and 30 to be drafted into the army by mid-summer. 

Zelensky Calls for Justice 

President Zelensky has called for Russia to be punished for more than 183,000 war crimes it has committed since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Top European Diplomats Assure Support to Ukraine 

Key diplomats from Spain, Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland and the European Union have pledged to redouble their aid to Ukraine and are considering new sanctions on Russia to force it to accept a ceasefire.

Sweden Preparing New Package to Ukraine 

Sweden said it would donate $1.6 billion in new military aid to Ukraine, the largest package from the country since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Speaks from Moscow 

The Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, said securing peace in Ukraine was a “no pain, no gain” situation and that any ceasefire agreement had to be binding, fair and acceptable for all parties. Wang also applauded Russia and the US for taking the first steps to normalising relations, which he said would be “good for stabilising the balance of power between major powers and inspires optimism in a disappointing international situation.”

April 2 

Russia will not Accept Current Ceasefire Terms

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergei Ryabkov, said Moscow cannot accept US proposals to end the war as they do not address problems Moscow regards as having caused the war initially. Ryabkov stated that Moscow and Washington have so far been unable to rework the ceasefire proposal to make it acceptable to Russia. 

Military and Financial Aid to Ukraine 

President Zelensky announced that Ukraine has received an additional $3.8 billion in financial support from the EU. Zelensky also hopes that Germany’s new chancellor, Friedrich Mertz will approve the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to bolster Ukraine’s defence. 

Sweden Preparing for War 

Swedish authorities have warned that the country should prepare for the risk of war and have announced a $10 million investment to inspect and renovate its civil defence shelters.

Finland Planning to Mine its Russian Border 

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said the country plans to withdraw from the international treaty banning antipersonnel mines, the latest signatory moving to ditch the ban over threats from Russia.

France to Deliver Surface-to-Air Missiles to Denmark 

France said it will deliver several hundred Mistral surface-to-air missiles to Denmark, as French President Emmanuel Macron and Denmark’s King Frederik X pledged a “stronger” Europe. The move comes as Denmark has sought European backing to counter Trump’s threats to take over Greenland. 

April 3 

Ukraine and Russia Accuse Each Other of Striking Energy Facilities 

Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of continuing to target energy facilities despite the US-backed moratorium on strikes against such infrastructure. 

Russia Closes Key Black Sea Port 

Russia ordered the closure of a key Black Sea port which handles the exports of Kazakh oil refined by US companies Chevron and Exxon Mobile. 

Eleven Ukrainian Children Returned to Kyiv 

Eleven Ukrainian children were returned to Kyiv from Russia and Russian-occupied Ukraine under the Bring Kids Back UA initiative. 

Russian Envoy to the US will visit Washington 

The Kremlin said it is possible that Russian envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, will visit the US soon and said contact with Washington has been ongoing despite recent tensions. 

April 4 

American Reciprocal Tariffs on Ukraine Challenging but not Defeating 

The 10% reciprocal tariffs imposed on Ukraine by the United States are “difficult, but not critical” said Kyiv’s Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. She also said Ukraine had an export volume of $874 million to the US last year while Kyiv bought goods worth $3.4 billion from the US during this period.

Zelensky Speaks on his Terms for Peace 

In a meeting with Ukrainian leaders in Chernihiv, President Zelensky was adamant about maintaining the size of Ukraine’s army while in peace and also remaining resolute in its lack of recognizing illegally occupied regions as new Russian territories and instead pursuing diplomacy to return the land to Ukraine in the future. 

Finland Calls on France or the UK to Engage with Russia 

Finland’s President Alexander Stubb said France, or the United Kingdom as part of the “coalition of the willing” should take charge of engaging with Russia as part of Europe’s efforts to support Kyiv in the absence of the US. 

US Withdraws from Investigative Committee of Russian War Crimes in Ukraine 

The US has withdrawn from the team of European and US investigators put together under the EU’s judicial body Eurojust to collect evidence of potential Russian war crimes in Ukraine. 

April 5 

Europe Looking for Alternatives to Starlink for Ukraine 

Germany has been paying for Ukraine’s access to a satellite internet network operated by France’s Eutelsat, as Europe seeks alternatives to Elon Musk’s Starlink.

NATO Allies Willing to Increase Defense Spending 

European NATO allies and Canada said they are willing to ramp up defence spending, expressing willingness to comply with American demands for the size of their military budgets. NATO member states have spent billions of dollars more on defence but almost a third still don’t meet NATO’s target of at least 2 percent of their gross domestic product. 

Ukraine and US Discussing Minerals Deal 

A Ukrainian team of envoys will head to the US in the near future for discussions on a new framework for the minerals deal, public broadcaster Suspilne reported, citing Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. 

EU Proclaims a New Ear with Central Asian States 

The EU proclaimed a “new era” in ties with Central Asia at a major summit in Uzbekistan, as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine accelerates the region’s drift from Moscow’s orbit and Brussels presses its influence in the region in the face of Russian and Chinese competition. 

Germany Modernising its Arsenal

Germany said it would buy explosive drones for the first time as Berlin boosts investments in its armed forces to counter the growing threat from Russia against the continent. 

April 7 

France Calls for Definitive Stance Against Russia 

French President Emmanuel Macron called for “strong action” against Russia if Moscow continues to “refuse peace.” “A ceasefire is needed as soon as possible,” Macron said.

Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concern over the lack of international pressure on Russia amid the “increasing” number of “daily Russian strikes on Ukraine.” While the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, denounced Russia’s “reckless disregard” for civilians, following Russia’s attack on Kryvyi Rih. 

April 8 

Russia and US on Ceasefire Talks 

Vladimir Putin supports a ceasefire, but a “huge number” of questions remain unanswered and that there was a common understanding between Russia and the United States that mutual contact should continue. US President Donald Trump said he was “not happy” with Russia for bombing Ukraine “like crazy”. However, he also said Kyiv and Moscow were “sort of close” on a deal.

Ukraine Recognises Soldiers in Belgorod 

For the first time, President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged that Ukrainian troops were present in Russia’s Belgorod region. “We continue active operations in the enemy’s border areas and this is absolutely justified,” the Ukrainian president said in his nightly address.

Ukraine Captures Two Chinese Nationals in Ukraine 

Ukrainian troops have captured two Chinese nationals who were fighting in the ranks of the Russian military against Ukraine. “We have information that there are much more than two such Chinese citizens in the occupier’s units,” Zelensky said. “We have the documents of these prisoners, bank cards, personal data.”

April 9 

American Ambassador to the UN Security Council Speaks on Ceasefire Terms

United States Ambassador to the United Nations Dorothy Shea told the UN Security Council that Washington “will have no patience” for negotiations made in bad faith or violation of any commitments in efforts to end Russia’s war on Ukraine. Adding that Putin’s actions will be used to judge Russia’s willingness to accept a ceasefire. 

Nuclear Treaty Unlikely Between Russia and the US 

Dmitry Peskov said it was very hard to imagine the start of negotiations with the US on a new nuclear arms reduction treaty due to the mutually strained trust with Washington, which was only now beginning to normalise. 

China Summoned Over Presence of Chinese Nationals Fighting in Ukraine

The Ukrainian foreign ministry has summoned China’s charge d’affaires over the presence of Chinese citizens fighting for Russia, putting into question China’s declared stance of neutrality. 

Belgian Prime Minister Promises Aid to Ukraine 

The Belgian Prime Minister, Bart De Wever, announced his government had decided to provide a $1.19 billion aid package to Ukraine this year. He also said his country planned to support Kyiv with a similar package each year during his term. 

April 10 

US Military Chief Comments on Chinese Nationals 

The head of US forces in the Asian Pacific region, Admiral Samuel Paparo, confirmed that two men captured by Ukraine while fighting for Russia were of Chinese origin. He also said any Russian offensive success in Europe would empower China in its own offensive ambitions. 

Russia and the USA Holding Talks in Turkiye 

Representatives of Russia and the USA are holding talks in Turkiye to normalise diplomatic relations after the war in Ukraine has caused the biggest confrontation between forces of the West and Russia since the height of the Cold War.

Russia Refuses to Comment on Chinese Accusations 

Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on allegations that Chinese soldiers were fighting with Moscow’s troops against Ukraine. 

China Warns Against Jumping to Conclusions 

China warned parties in the Ukraine war against making “irresponsible remarks” after President Volodymyr Zelensky said Beijing knows that Russia is recruiting Chinese citizens through social media networks to fight in the conflict.

April 11 

Footage Shows Four Ukrainian Prisoners of War Executed by Russian Soldiers 

Footage from a Ukrainian surveillance drone showed four Ukrainian prisoners being shot dead by soldiers wearing Russian uniform markings.

Russian and American Prisoner Exchange

Russia released Russian American ballet dancer Ksenia Karelina, who was serving a 12-year prison sentence. Karelina was found guilty of treason by a Russian court for donating $52 to a US charity aiding Ukraine. She was swapped for Arthur Petrov, a German Russian citizen arrested in 2023.

China Releases Statement on Chinese Nationals in Russian Military 

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called for a “sober” view of its role in the Ukraine crisis after Zelensky said Kyiv’s intelligence had information about 155 Chinese citizens fighting alongside Russian forces against Ukraine. A spokesperson for the ministry also warned against making “irresponsible” remarks about the presence of Chinese fighters in Ukraine.

The USA and Russia Hold Talks in Turkiye 

The United States and Russia held talks in Istanbul, Turkiye, on normalising diplomatic relations between the two countries. The talks were led by Russia’s new ambassador to Washington, Alexander Darchiev, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Sonata Coulter. 

Coalition of the Willing Discuss Reassurance Force 

The defence ministers from 30 countries who are part of the “coalition of the willing” met in Brussels to discuss a reassurance force for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire between Kyiv and Moscow. However, key questions about its mission and any support from the US remained unanswered.

Mark Rutte Urges for Continued Aid to Ukraine 

NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte participated in a Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) meeting at NATO headquarters, calling for additional and continued support from NATO member states to Ukraine throughout the year 2025. 

April 12 

Trump Lashes Out on Peace Talks 

President Trump said that talks to end the war are going in a positive direction, however, he added that at a certain point “you just have to either put up or shut up.” 

Russia Praises Trump’s Understanding of Russia 

Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, said that President Trump understands the situation between Russia and Ukraine better than any European leader. Emphasising that Trump understands the need to address the root causes of the conflict to resolve it.

German Refinery Calls for Russian Gas 

A German refinery in the town of Schwedt, near the border of Poland is struggling to adapt to processing other raw materials, prompting calls for the return of Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline.

April 14 

Ukraine Holds Press Conference with Captured Chinese Nationals 

Ukrainian authorities held a news conference where the Chinese prisoners of war who travelled to fight in Ukraine as mercenaries on behalf of Russia appeared to warn others not to follow in their footsteps. 

US Divided on Stance on Ukraine and Trump Criticises Zelensky 

Donald Trump criticised Zelensky and implied Kyiv had started the war against Russia, saying the Ukrainian leader wanted to purchase US missiles and start a war “against someone 20 times your size.” Trump also promised to deliver “some very good proposals” on resolving Russia’s war in Ukraine while officials in his administration are divided on how to approach the conflict, Trump administration officials have been at odds over how to approach the conflict, the Reuters with some suggesting Ukraine should cede territory to Russia and others pushing for more support for Ukraine. The Democrat opposition in the House of Representatives introduced legislation to bolster Ukraine’s defences and impose further sanctions against Russia. 

The United Kingdom Disbursing Funding to Ukraine 

The United Kingdom has transferred $990 million to Ukraine to help it buy air defences and artillery as part of a broader $50 billion international loan programme backed by frozen Russian assets.

April 15 

Ukraine Martial Law may be extended until the Summer 

Zelensky has proposed two bills to the Ukrainian parliament to extend military mobilisation and martial law in the country for another 90 days, ending on August 6.

Inconsistency Between Russian and American Claims of Peace Talks 

Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, following a meeting with Vladimir Putin, said the Russian president was open to a “permanent peace” deal with Ukraine. However, Sergey Lavrov said in an interview that it was not easy to agree with the US on “key components” of a possible peace deal to end the war in Ukraine.

April 16 

Steve Witkoff Said Putin is Open to Peace 

Steve Witkoff, following a meeting with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, said the latter was open to a “permanent peace” deal with Ukraine. An envoy from Russia commented that Putin felt the meeting with Witkoff was “extremely productive.” 

April 17 

Meeting in Paris Between European, Ukrainian, and American Officials 

A Ukrainian delegation met with representatives from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the United States in Paris to discuss an equitable ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv.

Ukraine and the US Take Concrete Step Towards Mineral Deal 

Ukraine and the US signed a memorandum of intent, signalling a step towards finalising an agreement about the extraction of Ukraine’s rare earth metals.

President Zelensky Provides Update on War with Russia 

President Zelensky said Russia has reduced strikes on Ukraine’s energy facilities but has started targeting civilian infrastructure instead, and that in response, his nation was prepared to buy at least 10 Patriot air defence systems from the US to protect itself from Russian attacks.

China’s Alleged Support for Russia’s War Effort

President Zelensky reported that Ukrainian intelligence has evidence that China has been selling gun powder and artillery munitions to Russia.

Russia Draws Red Line on Use of German-Supplied Taurus Missiles to Ukraine 

A spokesperson of Russia’s foreign ministry said the use of a Taurus missile to strike Russia would be considered direct participation by Germany in the Ukrainian war. These comments followed Germany’s next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, who expressed willingness to supply Kyiv with the missiles to strike Russia.

April 18 

Trump Says US Growing Disinterested in Ceasefire Negotiations

Donald Trump has expressed his frustration over the difficult and drawn-out ceasefire negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. The American president has threatened to withdraw American support and backing for Ukraine in negotiations if a deal is not reached soon.

April 19 

Putin Declares Short Easter Truce 

Russia declared a brief 30-hour truce for the Easter weekend, with Putin claiming he passed the message to Russian soldiers. However, Kyiv has reported that Russia has already broken its own proposed truce.

April 20 

Russia Announces Mass Prisoner Exchange 

The Russian Ministry of Defence announced a 246-prisoner exchange with Ukraine mediated by the United Arab Emirates.

The United Kingdom and the EU Pressure Russia on Easter Truce 

The United Kingdom urged Russia to commit to a full ceasefire in Ukraine, “not just a one-day pause”, which reflects the reaction of the European Union, which has stated that Russia is capable of bringing peace and ending the war.

April 21 

Ukraine Reports on Russian Ceasefire Violations 

Ukraine reported nearly 3,000 Russian violations of their self-proposed ceasefire plan for Easter, and President Zelensky said the Ukrainian military had been ordered to mirror Russian actions. 

Ukraine’s Winter-Gas-Needs Calculated 

Ukraine’s former head gas transit operator has estimated that Ukraine will need to acquire 6.3 billion cubic metres of gas for the 2025-26 winter season due to record low levels of reserves because of war-related damage.

The United States Would Approve cu_people_phone_ext of Easter Truce 

The United States Department of Defence has welcomed a Russian cu_people_phone_ext of Putin’s proposed 30-hour Easter truce, and President Zelensky of Ukraine has called for a 30-day suspension of drone and artillery strikes against civilians. 

April 22 

Putin Open to Negotiations with Zelensky 

Putin has suggested a willingness to begin negotiations with Zelensky to reach a ceasefire, however, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has expressed Russia’s stance that Ukraine is to blame for the war and must make concessions. 

Trump Planning to Release His Peace Plan for Ukraine 

President Trump said he would reveal his proposed peace plan for the Ukraine war this week, which could include the deployment of a European peacekeeping force to enforce the ceasefire.

April 23 

Ukraine Will Not Recognise Occupied Territories as Russian 

President Zelensky announced that Ukraine will not recognise any of the Russian-occupied territories as Russian land, including Crimea. 

Putin Offering to Halt Invasionary Force

Putin has reportedly offered to stop his army’s military advancements in Ukraine at the current frontline and is willing to withdraw Moscow’s claims to parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhia, and in return, the US would recognise the Crimean peninsula as Russian and also block Ukraine from joining NATO.

US Envoy Reported Trump Considering Putin’s Proposal 

Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy to Russia, stated that President Trump is considering Putin’s proposal to end the war and prohibit Ukrainian NATO accession. Putin’s plan is largely aligned with Trump’s peace plan, which has been reported to include unofficial recognition of Russian control of nearly all areas occupied since the start of the war in Ukraine, would lift sanctions imposed on Russia and return a small part of Russian-occupied Kharkiv to Ukraine.

European Commission Researching New Sanctions

The European Commission is assessing whether it could forbid EU firms from signing new contracts for Russian fossil fuels and is working on legal options to allow EU companies to break existing gas supply contracts with Russia without penalties.

Denmark Increasing Military Spending 

Denmark will spend $614 million on building and procuring 26 navy vessels for patrolling, oil spill response and surveillance of undersea cables as countries of the Baltic Sea grow increasingly nervous.

April 24 

Macron Weighs in on Ceasefire 

French President Emmanuel Macron commented that Kyiv cannot accept any Russian proposal of a ceasefire while being bombed frequently and intensively. The French leader reaffirmed Paris’s support for Ukraine and the territorial integrity of its borders.

Trump Calls for Putin to Stop 

Following Russia’s largest drone attack and artillery strike against Kyiv this year, which left at least 12 dead and over 90 civilians wounded, President Trump took to social media to urge the Russian president to stop by writing, “Vladimir, STOP.”

April 25 

NATO Secretary General Said Ending the War is Russia’s Responsibility 

Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, said that reaching a deal to end the Ukraine War was now up to Moscow, acknowledging Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate and propose a serious deal, putting the pressure on Moscow to accept. 

Ukraine and the USA are Still Working Towards Rare Earth Deal 

Ukrainian Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko said that Ukraine is going “as fast as we can” on a critical minerals deal with the Trump administration, despite the American president saying earlier he expected the deal to be completed this week.

April 26 

Zelensky Still Refusing American and Russian Stance on Crimea 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine’s position on Crimea has not changed, and that despite Ukraine not possessing the means to retake the peninsula, the nation’s allies can apply pressure through sanctions.

Moscow and Washington Relations Warming 

The US envoy to Russia, Steve Witkoff, met with President Putin for three hours to discuss the war’s end and the normalisation of relations between the USA and Russia. Commentators from the Kremlin announced that a major deal between the US and Russia is coming soon. Trump added that most of the major details have been agreed to regarding reaching an agreement over Ukraine.

Trump Demands Zelensky to Sign Rare Earth Deal 

President Trump took to social media to demand that President Zelensky “IMMEDIATELY” sign the long-delayed rare earths deal, which would give the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth reserves.

April 27

Russia Drives Ukrainian Forces Out of Kursk 

Vladimir Putin hailed what he called the complete failure of a Ukrainian incursion into Kursk after Moscow claimed to have driven the last of the Ukrainian forces out of the region. Russia’s chief of the general staff, Valery Gerasimov, praised the “courage and heroism” of the North Korean soldiers active in Kursk. 

Meeting Between Trump and Zelensky at Pope’s Funeral 

Trump cast doubt on whether Putin wants a peace deal and has taken a tougher tone with Putin shortly after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at St Peter’s Basilica before Pope Francis’s funeral in Rome.

March 1 

Aftermath of Disastrous White House Meeting 

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on Zelensky to apologise for clashing with Trump, and “for wasting our time for a meeting that was going to end the way it did.” Zelensky said his relations with the US can still be repaired after Trump shouted at him at the White House and accused him of refusing to make peace with Russia.

Russia Sending New Ambassador to Washington 

Russia has announced it is sending a new ambassador, Alexander Darchiyev, to Washington, the latest sign of a thaw between the two countries as they try to mend their damaged relations and seek an end to the war in Ukraine.

The International Monetary Fund and Ukraine Reach a Deal 

The International Monetary Fund and Ukraine reached a deal on a loan programme review that will unlock about $400 million in much-needed funds.

United Kingdom Hosting Meeting About Ukraine’s Future Actions 

Preparations are underway for United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s meeting with a dozen European leaders on Sunday to “drive forward” action on Ukraine and security. Zelensky is among those expected to attend the meeting.

Norway Providing More Funding for Ukraine 

Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere announced that he will soon ask parliament to increase financial backing for Ukraine.

March 2 

EU Chief Says Europe Needs to Rearm 

The Chief of the EU, Ursula von der Leyen has called for Europe to rearm and expressed the need to turn Ukraine into a “steel porcupine.” The comments of the EU chief are echoed by calls of the Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk for Europe to increase its defence spending amount.

UK Defence Summit Concludes 

A summit on European defence held in the UK which included European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saw the creation of a plan called “the coalition of the willing” which will be taken to the US for approval of European forces being deployed in Ukraine. Additionally, the UK announced a new $2 billion deal that would allow Ukraine to purchase 5,000 air-defence missiles using export finance. Concluding the conference, the UK Prime Minister Starmer announced that Europe must do “the heavy lifting” to build peace in Ukraine. 

March 3 

France Says Truce Between Russia and Ukraine Possible 

Jean-Noel Barrot, the French Foreign Minister said that a truce between Russia and Ukraine on air, sea and energy infrastructure, if accepted, would allow Ukraine and its allies to determine if Russian President Vladimir Putin was acting in good faith and would be willing to start negotiations on a longer-term peace deal.

United Kingdom and France Set to Draft Peace Deal 

The United Kingdom and France are set to draw up a peace deal with Ukraine and present it to United States President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.

Ukraine and USA Relations Still Possible 

Zelensky said he believed Kyiv’s relationship with Washington could still be salvaged despite the public hostilities with Trump on Friday. He said talks would need to continue in a different format and did not believe the US would stop aid to Ukraine. Ukraine was ready to sign a minerals deal with the US, he said, adding that he believed Washington was too.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) Warns of Loss of US Backing 

The ISW said a withdrawal of military aid by the US could give Russia a greater advantage in winning its war against Ukraine.

March 4 

US Pauses All Military Aid to Ukraine 

According to a White House official, the USA will pause all military aid to Ukraine until it determines that President Zelensky is making a good-faith effort towards peace negotiations with Russia. 

Finland Outlines its Conditions for Ukraine NATO Membership

Finnish President Alexander Stubb said that Ukraine should automatically become a NATO member if Russia breaches any ceasefire deal. 

Zelensky Pushes for Security Guarantees

Zelensky told UK media that a ceasefire without security guarantees would not bring a sustainable end to Russia’s invasion of his country. “It will be a failure for everyone if Ukraine is forced into a ceasefire without serious security guarantees.” 

Zelensky Addresses Calls for Stepping Down  

Zelensky has been quoted saying that it would “not be simple” to replace him as Kyiv’s leader. However, he reiterated his willingness to step down in exchange for Ukraine’s entry into NATO as a member country. 

Ukraine Still Willing to Sign Minerals Deal 

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced that his country was ready to sign a planned deal on extracting strategically important minerals from the US “at any time” after Washington said it was suspending military support. 

March 5 

US May Restore Aid to Ukraine Pending Confidence Measures 

White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz says US President Donald Trump “will take a hard look” at restoring aid to Ukraine “if we can nail down these negotiations and … put some confidence-building measures on the table.”

EU Postpones Plan to Phase Out Russian Energy 

The European Commission has, for a second time, delayed an announcement of its plan to phase out reliance on Russian energy imports, from March 26 to an unspecified date.

March 6

Russia Sentences a Citizen of the United Kingdom to 19 Years in Prison 

Russia’s Investigative Committee said Scott Rhys Anderson, a citizen of the United Kingdom, was sentenced to 19 years in prison after being convicted of a “terrorist act” and acting as a mercenary when he was captured while fighting for Ukraine.

Russian Passports Issued to Occupied Regions of Ukraine 

Putin announced that Russia has completed issuing Russian passports to Ukrainian citizens in Moscow-controlled territories of Luhansk and Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.

US Aid to Ukraine May Resume Under Conditions

White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz told Fox News that Trump may reconsider the US’ aid pause to Ukraine if peace talks are arranged and “confidence-building measures” are implemented.

The Netherlands Pledges Aid to Ukraine 

The Netherlands pledged $3.8 billion in support of Ukraine for the year 2026, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said, adding that the funds could be used in 2025 if necessary.

March 7 

Trump Considering Cancelling Legal Status of Ukrainian Refugees 

The Trump administration is reportedly planning to revoke the temporary legal status of almost a quarter million Ukrainian refugees.

Zelensky Calls to Halt Aerial Strikes Against Infrastructure

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed calls for a mutual halt to aerial attacks on critical infrastructure after Russia launched a “massive” drone and missile attack on Ukrainian energy facilities which are left vulnerable without American air defence systems.

France Sharing Intelligence with Ukraine 

French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said Paris has been providing military intelligence to Kyiv after Washington put a pause on sharing information.

Russian Foreign Minister Criticises French and European Proposals 

Sergey Lavrov said that Macron’s suggestion to discuss placing European allies under France’s nuclear protection posed a threat to Russia and added deploying European peacekeeping troops to Ukraine would be regarded as NATO’s official involvement in the war between Ukraine and Russia.

United Kingdom Finalises Deal with Tech Company to Help Ukraine

The United Kingdom’s defence ministry finalised a $38.68 million deal with a defence tech company to allow Ukraine’s armed forces to use more advanced attack drones in the Black Sea. 

Norway Promises More Aid to Ukraine 

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr said his country would increase aid to Ukraine for this year by an extra $4.5 billion. This would bring this year’s total Norwegian aid for Ukraine to $7.78 billion.

March 8 

Poland Warns Against Russian Appeasement 

Donald Tusk, the Prime Minister of Poland said that appeasement towards Russia was only resulting in more tragedy for Ukraine.

March 9 

France Preparing Aid Package to Ukraine 

The French Ministry of Defense is preparing a military aid package worth $200 million backed by the interest of frozen Russian assets.

March 10 

United States Secretary of State to Travel to Saudi Arabia 

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Saudi Arabia this week for talks with Ukrainian counterparts, the US Department of State said.

Poland Says it Could Be Forced to Look Away From Starlink 

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said Poland, which pays for Ukraine’s access to Starlink internet services, could be “forced to look for other suppliers” after the service’s owner Elon Musk said Ukraine’s “entire front line would collapse if I turned it off.”

March 11 

A Ukrainian Source Says Russia Has Made Advances 

A senior source from the Ukrainian government said that Russia had gained a significant advantage against the Ukrainian military during the US’s pause in intelligence sharing.

US Expects Progress in Peace Talks

The US’s Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said Washington expects substantial progress in talks with Ukraine this week, including the signing of the rare earths deal. Witkoff also said intelligence sharing with Ukraine would also be discussed during this week’s meetings.

March 12 

Ukraine and USA Agree to Ceasefire 

Officials from the United States and Ukraine met in Saudi Arabia, Kyiv said it had agreed to accept an immediate 30-day truce and take steps towards restoring long-lasting peace with Moscow. Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State said that “the ball is now in Russia’s court” and Zelenksy welcomed the agreement as positive.

US to Resume Military Assistance to Ukraine 

Following the meeting in Saudi Arabia, Washington announced that it would immediately lift all military aid suspensions imposed on Ukraine and resume intelligence sharing with Kyiv.

American Delegation to Meet with Russians

Responding to the outcome of the US-Ukraine talks in Jeddah, Trump said he hopes Russia agrees to the ceasefire deal, adding that US officials will meet their Russian counterparts later this week.

Russia Making Advances in Kursk 

Russia said its forces have reclaimed 12 settlements and more than 100 square km of territory in the Kursk region from Ukrainian troops.

March 13

Putin Visits Kursk Oblast 

For the first time since Ukraine’s incursion of August 2024 into Kursk President Putin has visited the region. During his visit, Putin announced that “the region would soon be completely liberated from the enemy” and that any Ukrainian soldiers captured would be considered terrorists and not protected under the Geneva Convention’s treatment for prisoners of war. 

Ukraine Wants Strong US Efforts if Russia Refuses Ceasefire 

President Zelensky said he expects “strong steps” from the United States against Russia if Moscow does not accept the 30-day ceasefire proposal. Trump has also commented that reaching a truce is now up to Russia. Marco Rubio also added that Russian refusal to a ceasefire would reveal a lot about the Kremlin’s true intentions.

Russia Reportedly Has List of Peace Demands 

Russia has presented Washington with a list of demands for a deal to end the Ukraine war and reset relations with the US. The demands are similar to previous Kremlin terms for ending its war, including no NATO membership for Kyiv, recognition of Russia’s claim to annexed Crimea and four Ukrainian provinces, and an agreement that no foreign troops would be deployed in Ukraine.

USA-Ukraine Minerals Deal Not a Security Guarantee 

US State Secretary Marco Rubio said that an expected minerals deal with Ukraine would give the US a “vested interest” in Ukraine’s security, although, he said, “I wouldn’t count it as a security guarantee.”

Europe Increasing Security 

French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said that a “very broad consensus” is emerging among European nations on boosting Ukraine’s long-term security after a meeting with the defence ministers of Britain, Germany, Italy and Poland. Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz also welcomed a “real unity of the continent”, referring to the threat from Russia and United Kingdom Defence Secretary John Healey said Britain and its allies knew that “we must step up” and re-arm.

Poland Calling for Nuclear Protection 

Poland’s president Andrzej Duda has called on the US to transfer nuclear weapons to its territory as a deterrent against future Russian aggression. Duda said “The borders of NATO moved east in 1999, so 26 years later there should also be a shift of the NATO infrastructure east. For me this is obvious.”

US Weapons Resume Flowing Through Poland to Ukraine 

The Polish foreign ministry confirmed that US weapons are flowing back to Ukraine through Poland after the US lifted its pause on military aid to Kyiv.

March 14 

Putin Comments on Ceasefire Proposal 

President Putin said he agrees in principle with a United States proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, but cautioned that terms are yet to be worked out. Putin said Russian forces were moving forward along the entire front line and that the ceasefire would have to ensure that Ukraine did not seek to use it simply to regroup. 

Zelensky and Trump Divided Over Russian Response 

US President Donald Trump said there were “good signals” coming out of Russia and offered guarded optimism about Putin’s statement while Ukrainian President Zelensky described Putin’s response to the ceasefire plan as “manipulative”, saying “at this moment he is, in fact, preparing to reject it.”

US Sending New Long-Range Bombs to Ukraine 

The US is poised to resume shipments to Ukraine of long-range bombs known as Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB) after they were upgraded in order to better counter Russian electronic jamming techniques. The munitions will arrive amid reports that Ukraine’s supply of similarly-ranged Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) has been depleted.

Sweden Announces New Aid Package to Ukraine 

Sweden announced a new military aid package worth $294 million to strengthen Ukraine’s artillery capabilities.

American Air National Guard Court Martial Hearing Commences

Jack Teixeira, the Air National Guard member who leaked highly classified US documents about the war in Ukraine, used his court-martial hearing to describe himself as a “proud patriot” who was only “exposing and correcting the lies perpetuated by the Biden administration.” 

March 15 

Putin and American Delegate Meet in Moscow 

Putin met with US envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss details of the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Moscow’s war on Ukraine, asking him to convey Moscow’s thoughts to Washington.

Trump Blames Ukraine Again 

In a speech at the US Department of Justice, Trump said that ceasefire negotiations with Russia were ongoing and praised his relationship with Putin. He again suggested that Ukraine was to blame for Russia’s 2022 invasion, saying, “You don’t want to pick on somebody that’s a lot larger than you.”

G7 Warns Russia of Further Sanctions 

G7 foreign ministers warned Russia of new sanctions unless it accepted a ceasefire “on equal terms” saying sanctions could include “caps on oil prices, as well as additional support for Ukraine.”

World Leader Video Conference to Increase Support for Ukraine 

Support for Ukraine will be discussed in a video conference with 25 European Union and other world leaders, as well as Zelensky. Sources have said Kaja Kallas will propose for the EU to supply up to $43.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine.

UK to Call on Support for the Coalition of the Willing 

UK Prime Minister Starmer will urge leaders from the so-called “coalition of the willing” to make concrete commitments to support Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia to accept a ceasefire.

March 16

cu_people_phone Call Between Trump and Putin Expected 

The Russian and the US presidents are expected to have a cu_people_phone call this week to discuss the proposed ceasefire as the US looks to end the war rapidly. European allies have warned that a ceasefire without adequate security guarantees for Ukraine would not result in a lasting peace.

The UK Proposes a Western Peacekeeping Mission of 10,000 Soldiers 

The UK’s proposed peacekeeping contingent would include around 10,000 troops, mostly provided by the UK and France. The proposed force of 10,000 is significantly smaller than the 30,000 troops Starmer pitched to Trump during their White House meeting on Feb. 20 and is a distance away from Zelensky’s request for 100,000-150,000 Western troops. 

March 17 

Ukraine will Not Recognise Occupied Areas as Russian 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the topic of territorial control would be a key focus of any ceasefire. However, he said Ukraine would not recognise its occupied regions as parts of Russia.

Zelensky Shuffles Political and Military Leadership

President Zelensky appointed a delegation to represent Kyiv in future peace talks. Presidential Chief of Staff, Andriy Yermak, was named head of the delegation, which includes Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov and Yermak’s deputy Pavlo Palisa. Zelensky also appointed Major-General Andrii Hnatov as Ukrainian forces’ new chief of general staff.

Keith Kellogg No Longer Russian and Ukrainian Special Envoy 

Trump changed Keith Kellogg’s role from special envoy to Ukraine and Russia to envoy for only Ukraine. Dmitry Peskov denied allegations that Russia wanted Kellogg to be excluded from peace negotiations with Ukraine due to Kellogg’s pro-Kyiv stance.

March 18 

Trump and Putin cu_people_phone Call Scheduled 

United States President Donald Trump told reporters that he is scheduled to speak with Vladimir Putin today. “We want to see if we can bring that war to an end. Maybe [we] can, maybe we can’t, but I think we have a very good chance,” he said.

EU Condemns Russia for Not Wanting Peace 

Kaja Kallas, the European Union chief of foreign policy has called Russian demands to end the war with Ukraine inconducive of peace and reflective of the ultimate goals that they want to achieve in the war.

Ukraine Passes Bill Allowing Soldiers to be Deployed Abroad

President Zelensky ratified a bill allowing Ukrainian troops to be deployed in other countries during martial law. Kyiv said it would ensure “national security and defence as well as repelling and determining armed aggression against Ukraine.”

Over 30 European Nations are Willing to Contribute to the Coalition of the Willing 

The United Kingdom expects that more than 30 European countries would be willing to send their troops. The contribution capabilities will vary by nation but it will be a significant force involving many countries.

Macron Says Trump is Committed to the Russian Conditions for a Ceasefire 

Emmanuel Macron said Trump is committed to the conditions set forth by Russia for a 30-day ceasefire, adding that it is now up to Russia to prove that it wants peace.

March 19

Russia Agrees to a Limited 30-day Ceasefire 

The cu_people_phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin resulted in a limited 30-day ceasefire with terms outlining that Ukraine and Russia would stop attacking each other’s energy sector. Putin installed a condition that the US and its allies must end all military assistance including foreign intelligence to Ukraine for the hostilities to end and that for the ceasefire to work, Ukraine must not be allowed to rearm.

Italy Does Not Have Confidence in a European Peacekeeping Force 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that the United Kingdom and France’s plan to send peacekeepers to Ukraine is likely ineffective. Instead, Meloni believes a better solution would be to extend NATO’s mutual defence umbrella.

European Commission Announces New Taskforce for Ukraine 

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced a new joint task force with Ukraine that would streamline the procurement of military supplies and consolidate support.

Democrats Appeal for Government Funding Resumption of Lab Investigating Taken Ukrainian Children 

Democrats called on Trump to restore funding for a previously government-sponsored initiative led by Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab (Yale HRL) that tracked the mass deportation of Ukrainian children. They claimed that data from the repository may have been permanently deleted, which would result in “devastating consequences.”

March 20 

Russia Immediately Breaks Ceasefire it Proposed 

Russia launched a barrage of drones at Ukraine overnight just hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin committed to a 30-day pause on attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Trump and Zelensky cu_people_phone Call 

President Trump and President Zelensky spoke on a call about his earlier discussions with President Putin. The White House said Zelensky agreed to the partial ceasefire and asked for additional air defence support, which Trump promised to help locate from Europe.

Washington Scraps Rare Earth’s Deal 

Washington has moved beyond the previously negotiated rare minerals deal with Kyiv and is now entirely focused on securing a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. Trump also suggested the US take over Ukraine’s power plants to ensure security.

Zelensky Condemns Putin 

Zelensky accused President Putin of rejecting the US proposal for a full ceasefire, despite public pronouncements to the contrary, and urged the global community to stop Moscow’s attempt to extend its war on Kyiv.

Germany Plans to Release Previously Blocked Aid 

The new German government plans to release $3.3 billion in military aid for Ukraine after outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz had previously blocked the package.

March 21 

Dmitry Peskov Speaks on Ceasefire and European Rearmament 

Dmitry Peskov said Russia and the United States are set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss the resumption of the Black Sea initiative and other aspects of the possible ceasefire. Peskov also accused European countries of planning to “militarise” themselves instead of seeking peace.

Zelensky addresses EU Leaders 

In Oslo, Norway, Zelensky addressed EU leaders that Russia is continuing to attack energy infrastructure, terms of the ceasefire the Kremlin proposed. Zelensky also requested the approval of $5.4 billion for the purchase of artillery shells. 

Ukraine Rejects US Ownership of its Energy Facilities 

Ukraine has rejected the floated proposal from the US to own Ukraine’s energy facilities. 

March 23 

Officials of Ukraine, America, and Russia set to Meet in Saudi Arabia 

Andrew Peek of the US National Security Council and Michael Anton of the US Department of State are heading to Saudi Arabia for talks with Ukrainian and Russian officials. Moscow is hoping to achieve “some progress,” while the US is looking to ensure security for shipping in the Black Sea. 

March 24 

Steve Witkoff Denies Claims Putin will invade Europe 

Steve Witkoff, United States special envoy for the Middle East, said that he does not believe Putin intends to invade Europe. “I just don’t see that he wants to take all of Europe. I take him at his word in this sense,” Witkoff said. 

Ukrainian and US Officials Discuss Ceasefire 

Ukrainian and US officials met in Saudi Arabia to discuss a partial ceasefire amid warnings by Moscow that negotiations would be “difficult” despite Washington’s hopes for “real progress.”

March 25

US and Russian Officials Wrap up Talks in Riyadh 

United States and Russian officials concluded talks in Saudi Arabia focusing on a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea. A White House source said progress was made in the Riyadh talks and that a “positive announcement” was expected “in the near future” with a Russian official saying the talks had progressed “creatively” and that the two sides had discussed issues regarded as “irritants” in bilateral ties.

Meeting in London Between French and UK Officials 

For the third time this month, officials of European nations have met to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine under the UK format of the coalition of the willing. After the meeting, France and the UK declared that Europe’s two nuclear powers were “stepping up to forge a stronger and deeper partnership.”

Mineral Deal Expected to be Signed Soon 

Trump said that a strategic raw materials deal with Ukraine is likely to be agreed upon shortly.

US Senators Push Trump to Toughen Stance on Moscow 

A group of Republican and Democratic US senators wrote a letter urging the Trump administration and Western allies to transfer more than $300 billion of seized Russian assets to help Ukraine. 

The Czech Republic to Stop Receiving Russian Oil 

Lukas Vlcek, the industry minister of the Czech Republic said his country will stop receiving Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline. No Russian oil has been flowing through the Druzhba pipeline to the Czech Republic since March 4 because of payment problems due to the US sanctions imposed on Russian banks.

March 26 

Separate American Agreements Between Ukraine and Russia 

The US has said it made separate agreements with Russia and Ukraine over stopping the striking of energy facilities and the safe navigation of transport ships in the Black Sea. Washington also agreed to push to lift some sanctions against Moscow as the first steps towards a wider ceasefire, with Donald Trump saying the situation is going well. 

Overnight Russian Drone Attacks Against Ukraine 

Hours after the American deal was proposed, Russia launched a large-scale drone attack against a Ukrainian Black Sea port with President Zelensky saying the strike was a “clear signal to the whole world that Moscow is not going to pursue real peace.” 

The Kremlin Outlines Its Conditions for the Black Sea Deal 

The Kremlin stated that the Black Sea deal could only be implemented after sanctions against the Russian Agricultural Bank and other financial organisations involved in food and fertiliser trade are lifted and access to the SWIFT international banking system is restored. The agreement is also conditional on lifting sanctions against Russian food and fertiliser exports and removing restrictions on exports of agricultural equipment to Russia. 

Zelensky Critiscises Lifting Russian Sanctions 

In an address, President Zelensky welcomed the US-backed agreements but criticised Washington for considering raising sanctions against Russia, which would weaken Ukraine’s position in the war.

Annual Threat Assessment Report Released 

The US intelligence community’s Annual Threat Assessment report said Russia, along with Iran, North Korea and China are seeking to challenge the US through deliberate campaigns to gain an advantage and that Beijing also seeks to displace the US as the top AI power by 2030. 

European Union Pushing for Three-Day Crisis Kits 

The European Union is pushing for every household in the 27-country bloc to have a three-day survival kit ready in case crisis strikes which is consistent with a key report last year on strengthening Europe’s civilian and military preparedness. 

The Baltic Nations Raise Concerns Over US Negotiations 

The foreign ministers of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia met in Washington with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as the Baltic nations voiced concerns over the new US push for a ceasefire in Russia’s war on Ukraine. The Estonian Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna said Russia has gained the upper hand since Trump has initiated talks to end the war. 

March 27 

France Will Provide Ukraine with More Aid 

France has proposed to present Ukraine with an additional $2 billion in military aid after President Macron accused Russia of reinterpreting and rewriting previously proposed ceasefire deals.

NATO Secretary General Speaks on the Future of Atlanticism 

Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO warned both the US and Europe against any attempts to “do it alone” regarding European security and a Ukrainian ceasefire. Rutte also suggested that Europe could still trust and rely on the USA, however, relations with Russia would take decades to restore after the total loss of trust and confidence caused by the war. 

March 28 

Putin Wants Ukraine Placed Under Administration 

Putin suggested that as part of the peace process, Ukraine be placed under the temporary “administration” of the United Nations and other countries until elections are held.

Paris Wants to Work with Beijing to Secure Peace 

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, during a visit to China, said Beijing and Paris should coordinate in promoting peace in Ukraine and that China could play a role in convincing Russia to come to the table in good faith. 

A Long and Difficult Process to Normalise US-Russia Relations 

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Moscow and Washington are starting the long and difficult process of restoring ties and that it would be premature to draw “far-reaching conclusions” about Russia-US relations so soon. Ryabkov also said it is too early for Russia to reopen strategic nuclear stability talks with the US.

Zelensky Frustrated at America Changing Mineral Deal Terms 

Zelensky accused the US of “constantly” changing the terms of the proposed minerals deal signed with his country. However, he said he did not want the US to think Kyiv was against the deal.

France and UK Will Send Assurance to Ukraine Following a Peace Deal 

French President Macron said that London and Paris were working on sending “assurance troops” to Ukraine after a potential future peace deal, even if the idea was not approved by all European countries.

March 29 

UN Commissioner Calls for End to Civilian Strikes 

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk called for an end to the “horrific suffering” caused by attacks on civilians in Ukraine and said that a ceasefire in Ukraine “would be very welcome”and that “limited ceasefires that protect shipping lanes and infrastructure are a welcome step forward” but a proper end to the war is needed.

US Rare Earth Proposal Changes Again 

In an evening address, Zelensky confirmed Ukraine had received the draft of a new minerals deal from the US, saying it was an “entirely different” document than what had been proposed previously. 

March 30 

Russia Accused of War Crimes after Attacking Military Hospital

Ukraine accused Russia of committing “war crimes” after targeting a military hospital, which it said violated “the norms of international humanitarian law.” Zelensky said Kyiv expected a strong response from the West on the near-daily Russian attacks on the country. 

March 31 

Trump Slams Putin and Threatens Russian Oil 

President Trump told reporters that he was “pissed off” at Putin over comments he made calling into question the credibility of Zelensky’s leadership. In the address, Trump added he would impose secondary tariffs of between 25% and 50% on buyers of Russian oil if he determined that Moscow was trying to undermine his efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Trump Accuses Zelensky of Backing out of Rare Earth Deal 

Trump said he believes the Ukrainian president is attempting to “back out” of a deal which would grant the US access to Ukraine’s reserves of rare earth minerals, adding “If he’s looking to renegotiate the deal, he’s got big problems.” 

Moscow and Washington Begin Talks on Joint Economic Operations 

The Kremlin and the White House have begun talks on joint projects involving rare earth metal extraction inside of Russia according to Russian media.

February 1 

Trump Said He Will Speak to Putin 

American President Donald Trump has said that he will speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin, claiming the pair of them will prepare to do something “significant” with Washington and Moscow in serious discussions.

February 2 

Zelensky Warns of Excluding Ukraine From Peace Talks 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenesky has warned his nation’s allies that exclusion from peace talks between Russia and Ukraine would be very dangerous. Zelensky asked for more communication and engagement between Kyiv and Washington.

America Wants Ukraine to Hold Elections 

Keith Kellog, the American envoy to Ukraine has said that the United States wants Ukraine to hold parliamentary and presidential elections by the end of the year, especially if a ceasefire is achieved.

Moldova Sending Gas to Transnistria 

Moldova has begun sending EU-supplied gas to the breakaway region of Transnistria which has been affected by an unprecedented energy crisis since January.

February 4 

United Nations Echoes Ukrainian Concerns Over Prisoner of War Executions 

The United Nations has echoed the concerns of Kyiv over Russia killing 79 Ukrainian prisoners of war in 24 separate incidents since September of 2024.

Trump Looking to Receive Ukrainian Rare Earth Minerals in Exchange for US Aid 

Reports from the Oval Office have emerged that Donald Trump is looking to secure a supply of rare earth minerals from Ukraine in exchange for continued US aid.

Moscow Not Ready to Pursue Four-Way Peace Talks 

Moscow is not ready to pursue the proposed plan for four-way peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, the United States, and the EU, which Ukrainian President Zelensky proposed.

February 5 

Carsten Breuer Warns of Russian Willingness to Attack Europe 

Germany’s top general, Carsten Breuer, warned that Russia could test NATO’s defensive readiness with an attack against a European country in the next four years.

Ukraine in Discussion With American Delegation Over Aid 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told reporters that his team was in contact with Keith Kellogg and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz to work on dates for a US delegation to visit Kyiv. He also said Ukraine was open to investments by US companies to supply rare earths to the US in exchange for aid.

Zelensky Demands Nuclear Weapons if NATO Membership Not Extended 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for Ukraine to be equipped with nuclear weapons as a guarantee of peace if his nation is not admitted into NATO following the end of the war against Russia.

EU Developing Special Legal Tribunal 

The EU has laid down the legal foundations for the creation of a special tribunal that will have the power to hold Russian political and military leaders accountable. 

February 6 

United Kingdom Expected to Announce More Aid for Ukraine 

David Lammy, the United Kingdom’s Foreign Minister, is expected to announce $68.7 million in financial support for Kyiv to help put Ukraine “in the strongest position possible.”

Ukrainian Potential to Buy Liquified Natural Gas from the USA 

Andrii Sybiha, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, has said there is huge potential for Ukraine to buy liquified natural gas (LNG) from the United States and invited American businesses to assist in reconstructing Kyiv.

Russia Supports Trump’s Comments on Ukraine and NATO 

Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister has praised American President Trump’s comments about extending NATO membership to Ukraine would be a matter of concern for Moscow. 

Zelensky Confirmed Willingness to Hold Elections 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed his willingness to hold elections but said it would be impossible during the war, citing logistical and legal concerns. 

February 7 

Ukraine Open to Allow Russian Citizens of Kursk to Return 

The Ukrainian presidency has released a statement that it is willing to open a corridor to allow Russian citizens of the Kursk Oblast under Ukrainian occupation to return to Russian-controlled regions as long as Moscow submits an official request.

Ukraine Has Received Fighter-Jets from France and the Netherlands

The Ukraine Defense Ministry has announced that the first shipments of French Mirage 2000 fighter jets have arrived in the country. Additionally, a delivery of USA-made F-16 fighter jets from the Netherlands has arrived in Ukraine. Both the F-16s and the Mirage 2000’s will soon begin carrying out combat missions.

February 8 

Baltic States Disconnect from Russian Energy Grid 

Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia have disconnected their electricity system from Russia’s grid which is part of a plan for the three Baltic states to integrate into European Union networks to increase regional energy security. 

European Powers to Meet in Paris and Discuss the War 

European foreign ministers will discuss the war at a meeting in Paris next week to “show continued support for Ukraine.” Ministers from France, Germany, Poland, Britain, Spain and Italy will take part in the talks with rumours of an American envoy attending.

February 9 

Trump Speaks to Putin 

American President Donald Trump said he spoke to Vladimir Putin over the cu_people_phone about bringing an end to the war.

February 10 

Olaf Sholz Slams Slams Donald Trump

Germany’s Olaf Sholz criticised Donald Trump’s request for Ukrainian rare earth metals in exchange for continued American assistance. Sholz described Trump’s request as “selfish and self-serving” and that countries that support Ukraine should do so without anything in return.

February 11

Transnistria Rejects European Union Offer of Gas 

Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Rocean said Transnistria has rejected the European Union’s $61.8 million offer to fund gas purchases. Rocean said, “Russia does not allow them to accept European aid for fear of losing control over the region.” Transnistria’s leader, Vadim Krasnoselsky, said a Hungarian company was arranging to supply gas to the separatist enclave with “Russian credit and functional support.” Recean said gas would start flowing under this arrangement as early as February 13.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Speaks on Ceasefire Conditions 

The Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergei Ryabkov, stated that all demands put forth by Putin in June to end the conflict with Ukraine must be met before any settlement is possible. These conditions include Ukraine dropping its NATO ambitions and withdrawing troops from four Ukrainian regions claimed by Russia.

USAID Funding Freeze Affects Ukraine 

The US decision to freeze foreign aid has begun threatening six investigations by Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office into Russia’s alleged war crimes. The war crimes investigation committees are reportedly valued at $89 million, with funds for at least five of the projects frozen.

Xi Jinping to Attend Moscow Victory Day Celebrations 

Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly accepted Russia’s invitation to attend commemorations of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. May 9th marks the 80th anniversary of the victory.

February 12 

Details About Trump and Putin Conversation Emerge

Commenting on the cu_people_phone call between the presidents of Russia and the USA, Trump said his conversation with Putin was “friendly” and that commitments would need to be made by both sides to find an end to the war. Additionally, Trump added that territorial concessions to Russia are likely to bring an end to the war. 

February 13 

Trump Says Negotiations Have Begun 

Donald Trump said that he has spoken again with Vladimir Putin by cu_people_phone and the pair have agreed to begin negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. The US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth says President Donald Trump’s efforts to seek an end to the Ukraine war were “certainly not a betrayal” of Kyiv. China says it is “happy” that the US and Russia have “strengthened communication,” while German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius called Trump’s actions “regrettable.” 

Zelensky Rejects Russian-USA Negotiations 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been adamant about refusing to accept negotiations made between Russia and the USA that exclude Ukraine. Zelensky has called for European allies to engage in the negotiation process to prevent bilateral relations occurring directly between Moscow and Washington over the future of Ukraine.

February 14 

Zelensky Voices Stance to American Vice President 

In talks with American Vice President JD Vance at the Munich security summit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine will be ready for direct talks with Russia once his nation has reached a common stance with Europe and the USA on ending the war.

UK Asserts Ukrainian Security Needs 

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Zelenskyy that there could be no peace talks in the Ukraine-Russia conflict without Ukraine’s involvement. He said Kyiv needs “strong security guarantees” if a deal is struck, backing support for Ukraine’s NATO membership.

Kyiv Will Not Accept Peace Not Involving Europe or Ukraine

Zelensky said Kyiv would not accept any agreements on his country’s fate decided on by Washington and Moscow if Ukraine and Europe were not involved. He also called for a plan to “stop Putin” before any peace talks happen. Zelensky also warned global leaders against trusting Putin’s claim of willingness to end Russia’s war on Ukraine.

European Union Speaks on Peace Deals 

The European Union’s foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas warned that any deal made behind Europe’s back regarding ending the war in Ukraine would inevitably fail. 

NATO Voices Role in Ukrainian Security 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that the military alliance has to make sure that Russia does not attack Ukraine again but clarified that NATO membership was never promised as a part of a peace deal.

Russian Drone Strikes Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant 

A Russian drone with a high-explosive warhead hit the protective containment shell of the Chornobyl nuclear power reactor in the Kyiv region, Ukraine said.

February 15 

US Vice President JD Vance Speaks at Munich

JD Vance said that the Trump administration wants a “durable, lasting peace” in Ukraine and Eastern Europe that doesn’t see “Eastern Europe in conflict just a couple years down the road.”

Vance Wants Increased NATO Member Spending 

In a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Vance said NATO members must increase their military spending so the US could focus more on Asia.

Zelensky Not Ready to Sign USA Rare Earth Deal 

At the Munich Security Conference, President Zelensky said he was not ready to sign a mineral resource agreement with the USA as there was no plan to protect Ukraine and its interests. The US seeks to gain 50% of Ukraine’s rare earth metals and even deploy troops to protect them if a deal to end the war with Russia is achieved.

February 16 

European Leaders Push for Army 

An emergency summit held by European leaders regarding the war in Ukraine and growing concerns over the Trump administration’s willingness to negotiate a peace deal with Russia separate from European and Ukrainian consultation has sparked calls for developing a European army. 

Trump Says Meeting with Putin Coming Soon 

Donald Trump believes he is very close to meeting with Vladimir Putin, adding that the Russian president is willing to stop the fighting in Ukraine.

February 17 

European Leaders Want a Say in Peace Talks 

Leaders of Europe have announced that they must have a say in talks to end the fighting in Ukraine despite the expressed statements of Washington and Moscow. Europe is divided over the level of necessary American involvement on the continent and the future of European military involvement. Poland is opposed to military intervention while the United Kingdom is in a supportive position and France is undecided.

USA and Russia Starting Talks 

Representatives of the USA and Russia are meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss bringing the war in Ukraine to an end. The meeting in Riyadh, Saud Arabia comes as the United States has alienated its Ukrainian and European allies over the potential actions it will take directly with Russia.

February 18 

USA and Russia Talk in Saudi Arabia 

Delegations from the United States and Russia met in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh with representatives from each nation hailing the positive steps which include the plans for a peace process to end the fighting in Ukraine. 

European Leaders Consulted After US-Russia Meeting 

The French foreign ministry released a statement that the USA diplomat, Marco Rubio, spoke with his French, German, British, and Italian counterparts after the bilateral negotiations with Russia.

Macron to Hold Second Meeting with European Leaders 

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a meeting between European leaders and Ukraine after the United States bilateral talks with Russia have left both Europe and Ukraine out of negotiations.

EU Lawmakers Warn of Continued USA Reliance 

A statement from the European People’s Party, Socialists and Democrats, Renew and Greens urges Europe to “double down” on bolstering its defences and supporting Ukraine amid the US-Russia talks in Riyadh. “Europe can no longer fully rely on the United States to defend our shared values and interests, including continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the European lawmakers said.

February 20 

Russia Releases Statement About the Status of the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhia

Russian General Sergei Rudskoi said that Russia now controls 75% of Ukraine’s Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions and more than 99% of the Luhansk region. He said the four regions are now legally part of Russia and will never be returned to Ukraine.

Britain and France Preparing a European Security Force 

Britain and France are spearheading attempts to create a European “reassurance force” of fewer than 30,000 troops to protect Ukraine after any ceasefire deal with Russia. The plan would likely focus on air and maritime defence, with “minimal” forces on the ground and none near the eastern frontline.

Trump Criticises Zelensky and Blaims Him for War 

Trump hit back at Zelensky over his complaints about being excluded from peace talks, as he blamed the Ukrainian leader for Russia’s invasion in 2022. “You’ve been there for three years,” Trump said. “You should have never started it. You could have made a deal.”

Zelensky Criticises American Proposed Rare Earth Deal 

Zelensky has also slammed the rare earth elements deal proposed by Trump, saying he is open to the US investing in Ukraine’s natural resources, but Kyiv should also receive security guarantees. He said Trump’s demand for $500 billion of rare earths for previous US aid is “not a serious conversation” claiming Washington has supplied Ukraine with only $67 billion in weapons and $31.5 billion in other financial support.

France Believes the USA Wants a Lasting Peace 

After speaking with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told European foreign ministers he believes Washington wants a lasting peace deal for Ukraine. Barrot said the White House’s “objective was not a fragile ceasefire or a transitional pause that would allow Russia to rebuild their forces, but a lasting peace.”

Kazakhstan Contacts Ukraine After Russian Drone Strike 

Kazakhstan’s first Deputy Foreign Minister Akan Rakhmetullin said Astana has contacted Ukraine after a drone attack in Russia this week which hit a Kazakh oil pipeline. 

The European Union Prepares Sanction Package Against Russian Aluminum 

The European Union has agreed on a new package of sanctions which would place a ban on importing Russian aluminium, the bloc’s diplomats said. The decision is yet to be formally approved by EU foreign ministers. 

February 21 

Dmitry Peskov Speaks on Scenarios in Ukraine 

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said any plans by the United Kingdom to send troops to Ukraine as part of a potential peacekeeping mission would be unacceptable. Such a move would involve forces from a NATO member state, which would have necessary ramifications for Russia’s security.

Washington Criticises Ukrainian Actions 

White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz also criticised Zelensky’s comments, saying Ukraine needs to “tone it down and take a hard look and sign that deal”, referring to the rare earth minerals that the US now wants for helping Kyiv’s war effort. 

Ukraine Working With the International Monetary Fund 

Ukraine began talks with the International Monetary Fund’s team working on the country’s latest loan programme review, which could unlock about $917 million in new funds.

Ukraine Believes Ceasefire Possible 

Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s military intelligence agency chief, said he believes a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv could happen this year. “How long it will be, how effective it will be – is another question,” Budanov added.

NATO Expresses Necessity for American Presence for Security Guarantees 

NATO chief Mark Rutte said any European security guarantees for Ukraine under a future peace deal would need to be backed by the US, “not with boots on the ground,” but backup to ensure that the deterrence is there, he said.

February 22 

Trump Walks Back Comments Against Ukraine 

US President Donald Trump has reversed course and said Russia did in fact invade Ukraine, and that Kyiv would soon sign a minerals agreement with Washington as part of efforts to end the war.

February 23 

USA Close to Ukraine Mineral Deal 

Trump said the US is close to a deal with Ukraine on sharing revenue from Ukrainian minerals as part of efforts to end the Ukraine war. He said the US wants to recover the billions of dollars in military aid it has given to Ukraine.

The US Wants Draft Resolution to Be Voted On 

The US wants the United Nations Security Council to vote on a draft resolution of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine before the 193-member General Assembly votes on the same text. The US proposal pits it against Kyiv and the European Union, which have been working on a separate draft.

February 24 

Russia’s Full-Scale Invasion of Ukraine Hits Three-Year Mark 

President Vladimir Putin said Russian soldiers were defending “national interests” at the risk of their lives in Ukraine and pledged to continue with an “unchanged” strategy for strengthening the armed forces. Putin also said in a military decorations award ceremony that God and fate entrusted him and the Russian army with “the mission” to defend the country. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would never sell captured Ukrainian territories, claiming that “the people decided to join Russia a long time ago.”

Zelensky WIlling to Resign for Ukrainian NATO Ascension 

Zelensky said he was willing to step down as president if it meant Ukraine’s entry to NATO was guaranteed. “If there is peace for Ukraine, if you really need me to leave my post, I am ready,” he said.

Mineral Deal Reportedly Close 

Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff said the US expects Washington and Kyiv to sign an agreement for rare earths this week. However, Zelensky refuses to accept that Kyiv owes Washington $500 billion for aid. Saying that the US gave $100 billion in aid to Ukraine during the past three years and that a minerals deal could not work if the US demands that aid be repaid. Noting that about $15 billion of previously pledged US aid to Ukraine has yet to be delivered, Zelensky said deploying American soldiers to Ukraine would be logical if the bilateral minerals deal included security guarantees.

February 25 

EU Officially Adopts 16th Package of Sanctions Against Russia

The European Union officially approved its 16th package of sanctions imposed against Russia in response to its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The new measures, announced on the third anniversary of the war target Russia’s shadow fleet of oil tankers, banks, aluminium imports, cryptocurrencies, and other sectors.

Canada Pledges $5 Billion in Aid to Ukraine 

Canada will send $5 billion in aid to Ukraine using funds from seized Russian assets. Trudeau also pledged 25 additional light armoured vehicles for Ukraine and a grant to help with energy security as Russia attacks the country’s power grid. 

United Nations Passes Draft Resolution 

A US effort to sink a draft U.N. resolution condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine failed after European countries marshalled support for Kyiv. The United Nations General Assembly passed the resolution with 93 countries voting in favour. The US and Russia both voted against the European resolution but voted in favour of a US draft lenient towards Russia.

The United Kingdom Announces 67 New Sanctions Against Russia 

The United Kingdom posted a notice announcing 67 new sanctions against Russia. The targets include global companies supplying to the Russian military and extending the regime on shipping by 40 vessels.

February 26 

Donald Trump Confirms Mineral Deal

United States President Donald Trump confirmed earlier media reports that he had reached a deal with Ukraine to access the European country’s rare earth minerals and other natural resources. 

Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Disapproves European Peacekeeper Deployment 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reiterated Moscow’s disapproval of European peacekeepers being stationed in Ukraine, despite Trump claiming Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to it.

Russia Willing to Strike a Deal Over Rare Earth Metals With the USA

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia has a lot of rare metal deposits and that they were willing to strike a deal with the US. This comes after Trump pledged that “major economic development transactions with Russia” would take place in the future.

February 27 

UN Diplomats Walk Out During Russian Speech 

Dozens of diplomats at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva walked out of a session to mark the third anniversary of Moscow’s invasion of Kyiv during a speech by Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin.

Ukraine and US Close to Final Version of Rare Earth Deal

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed that both Ukraine and the US have prepared a final version of an agreement on Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. Shmyhal said the US supported Ukraine’s efforts to obtain security guarantees.

The US Abstains From Condemning Russia 

The US abstained from co-sponsoring a joint statement at the World Trade Organization that condemned Russia’s war on Ukraine, the Reuters news agency reported, quoting two unnamed sources. This is the first time the US did not support the annual statement since the war began.

Zelensky Speaks on Final Mineral Deal 

Zelensky confirmed that the final minerals deal does not include a “$500billion, $350billion, or $100billion” debt, branding such terms as unfair for Ukraine. He asserted that Kyiv would not accept even “10 cents of debt repayment.”

Trump Tells Europe to Step Up 

During his first cabinet meeting, Trump said it was not up to the US to provide Ukraine with security guarantees and Europe should step up. Additionally, Trump brushed aside any motions of Ukraine to join NATO.

February 28 

Trump Says Ukraine is Gambling With World War 3 

In a heated meeting between Donald Trump, JD Vance, and Volodymyr Zelensky at the Oval Office in Washington D.C. Ukraine rejected and refused to sign the proposed rare earth metals deal, to which the US administration accused the Ukrainian president of overplaying his hand and gambling to start World War 3.

Russia Will Not Return Any of the Annexed Territories

The Kremlin has ruled out surrendering control of any of the annexed territories of Ukraine. “The territories that have become subjects of the Russian Federation, which are inscribed in our country’s constitution, are an inseparable part of our country,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

European Leaders Show Support to Zelensky 

France, Germany, and Poland have all made prompt declarations of support for Ukraine after the heated meeting between Zelensky and the US presidential administration.

January 1 

Slovakia Will Not Risk Gas Shortage 

The Slovakian Ministry of the Economy released a statement that it will not risk potential gas shortages as the gas transit deal between Russia and Ukraine expires. Slovakia, however, will have to pay an additional $184 million in fees for alternate routes to import gas from Western sources.

Kyiv Believes the USA Will Stand with Ukraine

President Zelesnky released an address to his nation where he stated that nobody would provide peace to his country as a gift as the Russian invasion approaches the 3-year mark. Additionally, the Ukrainian president added that he believes the USA will continue to stand with Ukraine as it fights to defend itself from Russian aggression.

January 2 

Russian Gas Flows Through Ukraine End 

Ukrainian President Zelensky commented on the expired gas transit deals between Russia and Ukraine as “one of Moscow’s biggest defeats” and the nation’s Energy Minister, Herman Halushchenko, called it a “historical event” taken “in the interest of national security.” Polish Foreign Minister, Radoslaw Sikorski said the expiration marked “a new victory after NATO enlargement to Finland and Sweden.” 

Russia and China to Develop AI 

Russian President Putin has ordered his country and the nation’s largest bank, Sberbank, to develop cooperation with China in the field of artificial intelligence. This announcement comes three weeks after Russia’s expressed commitment to work with member nations of BRICS to develop AI.

Slovakia Threatening Ukraine with Electricity and Refugee Support 

Slovakia’s pro-Russian Prime Minister, Robert Fico has threatened to stop the supply of electricity from his nation to Ukraine and reduce aid to Ukrainian refugees as Russian gas transfers to Slovakia expired.

January 3 

Ukraine Says Trump Could Be Decisive 

President Zelensky has said that Donald Trump could be decisive in influencing the outcome of the war with Russia. In an interview, Zelensky said, “He can be decisive in this war. He is capable of stopping Putin or, to put it more fairly, help us stop Putin.”

Gas Supply in Europe 

For the most part, gas supplies in Europe have remained stable following the expiration of the Ukrainian-Russian transit deal. The breakaway region of Transnistria in Moldova has been heavily impacted as the region’s first deputy prime minister, Sergei Obolonik, said that all industrial processes except food production have been closed in the region.

Baltic Energy Integration Unaffected 

The Lithuanian government said that the recent failure of the Estlink 2 undersea cable, which has been blamed on a Russian vessel, does not affect the planned synchronisation of the Baltic states’ electricity grid with Western Europe.

January 4 

Russian Gains and Losses in Donetsk 

Russian military advancements in Donetsk for the year 2024, which totals approximately 4,168 square kilometres, less than 1% of Ukrainian territory, have come at the cu_event_cost of 430,000 soldiers.

Finland Refuses to Release Suspected Oil Tanker 

A Finnish court has refused to release an oil tanker suspected of damaging an undersea power line and four telecommunications cables in the Baltic Sea. The Eagle S Tanker was carrying Russian oil when the cable between Finland and Estonia was damaged. 

Russian Oil Tankers Leaking Oil Into the Black Sea 

Two ageing Russian oil tankers affected by a severe storm last month have been leaking substantial amounts of oil into the Black Sea. Oil has now been detected off the coast of Sevastopol, Crimea, despite intense Russian efforts to contain the disaster. 

Nothing of Interest Between Russia and Trump 

Vasily Nebenzya, the Russian envoy to the United Nations told state news channel Rossiya-1 that there was “nothing of interest” in proposals of incoming US President Donald Trump to end the war between Ukraine and Russia. 

January 5 

Kyiv Mounts New Offensive in Kursk Oblast 

Ukraine announced that it has launched a new offensive in the Kursk region of Russia which it has occupied parts of since Kyiv’s initial incursion in August. Russia has been intensifying efforts to retake the Ukrainian-occupied regions with high losses of troops and equipment.

More than 50,000 Foreign Parts Found in Russian Missiles and Drones 

Ukraine has reported that the Russian drones and missiles that struck Ukraine in the first week of 2025 contain over 50,000 foreign parts. Zelensky commented: “The sanctions pressure on supply chains for foreign components remains insufficient.” The president urged for stronger support for Ukraine’s air defence and long-range capabilities and stronger sanctions against Russia from allies.

January 6 

New American Ukraine Envoy Postpones Kyiv Trip

The retired Lieutenant-General Keith Kellogg, who will serve as the new envoy to Ukraine for the Trump administration has postponed a trip to Kyiv and other European capitals to discuss the war until after Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20.

Moldova Summons Russian Diplomat 

As Russian gas transports stopped to Moldova, the pro-Russian breakaway region of Transnistria is on the brink of losing all electricity as they refuse to accept Western gas and energy. Moldova has summoned a Russian diplomat over the humanitarian situation which they believe Moscow is responsible for.

Macron Tells Ukraine to Be “Realistic” 

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for Ukraine to have “realistic” expectations regarding territory as Russia’s war against the nation approaches the third year which he “sees no quick and easy solution” to ending.

January 8 

Anchor from Baltic Sea Dragging Recovered 

The Swedish navy reported that it assisted Finland in recovering an anchor suspected of being dragged by the Eagle S vessel in the Baltic Sea which severed telecommunication and energy cables between Finland and Estonia.

EU Accuses Russia of Waging Hybrid Warfare

Kaja Kallas, the foreign policy chief of the European Union has accused Russia of waging a “hybrid war” against Moldova, utilizing the supply of natural gas as a “weapon” against the nation after the contract agreeing to the transfer of Russian gas through Ukraine expired on December 31. The pro-Russian separatist region of Transnistria has been without gas since January 1.

January 9 

The USA Ready to Provide Ukraine With Weapons 

Washington is prepared to provide Kyiv with approximately $500 million worth of weapons from existing stockpiles in a move being made by the Biden administration ahead of Trump’s inauguration.

Ukraine and Moldova Talk Over Coal Deal 

The Presidents of Ukraine and Moldova have met to discuss the potential utilisation of Ukrainian coal to mitigate the energy crisis in Moldova and the breakaway region of Transnistria following the termination of Russian gas through Ukraine on January 1.

Finnish Foreign Minister Advocates for Ukraine NATO Membership 

Elina Valtonen, the Foreign Minister of Finland has stated that Ukrainian membership in NATO is the only “credible” security guarantee for the country against any future Russian aggression. This mirrors American Secretary of State, Antony Blinken’s comments about any potential end to the war needing “necessary deterrence.” 

January 10

International Coalition to Send Drones to Ukraine 

An international coalition headed by Latvia and the United Kingdom to procure unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for Ukraine will be delivering 30,000 drones to Ukraine.

German Chancellor Opposes NATO 5% of GDP on Defense Spending 

Olaf Schulz, the German Chancellor spoke out and rejected Donald Trump’s calls for NATO members to increase their defence spending to 5% of the nation’s GDP. Schulz cited current NATO guidelines which call for 2% of GDP to be allocated towards defence.

EU Warns Against Travel Over Russian Airspace 

The EU Aviation Safety Agency (EUASA) warned against non-European carriers from flying in western Russian airspace due to the potential risk of being unintentionally targeted by air defence systems.

January 11

United States and United Kingdom Impose More Sanctions 

The governments of the United States of America and the United Kingdom have imposed more sanctions against the Russian energy sector to restrict Moscow’s ability to wage war in Ukraine. Sanctions were also applied to two Russian maritime insurance providers: Ingosstrakh and Alfastrakhonavie. 

German Government at Odds 

The German Chancellor Olaf Schulz has suspended a transfer of military aid worth $3.1 billion to Ukraine which was proposed and supported by Foreign Minister Baerbock and Defence Minister Pistorious. Schulz thinks the aid is unnecessary while Baerbock and Pistorious view it as essential.

Ukraine Receives $3.1 Billion from the European Commission 

Ukraine received $3.1 billion from the European Commission as part of a major aid package pledged by the Group of Seven (G7) leading economies. The G7 and the European Union aim to provide Ukraine with a loan of $50 billion, secured by interest income on Russian state assets frozen in the West.

January 13

Sweden Deploying Warships and Surveillance Aircraft to the Baltic Sea 

Sweden has announced that it will deploy three warships and an ASC 890 surveillance aircraft to the Baltic Sea as a part of a NATO initiative. Sweden’s response comes from allegations that vessels of Russia’s shadow fleet have been responsible for damaging undersea power and telecommunications cables.

Serbia and Switzerland Offer to Host Talks Between Putin and Trump 

Serbian President, Aleksandr Vucic, and the Foreign Ministry of Switzerland have both offered to host a meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.

January 14 

Zelensky and Macron Discuss the Idea of Western Contingents 

Zelensky and Macron reportedly spoke in France about possibly deploying Western contingents in Ukraine. Zelensky’s comments make it unclear whether they were discussing combat troops or peacekeepers.

NATO Chief Says Ukraine is Not in a Strong Position 

Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO said that Ukraine is not currently in a strong enough position for peace talks with Russia. Rutte told the European Commission on Foreign Affairs “At this moment, clearly Ukraine is not there, because they cannot at this moment negotiate from a position of strength.”

Germany Will Not Sacrifice Domestic Budget for Ukraine 

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that he will oppose any increases in arms deliveries to Ukraine if it would require cuts elsewhere in Germany’s budget. 

January 16 

Poland Suspects Russia Planning Acts of Terrorism 

The Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has revealed at a news conference he has information leading him to believe that Russia is planning acts of terrorism against Poland and other countries.

Trump Advisers Speak on Peace Situation 

Advisers to the incoming American President Donald Trump have admitted that resolving the war in Ukraine will take months if not longer. Additionally, the advisers have indicated support for removing potential Ukrainian NATO membership and for freezing the conflict with European troops patrolling a demilitarized zone.

German Chancellor Says Money isn’t There 

Olaf Scholz, the Chancellor of Germany has declared Germany can only fund an additional $31 billion in arms deliveries to Ukraine through separate borrowing because if not, the money is reportedly “not there.”

NATO Calls for Wartime Mindset 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for member nations of the organisation to shift towards a “wartime mindset” adding “To prevent war we need to prepare for it.”

January 17 

Russian Military Reforms are a Threat 

Finland’s chief of military intelligence, Pekka Turunen, claimed that planned Russian military reforms will increase Mscow’s troop capacity by 30% which he described as a threat to NATO that should be met with vigilance.

United Kingdom and Ukraine Sign Historic Agreement 

The United Kingdom and Ukraine governments signed a 100-year agreement offering security guarantees to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire. This deal which sees Ukraine as a future NATO ally covers multiple areas including defense, trade, and energy. 

January 18 

Russia and Iran Increase Ties Further 

Russia and Iran have agreed to develop further military and intelligence ties in a new comprehensive strategic partnership treaty. Within the agreement, Iran stopped short of pledging full military allegiance but agreed to cooperate to work together against common military threats. 

Sanctions Against Russian Ghost Fleet 

America has placed sanctions against the construction of six oil tankers at the Zvezda shipyard, the first time sanctions have been applied against Russia’s ghost fleet which Moscow has been using to sell oil and natural gas while avoiding sanctions. 

January 19 

550 Swedish Soldiers Arrive in Latvia 

Approximately 550 Swedish soldiers have arrived in Latvia as a part of a Canadian-led multinational brigade along NATO’s Eastern flank. 

German Defense Minister Open to Sending German Troops to Ukraine 

Boris Pistorius, the German Minister of Defense said in an interview that he is open to sending German soldiers to Ukraine to secure a demilitarised zone in the event of a Ukrainian-Russian ceasefire. 

January 20 

Zelensky and Putin Congratulate Trump 

Both the presidents of Russia and Ukraine congratulated the inauguration of the new President of the United States of America, Donald Trump. Moscow has said they are interested in talking with Ukraine under the administration of the Trump regime and Kyiv has said that Trump’s inauguration is an opportunity for peace.

January 21 

Captured North Korean Soldier Speaks 

A North Korean soldier who was taken prisoner in Kursk told interrogators that North Korean forces are taking major casualties in the fighting. Moscow has not admitted to utilising North Korean soldiers but during the interrogation, the POW gave a detailed account of his arrival in Kursk, training, and assigned duties.

Russian Oil Shipments in the Baltic Sea Dropping 

The Finnish Border Guard has released a report which finds that Russian oil shipments via the Baltic Sea have declined by 10% in the last four months due to European Union sanctions against Russian export of oil and gas.

January 22 

Trump Says He Has Plans to Meet With Putin

The new American president, Donald Trump has said that he is willing to meet with Vladimir Putin to negotiate a ceasefire, saying that the Russian president is “destroying Russia” and expressing concern over the nation’s economy. Trump also warned of further sanctions against Moscow and sending additional weapons to Ukraine if a ceasefire would not be negotiated but added that the EU should do more to support Kyiv. 

China and Russia Talk About Peace 

Chinese President Xi Jinping held a video call with Vladimir Putin where the two discussed issues surrounding the Middle East, the Korean peninsula, Syria, and Taiwan. The pair discussed the outlook of a potential peace deal to end the war in Ukraine.

Zelensky Addresses World Economic Forum 

The Ukrainian president spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, addressing European leaders that the continent must establish itself as a strong global leader, willing to guarantee peace and security. Zelesnky also added in his address that a minimum of 200,000 European peacekeepers would be needed in Ukraine as a part of a possible settlement to end the war with Russia.

January 23

Approval of German Military Support to Ukraine 

German news agencies have reported that $8.48 billion of the total $13.8 billion worth of arms and military equipment approved for export to Ukraine has been approved by Berlin.

Trump Gives Ultimatum to Russia 

President Trump issued an ultimatum to Putin to end the war immediately or face tariffs and sanctions on “anything sold by Russia to the United States.” Trump extended this threat to allies of Russia and supporters of Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

Russia Responds to Trumps Threat 

Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia’s deputy UN Ambassador responded to Trump’s threats by saying Moscow will need to see what Trump means as a “deal” and added that although Trump is not responsible for American Russophobia, he possesses the power to put an end to it.

Rebuilding Ukraine 

Andrii Sybhia, the foreign minister of Ukraine said that his nation has sustained an estimated $626 billion in damage during the war. Rebuilding Ukraine will prove to be “the project of the century” and an opportunity for the economy of the European Union.

Kaja Kallas Warns the European Union of Russian Threat 

Kaja Kallas, the foreign commissioner designate of the EU warned that Russia “could test the EU’s readiness to defend itself in three to five years” urging Europeans “to wake up.”

Russia Gathering Information on United Kingdom Underwater Infrastructure 

John Healy, the Secretary of Defense for the United Kingdom said that the Royal Navy monitored a Russian spy ship gathering intelligence and mapping critical underwater infrastructure around the United Kingdom.

January 24 

Russia Can Continue War 

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo told a panel in Davos, Switzerland that Russia can afford to sustain its war against Ukraine for at least another year. This necessitates the need for sanctions to target Russian oil, gas, energy, and fertilisers. 

Mark Rutte Speaks on Ukraine NATO Ascension 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that Ukraine will one day join NATO when there is sustainable peace. Affirming that it is essential that Russia does not win its war against Ukraine as defeat would undermine NATO’s position as the world’s biggest military alliance.

Rutte Calls on USA to OCntinue Support to Ukraine 

Mark Rutte also called for America to continue sending weapons to Ukraine, assuring Washington that the bill would be paid for by Europe. Rutte’s comments follow Trump’s remarks that the EU needs to do more to support Kyiv.

Germany Sends Patriot Air Defence Systems to Ukraine 

Germany deployed two Patriot air defence systems to a major logistical hub in Poland that supplies Ukraine with military and humanitarian aid.

January 27 

Ukraine Would Provide Coal to Moldova 

President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensnky told Moldovan President Maia Sandu that Ukraine would provide coal to Transnistria at low prices if the region would supply Ukraine with electricity. Zelensky also offered to send a team of specialists to expand the power plants output of electricity.

Poland Warns of Reborn Russian Imperialism 

The Polish President Andrzej Duda issued a statement to NATO member states to up their defense spending by at least 3% of their GDP to build a security zone against the “rebirth of Russian imperialism.”

January 28 

General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Releases Russian Casualty Estimates 

The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces has released an estimate relating to the amount of casualties Russia has suffered since the start of the invasion in February of 2022. Ukraine places their estimate at 831,620 personnel losses.

The United States Puts Freeze on Foreign Aid 

Humanitarian projects in Ukraine are panicking as the United States of America has put a halt on foreign aid. The US Agency for International Development mission in Ukraine has announced that Washington has ordered most projects to stop.

EU to Continue Talks with Ukraine Over Gas Transit

The EU plans to continue talks with Ukraine on supplying gas to Europe. Hungary and Slovakia will also be included in these talks.

No Contact Between Washington and the Kremlin 

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Washington has made no attempts to contact Moscow to arrange a meeting between President Putin and President Trump. Peskov said that he believes America is still interested in meeting with Russia.

The EU Offers Aid to Transnistria 

$32 million in emergency aid has been offered to buy gas for Transnistria from the EU. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc could not accept that people in their continent did not have access to basic services and added: “hard times reveal true friends.” 

January 30

European Commission Decides Against Sanctioning Russian Liquified Natural Gas 

The European Commission has decided against banning Russian liquified natural gas (LNG) in the newest set of sanctions after member states raised concerns about finding alternatives first.

Moldovagaz Reaches Agreement with Transnistria 

Moldovan gas supplier Moldovagaz has reached an agreement with a supplier in Transnistria to resume gas deliveries to the separatist region. According to Moldovagaz an initial transfer of 3 million cubic meters of gas has been agreed to on credit.

January 31 

Sweden Announces a $1.2 Billion Aid Package to Ukraine 

Pal Jonson, Sweden’s Defence Minister announced that his nation is sending an aid package for Ukraine worth $1.2 billion. Additionally, Sweden is in negotiations with European states to send needed artillery and drone equipment to Ukraine.

December 1 

German Diplomacy 

The German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, has pledged an additional $680 million of military support towards Ukraine’s defence, reaffirming Berlin’s continued support of Kyiv. Additionally, the German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, has accused China of providing weapons to Russia which has undermined peace in Europe and the Asia Pacific regions. 

Russia to Increase Military Spending 

In the approved Russian federal budget for 2025-2027, there is a strong military focus with spending towards the military receiving a 25% increase. The new state budget is the most securitized since the collapse of the Soviet Union, indicating the priority of Moscow to continue the war in Ukraine. 

December 2 

America Not Considering Arming Ukraine with Nuclear Weapons 

Following unverified reports from unidentified Washington officials regarding the United States considering supplying Ukraine with nuclear arms, Jake Sullivan, the White House National Security Advisor, said that the outgoing President Biden is not considering this.

Antonio cu_event_costa Visits Kyiv 

The newly appointed European Council President, Antonio cu_event_costa, visited Kyiv immediately after receiving the new position. Zelensky praised this action and in a meeting between cu_event_costa, Zelensky, and Kaja Kallas, who is the new head of diplomacy for the EU, the Ukrainian president expressed the necessity for weapons from European allies and further security guarantees from NATO. 

December 3 

Norway to Send Supplies to Polish Logistics Hub 

The Norwegian Ministry of Defense said that his nation will deploy F-35 fighter jets and NASAMS air defense systems to a logistics hub in Rzeszow, Poland. The logistics hub in Rzeszow is critical in coordinating aid to Ukraine from NATO member states and Norway is also planning to deploy 100 soldiers to the logistics hub.

NATO Unlikely to Extend Membership to Ukraine 

Reuters news agency has cited senior NATO officials in saying that it is unlikely that the organization will heed Ukraine’s request for membership in an upcoming meeting scheduled this week. Andrii Sybiha, the Ukrainian foreign minister has addressed NATO officials citing that extending NATO membership to his nation would remove one of Russia’s main points for starting the war.

German Surprise Military Aid Package Revealed 

Germany has released what will be included in the recently announced aid package it will be sending to Ukraine following Olaf Scholz’s surprise visit to Kyiv earlier this week. Germany will be sending Leopard tanks, armed drones, and IRIS-T air defense systems. 

International Criminal Court Being Threatened 

The President Judge of the International Criminal Court, Tomoko Akane, said that the various threats facing the institution, such as possible American sanctions, and Russian warrants against officials “jeopardizes its very existence.” Russia had issued an arrest warrant for the ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan two months after a warrant was issued for Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

December 4 

NATO to Increase Information Sharing and Coordination

NATO chief Mark Rutte has said that the organization plans to increase information sharing between member nations and improve the protection of critical infrastructure in the face of Russian sabotage. Rutte also added in the same address that NATO needs to increase its military aid to Ukraine to improve Kyiv’s position should it enter into negotiations with Russia. 

NATO Waiting on Ukraine Invitation 

NATO has agreed “in principle” to extend an invitation to Ukraine, however, the transatlantic organization is waiting for Donald Trump to take office in January 2025 before issuing the formal invitation. Ukraine has established, however, that the nation will not accept anything less than full NATO membership to ensure the nation’s security. 

December 5 

Russian Ship in the Baltic Sea Fires at a German Helicopter 

A Russian ship in the Baltic Sea fired signal ammunition at a German helicopter conducting reconnaissance in the region reported the German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. The incident occurs in the background of rising regional tensions as last month a Russian ship damaged communication cables in the Baltic Sea. 

Top American Military Officer Spoke With Russian General Chief of Staff 

The United States Air Force officer C.Q. Brown spoke by telecu_people_phone to the Russian Chief of General Staff, Valrey Gerasimov. This marks the first time that Brown and Gerasimov have spoken and the US military said the two counterparts discussed several global and regional security issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine. 

NATO Agree to Proactive Measures 

Following the most recent NATO summit, Secretary General Mark Rutte said that the alliance has agreed upon a set of proactive measures to counter the campaign of Russian hybrid warfare attacks against member nations of the bloc. The foreign minister of Hungary however said that the meeting in Brussels failed to produce a consensus regarding the admittance of Ukraine into the defense alliance. 

German and French Support Uncertain 

The German conservative political opposition which has been developing support has grown more vocal in its stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Friedrich Merz, the conservative candidate for the German chancellor, criticized the foreign minister’s comments suggesting Germany could send troops to Ukraine to bring peace. Additionally, the fall of the French government and the failure to pass a budget make it hard for Paris to continue support for Ukraine which President Macron had repeatedly promised would endure for as long as necessary. 

December 6 

Russia Accuses the West of Reviving the Cold War 

The Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov indirectly clashed with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken following an annual security meeting in Malta. Lavrov accused the USA and the West of reviving the Cold War and provoking Russia with the threat of a direct conflict. Lavrov also added in an interview with Tucker Carlson, that Russia would use everything in its disposal to avoid defeat in the war against Ukraine.

Ukraine Looking to Strengthen its Position in the War for Potential Peace Negotiations 

The White House’s National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, and the top aide of the Ukrainian President, Andriy Yermak, discussed improving Kyiv’s position in its war against Russia. A spokesperson from the White House said that Sullivan and Yermak both intend to strengthen the Ukrainian position in the war ahead of any peace negotiations occurring. 

December 7 

EU Defense Intensifies 

The Europen Union’s first-ever defence commissioner, Andrius Kubilius has called for a significant approach to continental security. Kubilius is calling for heavy spending and serious policy changes to strengthen the EU’s defense, warning that Russia could be prepared for military aggression against member nations by 2030. 

More F-16 Fighter Jets Arrive in Ukraine  

A second batch of F-16 fighter jets have arrived in Ukraine from Denmark which Ukrainian President Zelensky has hailed as “an example of leadership in defending lives that sets Denmark apart.”

December 8 

Zelensky, Trump, and Macron Meet in Paris 

Uniting in Paris for the ceremonial reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral, world leaders met and discussed the future of Ukraine. Marking the first meeting between the American presidential-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky, which French President Macron hosted, Zelensky said that the meeting was successful. Trump said that the Ukrainian President was eager for a deal to end the war with Russia and added that an immediate ceasefire should be achieved followed by negotiations. 

December 9 

Trump Calls for Ceasefire in Ukraine 

Donald Trump has called for both an immediate ceasefire and negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to start. The presidential-elect has also asked Kyiv and Moscow to list their conditions for the potential pause. Additionally, Trump has warned that he will reduce aid to Ukraine from the United States of America. Russia is pushing for any potential negotiations to reflect agreements made in 2022 at Istanbul and to reflect battlefield realities. Ukraine has added Kyiv needs an enduring peace with guarantees, saying that war with Russia cannot be ended with signatures and papers.

German Political Opposition Takes Stance on Ukraine 

Friedrich Merz, Germany’s conservative opposition who is poised to assume the position of Chancellor is in Ukraine for talks with President Zelensky. Merz has taken a more hawkish tone on Russia than Chancellor Olaf Scholz, saying Germany should deliver Ukraine the Taurus long-range cruise missiles it has long wanted if the Kremlin does not stop bombarding the civilian infrastructure.

December 10 

Ukraine Will Soon Get $4.4 Billion in Funds 

The European Union member states have announced that Ukraine will receive $4.4 billion in payments after a recent EU Council announcement. The payment is intended to support Ukraine’s economy as it enters year three of its defense against Russian aggression. 

Ukraine Discussing Planning for the Next Rammstein Group Meeting 

The Ukrainian Defense Minister, Rustem Umerov, has begun discussing plans for the next Rammstein Group meeting- an alliance between NATO, the EU, and other states that support Ukraine in its defense against Russian invasion. The United States Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin has reaffirmed the United States readiness to support Ukraine with everything it needs to fight against Russian aggression. 

The European Union Needs to Increase Defense Spending 

Andrius Kubilius, the European Commissioner for Defense has addressed the European Union claiming that the bloc needs to find ways to increase defense spending by hundreds of billions of euros in the next year. Motivating the necessity for increased military spending is Russian aggression and Kubilius’ desire to be prepared for any further Russian attacks against the continent.

December 11 

International Atomic Energy Agency Reports on Drone Attack 

Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that a kamikaze drone attacked an IAEA vehicle that was monitoring the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine. Grossi reported that no staff were injured but an attack against individuals working to prevent a nuclear accident during a military conflict is unacceptable.

Belarus Beginning to Become More Involved in Russian-Ukraine War 

Alexander Lukashenko, the President of Belarus, has said that his country is hosting dozens of Russian nuclear weapons and will begin preparing to develop facilities to host the new class of Russian hypersonic ballistic missiles. This is a development of Belarus’ increased involvement in Russian nuclear drills, which intends to intimidate the West and reduce their support for Ukraine.

December 12 

Austria Ends Energy Contract With Gazprom 

Austrian oil and gas firm, OMV, has finally ended its contract with the state-owned Russian energy giant Gazprom. Despite the war seeing a reduction in imports of Russian gas, some European nations still remain dependent on Russian oil and gas.

December 13 

Hungary and Russia Push for Christmas Ceasefire 

Hungarian President Viktor Orban and Russian President Vladimir Putin have pushed to achieve a ceasefire for Christmas accompanied by a substantial prisoner-of-war exchange. Kyiv has rejected the idea and has denied meeting with Orban for discussions. 

Donald Trump Disagrees With Escalation of War 

American Presidential Elect, Donald Trump, has expressed his dissatisfaction with what he has referred to as the American escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian war. Trump has expressed his dissatisfaction with the US allowing Ukraine to fire American-supplied long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory. 

NATO Warns Russia Wants to Wipe Ukraine Off the Map 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned the transatlantic defense pact that Russian President Vladimir Putin intends to wipe Ukraine off the map. Rutte added that Russia could move on to other parts of Europe next, urging European governments to ramp up their defense spending. 

December 14 

Poland and France Discuss the Possibility of Foreign Troops Deployed to Ukraine 

The Polish Prime Minister, Donald Tusk mentioned in discussions with the French President Emmanual Macron the possibility of deploying foreign troops in Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire. Tusk added that Poland was not planning or preparing for such actions. 

Ukraine Preparing to Supply Syria With Food 

Following the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime in Syria, Vitaliy Koval, Ukraine’s Minister of Agriculture announced that Ukraine is preparing to provide Syria with food. Russia previously supplied the loyal al-Assad regime with grain, however, amidst the uncertainty, Russia is suspending any food shipments to the nation. 

December 15 

North Korean Troops Mobilised in Kursk Region

For the first time, Russia has mobilized and utilized large amounts of North Korean soldiers. Zelensky reported that Russia is using large amounts of North Korean soldiers to fight against Ukrainian forces defending an enclave in Kursk that Kyiv seized control of in August. 

December 16 

Vladimir Putin Speaks About Russian Military Achievements 

Russian President Vladimir Putin claims in an announcement that the Russian military has seized control over 189 Ukrainian settlements in 2024. Putin in this address to defense officials in Moscow called 2024 a “landmark year in the achievement of the goals of the special military operation.” At the same meeting, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov said Russian troops have pushed Ukrainian forces out of almost 4,500 sq km of territory this year and are advancing 30 sq km per day. 

Norway to Help Ukraine Strengthen Its Navy 

Norway said it would provide $242.38 million to strengthen the Ukrainian navy and help it deter Russian naval forces in the Black Sea. “It is essential to protect the Ukrainian population and Ukrainian infrastructure from attacks by Russia’s Black Sea Fleet,” Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere said in a statement. “It is also important to protect exports by sea of grain and other products, which generate crucial revenues for Ukraine.” 

December 17 

NATO Takes Over Coordination of Military Aid Funding to Ukraine From the USA 

In a move to safeguard the coordination of Western military funding to Ukraine, NATO has replaced the United States of America as the chief arbitrator ahead of anti-Ukraine and anti-NATO Presidential-elect Donald Trump. This action further heightens NATO’s involvement in the war. 

Poland to Push for Ukrainian NATO Membership 

Following the visit to Ukraine by the Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Poland has announced that it will do everything in its power to make Ukrainian NATO membership a possibility. Tusk added that Western countries must do everything to ensure that Ukraine emerges from the war with Russia without losses, with respect for its territory and borders, and with security for the future. 

Possibility of NATO Discussions to Deploy Foreign Peacekeepers 

President Zelensky following his meeting with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk floated the potential for possible deployment of foreign peacekeepers in Ukraine, claiming a discussion is possible at an upcoming NATO summit in Brussels.

December 18 

Zelensky Outlines Vision for ‘Lasting Peace’ 

President Zelensky has called upon Western supporters to help Ukraine achieve a “lasting peace- not a pause” which he claims “Putin would exploit to buy time.” Zelensky also said he hopes to make “significant progress” in the coming year in EU talks over Ukrainian membership. 

Ukraine Launched 10 Western Missiles into Russia 

Ukraine launched six US-made long-range ATACM missiles and four British-made Storm Shadow missiles at Russia’s Rostov region on Wednesday, the Russian Defence Ministry said. Russian forces downed all of the ATACMs and three out of four of the Storm Shadows, the ministry said, adding that Moscow would respond to the attacks. 

Suspect Detained in Top Russian General Killing 

Lieutenant General Kirillov, the chief of Russia’s Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Troops, was killed outside his apartment building along with his assistant. Russian law enforcement officials said a national of Uzbekistan had been arrested on suspicion of having committed the attack and added that the 29-year-old said he had been recruited by Ukrainian special forces.

December 19

Putin Says He is Ready to Compromise With Trump Over Ukraine 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that he is prepared to talk with American Presidential elect Donald Trump about ending the war in Ukraine and potentially agreeing upon a compromise. The Kremlin has made no comments upon including Ukrainian authorities in the potential future discussions. 

NATO Aims to Increase Aid to Ukraine Ahead of Any Potential Peace Talks 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met Ukrainian President Zelensky and other European leaders in Brussels to strategise over Russia’s war ahead of Donald Trump’s return to the White House. He said he wanted Ukraine to be “in the best possible position” when peace talks start, specifically alluding to the provision of air defence systems and other weapons.  

North Korea Becoming Capable of Supplying Russia with Arms 

According to the Conflict Armament Research organisation from the United Kingdom, North Korea will be capable of providing Russia with domestically produced ballistic missiles. The organisation has reported they have recovered remnants of four North Korean-produced missiles in Ukraine, dated to 2024. 

December 20 

NATO Ukraine Representative Not Useful to Worry About Russian Nuclear Threats 

Patrick Turner, the Senior NATO representative to Ukraine said that the alliance has assessed Putin’s recent ”sabre rattling” and has concluded that it has not changed Russian nuclear policy. This comes after Putin suggested entering a missile duel with the USA, claiming the new Russian Oreshnik hypersonic missile could defeat any American air defence system. 

German Chancellor to Speak with Putin Again 

German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, in a conference with the Estonian Prime Minister, announced he plans to speak with President Putin again to discuss the Ukraine War in an attempt to find a durable and sustainable peace for Ukraine. 

Ukraine Plans to Ease Currency Controls 

The Ukrainian Central Bank announced that it plans to ease wartime currency controls to facilitate the purchase of nuclear fuels. Ukraine faces a severe energy crisis after Russia intensified bombardments of its power infrastructure, damaging thermal and hydropower generation. Now the country relies on nuclear power stations for more than half of its energy needs.

Ukraine Looking to Train AI Models With War Data 

Oleksandr Dmitriev, founder of OCHI, a nonprofit Ukrainian digital system which centralises and analyses video feeds from drone crews working on the front lines, told Reuters that the footage can be used to train AI models in combat tactics, spotting targets and assessing the effectiveness of weapons systems. 

December 21 

Russian Interest Rate Hits 21% 

The Russian central bank has left its benchmark interest rate at a record 21%. It is holding off on further increases despite high consumer inflation fuelled by massive spending on the war and severe labor shortages.

IMF Approves $1.1billion to Ukraine 

The International Monetary Fund approved an additional $1.1billion in budgetary support to Ukraine. This brings the total disbursed amount to Ukraine from the institution to $9.8billion since the start of assistance in March 2023.

EU Condemns Russian Strike Against Kyiv 

Ursula von der Leyen, the chief of the European Union, condemned Russia’s recent bombardment of Kyiv that targeted embassies and diplomatic institutions. Putin claimed the targeted strike was retaliation for continued Western support of Ukraine to utilise foreign missiles to strike deep into Russia.

December 22 

Zelensky and CIA Director Meet 

Zelensky said he met CIA Director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair. He did not specify when the meeting took place but said it would be their final before Burns leaves his post as Trump takes office in January.

December 23 

Putin Swears to Retaliate for Kazan Drone Strike 

President Putin has pledged to retaliate for a recent Ukrainian drone strike which targeted residential buildings in the city of Kazan. Kazan is located in the region of Tatarstan, 1000 km away from the frontlines.

Russia and Serbia Meet Over Gas 

The Slovakian Prime Minister, Robert Fico met with President Putin in Moscow to discuss the future of Russian gas as the contract to export Russian gas through Ukraine nears expiry. 

December 24 

Zelensky Releases Estimates Over North Korean Casualties in Kursk 

President Zelensky released a post on X that according to preliminary data, the number of North Korean soldiers killed and wounded fighting in Kursk has reached 3,000. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff placed their estimates at 1,100. 

Sweden Rejects Chinese Claims of Cooperation 

Sweden rejected China’s claim that it has cooperated in an open investigation into the severing of two Baltic Sea undersea cables in Swedish waters in November. European officials have said they suspect the sabotage is linked to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a claim the Kremlin described as “laughable”.

Italy to Continue Sending Support to Ukraine 

The Italian legislature passed a law decree that allows it to continue supplying military aid to Ukraine until the end of 2025. 

Romania Manufactures New Coalition Government 

Legislators in Romania voted narrowly in favour of a new pro-European coalition government after the country’s Constitutional Court annulled the presidential race amid claims of Russian interference. 

December 25 

Russia Launches Massive Christmas Day Attack 

Zelensky in response to a massive Russian bombardment utilising cruise missiles and drones against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure called President Putin “inhumane” as thousands are left without power.

Azerbaijan Airlines Jet Crashes 

An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet crashed near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan, killing 38 people, was earlier diverting from an area of Russia that Moscow has recently defended against Ukrainian drone attacks. Authorities in two Russian regions adjacent to Chechnya, Ingushetia and North Ossetia, reported drone strikes on Wednesday morning. 

Biden Aims to Continue American Support to Ukraine 

In response to Russia’s Christmas Day attack, President Biden has urged the US Department of Defense to continue its surge of weapon deliveries to Ukraine before Trump assumes the Presidency in January. 

December 26 

Russia Accuses NATO of Intervention in Moldova 

Russia’s Foreign Ministry has accused NATO of trying to turn Moldova into a logistical hub to supply Ukraine with military aid and bring the region closer to Western influence. 

Russian Political Opposition Leader Placed on Wanted List 

Ilya Yashin, a Russian political opposition member who was released to Germany in August under a prisoner exchange has been placed on a wanted list. Yashin was imprisoned in 2022 and sentenced to 8 and a half years for denouncing the “murder of civilians” in the Ukrainian city of Bucha.

December 27 

Xi Jinping to Visit Moscow in New Year 

China’s President Xi Jinping will visit Russia next year, as reported by Russia’s state-run RIA news agency. RIA said that Russia and China have to respond to United States policy jointly, referring to alleged NATO plans to “move its military infrastructure” into the Asia Pacific region. 

Iranian President to Visit the Kremlin in January

Masoud Pezeshkian, the President of Iran is set to visit Moscow on January 17 to sign a cooperation agreement with Putin, according to Kazem Jalali, Iran’s ambassador to Russia, cited by Russian state news agency RIA on Thursday.

Russia Willing to Work With Trump to Improve Relations 

Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, said that his nation is willing to work with the incoming Trump administration to improve relations between the nations. Lavrov however said that the Americans would have to make the first move as they had “interrupted” dialogue at “the start of the special military operation.” 

Moldova Approves Defense Spending Plan 

Moldova’s Parliament has approved a ten-year defence strategy that calls for increased spending as part of its move to join the European Union. This move has been criticized by pro-Russian political opposition, but pro-Western president, Maia Sandu has accused Russia of trying to unseat her government. 

December 28 

Ukraine Engaged in Fighting With North Korean Soldiers 

According to South Korea and North Korea, Ukrainian forces have killed approximately 1,000 North Korean soldiers in heavy fighting in Kursk. “Their losses are significant, very significant. We see that neither the Russian military nor their North Korean overseers have any interest in ensuring the survival of these North Koreans,” Ukrainian President  Zelensky said in his nightly address.

Ukraine Received American Liquified Natural Gas 

 Ukraine received its first batch of liquified natural gas from the USA, a deal which Kyiv has said will boost Ukrainian and European energy security as a major gas transit deal with Russia ends. 

December 29 

Biden Administration Announces More Aid for Ukraine 

The United States announced a security assistance package worth $2.5 billion for Ukraine. The aid includes a $1.25 billion military “drawdown package, ” allowing the Pentagon to take weapons from US stocks and send them quickly to the battlefield.

New Syrian Leader Meets with Ukrainian Representatives 

The new de facto leader of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa met with a Ukrainian delegation which included Foreign Minister Andrii Sybhia. Under the deposed al-Assad regime, Syria for decades had been a close ally of Russia.

Russia to Scrap Nuclear Weapon Moratorium 

Sergey Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, said that the country would scrap a moratorium on the deployment of intermediate and shorter-range nuclear missiles. Lavrov cited that the United States had “arrogantly ignored the warnings of Russia and China” and deployed “weapons of this class” in various parts of the world.

Moldova Experiences Energy Anxiety Approaching New Year 

Transnistria, a separatist region of Moldova has cut off gas supplies to several state institutions, two days before a deal allowing Russian gas to transit through Ukraine runs out following the latter’s refusal to extend it in wartime. The move prompted fears of mass New Year power cuts in Moldova. 

Azerbaijan Demands Russian Acknowledgement 

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said he wanted Russia to accept it downed an Azerbaijan Airlines plane last week, saying he witnessed “clear attempts to cover up the matter.” President Putin had apologised for the “tragic incident” but stopped short of saying Russia had shot down the plane, only noting that a criminal case had been opened. 

December 30 

Russia and Ukraine POW Swap 

In a prisoner-of-war swap brokered by the United Arab Emirates, over 300 prisoners of war were swapped between Russia and Ukraine. President Zelensky said that 189 Ukrainians were able to return home.

The United States Provides Additional $3.4 billion to Ukraine 

The United States announced an additional $3.4 billion in economic assistance to help Ukraine’s government and prop up its infrastructure. Biden stated he ordered his government to provide “as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible.” 

November 1 

Zelensky Blasts the West’s Response to North Korea 

In an interview with South Korean media, Zelensky criticized the Western response to North Korean involvement in the war, calling it a “zero” response. The Ukrainian president believes that a weak Western response will encourage the Kremlin to further escalate the war.

Ukraine Confident of Continued American Support With American Election Approaching 

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has stated that Ukraine is confident of continued support from the United States, regardless of who wins in the upcoming presidential election. Sybiha referenced strong bipartisan support being critical for continued American support of Ukraine, despite presidential candidate Donald Trump claiming Zelensky was influential in starting a war with Russia in October. 

Trudeau Speaks on the Impacts of War 

The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, spoke on the global impacts of the Russian-Ukraine War and the growing impacts it has upon the global community as the war continues. Trudeau is one of Ukraine’s most vocal supporters and has criticized Russia’s war of aggression as also contributing to global food insecurity, the spread of disinformation, emboldening of totalitarian regimes and undermining international law. 

November 2 

North Korea Speaks on Russian Involvement 

North Korean Foreign Minister, Choe Son Hui, on a visit to Moscow, said that her nation will stand firmly in support of Russia as North Korean troops are expected to soon be deployed against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region. Son Hui also expressed North Korea’s continued commitment to develop a nuclear arsenal, with many suspecting North Korea wanting Russian nuclear support in exchange for military support. 

US Announces $435 Million to Ukraine 

The United States has unveiled an additional military aid package to Ukraine of $435 million. The new aid package includes air defence interceptors, munitions for rocket systems and artillery. This brings the total amount of military assistance the US has provided Ukraine since 2022 to $60.4 billion.

November 4 

Viktor Orban Criticizes European Support of Ukraine 

Hungarian President Viktor Orban said that Europe will need to reevaluate its support of Ukraine if Donald Trump wins the American presidential election this week. Orban believes Europe will be incapable of shouldering the burden of the war independently. Orban is opposed to Ukrainian military support and has strongly expressed his support for Donald Trump, believing the two share similar views, and that Trump would deliver an end to the war. 

November 5 

Ukraine Calls for Decisive Action 

The Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha, in a meeting with the German Minister of Defense, Annalena Baerbock, necessitated the need for decisive action from Ukraine’s Western allies in response to North Korea’s involvement. Sybiha said, “North Korean troops are now carrying an aggressive war in Europe against a sovereign European state.” 

EU and South Korea Address North Korean Actions 

In a joint address, the EU foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell, and South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-Yul, condemned the supply of weaponry to Russia from North Korea and demanded the withdrawal of its troops from Russia. The joint address condemned the unlawful transfer of weapons utilised in the attack against Ukraine by the Russian Federation and demanded an end to the unlawful military cooperation. 

November 6 

Explosions in European Logistic Depots Linked to Moscow

One of Lithuania’s presidential advisers claimed that parcels that exploded in logistic depots of some European airports were a Russian test to trigger explosions on cargo planes headed to the USA. Western governments have previously stated that Russia is behind actions aimed at sabotaging Ukraine’s Western allies.

Poland Invests in Ammunition Production 

Poland announced in a new bill that it plans to invest $744 million into ammunition production to ensure sufficient reserves in the event of a Russian attack. Since the start of the Russian war in Ukraine in 2022, Poland has become NATO’s biggest spender on defence in relation to state size and it aims to direct 4.7% of its GDP to defence spending in 2025.

Dan Jorgensen Wants to End EU Dependency on Russian Energy

Dan Jorgensen who is likely to be the EU’s new energy commissioner, said in an address to the parliament of the EU that he hopes to pick up the speed of the EU’s transition away from Russian oil and gas reliance.

November 7 

President of South Korea Weighs Implications of North Korean Involvement 

The President of South Korea, Yoon Suk-yeol, said his nation has not ruled out the transfer of weapons to Ukraine in response to the deployment of North Korean troops. Suk-yeol cited that North Korean involvement in the war poses a security risk to Seoul as North Korean troops gain combat experience and gain access to sensitive military technologies from Russia. Suk-yeol also called Donald Trump, the American president-elect and called for closer ties with the US in areas of the economy and security. 

Kremlin Releases Statements About Trumps Election Victory 

A spokesman of the Kremlin, Dmitry Peskov, released a statement regarding the results of the American election, “Let us not forget that we are talking about an unfriendly country, which is both directly and indirectly involved in a war against our state.” The Kremlin has also added that only time will reveal the validity of Trump’s words of bringing an end to the war. Dmitry Medvedev, the former Prime Minister of Russia also released a statement saying he is uncertain of how much Trump will be able to cut funding to Ukraine.

America Moves to Push Funding Through to Ukraine 

Reports have emerged that the White House is preparing to push through billions of dollars in funding to Ukraine before President Biden leaves office in January.

November 8 

Zelensky addresses Europe in Budapest 

Speaking at the European Political Community Summit in Budapest, Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that more North Korean troops would be deployed alongside Russian forces unless action was taken. Zelensky also reported that North Korean troops have engaged with Ukrainian soldiers in the occupied regions of the Kursk oblast. 

French President Warns European Political Community of Growing Security Concerns 

At the European Political Community summit in Budapest, French President Emanuel Macron called for an increased role in guaranteeing continental security and less reliance upon the USA. Macron likened the situation in Europe to a herd of herbivores surrounded by a pack of carnivores. 

Germany Still to Deliver on Funding to Ukraine 

Amidst the collapse of Germany’s coalition government, members of the budget committee told Reuters journalists that they will still be able to provide most of the pledged 4$ billion funding package to Ukraine despite the 2025 budget not being able to be approved in time.

November 9 

NATO Speaks on Russian-North Korean Military Alliance

NATO has issued a statement saying that the “deepening military cooperation” between Russia and North Korea “impacts Euro-Atlantic security, with implications also for the Indo-Pacific.” Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Ukraine showed support for the NATO statement. 

November 11 

Russian Forces Capture Village of Vovchenko 

The Russian Defence Ministry released a statement claiming their forces have captured the Ukrainian village of Vovchenko in the eastern part of the Donest oblast. The town of Vovchenko is approximately 5km from the strategic city of Kurakhove, where Russian forces in Ukraine have been converging for the last few weeks. 

Trump and Putin Speak 

The Reuters news agency was informed that President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin talked over the cu_people_phone where Donald Trump allegedly advised Putin to not escalate the war. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesman from the Kremlin announced that Moscow has seen “positive signals” from Trump’s position on Ukraine, but warned it is difficult to predict how he will behave in office. However, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry released a statement that they were alerted in advance that reports of a cu_people_phone call between Putin and Trump were false. Trump has also spoken with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, with Berlin saying they “agreed to work together towards a return to peace in Europe.”

Biden Administration Remains Committed to Ukraine 

Jake Sullivan, the USA National Security Advisor, said that the outgoing American President Joe Biden will urge the US Congress and the incoming Trump administration to not abandon Ukraine as this would result in future instability in Europe. Sullivan also said the Biden administration will spend the remaining $6 billion of allocated Ukrainian funding before Trump’s presidential inauguration in January, citing the global risks of ending funding to Kyiv.

November 12

Fighting in Kursk Oblast 

Kyiv reported that Ukrainian forces are fighting nearly 50,000 enemy troops in the Russian oblast of Kursk following Ukraine’s surprise incursion and occupation in August. Ukrainian President Zelensky said that if it were not for Ukraine’s occupation of Kursk, these 50,000 Russian and North Korean soldiers would be deplyed in the Donetsk or Luhansk oblasts of Ukraine, overwhelming the current defences. 

EU Supplied Shells to Reach 1 Million 

Josep Borrell, the chief of EU Foreign Policy said that member nations of the European Union have supplied Ukraine with more than 980,000 shells of artillery munitions since the conflict started in the winter of 2022, and the EU aims to pass the 1 million mark by the end of this year.

North Korea Ratifies Mutual Defense Treaty With Russia 

North Korea’s state media outlet, KCNA, reported that North Korea has ratified the mutual defence treaty it signed with Russia in June. The treaty calls for each side to come to the other’s aid in the event of an armed attack. 

November 13 

Growing Cooperation Between Russia and China a Threat 

NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, in a visit to Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron in an address that feels directed towards the incoming Trump administration, said that Russia’s growing economic and military cooperation with China, North Korea, and Iran is a threat towards the security and peace of not only Europe but also Asia Pacific and North America. 

Ukraine to Boost Arms Output 

Ukraine is currently in the process of establishing three new joint ventures with European arms producers to boost output. Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko, said five joint ventures had already been set up with Western weapons producers, including German and Lithuanian companies.

November 14 

Ukrainian Forces Repel Russian Forces Near Kupiansk 

Officials from the Ukrainian military said that Ukrainian forces have repelled Russian troops near the northeastern city of Kupiansk, an important rail hub in the northeast. They also added that Russian forces attacked in four waves and deployed tanks, armoured vehicles and a mine-clearing system. Some of the Russian forces, it said, donned uniforms resembling those of the Ukrainian military – a practice it said is a war crime.

NATO, USA, and Ukrainian Relations 

US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, met NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte in Brussels, as the outgoing Biden administration seeks to reinforce support for Ukraine ahead of Donald Trump’s return as president. Blinken assured NATO the Biden administration would bolster its support for Ukraine in the months before Trump’s return, adding that the deployment of North Korean troops in the Ukraine war “demands and will get a firm response”. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has said he is “cautiously optimistic” after discussing with Blinken the possibility of conducting deep strikes on Russia and Euro-Atlantic integration. Trump and Joe Biden have held a cordial meeting in which the outgoing US president reportedly argued that support for Ukraine was good for national security because a stable Europe would keep America from being dragged into war.

November 15 

Kremlin Open to Negotiations to End War 

Russia’s UN ambassador in Geneva, Gennady Gatilov, said that Russia is open to negotiations to end the Ukraine war if initiated by United States President-elect Donald Trump, but any talks need to be based on the realities of Russian advances in the conflict. 

November 16 

Olaf Scholz Calls Vladimir Putin 

For the first time in two years, the German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz called Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging the Kremlin to withdraw its forces from Ukraine and begin talks with Kyiv. The Kremlin described the call as a “detailed and frank exchange of views over the situation in Ukraine.” It said Putin told Scholz that any agreement to end the war should “proceed from the new territorial realities and, most importantly, address the root causes of the conflict.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised Scholz’s cu_people_phone call with Putin, saying it undermined efforts to isolate the Russian leader and end the war in Ukraine with a “fair peace.” 

Austria Preparing for Russian Gas Shutoff 

Russia has informed Austria that it will suspend gas deliveries via Ukraine starting this weekend, in a development that signals a fast-approaching end of Moscow’s last gas flows to Europe. Austrian Chancellor, Karl Nehammer, said Austria’s large gas storage facilities are 93 percent full and the country is well equipped to deal with Russia’s decision to stop gas deliveries

Ukraine Determined to Liberate Russian Captured Territory 

Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov told a news conference in Norway that Ukraine is committed to fighting to liberate all territory captured by Russia since the start of the conflict in 2014. Umerov insisted that Ukraine is not shifting its focus in the war, and retaking these territories is a necessity. 

November 17 

Leaders of the G7 Meet to Discuss Ukraine 

Leaders of the Group of Seven nations met and reaffirmed their continual support of Ukraine “for as long as it takes” as the war fast approaches the 1000-day mark. Additionally, the G7 released a statement saying that Russia is solely responsible for preventing a fair settlement to ending the war in Ukraine. 

November 18 

Traces of Tear Gas Found on Frontline

The world’s chemical weapon watchdog announced a statement that it has found traces of tear gas on the frontlines near Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region. Ukraine had requested the investigation, but the group was not tasked to assign blame, however, both the US and Ukraine have accused Russia of the use of tear gas to clear trenches, a prohibited act of war. 

America Approves Ukraine to Use Long-Range Missiles to Strike Deep Into Russia 

There is strong Western support for America’s decision to allow Ukraine to use American missiles to strike deeper into Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish President Andrzej Duda support the decision, citing it comes at a critical time. However, Russia, Slovakia, and Hungary view the American decision to be a dangerous escalation of the war. Additionally, the foreign policy chief of the EU, Josep Borrell, said he hopes the union can agree to allow the use of Western weapons to strike Russia, but he also expressed concern over North Korea, China, and Iran supplying weapons systems to Russia for it was in Ukraine. 

November 19 

War Hits 1000 Day Mark 

The war between Russia and Ukraine has now hit the 1000-day mark and Ukraine has released an official message proclaiming that they will “never submit to Russia” but have also criticised the international community for allowing the war of Russian aggression to go on for so long. Additionally, Putin has ratified the amendments to Russia’s nuclear doctrine and spokesmen of the Kremlin have assured their confidence in achieving a Russian victory for the ‘special military operation’ launched in February of 2022.

Ukraine Uses American Missiles to Strike Russia 

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that Ukraine had fired American ATACMS missiles into Russia’s Bryansk region, only two days after the Biden administration gave the green light to Ukraine. Russia views this as a serious escalation of the war and Sergei Lavrov, the Russian Federation Minister of Foreign Affairs, declared it marks a “new phase” of the war. 

November 20 

Biden Administration Announces $275 Million Aid Package 

Under Joe Biden’s leadership, America has announced an aid package to Ukraine valued at $275 million. The aid package consists of HIMARS ammunition, small arms munitions, Javelin surface-to-air missile systems, and artillery shells. 

The Netherlands Delivers Two More F-16 Fighter Jets 

The Dutch government has announced that it has delivered the final 2 of a promised 18 F-16 fighter jets to a Romanian air base for Ukrainian pilots and maintenance staff to be trained to operate the fighter jets in battle.

November 21 

Ukraine Claims Russia Fired ICBM at Dnipro 

Ukrainian officials have claimed that Russian forces fired an intercontinental ballistic missile armed with a conventional warhead at the central city of Dnipro. Ukraine did not provide any substantive evidence other than President Zelensky saying the missile’s altitude and speed matched an ICBM. The Kremlin denies firing an ICBM and an American assessment concluded it was an experimental intermediate-range ballistic missile that was fired. 

Russia Says the UK is Now Directly Involved in the War 

Following reports of Ukraine using British Storm Shadow missiles to strike into Russia, Andrei Kelin, the Russian ambassador to the UK said the nation is now directly involved in the war against Russia. 

November 22

Ballistic Missile Attack 

Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that Russia fired a hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile at the city of Dnipro in retaliation to the USA and UK allowing Ukraine to use western supplied missiles to strike into Russia. Ukraine has stated that the use of such a weapon is a clear escalation of the war and calls for strong worldwide condemnation. 

North Korea 

Two trusted sources from the White House stated that Joe Biden enabled the Ukrainian use of US long-range missiles to be used to strike Russia as a response to North Korean escalation of the conflict by sending troops to fight alongside Russian forces. 

November 23 

Putin Threatens More Experimental Missile Testing 

Following the firing of a new experimental intermediate-range ballistic missile at the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, Putin has claimed he will continue combat testing the new Oreshnik class of missile. The Oreshnik is capable of flying at 10 times the speed of sound and striking targets 5,500km away and can be fitted with conventional or nuclear warheads. NATO and Ukraine are scheduling emergency talks early next week to discuss the utilisation of the Oreshnik.

Regional Security 

Leaders of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania met in Vilnius at the Baltic Council of Ministers to discuss common threats to the defence and security of the region regarding hybrid warfare operations. “The recent damages to the Lithuania-Sweden and Finland-Germany cables in the Baltic Sea have once again highlighted the importance of protecting our critical undersea infrastructure,” Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said after the meeting.

November 24

Russia Retaking Territory in Kursk 

Following waves of Russian counter-assaults, Russia has begun taking back territory in the Kursk region. A Ukrainian military source told Reuters that Kyiv has lost over 40 percent of the territory it held in Kursk following its rapid and surprise incursion in August. 

Estimates of Russian War Deaths Exceed 75,000

Independent Russian media outlet Mediazona in collaboration with BBC Russia released a report with the names of 79,819 Russian soldiers killed since the war started in February 2022.

November 25 

Ukraine Calls for Air Defense Systems 

Following the use of the Oreshnik missile and Putin’s claims he will continue to use them in combat as they rival the efficacy of nuclear weapons, Ukraine has appealed to Western allies for air defence systems to protect its civilians. 

November 26 

G7 Nations Issues Statement After 2 Day Meeting 

Member nations of the G7 reaffirmed their support for Ukraine after a two-day-long meeting. The Group of Seven condemned Russia’s “irresponsible and threatening nuclear rhetoric” and also warned North Korean participation marks a dangerous expansion of the conflict. 

Russia Opposes Freezing the Conflict 

The Russian foreign intelligence chief, Sergey Naryshkin, said that Russia opposes freezing the conflict with Ukraine. Saying that Moscow needs a “solid and long-term peace” that resolves the core reasons for the crisis. 

November 27 

Russia to Discuss Energy Ties with Kazakhstan 

Putin will discuss energy ties during an upcoming visit to Kazakhstan this week. Russia uses Kazakhstan to export most of its oil and in turn, Kazakhstan is reliant upon Russia for imports of food, electricity, and refined petroleum products.

Gazprom Moving to Cancel Gas Transfers Through Ukraine 

Gazprom is planning for no more gas flows to Europe via Ukraine after December 31 in its internal projections for 2025. Kyiv has said it wants to end the transit deal, which is a steady source of Russian revenue which would end more than half a century of gas flows from Siberia to central Europe that began during Soviet times.

EU to Discuss 15th Package of Sanctions 

European Union envoys are set to discuss a 15th package of sanctions in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This round of sanctions will include tankers carrying Russian oil and Chinese firms involved in making drones for Moscow. A total of 29 entities and 54 individuals will be added to more than 2,200 on the existing list.

November 28

Russian Sabotage May Envoke NATO’s Article 5 

Bruno Kahl, the head of Germany’s foreign intelligence service, has said that Russia’s continued acts of sabotage against Western nations supportive of Ukraine may eventually prompt NATO to invoke Article 5, the mutual defence clause of the pact.

The USA Preparing a $725 Million Weapons Package 

US President Joe Biden’s administration is preparing a $725m weapons package for Ukraine, the Reuters news agency reports, citing two unnamed US officials. The package will reportedly include antitank weapons, including antitank land mines, drones, Stinger missiles and ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS).

November 29

Ukraine Sees First Wartime Tax Increase 

President Zelensky has signed into law Ukraine’s first wartime tax increases, with Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko saying the bill is vital to ensure smooth funding for the Ukrainian defence sector. The changes, which will take effect from December 1, will see the war tax on personal income rise from 1.5% to 5%.

Ukraine Calls for Quicker Military Aid 

After a senior American administration official recommended that Kyiv reduce the conscription age from 25 to 18, Ukraine has urged its partners to speed up military aid, saying quicker delivery of critical military equipment is more important than drafting more men.

November 30 

Zelensky Changes Victory Narrative 

Ukrainian President Zelensky said in an interview broadcast on Friday that offering Ukraine NATO membership while allowing Russia to maintain possession of the territory it had captured in the war could be a solution to end the “hot stage” of the 33-month-old war. 

Outgoing Josep Borrell Speaks on Ukrainian Situation 

The outgoing EU foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, described the situation in Ukraine as “worsening” and he remains pessimistic about how American President-elect Donald Trump will improve it. Additionally, Borrell stated that Ukraine is able to defend itself as long as its allies stand behind and support the nation.

Europe Increases Regional Defense 

As global and regional security deteriorates with the situation of Ukraine and the uncertainty surrounding President-elect Donald Trump, Europe has begun taking measures to increase its regional security. Poland has deployed Leopard 2 battle tanks in Latvia to reinforce the NATO brigade there. While German defence giant Rheinmetall and Lithuania signed deals to begin construction of a $190 million ammunition plant to make artillery shells in the country. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius wants to order four new submarines to help meet NATO’s security requirements in Europe.

October 1 

Russia to Increase Defense Spending 

The Kremlin announced that defence spending will increase by 25% to 13.5 trillion roubles ($145 billion) in 2025. This move brings the defence budget of Russia to 6.3% of the Russian GDP, the highest since the Cold War, according to draft budget documents.

New NATO Secretary General 

The former Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, is set to take over as the NATO secretary general. Rutte will be relieving Jens Stoltenburg, the long-serving NATO secretary-general who has guided NATO through a decade of Russian aggression and full-scale invasion. 

Ukraine’s Front Lines in a Very Difficult Situation 

Following a two-and-a half hour long meeting between President Zelenksy and Ukraine’s top military commanders, the President said that the situation on Ukraine’s Eastern front was “very, very difficult” and that Ukrainian forces would need to act decisively and quickly. 

October 2 

United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine Condemns POW Treatment 

Danelle Bell, the mission head of the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine said that Russian torture and mistreatment against Ukrainian prisoners of war were “pervasive” in all stages of captivity. The mission has also found a degree of torture or ill-treatment of Russian POWs by Ukraine in the initial stages of captivity but such actions stopped once prisoners arrived at official places of internment. The mistreatment of Russian and Ukrainian POWs “is different in scope and scale.”  

Mark Rutte Adresses Ukraine 

The new secretary general for NATO, Mark Rutte, has formally addressed the war in Ukraine as his “top priority” one day after assuming the position. 

Russian Forces Reached Vuhledar 

The governor of the Donetsk region, Vadym Filashkin, said Russian troops had reached the centre of Vuhledar in eastern Ukraine’s industrial Donbas. It was not clear whether Russia had control of the entire town, which was in an elevated position and had been flattened by months of bombardment. Filashkin said about 107 civilians remained in Vuhledar- before the war about 14,000 people lived there. 

October 3 

UN Report Shows Increased Ukrainian Civilian Casualties Over Summer 

As found in a UN report civilian casualties in Ukraine surged over the summer, with deaths rising by approximately 30% to 589. The number of wounded increased nearly 50% to 2,685, according to the same UN report. In comparison, the spring ended with 444 civilian deaths and 1,817 wounded. Autumn casualty lists may follow this upward trend due to relentless glide-bomb attacks on residential buildings in the Sumy, Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia regions and the intensified Russian offensive in the Donetsk region. The war has resulted in at least 11,743 civilian deaths and 24,614 wounded. 

Mark Rutte and Preisdent Zelensky Meet 

NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte met President Zelenskyy in Kyiv on his first foreign visit. In the press conference, Zelensky encouraged NATO to intensify air defence support, stressing the critical need to reinforce Ukraine’s defences against missiles and drones and to expedite the implementation of key air defence commitments from the July NATO summit before the onset of winter. Zelenskyy also acknowledged the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the eastern stronghold of Vuhledar, emphasizing the necessity of preserving soldiers’ lives in the face of relentless Russian aggression. 

United States Agency for International Aid Provides Ukraine with $25 Million 

To support Ukraine for the upcoming winter, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has allocated $825 million, nearly twice as much as last year. During a visit to Kyiv on October 2, USAID Administrator Samantha Power emphasized the urgency of this funding as Russian forces continue to target energy facilities, using harsh winter conditions as a weapon against the Ukrainian people. In addition to energy aid, USAID is launching a five-year rehabilitation program called “Rehab for You,” with a budget of $13 million, allocating $237 million for humanitarian assistance and supporting Ukrainian education with 3.2 million newly-printed textbooks. 

October 4 

Eastern Ukraine Facing Heavy Russian Attacks 

Following the fall of Vuhledar earlier in the week, Ukraine’s armed forces commander General Oleksandr Syrskii said he had ordered defences to be strengthened in the eastern Donetsk region.

Ukraine’s General Staff, in a late evening update on the situation on the battlefield, said the Pokrovsk sector remained the location of the fiercest fighting. Russian forces had launched 28 attacks on Ukrainian forces in that sector and a further 23 in the nearby Kurakove sector over the previous 24 hours.

October 5 

Poland Enhancing Defense Lines with Russian and Belarusian Borders 

Polish Deputy Defence Minister Cezary Tomczyk announced that Poland will start building the first elements of enhanced defence lines on its borders with Russia and Belarus by the end of 2024. Motivated by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Warsaw laid out plans to strengthen its northern and eastern borders with fortifications, surveillance, reconnaissance and anti-drone systems by the end of 2028.

October 7 

Ukraine May be Offered Concrete Steps to Join NATO 

The Washington Post reported that Ukraine may be offered “more concrete steps” towards joining NATO at the Ramstein summit that starts in Germany on October 12. 

The Netherlands to Invest in Ukrainian Drone Development 

Dutch Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans while on an unannounced visit to Kyiv stated that the Netherlands would invest $440 million towards advanced drone development with Ukraine. Brekelmans also said he could confirm that the Netherlands had delivered its first F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv and more would be sent in the coming months.  

October 8 

Zelensky Speaks About Critical Part of the War 

President Volodymyr Zelensky released a statement to the Western powers that the war had entered a “very important phase” and Ukraine needs support while it applies pressure to Russia to make them “realise that the war will get them nothing” before concluding with the statement “only through strength can we bring peace closer.”  Zelensky’s comments come at a critical point in the war and following the reception of a new $8 billion aid package from the US, which includes “weapons for the front, and air defense for our cities, and expansion of the F-16 training mission.”

United States Criticizes Russia Over  the Imprisonment of a 72-Year-Old

Stephen Hubbard, a 72-year-old American citizen was accused by Russia of acting as a mercenary and supporting Ukraine’s military operation. In April of 2022, Hubbard was arrested and now in October of 2024, he received his sentence: six years and ten months in jail. The United States has criticized Russia over the lack of legal counsel for Hubbard during his sentencing and trial. 

October 9 

South Korea Suspects North Korean Troops Supporting Russia 

Kim Yong-Hyun, the Defense Minister of South Korea has announced that North Korean soldiers appear to be fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine. Yong-Hyun also added that it was highly likely six North Korean officers would be among the casualties from a Ukrainian missile strike in Donetsk on October 3. 

Joe Biden Cancels Germany Trip 

President Joe Biden cancels a planned trip to Germany for the much anticipated Ramstein conference, throwing the weekend’s conference consisting of Ukraine’s most influential Western allies into doubt. Leaders of these nations were to meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky and further discuss his proposed “victory plan.” Biden cancelled the visit because of Hurricane Milton, which is threatening Florida with a record storm surge. 

United Kingdom Increases Sanctions Against Russia 

The United Kingdom has imposed new sanctions against the Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops of Russia and their leader, Igor Kirillov. The United Kingdom claims Kirillov and the unit have been involved in using chemical weapons on the battlefields of Ukraine. 

NATO Chief Mark Rutte Speaks About Upcoming Winter 

The newly appointed NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, has spoken about the prospects of the upcoming winter. Rutte claimed that this upcoming winter will be the hardest Ukraine will endure since the full-scale invasion of 2022 and he urged NATO members to do as much as they can to support Ukraine.

October 10

Ukraine Strikes Russian Munitions in Byransk 

Ukraine said it struck a Russian munitions arsenal in the Bryansk region. At the facility missiles and shells for artillery weapons, including those delivered from North Korea, were stored. Bryansk authorities later declared a state of emergency following “detonations of explosive objects.”

Zelensky to Hold Talks With Europe’s Top Leaders 

Zelensky is due to hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in meetings across Europe on Thursday. Zelensky also told leaders of southern European nations that there is an “opportunity” and “decisive action” could end the war in 2025.  

Ursula von der Leyen Condemns Hungary as a Security Threat 

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said Hungary is putting the entirety of European security at risk as a result of its close ties with Putin. Speaking at a debate with the populist Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban at the European Parliament, von der Leyen highlighted Budapest’s reluctance to join EU partners in helping Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. 

Ukraine Planning a New Peace Summit With Russia’s Attendance 

Ukraine is in the initial stages of planning a new peace summit that will be scheduled for the end of 2024 and wants Russia to attend. While Ukraine stresses the importance of Russian attendance, bilateral negotiations have already been largely ruled out, stressing the importance of third-party mediators. 

October 11

Russia Targeting Ukraine’s Port Infrastructure 

Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister, Oleksii Kuleba said Russia has attacked Ukraine’s port infrastructure almost 60 times in the last three months with intensifying strikes. Approximately forty nations across the world receive Ukrainian agricultural products that flow out of these ports meaning the impacts are felt internationally. 

Ukraine Strikes Munitions Storage in the North Caucasus 

The Ukrainian military said it struck an ammunition depot at an airfield in Russia’s Adygeya region in the North Caucasus. Adygeya is approximately 450km from the front lines of eastern Ukraine. 

Ukraine Parliament Approves Tax Hike 

As the war against Russia wages on and military spending soars, the Ukrainian parliament approved the first major tax hike. The new tax legislation imposes measures including an effective tax rate on bank profits of 50%, a tax on financial companies of 25%, and an increase in the war tax paid by civilians from 1.5% to 5%. 

Kiel Institute of Germany Warns West of Trump 

The German-based Kiel Institute, a think-tank for global economics, has warned Western powers that military and financial aid to Ukraine could be reduced by half (to approximately $31.6 billion) if Donald Trump gets elected American president. Trump has expressed that he “would end the war in 24 hours” without any explanation. 

Russia Recruiting African Women to Work at Drone Factories 

Russia has recruited approximately 200 young African women to work in a drone factory located in Tatarstan producing Iranian-designed drones for use in Ukraine. The source of this information comes from an investigation by The Associated Press news agency. AP said the women were lured to Russia through a social media campaign that offered free flight and work-study programmes in areas like hospitality and catering. However, the women have found themselves at the drone factory in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, about 1,000 kilometres east of Moscow. 

October 12 

Additional Military Funding Announced for Ukraine 

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has announced $1.53 billion in additional military aid for Ukraine by the end of 2024. Scholz said it was a deliberate signal to Russia that the West would not stop supporting Kyiv. The aid will be given jointly with Belgium, Denmark and Norway and includes air defence, tanks, combat drones, and artillery.

October 14 

Zelensky Accuses North Korea of Sending Troops to Support Russia 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has formally accused North Korea of supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine with not just weapons but now soldiers. 

October 15 

NATO Secretary General Says NATO Will not Submit to Russia 

Mark Rutte issued a statement during his first visit as NATO chief to the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) that NATO will continue its strong support for Kyiv and not capitulate in the face of Russian threats.

France Demands the Release of a Researcher 

France called for the immediate release of French researcher Laurent Vinatier after he was found guilty by a Moscow court of breaking Russia’s “foreign agent” laws and sentenced to three years in prison. Vinatier was detained soon after French President Emmanuel Macron signalled the need for a tougher line on the war in Ukraine.

European Union Sanctions Against Iran 

In a movement welcomed by the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andriy Sybiha, the European Union imposed sanctions on Iran’s deputy defence minister, senior members of the Revolutionary Guard and three airlines over allegations that they supplied drones, missiles and other equipment to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine. 

October 16 

Zelensky Invited to the European Union Summit 

President of the European Council, Charles Michel, said Zelensky has been invited to attend a summit of European Union leaders in Brussels on Thursday. Michel described the summit as an opportunity to “take stock of the latest developments of Russia’s war against Ukraine and present his victory plan”. 

EU Energy Reliance and Sustainability Goals 

The European Union Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, announced the EU’s continued reliance on Russian gas imports. Simson stated that deliveries have been “significantly higher” than what the long-term contracts should have seen delivered, despite efforts of the EU to reduce its use. However, Gazprom reported an annual loss of nearly $7bn, its first such loss in almost a quarter-century.

October 17 

Zelensky Presents ‘Victory Plan’ to EU Summit 

Zelensky announced his ‘victory plan’ which includes requests for specific weapons and an “unconditional” invitation to join NATO, saying it “may be possible to end the war no later than next year” if the plan is implemented now. In an immediate response, Russia’s Foreign Ministry said Zelensky’s plan was pushing NATO towards direct conflict with Russia and would lead to disaster for the Ukrainian people. NATO’s Secretary General Mark Rutte said the plan was a positive development, but he was not able to support it as a whole.

Ukraine Appeals to International Maritime Organization 

Ukraine has appealed to the International Maritime Organization to send an international monitoring mission to the ports of Odesa. Russia has been accused of putting “millions of people in the world at risk of starvation” as it attacks civilian ships and grain storage facilities.

NATO Ontrack to Fulfill Military Funding to Ukraine 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that the military pact is “firmly on track” to fulfil a pledge of $43.53 billion in military aid for Ukraine this year. Rutte said the bloc has committed $22.7 billion during the first half of 2024 and is on track to meet its obligations for the rest of the year.

New Military Aid Package Announced for Ukraine from America 

President Joe Biden spoke to Zelensky in a call in which he announced a new $425 million military aid package for Ukraine, which will include air defence capability, air-to-ground munitions, armoured vehicles and other critical munitions.

October 18

Ukraine Receives Boosts to Membership Bids from the EU and NATO 

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said after a Brussels EU summit that Ukraine has made significant progress towards EU membership. Additionally, NATO chief Mark Rutte said “Ukraine will be a member of NATO, there is no doubt about and until that happens we will make sure that Ukraine has everything it needs to prevail” and that the military alliance’s members will not lose their will to support Ukraine, and Russian President Vladimir Putin would be wrong to think otherwise.

October 19 

North Korean Soldiers Arriving in Ukraine 

South Korea has issued a warning over the “grave security threat” posed by a reported 1,500 North Korean troops arriving in Russia ready to fight in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelesnky has estimated that up to 10,000 North Korean soldiers could be eventually mobilised in the war. 

Zelesnky and Putin Disagree Over Peace Proposal 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated his preference towards a peace proposal from May designed by China and Brazil claiming the proposal was “balanced” and could yield results.

Zelensky has dismissed this Chinese and Brazilian proposal. While the agreement would resume direct dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, it would not require Russia to pull back from Ukraine. In his denial, Zelesnky also added that he expects Putin to table his own peace proposal at the upcoming BRICS summit.

No Consensus in NATO Over Ukraine Striking Russia with Supplied Weapons 

American President Joe Biden said there is no consensus on giving Ukraine long-range weapons to conduct deeper strikes into Russia but called on NATO to “sustain our support” during a visit to Berlin. 

October 20 

Defense Ministers of the G7 Support Ukraine’s Path to NATO Ascension 

A meeting in Naples, Italy, between the defence ministers of the G7 nations concluded with universal support for Ukraine’s irreversible path towards NATO membership. This meeting marks the first time the G7 has met for defence purposes. 

Russia Rejects Ukraine’s Path to NATO 

Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement that Ukraine’s admission to NATO would make a political and diplomatic resolution of the conflict impossible. Ukraine’s admission into NATO would lead to further escalation in the war. However, actors in the West have already cited Russia’s utilisation of North Korean troops to be an escalation of the war. 

October 21 

Six Russian Defectors Seeking Asylum in France 

In a hallmark case of defectors pursuing group asylum in a European Union country, six Russian soldiers who defected and made their way to France via Kazakhstan are pursuing asylum. The six men hope that their actions will inspire other Russians to reject Moscow’s narratives and desires in the war. 

Zelesnky Seeking Strong Western Reaction 

President Zelensky is seeking a strong Western reaction regarding North Korean soldiers being deployed and taking an active stance in the war supporting Russia. Ukraine views this as a large escalation of the war while Western backers have avoided declaring it as such a measure. 

Serbia Thanks Russia for Gas 

Serbian President Aleksandr Vucic has directly thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for helping his country secure enough gas for the upcoming winter. This comes at a time when the EU is trying to unify its stance against Russian gas by pressuring Serbia to impose sanctions against Russia. Meanwhile, Russia is continuing to try and divide Western support and unity by using pipeline politics. 

October 22 

South Korea to Take Appropriate Counter Measures 

In response to North Korea’s active support of Russia where soldiers have been deployed in Moscow’s war against Ukraine, South Korea will adopt countermeasures to negate the influence of North Korea. South Korean Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Tae-hyo said that the nation will gradually begin supplying weapons to Ukraine. 

United Kingdom Unveiled Loan to Ukraine 

The United Kingdom’s Defence Secretary, John Healey, announced that the UK will provide an additional loan of $2.94 billion to Ukraine on top of the much larger loan planned by the G7 nations which will utilise frozen Russian assets. 

US Defense Secretary Provides Boost to Ukraine 

Two weeks before the potentially influential and decisive American presidential election, America’s Defense Secretary, Lloyd Austin, has announced $400 million worth of new arms to be sent to Ukraine as a sign of solidarity. 

October 23 

European Parliament Votes to Use Frozen Russian Assets 

The European Parliament has voted to legislate the use of $38 billion in frozen Russian assets to assist Ukraine’s defence and humanitarian efforts. The vote passed with the support of 518 members of parliament in support, 56 voted against, and 61 abstained from voting.

October 24 

The US Speaks Upon North Korean Involvement 

The US has said that it has seen evidence that North Korea has sent troops for deployment in Ukraine alongside Russian forces following their arrival at three training camps in Eastern Russia last month.

Belarus Speaks on Russian Nuclear Weapons in its Borders and Escalation of War

President of Belarus, Aleksandr Lukashenko said the use of Russian nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus would require his personal assent, however, he added that he would be completely ready to use them if “the boot of one foreign soldier steps into Belarus.” The comments regarding nuclear escalation come in response to North Korean military involvement in Ukraine which Lukashenko has claimed to be an escalation of the war. 

The US Finalises Long Awaited Loan to Ukraine 

The US has finalised a long-awaited $20 billion portion of a $50 billion loan to Ukraine backed by $300 billion in frozen Russian assets. The funds will start becoming available to Ukraine by the end of the year. Accounting for the other $30 billion in the loan is a $20 billion commitment from the EU and $10 billion from Britain, Japan, and Canada.

October 25 

North Korean Units Deployed in Southern Kursk 

Ukrainian officials stated North Korean forces have been deployed in the southern part of Russia’s Kursk region, the site of Ukraine’s August incursion, which escalates Russia’s staged counter-offensive in the region. 

Putin Speaks on Terms to End the War 

Vladimir Putin has welcomed remarks regarding the end of the conflict from the American presidential candidate Donald Trump. The Russian President has also expressed any proposals for peace with Ukraine must account for territory currently held by Russian forces. 

Germany Rejects Ukraine’s NATO Bid 

German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, rejected Ukraine’s bid to join NATO immediately following the proposal of Zelenksy’s victory plan to Western allies. Scholz states that a country at war can absolutely not become a member of the bloc. 

October 26

$50 billion Loan to Ukraine Expected Disbursement Date 

The finance ministers and chiefs of central banks of the G7 nations said the $50 billion in bilateral loans destined for Ukraine backed by frozen Russian assets would become available by December 1. 

Reports Believe Deployment of North Korean Troops Imminent

Ukrainian President Zelensky has cited intelligence reports that Russia plans to deploy North Korean troops to the battlefields of Ukraine by October 27. 

Germany Worried by North Korean Involvement 

German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, said that the possibility of North Korean troops deployed to fight alongside Russian soldiers in Ukraine is very worrying and represents a further escalation of the war. 

October 28 

Russia Working on Responses to Ukraine-NATO Cooperation 

Vladimir Putin released a statement that the Defense Ministry has been working on strategies to respond if the United States and NATO choose to help Ukraine strike deep into Russian territory with long-range Western missiles. 

Ukraine and Northern Europe Gaining Support 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelesnky has said cooperation between Ukraine and the Northern European states of Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland- who are all NATO states- has been gaining momentum that can transition into applying more pressure on Russia. 

South Korean Delegation to Provide Briefing on North Korean Troops 

A delegation from Seoul, South Korea, has been assembled to provide NATO with a briefing on North Korean troop involvement in the Ukraine conflict. 

October 29 

United States and NATO Issue Statements on North Korean Troop Involvement 

The Pentagon has announced that an estimated force of 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to Russia for training and eventual deployment in the Ukrainian war. The United States President, Joe Biden, has warned the international community that the assistance of North Korea militarily to Russia is very dangerous and Ukraine would not see any new restrictions on the use of American weaponry against North Korean forces. The Secretary-General of NATO, Mark Rutte, also confirmed the presence of North Korean forces deployed in Kursk, claiming that this indicates growing Russian desperation. 

Ukraine Calls for More Weapons 

The Ukrainian presidential chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has said that sanctions against North Korea will not be enough of a response towards their involvement. Yermak has called for more weapons and supplies to support Ukraine’s defence. 

October 30 

South Korean President Informs Canadian Prime Minister of North Korean Involvement 

Yoon Suk-Yeol, the president of South Korea informed Justin Trudeau that North Korean troops have been deployed in Ukraine earlier than initially expected. Prime Minister Trudeau responded by stating the deployment of North Korean forces on the battlefield is a clear escalation of the war. 

Russian Runs Nuclear Response Drill 

Russian forces test-fired a mass amount of missiles as a simulation of a Russian-mandated nuclear response to an enemy strike. Putin has cited growing geopolitical tensions and the emergence of new external threats and risks. 

NATO and EU Plan to Strengthen Ties 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have unveiled a new and comprehensive task force to strengthen cooperation between NATO and the EU in response to growing security threats on the continent. 

October 31 

Zelensky Addresses the West

President Zelensky has requested that the next meeting of the Ramstein Group, a forum to coordinate Ukrainian military support, be held in the upcoming weeks. Additionally, Zelenksy said that the West should accept Russian victory in the South Caucasus with the election of a pro-Russian party in Georgia last weekend. Zelensky also called the delayed disbursement of American funding “not funny” as Ukraine has only received 10% of a $61 billion military aid package to date. In the same address, Zelensky also expressed his desire to receive long-range Tomahawk missiles from the United States. 

September 2

Russia Will Amend Nuclear Weapons Doctrine 

Russian threats to use nuclear weapons are a tactic to keep America out of the war. Russia is amending its doctrine on the use of nuclear weapons as a response to perceived Western involvement in the Ukraine war. The comments came at a time when Russia is battling an incursion into its Kursk region by Ukrainian troops and amid growing attacks on Russian territory by Kyiv using Western weapons. The previous nuclear weapon accord signed by Vladimir Putin in 2020 outlines nuclear weapons as a means of deterrence and an “extreme and compelled measure.” 

September 3

International Community Criticizes Mongolia 

Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticised Mongolia for failing to arrest Putin who arrived in the country on Monday. The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Putin on war crimes charges last year. It obliges the court’s 124 member states to arrest the Russian president and transfer him to The Hague for trial if he sets foot on their territory. Mongolia is an ICC member. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi said Mongolia’s failure to detain Putin was “a heavy blow to the International Criminal Court and the system of criminal law.”

Romania to Donate Patriot Missile System to Ukraine 

Romania has approved sending one of the nation’s two Patriot Arm Defense Systems to Ukraine. The bill has been passed onto the upper house of parliament and once President Klaus Iohannis signs the bill into law, the government will issue an order for the donation to go ahead. Romania decided to donate one of its two operational Patriot systems – one of five such systems and other strategic air defence units pledged by NATO states to Kyiv – on condition that allies replace it with another Patriot system at a later date.

September 4

Zelensky Asks Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Advocate for Ukraine Amongst Western Allies 

During a cu_people_phone call between Ukrainian President Zelensky and Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau, the Ukrainian state asked Canada to advocate for the Ukrainian use of Western weapons to strike military targets inside Russia.

September 5

Switzerland WIll Provide Asylum to Ukrainian Refugees Until at least 2026 

The Swiss government has decided to extend the S protection status of people from Ukraine until March 4, 2026. The government opted for an cu_people_phone_ext because the situation in Ukraine has not yet stabilised. Given the need for further action in the field of integration, particularly in the workplace, the government has also extended the support measures. These focus on language acquisition and access to training and the job market.

September 6 

Putin Comments on the Success and Objective of Kursk Incursion 

President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Ukraine’s incursion into the Russian region of Kursk had failed to slow Russia’s advance in eastern Ukraine and had weakened Kyiv’s defences along the frontline. Putin, speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, said that Russian forces were now gradually pushing Ukrainian soldiers out of Kursk. Ukraine had weakened its defences elsewhere and allowed Russia to accelerate its push into the eastern Donbas area.

Andrii Sybiha Approved as Ukraine’s New Foreign Minister 

Andrii Sybiha takes over from Dmytro Kuleba as Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, who had led the foreign ministry since 2020 but was ousted as President Volodymyr Zelensky began the biggest reshuffle of government roles since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February of 2022. Sybiha was earlier the deputy chief of staff for Zelensky, before being promoted to first deputy minister for foreign affairs in April.

650 Missiles Ready to be sent to Ukraine by the United Kingdom 

The United Kingdom has pledged to send 650 Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) to Ukraine. The package is primarily funded through the UK’s £3 billion a year financial package for Ukraine, and contributions from Norway through the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) and follows the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary’s commitment to stand by Ukraine will continue for as long as it takes. 

September 7

The US Warns Iran over Transfer of Ballistic Missiles to Russia 

A representative of the White House National Security Council, responding to VOA’s request for comments on recent reports of the Islamic Republic’s delivery of ballistic missiles to Russia, warned that such actions would have consequences for the Iranian government. In a statement, spokesperson Sean Savett wrote, “We are aware of these concerning reports, and the transfer would represent a dramatic escalation in Iran’s support for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.” Savett said that the United States has been warning about the “deepening security partnership between Moscow and Tehran” since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Canadian Filmmakers Documentary “Russians at War” Labelled ‘Propaganda’ Amidst Criticism 

Ukrainian politicians and cultural figures criticised the screening of a Canadian filmmaker’s war documentary as propaganda. Anastasia Trofimova presented at the Venice Film Festival “Russians at War”, in which she embedded with a Russian battalion as it advanced across eastern Ukraine after Moscow launched its invasion in February 2022. The screening sparked outrage across Ukrainian cultural and political circles against what many consider a pro-Kremlin film that seeks to justify Moscow’s assault.

September 9 

Sweden Provides Ukraine with Another Defence Package Valued at $445million 

Sweden will send its 17th aid package to Ukraine with further military support totalling 4.6 billion Swedish crowns ($443 million), Defence Minister Pal Jonson said on Monday. The new package will include ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles already donated by Sweden, as well as purchases that would facilitate a transfer of Gripen fighter jets in the future, though no such transfer has been decided on yet.

Report Warns European Union Buying too Much Defence Equipment Abroad

A report on EU Competitiveness warned that tEU member states are too reliant on purchasing defence equipment from abroad, with roughly two-thirds of the supplies coming from the United States. This is viewed as a failure to invest in joint military projects. The 27 member states are also failing to make the best use of Europe’s research and development capacities to modernize their armed forces. The report comes as the EU continues to struggle to find enough weapons and ammunition to help Ukraine survive the full-scale Russian invasion, and kickstart Europe’s defence industry.

September 10

Trump and Harris Clash Over US Policy in Ukraine

During the presidential debate, former President Donald Trump skirted around a direct question about his desire for Ukraine to win its war against Russia. This emphasises concerns that a second Trump administration could suspend military support for Kyiv. Trump continued and said that if elected, he would negotiate a deal even before becoming president and suggested the United States was “playing with World War Three.” Democratic presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, quickly responded to Trump’s remarks, saying that if Trump had been president during the invasion, then “Putin would be sitting in Kyiv with his eyes on the rest of Europe.”

September 12 

American State Secretary Announces $700 Million More in Aid for Ukraine 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Kyiv, unveiled more than $700 million in humanitarian aid to support the nation in its fight against Russia. The finaical aid package includes $325 million dedicated for energy sector assistance for Ukraine to repair Ukraine’s power grid, which has been damaged by Russian attacks. Nearly $290 million will provide humanitarian support, including shelter, food and winter supplies for displaced Ukrainians and refugees. An additional $102 million will be used for demining efforts, helping to clear landmines and unexploded ordnance left by Russian forces.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Commends Allegations of Missile Transfers

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, spoke out against allegations made by Western countries that Tehran has supplied ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukraine. Araghchi claimed that the US and its allies were acting on “faulty intelligence”. The foreign minister also called the US, the UK, France and Germany “sanctions addicts”, referring to announcements on Tuesday that they would be punishing the alleged transfers of missiles to Russia with sanctions, including on national carrier Iran Air. 

September 13 

US General Said Russian Counter-Offensive in Kursk is Marginal 

Russia recently launched a counterattack in the Kursk region, which has been partially held by Ukrainian forces since the start of the cross-border incursion on August 6. This Russian-led counteroffensive is “marginal” at this stage said Pentagon spokesperson, Major General Pat Ryder. The Russian Defense Ministry has claimed that Russian soldiers have regained control of ten settlements as of September 12 but no Western sources can verify these claims. 

British Prime Minister and American President to Meet and Discuss Western Weapons Striking Ukraine 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and United States President Joe Biden will meet in Washington, DC, on Friday and are expected to discuss whether to let Ukraine use Western-supplied long-range missiles against Russia – something that Kyiv has long been pushing for. Vyacheslav Volodin, the chairman of Russia’s State Duma, the lower house of parliament, has accused NATO of being a party to military action in Ukraine, suggesting it was already heavily involved in military decision-making. Volodin’s comments came after Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that the West would be directly fighting with Russia if it allowed Ukraine to strike Russian territory with Western-made long-range missiles, a move he said would alter the nature of the conflict. 

September 17

Russian Forces Captured the Ukrainian City of Ukrainsk in Eastern Donetsk 

Russian forces captured the Ukrainian town of Ukrainsk in the eastern Donetsk region on Tuesday as they advanced westwards in a bid to take the whole of the Donbas, Russian state-run RIA news agency and pro-Russian war bloggers reported. The General Staff of Ukraine’s military, in a late evening report, said nothing about Ukrainsk changing hands, referring to it as one of several localities under Russian attack. It said 34 assaults had been recorded near the town of Pokrovsk. In August Russia advanced at its fastest monthly pace in two years according to open-source maps. 

Germany’s Foreign Minister Announced an Additional $111million in Aid for Winter 

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has promised to step up aid to Ukraine ahead of the frigid winter months. The announcement came as Russian forces continued attacks on critical energy infrastructure in Ukraine’s Sumy border region. 

September 19 

America Wants More Information on How Ukraine Would Use Western Weapons to Strike Russia 

US officials told The Associated Press news agency that Washington wants more detailed information about how Kyiv plans to use the Western-supplied long-range weapons it says are necessary for strikes deep inside Russia, and how they would fit into its broader strategy for the war. 

September 20

Russian Attacks on Ukrainian Energy Sector Violation of International Law

The United Nations Human Rights Monitory Mission in Ukraine released the findings of their study that Russian attacks against the Ukrainian energy sector, which have increased in scale and frequency, violate international humanitarian law.

European Parliament Adopts Non-Binding Agreement Over Western Weapon Usage 

The European Parliament voted and adopted a non-binding agreement calling for EU member states to allow Ukraine to utilise Western weapons to strike Russia. Following the vote, Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of Russia’s lower house of parliament and a close ally of Putin, warned Western governments of nuclear war if they approved of the weapons’ use. 

Russia Drone Production Increase

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russian drone production will be increased by ten times, increasing the amount of total drones produced to a total of 1.4 million. 

September 21

Russia Casualties Hit 70,000 

According to the BBC and an independent Russian news source Mediazona, approximately 70,000 Russian casualties have occurred since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The total was calculated from publicly available information and official reports, however, the BBC believes the actual number of casualties to be much higher. 

European Commission Provides Ukraine with $39million 

On a visit to Kyiv, the president of the European Commission, President Ursula von der Leyen announced the European Union would lend Ukraine as much as $39million backed by revenues from frozen Russian assets to help the country “keep warm” in the upcoming winter. 

September 22

Ukraine Strikes Two Russian Ammunition Depots 

Ukraine has announced that it has struck two Russian munition depots in the Krasnodar and Tver regions. This demonstrates Ukraine’s capability and willingness to strike targets deep inside Russia.

September 23 

Ukraine in Talks to Secure More Fighter Jets 

The Defence Minister of Ukraine, Rustem Umarov, announced that Kyiv is in talks with European partners to secure the Swedish-made Gripen and European-made Eurofighter Typhoon jets. 

September 24 

American “Decisive Actions” Could End Russian Aggression Towards Ukraine 

Ukrainian President Zelensky said that “decisive action” by the United States could quicken the end of Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine. This appeal comes as Zelenksy plans a trip to the United States to seek approval to use Western weapons to strike Russia. 

Rights in Russia Deteriorating 

The Special Rapporteur of the UN, Mariana Katzarova told reporters that the rights situation in Russia has worsened in the past year. This comes amid a “state-sponsored system of fear and punishment” as arbitrary arrests have increased and prison conditions have worsened. It is estimated that there are currently more than 1,300 political prisoners in Russia. Katzarova also said that there is evidence to suggest that pardoned Russian convicts that have served in Ukraine for reduced sentences have committed offences such as rape and murder once returning home from the front. It is estimated that 170,000 violent criminals have been recruited to serve in Ukraine. 

September 25 

Putin to Chair a Meeting on Nuclear Deterrence 

Vladimir Putin will chair an upcoming meeting of the Russian Security Council on nuclear deterrence. This is in response to further escalation of the war as Moscow weighs its response to Ukraine’s requests to the West for allowance to utilise their weapons to strike deep into Russia.  

September 26 

Two Ukrainian Villages in the Donetsk Captured 

The Russian Ministry of Defense said its forces had captured the Ukrainian villages of Hostre and Hryhorivka in the eastern Donetsk region. These two villages are just outside the major Ukrainian army stronghold of Vuhledar. The General Staff of Ukraine’s military reported clashes in the Vuhledar area and the mayor of Vuhledar reported reconnaissance groups in the town. 

Donald Trump Makes Comments Regarding Ukraine’s Defense 

Donald Trump said that Ukraine should have made concessions to Putin in early 2022 instead of going to war. At a rally in North Carolina Trump also said that even “the worst deal would’ve been better than what we have now.”

Russian Nuclear Threshold Amended 

Russian President Putin has lowered the threshold for a Russian nuclear response. Moscow will now consider any attack by a non-nuclear country supported by a nuclear country as a joint offence. Putin did not directly name or address Ukraine.

September 28 

Russia Developing Attack Drone with Chinese Backing 

Reports have emerged that Russia and China are engaged in developing a new attack drone program for the war in Ukraine. This report is deeply concerning for the EU and complicates China’s official stance of neutrality with the direct support of Russia’s war operation. 

September 30 

Ukraine to Unveil ‘Victory Plan’ to the Public  

Ukrainian authorities had promised to only unveil the ‘victory plan’ after consultation with Western powers. After many rounds of consultation between Ukraine and Western nations, Zelensky and Yermak are ready to release the non-sensitive parts of the victory plan to the public. 

Putin Says All Goals in Ukraine Will Be Accomplished 

Upon the second anniversary of “Reunification Day,” Putin repeated his justifications for invading Ukraine and the annexation of four regions with the rhetoric of neo-Nazism and dictatorship that will isolate Ukraine from its historic homeland of Russia. Putin also criticised “Western elites” who “turned Ukraine into their colony, a military base aimed at Russia” and who fanned “hate, radical nationalism… hostility to everything Russian.” Putin finished his address by saying, “Today, we are fighting for a secure, prosperous future for our children and grandchildren.” 

August 1 

Ukraine Does Not Want China as Mediator for Peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an interview with French media that Kyiv does not want China to act as a mediator in the conflict with Russia. Zelensky however, added that he hoped Beijing would put more pressure on Moscow to end the war.

Long Awaited F-16 Fighter Jets Arrive in Ukraine 

The first batch of long-awaited F-16 fighter jets has arrived in Ukraine. Denmark has committed to donate 19 jets in total, while the Netherlands has promised to deliver 24 and Norway 6.

August 3 

Estimates Conclude 400,000 Ukrainians Could Leave Country This Year 

The National Bank of Ukraine issued a report that estimates approximately 400,000 Ukrainians could leave the country in 2024. Over six million Ukrainians remain abroad after feeling the nation following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February of 2022. This severely affects the country’s demographic and economic challenges with motivations for emigration being related to security reasons, the difficult energy situation, and insecurities about the upcoming winter. The National Bank of Ukraine also concluded in this report that refugees are likely to start returning in the year 2026. 

August 4 

Ukrainian Officials Claim They Sunk Russian Submarine in the Black Sea 

The Ukrainian military says it sunk a Russian B-237 submarine stationed near the port of Sevastopol. The B-237 “Rostov-on-Don” submarine is quite a modern part of Russia’s fleet, launched and commissioned in 2014. It’s capable of firing cruise missiles at targets on land. Ukraine has launched repeated attacks on the Russian Black Sea Fleet in the ports of occupied Crimea in recent months. The strikes have forced remaining ships to withdraw to other, more distant harbours in the Black Sea. 

August 5 

Ukrainian F-16 Pilots Starting Operations 

Ukrainian pilots have started commencing flying operations in American-made and NATO-supplied F-16 fighter jets. The arrival of the jets is a milestone for Ukraine after many months of waiting, though it remains unclear how many are available and how much of an impact they will have in enhancing air defences and on the battlefield. Russia has been targeting bases that may house them and has vowed to shoot them down.

August 6 

Russia Claims Ukraine Has Committed a Series of Cross-Border Raids 

The Russian Ministry of Defense and Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed that Russian border troops and FSB personnel repelled several raids by Ukrainian forces equipped with roughly a battalion’s worth of tanks and armoured vehicles against Russian positions near Nikolayevo-Darino and Oleshnya, Kursk Oblast. 

More Humanitarian Aid Directed Towards Ukraine

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced that his nation will receive a $3.9 billion grant from the United States and the World Bank which will be used to cover priority government expenses, salaries for teachers and emergency responders, and social benefits. Norway has also pledged to provide $7.4 million in support of UNICEF programs in Ukraine. 

August 7 

Ukrainian Incursion into the Kursk Region of Eastern Russia 

Russia said it has now sent reserve troops to the Kursk region, claiming some 300 pro-Kyiv fighters had stormed across the border supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armoured vehicles. Governor of the Kursk Oblast, Alexei Smirnov said that the situation was “tense” but “under the control” of Russian forces. Kyiv did not comment on the alleged incursion. 

August 8 

Kyiv Finally Releases Statement About Kursk 

Ukraine’s Senior Presidential aide, Mykhailo Podolyak, and President Zelensky recognize the cross-border incursion into the Kursk Oblast. Zelensky addressed the Ukrainian nation stating “Russia brought the war to our land and should feel what it has done.” Mykhailo Podolyak stated that “the root cause of any escalation… is Russia’s unequivocal aggression.” In response, Moscow has declared a state of emergency as Ukrainian forces journey towards a village 20km inside of the Kursk region. And 3,000 civilians have been evacuated from the region. 

August 9 

NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine Initiative Approved by Bulgaria 

On Wednesday, Bulgaria’s Cabinet approved the country’s participation in the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) initiative, which was announced last month at the NATO summit in Washington. NSATU aims to help develop the Ukrainian Armed Forces through the training of Ukrainian troops and the provision of military equipment. 

August 10 

Kurchatov Nuclear Power Plant Causes Concern 

The head of the United Nations’s International Atomic Energy Agency urged both Russia and Ukraine to show restraint in the fighting in the Kursk region near Kurchatov, given the proximity of the conflict to a nuclear power station in the area. 

Russian Troops Training in Iran

Dozens of Russian military personnel are being trained in Iran to use the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system, two European intelligence sources told the Reuters news agency, adding that they expected the imminent delivery of hundreds of the satellite-guided weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine. This is a continuation of a trend in Iranian and Russian foreign policy which has become increasingly enmeshed since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022. 

August 12 

Ukrainian Olympic Performance a Boost to the Nation 

Olha Saladukha, the acting president of Ukraine’s athletics federation, told the AFP news agency that the country’s performance in the Paris Olympics – winning three athletics medals on August 4 – could have an “explosive emotional effect” amid Russia’s continued invasion. Yaroslava Mahuchikh, who won gold in the women’s high jump that day, dedicated her medal to the nearly 500 Ukrainian athletes and coaches killed since February 2022. 

August 13 

Kyiv Controls Approximately 1,000sq km Inside Kursk 

General Oleksandr Syrskii, the commander of the Ukrainian Army announced that Kyiv now controls around 1,000sq km of territory within Russia following its incursion into the Kursk Oblast. If this report is accurate then Ukraine has gained nearly as much territory in a week as Russia has gained between January and July of this year (1,175sq km). Russian authorities acknowledged the Ukrainian gains in the Kursk region, but they described them as smaller than what Kyiv has claimed. 

China Calls for De-escalation Amidst Kursk Incursion 

In a delayed response to the Kursk incursion, the Foreign Ministry of China said all parties should “observe the three principles for de-escalating the situation, namely no expansion of the battlefield, no escalation of fighting and no fueling the flame by any party.” 

The United States Warns Iran Against Sending Ballistic Weapons to Russia 

The United States and its allies are deeply concerned over the potential of Iran to send the Fath-360 ballistic missile to Russia. This arms transfer would result in the rapid escalation of the war in Ukraine and threaten the peace of the entire European continent.

August 14 

United States President Joe Biden Speaks on Ukraine Incursion 

Joe Biden said Ukraine’s military incursion into Russia had “created a real dilemma” for Russian President Vladimir Putin. In his first substantive comments since Kyiv launched its surprise attack, Biden said he had been briefed on developments every four to five hours. Officials stressed the US had no role in planning or preparation for the attack.

As Winter Approaches Ukraine Prioritises Energy Security 

Andriy Yermak, the Head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, proposed a follow-up conference be held at the end of August to discuss energy security for the Ukrainian people amidst Moscow’s targeted attacks against energy infrastructure. Due to these ongoing attacks, Ukraine has lost over nine gigawatts of energy generating capacity which has significant impacts upon the country’s humanitarian and economic situation. Yermak called for the beginning of a process to install the agreements reached at the Peace Summit held in Switzerland in June of 2024.  

August 17 

Kursk Developments 

Ukraine’s Minister of the Interior Ihor Klymenko released a statement that Ukraine has established facilities in the northern region of Sumy to shelter and send humanitarian aid to Russian civilians in the Ukraine-held part of the Kursk Oblast. Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrskii said that Ukraine now possesses 1,150sq km of the Kursk region. In Russia, Nikolai Patrushev, an influential aide to Vladimir Putin, told the Izvestia newspaper in an interview that the West and the United States-led NATO alliance had helped to plan Ukraine’s surprise attack on Russia’s Kursk region. Without “direct support” from the West, Kyiv would not have ventured into Russian territory. This interview comes out in support of an unverified claim that Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian reconnaissance and sabotage unit, which was armed with weapons from NATO countries in the Kursk region. This was reported by Russia’s RIA state-run media agency and cited unidentified security sources. 

August 19 

North Korea Stand With Russia Following Ukrainian Incursion of August 6

According to Russian state media, North Korea has condemned Ukraine’s August 6 incursion into Russia’s Kursk region as an “unforgivable act of terror” and said it would always stand with Russia as the nation seeks to defend its sovereignty. In months Pyongyang and Moscow have grown closer and developed stronger connections between the two states and have upgraded their ties to strategic partnerships recently.

August 20 

Healthcare Facilities a Major Target of Russian Offensive 

The European branch of the World Health Organization said it had recorded a total of 1,940 attacks on healthcare facilities in Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February of 2022. This is the highest number of attacks the WHO has ever recorded in any humanitarian emergency to date. During the war, 86% of these attacks targeted healthcare facilities with heavy weapons according to the World Health Organization. The agency said attacks on health facilities have “intensified significantly” since December 2023 and are now occurring nearly every day. 

August 21 

Putin Visits Chechenya and Observes Mobilised Troops for Ukraine in the North Caucasus

In the first visit to the North Caucasus region since 2011, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chechen regional leader Ramzan Kadyrov inspected Chechen troops and volunteers readying to fight in Ukraine. In the first visit to the region in thirteen years, President Putin and Kadyrov visited a training academy for special forces where the Russian president addressed the academy, “As long as we have men like you, we are absolutely, absolutely invincible.” On Telegram Kadyrov said that more than 47,000 fighters have been trained and deployed at this facility since the start of this war.  

August 22 

Putin Welcomes Chinese Premier to the Kremlin 

In a bid to deepen the economic ties between China and Russia, Premier Li Qiang of China visited the Kremlin for the first time. The two countries have developed large-scale joint plans and projects in the economic and humanitarian spheres, which are set to continue. Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Xi Jinping, have established key points of reference during summits in Moscow and Beijing. These points were further consolidated by agreements reached in July, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Heads of State Council meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan. 

Ukraine Will Need More in Foreign Assistance Than Previously Estimated

The Deputy Finance Minister of Ukraine, Olha Zykova, announced that Ukraine will need $ 12-15 billion more in foreign assistance for the year 2025 than what was previously expected. The previous estimate for foreign assistance was $22.7 billion.

August 23 

Indian Prime Minister Set to Visit Ukraine 

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, is set to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a month after talks were held in Moscow with the President of Russia Vladimir Putin. This will be the first trip to Ukraine from an Indian prime minister since Ukraine gained independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Modi is walking a political tightrope and has assured the international community he does not believe peace will be found on the battlefield and urges for a diplomatic resolution to the war.

August 24 

United States Announces New Aid Package to Ukraine 

The United States has announced a new round of military assistance to Ukraine, following a cu_people_phone call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Joe Biden. The package would be worth $125m and Biden said it would include air defence munitions, ammunition and antiarmour missiles. 

USA Imposes Sanctions on Chinese Officials and Businesses for Russian Support in Ukraine War 

The United States of America unveiled a new wave of 400 sanctions. The sanctions target entities and corporations across Russia and China for their support of the war in Ukraine. One of the individuals targeted by the sanctions is the son of the Russian defence minister, Andrey Belousov, as well as Chinese, Russian, Turkish, Belarusian, Italian, and Austrian citizens. Further actions are being taken by the US Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) to restrict the supply of both US-branded and US-origin goods into Russia and Belarus. BIS has added 123 entities to their list, 63 of them in Russia and the Crimea region, 42 in China including the sanction haven of Hong Kong, and 14 entities in Turkey, Iran, and Cyprus. 

August 27

Biden and Modi DIscuss War in Ukraine 

In a meeting between American President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a week after Modi’s Ukraine visit, the two nations discussed peace. Prime Minister Modi posted online that he discussed the situation in Ukraine with Biden over the cu_people_phone and “reiterated India’s full support for early return of peace and stability.” The White House issued a separate statement, saying Biden commended Modi’s recent visit to Poland and Ukraine, and that both leaders expressed “support for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in accordance with international law, on the basis of the UN Charter.” 

August 28

Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency Releases Stamenet About Kursk Nuclear Power Plant 

  Rafael Grossi, the General Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently visited the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant amidst the conflict in the region. Grossi told Reuters in a report, “the danger or possibility of a nuclear accident has emerged near here”, adding that one of the factors increasing the risk of a “nuclear incident”  was that the four RBMK-1000 reactors do not have an extra protective shell. Grossi and the IAEA – and the United Nations Security Council – have set out the seven indispensable pillars of nuclear safety during an armed conflict and the five concrete principles established to protect Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant – such as not firing from, or at, a nuclear power plant or using a nuclear power plant as a military base. Grossi said ahead of his visit to Kursk that the principles applied to any nuclear power plant. Ukraine and Russia each accuse the other side of putting nuclear safety at risk and breaching the IAEA’s central safety principles for nuclear facilities.

August 29

Ukraine Believes Fear of Escalation Influencing Foreign Action

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said the biggest problem faced by Kyiv was that its allies were afraid of approving new policies to support Ukraine out of fear of escalation. Kuleba’s comments came a day after Russia’s foreign minister said the West was “playing with fire” by considering allowing Kyiv to strike deep into Russia and warned of the risks of World War III. 

August 30 

F-16 Fighter Jet Crash Landed and Destroyed 

The Ukrainian General Staff said one of its F-16 fighter jets crashed while repelling a major Russian drone and missile attack on Monday, the first loss since the planes began arriving in Ukraine earlier this month. The pilot was killed. A United States defence official told the Reuters news agency that the crash did not seem to be the result of Russian fire and possible causes from pilot error to mechanical failure were being investigated. 

August 31 

Zelensky Fires Ukrainian Air Force Chief 

Zelenskyy has fired the commander of the country’s air force, Mykola Oleshchuk, four days after an F-16 warplane that Ukraine received from its Western partners crashed during a Russian bombardment and killed the pilot. Anatolii Kryvonozhko was appointed the acting Air Force commander. 

June 2

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán Makes First Visit to Ukraine Since Russian Invasion

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán arrived in Kyiv for his first visit to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022. During the trip, Orbán and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are set to discuss European peace initiatives and bilateral relations, with a focus on resolving tensions over minority rights.

Netherlands Finalises Export Permit for 24 F-16 Fighter Jets to Ukraine

Dutch Defence Minister Kajsa Ollongren has confirmed the finalization of an export permit for 24 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. The first of these aircraft is expected to be delivered soon. This decision follows previous announcements and preparations, including the provision of 18 F-16s to Romania for Ukrainian pilot training.

July 3 

NATO Pledges 40 Billion Euros in Annual Military Aid for Ukraine

NATO members pledged 40 billion euros in military aid for Ukraine for the next year. This pledge supports NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg’s call for continued aid but falls short of a full multi-year commitment. The agreement includes future evaluations and aims for transparency in contributions. 

July 5 

Orbán’s Moscow Meeting Sparks EU Criticism Amid Ukraine Diplomacy

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow just days after visiting Ukraine. The meeting, which occurred during Hungary’s EU Council presidency, has been criticized by European leaders for lacking EU authorization and potentially undermining the bloc’s unified stance on Ukraine. European Council President Charles Michel and other officials condemned Orbán’s actions, emphasizing that discussions on Ukraine should include Ukrainian representatives. Orbán defended his visit as an effort to understand the conflict rather than negotiate on behalf of the EU. 

Germany’s Third Patriot Air Defense System Arrives in Ukraine

Germany’s third Patriot air defence system arrived in Ukraine, according to the German Ambassador to Kyiv, Martin Jaeger. This system complements the two Patriot batteries previously provided by Germany, with the U.S. also supplying one. The Netherlands and Romania have pledged additional Patriot systems, though their delivery timelines are not yet confirmed. 

July 7 

New UK Defence Secretary Vows Enhanced Support for Ukraine During Odesa Visit

The UK’s newly appointed Defence Secretary, John Healey, visited Odesa and pledged to intensify support for Ukraine, just 48 hours after taking office. During his visit, Healey announced a new military aid package, including additional artillery guns, 250,000 rounds of ammunition, and nearly 100 precision Brimstone missiles. 

July 8 

Ukraine and Poland Sign Security Agreement to Enhance Defense Cooperation

Ukraine and Poland signed a comprehensive Security Cooperation Agreement in Warsaw. The agreement, signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, strengthens defence ties by enabling the interception of Russian missiles and drones targeting either country. It includes provisions for Poland to provide additional military aid, including a possible MiG-29 squadron, and establishes the Ukrainian Legion for training in Poland. 

July 10 

NATO Secretary General Urges West to Continue Ukrainian Support 

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenburg calls for the West to continue sending weapons and ammunition to Ukraine at whatever the cu_event_cost, saying that the outcome of the war will shape global security for decades to come. Biden and the leaders of Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Romania issued a joint statement announcing the delivery of four additional Patriot air defence systems and an additional SAMP-T system to protect Ukrainian cities, civilians and soldiers. They said the US and its allies intend to provide Ukraine with dozens of tactical air defence systems in the coming months, including NASAMS, HAWKs, IRIS T-SLM, IRIS T-SLS and Gepard systems. 

July 11 

Australia Pledges Its Largest Military Aid Packet to Ukraine 

On the sidelines of the NATO Washington Summit, Australia announced its largest military aid package to Ukraine, amounting to $250 million worth of ammunition, air defence and guided missiles, and anti-tank weapons. Support towards Ukraine from Asian-Pacific nations has been increasing as NATO has called out Chinese support of Russia in the war. 

July 12 

France Permits Use of Its Weapons on Russian Soil 

Following the NATO Washington Summit, Emmanuel Bone, the foreign policy advisor of French President Emmanuel Macron, declared that Ukraine is permitted to strike Russia with French-supplied weapons if Russian military targets were mobilized along the border and posing a threat to Ukraine. 

July 13 

Czechia Ups Amount of Munitions Ukraine Will Recieve for the Remainder of 2024

Czech President Petr Pavel announced that Ukraine would receive 50,000 shells from July to August, with an additional 80,000-100,000 shells expected from September until the end of December. This transfer of munitions to Ukraine comes at an imperative time as Russia heightens its assault in the east of Ukraine. 

July 14 

Ukraine Signed a Series of Security Agreements and Received Several Aid Packages Following the NATO Summit. 

NATO member states issued a Pledge of Long-Term Security Assistance for Ukraine of at least $43 billion that will purchase military equipment for Ukraine; fund the maintenance, logistics, and transportation of military equipment; fund military training for Ukrainian forces; invest in Ukraine’s defence industrial base (DIB); and supply non-lethal aid to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he signed a bilateral security agreement with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis and Iohaniss announced that Romania will transfer a Patriot air defence system to Ukraine at an unspecified future date. Zelensky and Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden signed a ten-year bilateral security agreement. Zelensky and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk signed a security agreement requiring Poland to train Ukrainian units in Poland and provide Western equipment for the units. Zelensky stated that Ukraine is also negotiating agreements with Czechia, Slovenia, and Ireland. 

July 15 

Lithuania and Vilnius Combined Heat and Power Plant gave Ukraine Equipment for a Thermal Power Plant. 

The energy infrastructure in war-torn Ukraine has been heavily damaged. Rebuilding is essential to ensure that the country’s vital infrastructure continues to operate properly. In response to the critical situation, Ignitis Gamyba is taking significant steps – gifting the equipment from Vilnius Third Combined Heat and Power Plant which will help rebuild the destroyed energy infrastructure in Ukraine. 

July 17 

Bans Lifted on Ukraine Using Western Weapons Inside of Russia

The United States and other NATO countries recently lifted bans on Ukraine using their weapons inside Russia. Damages to Ukrainian infrastructure and the energy sector have been a facet of Moscow’s war strategy as the war has turned into a battle of attrition. NATO’s allowance for Ukraine to utilise Western weaponry to strike Russian infrastructure away from the frontlines follows recent successful Ukrainian drone strikes in the regions of Tatarstan and Bashkhorstan. 

July 18 

Increased Economic Pressures Placed Against Russia 

The West has increased its economic pressure against Russia. This has included maintaining and expanding sanctions against Russia while also passing new forms of economic restrictions, such as export controls and oil price caps. Most recently, at its June summit in Italy, the G-7 agreed to use profits from frozen Russian sovereign assets to extend Ukraine a $50 billion loan.

July 20 

Outgoing NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said it was “extremely important” that the United States maintains its backing for Ukraine after former President Donald Trump chose a sceptic of aiding Kyiv as his running mate. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Ukraine is well on its way to being militarily independent, noting that more than 20 other countries have pledged to maintain their military and financial aid to the country even if the United States were to withdraw its support under a different president. 

July 21 

Cybersecurity Threats to NATO Member States 

Spanish police said they arrested three people accused of taking part in cyberattacks by a pro-Russian group targeting public institutions and strategic sectors in Spain and other NATO countries. A Civil Guard statement said they were accused of “computer-related offences with terrorist intent” over a string of distributed denial-of-service attacks, which make websites or network resources unavailable by flooding them with malicious traffic.  

July 22 

Ukraine Foreign Minister Heads to China 

Dmytro Kuleba, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine will head to China to discuss sustainable peace efforts and the role of China in ending Russia’s invasion. China is a large economic and political ally of Moscow but denies any support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine and has not condemned it either. Last year, Beijing proposed a political settlement to the conflict which was approved by Russian President Vladimir Putin but rejected by Western powers as it would allow Russia to maintain most of the territory it has seized in Ukraine. 

July 23 

Ukrainian Sanctions Against Russian Oil and Gas Company Lukoil 

Hungary and Slovakia have asked the European Commission to mediate a consultation procedure with Ukraine, after Kyiv placed Russia’s Lukoil Oil Company on its sanctions list, stopping crude supplies to the two EU countries. Hungary receives 2 million metric tonnes of oil from Russia’s largest private oil company annually. Slovakia imported Russian fossil fuels worth an estimated $351m in April 2024, according to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.  

July 24 

Hungary Threatens to Block Refunds to European Union 

Following the closure of the Druzhba pipeline which carries oil and natural gas from Russia, through Ukraine, and into Hungary, the Hungarian state has started acting erratically. Hungary has now threatened member nations of the European Union with the blocking of receiving refunds for providing Ukraine with munitions following the imposed ban on the transfer of Russian resources. 

Russia Calls EU Plan to Use Interest Generated Off of Frozen Russian Assets Theft 

US officials are preparing a proposal at the upcoming G7 Summit to get European allies on board with an effort to utilise generated interest of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine in the war and after the war ends with attempts to rebuild. Approximately $260 billion of Russian sovereign assets were seized in February 2022. Support for this proposal is divided across Europe with some states in favour, while other states with closer ties to Russia, such as Hungary, opposed to the idea.  

July 26

Ukrainian Foreign Minister and Chinese United Nations Representative Speak Out 

Silence has broken following the meeting between Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and the Chinese diplomat Fu Cong that occurred last week. Dmytro Kuleba has warned of Russia utilising Hong Kong to bypass Western-imposed sanctions and urges the administration to take action to prevent this from occurring further. Cong, speaking at a UN Security Council maintains Chinese neutrality in the war and calls for a political settlement to the war. 

July 27 

Finland Suspects Russia Violated NATO Waters 

A Russian vessel is suspected of a territorial violation of Finland’s marine area in the Gulf of Finland, an arm of the Baltic Sea, the Finnish defence ministry said. The ministry didn’t disclose further details of the incident but the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat said, citing information from border officials, that the suspected vessel is the Russian Navy’s hydrographic survey ship, the Mikhail Kazansky. Finland, a NATO member, shares a 1,340-kilometer (830-mile) land border with Russia and acts as the European Union’s external border in the north. 

Continued Animosity between Hungary and Ukraine Over Lukoil Pipeline Closure

An aide to Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused Ukraine of blackmailing Hungary and Slovakia by halting oil deliveries. Ukraine last month adopted sanctions blocking the transit of Russian crude through the Druzhba pipeline, sparking fears of fuel shortages. Ukraine’s decision to suspend the transit of oil from Russia’s Lukoil to Hungary and Slovakia was in keeping with its sanctions against the company and had nothing to do with blackmail, Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak said. 

July 28 

Ukraine Attacks Oil Storage Depot in Kursk 

Three tanks at an oil storage depot in Russia’s Kursk region caught fire as a result of a Ukraine-launched drone attack, acting regional governor, Alexei Smirnov, said. No one was injured in the attack, and a fire at one of the tanks was quickly extinguished with the help of 82 firefighters and 32 units of equipment. 

July 31 

Potential Meeting Between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 

Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Kyiv had invited China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi to visit the country amid growing dialogue. Spokesman Heorhii Tykhyi said work towards a possible future meeting between Presidents Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Xi Jinping, who have spoken only once by telecu_people_phone since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, was constant. Beijing says it is neutral in the war but has not condemned Moscow for its invasion and has deepened ties with Russia in the years since. 

June 1 

Zelensky Meets Nordic Leaders to Discuss Defense and Reconstruction 

President Volodymyr Zelensky met with the President of Finland and the Prime Ministers of Denmark, Norway, and Iceland on the sidelines of the Ukraine-Nordic Summit. Zelensky expressed gratitude for their comprehensive assistance and discussed Ukraine’s defence needs and battlefield situation. He highlighted Finland’s commitment to reconstruction, Denmark’s significant aid package, Norway’s extensive support through the Nansen Programme, and Iceland’s long-term assistance plan. 

June 2 

Estonia to Aid in Restoring Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure

Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine, Roman Andarak, met with Estonian representatives, including the Deputy Head of Mission Vahur Soosaar and ESTDEV Programme Manager Eva-Maria Liimets, to discuss Estonian support for Ukraine’s energy sector after the Russian attacks. Estonia pledged continued assistance and is planning a multi-tonne aid delivery. The parties focused on cooperation projects to rebuild energy infrastructure and improve system resilience, with Estonia already providing 225 tonnes of power equipment.

June 3 

Italy to Send Second SAMP/T Air Defense System to Ukraine 

Italy will supply Ukraine with a second SAMP/T air defence system, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, as confirmed by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on June 3. This decision follows increased Russian strikes targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Previously, France and Italy jointly provided a SAMP/T system to Ukraine in 2023. 

Netherlands Grants Ukraine Use of F-16s for Strikes in Russia, Following US Approval 

The Netherlands has announced that it will allow Ukraine to utilize its fleet of 24 F-16 fighter jets to conduct strikes within Russian territory, mirroring recent permissions granted by the United States for Ukrainian use of American weapons. This decision, confirmed by Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren, signals a significant escalation in European support for Ukraine’s defence capabilities. 

June 4 

Biden: Peace in Ukraine Doesn’t Require NATO Membership

US President Joe Biden stated that peace in Ukraine entails ensuring Russia never occupies the country again, but NATO membership for Ukraine is not necessary. Biden emphasised supporting Ukraine through weapon supplies for self-defence rather than immediate NATO integration. Biden highlighted past corruption issues in Ukraine and stressed the broader regional implications if Ukraine falls. 

June 6 

France to Transfer Mirage 2000-5 Fighter Jets to Ukraine 

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will transfer an unspecified number of Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine and will train Ukrainian pilots. The Mirage 2000-5, a multirole aircraft with upgraded radar systems, will complement Ukraine’s air defence capabilities. This move is part of a broader international effort, with countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium also pledging to supply F-16 jets to Ukraine. 

June 7

Biden Administration Announces $225 Million Security Assistance Package for Ukraine

The Biden Administration announced a new $225 million security assistance package for Ukraine, marking the fifty-ninth tranche since August 2021. This package includes air defence interceptors, artillery systems, armoured vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and various other military equipment to address Ukraine’s urgent battlefield needs. The U.S. will continue collaborating with over 50 allies and partners to support Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression. 

Ukraine and France Sign Four Agreements on Defense, Infrastructure, and Nuclear Energy

On June 7, 2024, Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and Emmanuel Macron of France oversaw the signing of four key agreements between their countries. These include a €200 million grant for Ukraine’s critical infrastructure and energy sector, the establishment of a French Development Agency office in Ukraine, and the renewal of a 20-year agreement on peaceful nuclear energy cooperation. Additionally, a statement of intent was signed to enhance defence industry cooperation, focusing on armaments, military equipment, and ammunition production and maintenance.

June 8 

Czechia Declines to Send Military Instructors to Ukraine

Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova announced that while Czechia plans to train up to 4,000 Ukrainian soldiers this year, it will not send military instructors to Ukraine due to logistical challenges. This decision contrasts with France’s initiative to send military instructors to Ukraine. President Emmanuel Macron confirmed France’s plan to form a coalition to train Ukrainian soldiers on-site, despite Russia’s warnings.

June 10 

Dutch Defense Minister Visits Kyiv for Cooperation Talks

On June 10, Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren visited Kyiv unannounced. She met with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal to discuss enhancing Ukraine’s defence capabilities and joint defence production. Topics included technology exchange, the upcoming global peace summit in Switzerland, and Ukraine’s integration with Euro-Atlantic institutions. Shmyhal highlighted the Netherlands’ role in providing Patriot air defence systems and expressed hopes for F-16 fighter jet deliveries. 

June 11 

Ukraine and Germany Sign Declaration to Enhance Business Cooperation

On June 11, Ukraine’s Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko and Germany’s Finance Minister Christian Lindner signed a joint declaration to strengthen bilateral business support. The signing, part of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin, aims to build capacity and reform the German-Ukrainian Business Development Fund, supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. The World Bank estimates Ukraine’s recovery cu_event_costs at $486 billion. The declaration also involves institutional support coordinated through the German Development Bank KfW to provide affordable financing for Ukrainian businesses. 

June 12 

Norway to Allocate $257 Million for Ukraine’s Air Defenses

Norway will provide $257 million to support Ukraine’s air defences, as announced by its Foreign Ministry. Of this, $134 million will be used to procure Patriot missiles as part of a German-led initiative, with additional contributions from Denmark and the Netherlands. This effort addresses Ukraine’s urgent need for air defence amidst ongoing Russian attacks on its cities and infrastructure. Norway’s increased defence production aims to support both domestic needs and aid to Ukraine. 

US Expands Sanctions on Russia, Targeting Banks and Technology

On June 12, 2024, the US broadened sanctions on Russia, targeting banks aiding its war effort and imposing restrictions on the Moscow stock exchange, halting dollar and euro trades. The sanctions also restrict Russia’s access to critical technology. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated these measures aim to further isolate Russia’s war economy and limit its access to international resources. 

June 13 

Canada Boosts Support for Ukraine at G7 Summit and Imposes Additional Sanctions on Russia

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced $5 billion in funding to support Ukraine, including contributions to the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Loans and new sanctions targeting Russia’s military-industrial complex. Canada also plans to export the first four of 50 Canadian-built armoured combat support vehicles to support Ukraine’s Armed Forces. 

June 14 

G7 Leaders Agree on $50 Billion Loan Package to Aid Ukraine

G7 leaders have reached an agreement to provide Ukraine with a $50 billion loan, approximately $3 billion in annual interest from frozen Russian assets to secure the agreed loan for Ukraine. This historic move aims to bolster Ukraine’s resilience against ongoing Russian aggression, supporting military, economic, and humanitarian needs as outlined by President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the summit in Italy. 

Putin Proposes Ceasefire Terms Amid International Tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined ceasefire conditions for Ukraine, demanding Ukrainian troop withdrawal from regions Russia claims to have annexed and renunciation of NATO aspirations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the demands as reminiscent of historical ultimatums, while international leaders including NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin dismissed Putin’s proposals as lacking in good faith. 

June 15

US Announces $1.5 Billion in Aid for Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure and Humanitarian Needs

US Vice President Kamala Harris announced a $1.5 billion aid package for Ukraine, aimed at supporting the country’s energy infrastructure, addressing urgent humanitarian needs, and bolstering civilian security. The package includes $500 million in energy assistance, an additional $324 million redirected for emergency energy needs, and $379 million in humanitarian aid for refugees and displaced persons. The State Department also plans to provide $300 million for equipment for Ukrainian border guards and law enforcement. 

June 17 

Latvia Sends First Batch of Drones to Ukraine, Prepares Second

Latvia has dispatched its first batch of drones to Ukraine and is preparing a second, according to Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds. Organized within a national program, Latvia is also implementing joint international purchases. The drone coalition, led by Latvia and the UK, has secured international commitments totalling 549 million euros ($590 million). Latvia’s government has invested around 20 million euros ($22 million) in the coalition this year and a similar amount for its drone development. 

Canada Holds Off on Sending Military Trainers Back to Ukraine

Canada’s Defence Minister Bill Blair announced that it is not the right time to send military trainers back to Ukraine, citing hesitation among NATO allies. Despite discussions at a NATO summit about enhancing training missions, Blair emphasized concerns about expanding such missions in the current circumstances. Canada has trained over 40,000 Ukrainian soldiers since 2015 but withdrew its trainers before Russia’s 2022 invasion, relocating them to Britain and Poland. 

June 18 

Canada Imposes Sanctions on Russian Officials Over Alexei Navalny’s Death

Canada announces new sanctions on 13 Russian officials linked to the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. These measures target individuals from Russia’s investigation agency, penitentiary service, and police force involved in Navalny’s ill-treatment and death. The sanctions address issues including his poisoning in 2020, unlawful detention in 2021, and the failure to investigate his death. 

June 19 

Putin and Kim Sign Mutual Assistance Pact

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a mutual assistance pact during Putin’s first visit to North Korea in nearly 25 years. The agreement promises mutual support against aggression and includes cooperation in various sectors. This move intensifies their alliance against Western countries supporting Ukraine. Concerns have been raised about North Korea supplying Russia with weapons in exchange for economic aid and technology transfers. 

Thales and Ukrainian Industry Forge Agreements to Boost Defence Capabilities

Thales signed three agreements with the Ukrainian industry at Eurosatory. The agreements, supported by the French and Ukrainian ministries, cover areas including Electronic Warfare, Tactical Communications, Air Defence Systems, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Notably, Thales will establish a joint venture in Ukraine, provide extensive support for Electronic Warfare equipment, and collaborate with FRDM to develop a new Unmanned Aircraft System. 

June 20 

EU Approves First-Ever Sanctions on Russian Gas

The EU has approved unprecedented sanctions on Russia’s gas sector, banning the resale of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) at EU ports and blocking financing for Russia’s Arctic and Baltic LNG terminals. The sanctions aim to reduce Moscow’s gas revenue, however, this decision follows opposition from Germany and Hungary. Despite previous sanctions on oil and coal, Russian LNG imports to the EU have continued, raising concerns about the bloc’s reliance on Russian energy. 

Ukraine and EU Extend Transport Visa-Free Regime for One Year

On June 20, 2024, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the cu_people_phone_ext of the EU-Ukraine transport visa-free regime for one year, with an option for automatic cu_people_phone_ext until the end of 2025. This agreement eliminates special permits for road freight transport between Ukraine and the EU, enhancing trade and supporting Ukraine’s economic integration into the EU. 

Andriy Yermak Discusses Peace Formula with Canadian Advisor

Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, had a cu_people_phone conversation with Nathalie Drouin, National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister of Canada. Yermak thanked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for participating in the Global Peace Summit and Drouin for moderating a panel. They discussed the Summit’s outcomes, emphasizing Canada’s support for the Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework. 

June 21 

Ukraine and Poland Near Security Agreement

Ukraine and Poland have concluded the final round of negotiations on a bilateral security agreement, according to the Ukrainian President’s Office. Deputy Head Ihor Zhovkva highlighted the significant progress made, stating the agreement reflects the deep cooperation and future plans between the two nations. The agreement is expected to be finalized and signed before the NATO summit on July 9-11. 

June 23 

Zelensky Urges Allies to Allow Use of Weapons Against Russian Air Bases

In response to a recent Russian airstrike on Kharkiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on Western allies to lift restrictions on the use of their weapons for targeting Russian air bases. The recent U.S. policy change allowing Ukraine to strike inside Russia has helped mitigate the assault on Kharkiv, but the restrictions still prevent the use of long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) needed to target deeper Russian airbases. 

June 24 

EU Approves €1.4 Billion Military Aid to Ukraine from Frozen Russian Assets

EU countries have approved up to €1.4 billion in military aid for Ukraine using proceeds from frozen Russian assets. This funding will be used for direct purchases of ammunition and aerial defence systems, with a quarter allocated to Ukrainian industries. Although Hungary blocked previous payments under the Ukraine Assistance Fund (UAF), it could not prevent this tranche since it had abstained in an earlier vote. 

June 25 

EU Accession Negotiations Begin for Ukraine and Moldova and EU Council Approves Draft Security Agreement with Ukraine

EU ministers formally initiated accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. The first intergovernmental conferences mark the start of this process. Additionally, the Council of the European Union has approved a draft security agreement with Ukraine. This agreement consists of two parts: security and defence, including commitments such as equipment supplies, training, demining, and nuclear and cyber security; and civilian aspects related to Ukraine’s EU membership prospects. 

ECHR Finds Russia Guilty of Human Rights Violations in Crimea

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has found Russia guilty of systematic human rights abuses in Crimea, marking Ukraine’s first interstate case win against Russia over the peninsula. The court’s decision cites violations such as breaches of the right to life and freedom of expression. However, Russia, which was expelled from the Council of Europe and is no longer part of the European Convention on Human Rights, has rejected the ruling’s impact. 

June 26 

PACE Plans Tribunal for Russian Leaders, Enhances Sanctions and Defends Ukrainian Identity

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted resolutions to try Russian leaders for aggression against Ukraine, strengthen sanctions against Russia, and protect Ukrainian cultural identity. The Assembly proposed a special tribunal to hold Russia’s leadership accountable, urged the seizure of Russian state assets for Ukraine, and condemned Russia’s efforts to erase Ukrainian cultural heritage, calling these actions war crimes and crimes against humanity. 

June 27 

Minister Ng Visits Ukraine to Discuss Reconstruction and Modernized Trade Agreement

Canadian Minister Mary Ng visited Ukraine with a business delegation, meeting with Ukrainian leaders and discussing support for Ukraine’s reconstruction. The visit also highlighted the upcoming July 1, 2024, entry into force of the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), aimed at enhancing trade and supporting Ukraine’s economic recovery. 

EU Signs Financial and Military Cooperation Agreement with Ukraine

Volodymyr Zelensky signed new security agreements with the European Union. The agreements, signed at the European Council, include financial and military aid commitments. Zelensky also signed cooperation pacts with Estonia and Lithuania. Ukraine and Lithuania signed a Security Cooperation Agreement, under which Lithuania will provide Ukraine with annual security and defence support amounting to 0.25% of its GDP.

June 28 

US to Provide Ukraine $150 Million Aid Package Including HAWK Missiles

On June 28, 2024, the Biden administration announced a $150 million aid package for Ukraine, including HAWK air defence interceptors and 155mm artillery munitions. This package, set to be unveiled on Monday, addresses Ukraine’s urgent need for enhanced air defence as Russia intensifies aerial attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. This aid comes through the Presidential Drawdown Authority, part of a broader $50 billion military support effort since 2022. 

June 30 

Russia Attacks Kyiv and Kharkiv

Russian forces launched attacks on Ukraine’s largest cities, Kyiv and Kharkiv. In Kyiv, missile fragments damaged an apartment building, while in Kharkiv, a guided bomb killed one person and injured nine others. President Zelensky has urged for improved weaponry to counter such attacks, noting that over 800 guided bombs have targeted Ukraine in the past week. 

May 31

Joint Statement Condemning DPRK-Russia Arms Transfers and Sanctions

The statement from the foreign ministers of several countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the UK, the EU, and the US, condemns the DPRK and Russia for their cooperation in transferring arms from North Korea to Russia for use in attacking Ukraine. They criticize Russia’s veto of a UN Security Council resolution and call on both countries to cease unlawful arms transfers and for North Korea to abandon nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.

May 30

Germany Promises Ukraine Military Aid Worth 500 million Euros

Germany has pledged 500 million euros ($540 million) in military aid to Ukraine, including artillery, air defense systems, and drones. The aid comes amid Ukraine’s battles in northeastern Ukraine and includes medium-range missiles, drones, and spare parts. The debate over whether to allow Ukraine to use arms sent by Western backers to strike inside Russia continues, with the US and Germany remaining opposed to such actions.

May 29

Sweden Announced Largest Military Aid Package to Ukraine

On May 29, Sweden unveiled its 16th and largest military support package to Ukraine, valued at SEK 13.3 billion. This aid includes Airborne Surveillance and Control aircraft, advanced air-to-air missiles, and 155 mm artillery shells to bolster Ukraine’s air defense and artillery capabilities. Sweden will also provide armored personnel carriers and support for maintenance, financial contributions, and satellite communications to aid Ukraine’s military efforts.

May 28

Belgium Agrees to Deliver F-16s to Ukraine with Conditions

Belgium has committed to sending the first batch of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine this year, as part of a security agreement signed between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. However, the agreement includes a warning against flying the jets in Russian territory.

May 27

Spain Pledges €1 Billion in Military Aid to Ukraine and Signs Security Pact

During President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Madrid, Spain committed over €1 billion in military aid to Ukraine for 2024 and promised a total of €5 billion by 2027. This aid package includes air defense systems, artillery shells, and armored vehicles. Additionally, Spain will provide Patriot missiles and Leopard tanks, increase Ukrainian troop training, and assist with demining and recovery efforts.

Russian Forces Reportedly Capture Villages in Ukraine

On May 27, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have captured the villages of Netailove in Donetsk Oblast and Ivanivka in northeastern Kharkiv Oblast. Ukrainian officials have not commented on these claims, and their accuracy has not been verified.

May 26

Zelenskiy Calls for World Leaders to Attend Peace Summit After Deadly Kharkiv Strike

On May 26, Volodymyr Zelenskiy has issued a plea for world leaders, including Joe Biden and Xi Jinping, to attend a peace summit in Switzerland following a Russian attack on a hypermarket in Kharkiv that killed at least 16 people. Zelenskiy urged leaders to show leadership and send a message to Moscow. The summit, scheduled for June 15, aims to gather a coalition of countries to call on Russia to end the war. Russia, not invited to the summit, has dismissed it as pointless.

May 25

G7 Aims to Use Frozen Russian Assets to Support Ukraine, Details Awaited

Finance ministers from the G7 countries are exploring ways to use the future income from frozen Russian assets to provide funding for Ukraine. The G7 has frozen around $300 billion of Russian financial assets since 2022, and discussions are ongoing about how to utilize these assets to benefit Ukraine. Details on the plan, including the exact amount and mechanism for utilizing these assets, are yet to be finalized, but the issue will be further discussed at a G7 summit in mid-June.

May 24

United States State Department Announces $275M Aid Package for Ukraine

The State Department has announced a new aid package for Ukraine, totaling $275 million, which includes a variety of weapons and equipment such as ammunition for high mobility artillery rocket systems, artillery rounds, missiles, javelins, tactical vehicles, body armor, and protective equipment. This is the 5^th aid package authorized by the Biden administration since signing the National Security Supplemental.

Estonia Offers 650,000 Euros in Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine

Estonia will provide over 650,000 euros in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, focusing on supporting the educational system in frontline areas and aiding children affected by the war. Part of the aid will go to Estonian nonprofit organizations to improve living conditions and provide mental health support for children.

May 23

EU to Allocate Interest from Russian Assets for Ukraine

On May 23, the EU has decided to allocate the interest earned from approximately 210 billion euros in frozen Russian central bank assets to Ukraine. This is expected to generate around 2.5 to 3 billion euros annually, which will be sent to Ukraine as cash and weapons. The EU’s decision marks a significant move to financially support Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. However, the debate continues over the potential use of the principal amount, with various legal and political challenges hindering further action.

The Netherlands and several allies will spend €175 million on additional military equipment for Ukraine, focusing on defense against air attacks and at sea. The purchase is part of the International Fund for Ukraine, led by the UK Ministry of Defence and supported by several countries.

May 21

EU Pushes to Begin Ukraine Membership Talks by Late June Amid Hungary’s Concerns

EU officials are pushing to begin formal negotiations for Ukraine’s membership by June 25, 2024. The discussions are focused on persuading Hungary to drop its opposition, primarily related to concerns about Hungarian minorities in Ukraine. Diplomats are working to address these issues, with a potential deal to be finalized before Hungary assumes the EU Council presidency on July 1.

Canada Imposes Additional Sanctions in Response to Russian Aggression Against Ukraine

Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, announced the imposition of additional sanctions on two individuals and six entities under the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations. These sanctions target those involved in the illegal transportation of weapons, including ballistic missiles, from North Korea to Russia, which were then used in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

May 20

Poland Arrests Nine Suspects Over Alleged Russian Sabotage Plot

Poland has arrested 9 individuals accused of being part of a Russian spy ring involved in sabotage plots in Poland and possibly other countries. Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that the suspects, including Ukrainian, Belarusian, and Polish citizens, were implicated in acts of sabotage such as beatings, arson, and attempted arson. The alleged plots also extend to Lithuania, Latvia, and possibly Sweden. Tusk announced a strengthening of Polish intelligence services and increased funding for counter-espionage efforts in response to these activities.

May 18

Poland to Invest $2.5 Billion in Securing Eastern Border

On May 18, it is announced that Poland will invest 10 billion zlotys ($2.55 billion) to bolster its eastern border defenses amid rising threats from Russia and Belarus. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the plan, which includes fortifications, landscaping, and environmental measures to prevent illegal crossings. This follows a previous government initiative that built a fence along the Polish-Belarusian border. Additionally, Tusk will seek 500 million zlotys from the European Investment Bank to support the European Sky Shield Initiative for enhanced air defense.

May 17

Zelensky Signs Law Allowing Certain Convicts to Serve in Ukrainian Military

Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a law permitting citizens convicted of certain charges to serve in the military. The law, passed by parliament, excludes those convicted of serious crimes such as premeditated murder, sexual violence, and drug trafficking. The move is part of Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its military amid ongoing conflict with Russia and could potentially enlist up to 20,000 convicts while easing prison overcrowding.

May 16

Increased Russian Drone Attacks Intensify Threats for Ukrainian Artillery in Kharkiv

Ukrainian artillery units in Kharkiv are facing an increased threat from Russia’s Lancet kamikaze drones. The 42nd Brigade, under heavy fire, has had to contend with numerous drone attacks. These drones, combined with reconnaissance units, are constantly surveilling and targeting Ukrainian positions.

May 15

US Announces $2 Billion in New Aid for Ukraine as Russian Forces Advance

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced $2 billion in additional military aid for Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv, as Russia continues its offensive, capturing three more settlements. The aid package aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense with ammunition, armored vehicles, missiles, and air defenses.

France to Deliver Additional Air Defense Missiles and Military Aid to Ukraine

France will soon send more air defense missiles and military aid to Ukraine, including a new batch of Aster missiles for the SAMP/T system, as confirmed by Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu. The specific details of the aid, announced following President Macron’s discussion with President Zelensky, remain undisclosed.

Latvia Allocates Additional $11 Million for Czech-Led Initiative to Support Ukraine

The Latvian government has committed an additional 10 million euros ($11 million) to a Czech-led initiative aimed at purchasing artillery shells for Ukraine. The initiative, which has received contributions from multiple countries, plans to deliver 1.5 million rounds to Ukraine. The first batch of ammunition is expected to arrive in June. Latvia’s funds will specifically help to buy over 3,000 rounds of 155 mm shells. Additionally, Latvia plans to provide significant military support to Ukraine through 2024 and 2025.

May 13

Blinken Visits Ukraine Amid New US Aid Deliveries

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Ukraine to offer strong reassurance as new American military aid, including air defense interceptors, artillery, and long-range ATACMS missiles, reaches the front lines. Blinken`s visit follows the approval of a $61 billion aid package from the U.S. Congress, overcoming previous partisan delays.

May 12

Putin Replaces Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu with Andrey Belousov

Russian President Vladimir Putin plans a major cabinet reshuffle, replacing Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu with economist Andrey Belousov. Shoigu, who has held the position since 2012, will become the secretary of the Security Council. The move follows the arrest of Shoigu’s deputy, Timur Ivanov, on bribery charges, seen as a precursor to Shoigu’s dismissal.

May 11

Hundreds Flee Kharkiv Region After Russian Cross-Border Attack

Russian attacks in northeast Ukraine have led to the evacuation of nearly 1,800 people from the Kharkiv area, with heavy fighting continuing near the border. Ukrainian officials report that Russia has seized five villages near Vovchansk, although this has not been independently verified. The attacks have caused significant destruction, prompting concerns of a larger offensive. The U.S. announced an additional $400 million in military aid for Ukraine, including air defense munitions and armored vehicles.

May 10

Canada Pledges $76 Million to Germany’s Air Defence Initiative for Ukraine

Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair announced a $76 million contribution to Germany’s Immediate Action on Air Defence (IAAD) initiative, aimed at quickly delivering air defense systems to Ukraine. This meeting with German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius also covered strengthening NATO’s defense posture in Eastern Europe and preparing for the upcoming NATO Summit. The contribution underscores Canada and Germany’s commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aerial attacks and enhancing their cooperative defense relationship.

Biden Administration Announces $400 Million in Additional Security Assistance for Ukraine

The Biden Administration announced a $400 million security assistance package for Ukraine, marking the 57th tranche since August 2021. This package includes critical battlefield support such as munitions for Patriot and NASAMS air defense systems, HIMARS, artillery rounds, armored vehicles, and anti-tank weapons. The assistance aims to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities amidst ongoing Russian aggression.

Russian Forces Open New Front in Kharkiv Region with Armored Ground Attack

On May 10, Russian forces launched an armored ground assault near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, marking a new front in the ongoing war. Ukraine’s defense ministry reported reinforcements sent to border areas as fighting intensified. Russia targeted the frontier town of Vovchansk with guided aerial bombs and artillery, making small advances. President Zelensky affirmed Ukraine’s readiness to counter the assault.

May 9

President Metsola Visits Ukraine on Europe Day, Reaffirms EU Support

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola visited Kyiv on Europe Day, meeting with Ukrainian leaders and reaffirming the EU’s support for Ukraine’s path to EU membership. She discussed Ukraine’s EU accession, defense needs, and ongoing support, while receiving an Order of Merit from President Zelensky. Metsola also highlighted the urgent need for air defense systems and reconstruction funding, and she addressed the Verkhovna Rada, emphasizing Europe’s commitment to Ukraine’s future within the EU.

Sweden Allocates €28 Million to Support Ukraine’s Defense Capabilities

The Swedish government has allocated €28 million to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities. This includes €18 million to three coalitions within the Ukraine Defence Contact Group and €10 million to the NATO fund for Ukraine. The funds will strengthen areas such as drone capabilities, mine clearance, and the Ukrainian Navy. Swedish Defence Minister Paul Johnson emphasized the continued support and potential transfer of the Patriot air defense system to Ukraine.

May 8

UK Strengthens Ukraine Energy Support Fund with Additional €23 Million

The United Kingdom has pledged an additional €23 million to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund, managed by the Energy Community Secretariat and co-chaired by the European Commission. This brings the UK’s total contributions to €50 million over two years. The fund is aimed at repairing and strengthening Ukraine’s energy infrastructure damaged by Russian attacks.

UK to Expel Russian Defence Attaché Amid Escalating Sanctions

The UK will expel Russian defence attaché Col Maxim Elovik, identified as an “undeclared military intelligence officer,” and remove diplomatic status from several Russian-owned premises. Home Secretary James Cleverly announced these measures in response to a pattern of “malign activity” by Russia across The UK and Europe. The UK will also impose new restrictions on Russian diplomatic visas. This marks the first expulsion of a Russian defence attaché by the UK since the Cold War.

EU Agrees to Use Profits from Russia’s Frozen Assets to Aid Ukraine

The EU has agreed to use €4.4 billion in profits from Russia’s frozen assets to support Ukraine with both military and non-lethal aid. This decision follows a compromise on taxation and management fees in Belgium, where most of the assets are held. The agreement allocates 90% of the funds for weapons and 10% for non-lethal aid, addressing concerns from EU member states opposed to funding arms. The funds are expected to be available by July.

May 7

Denmark Announces New Humanitarian Support Package for Ukraine

Denmark has launched a €33,5 million humanitarian aid package for Ukraine, focusing on urgent relief for vulnerable groups affected by the war. The aid includes food, medicine, water, and shelter, with particular attention to children and women at risk of sexual and gender-based violence. The support will be distributed through Danish civil society partners, the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, UNHCR, UNICEF, and UNFPA.

Latvia Donates €100,000 Worth of Communication Equipment to Ukraine as Part of IT Coalition

Latvia has donated €100,000 worth of communication equipment to Ukraine, enhancing operational efficiency along the frontline. This contribution, part of the IT Coalition within the Defense Contact Group led by Estonia and Luxembourg, aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities in IT, communications, and cybersecurity. Deputy Minister Kateryna Chernohorenko highlighted the significance of international support. The Netherlands has also joined the coalition, providing advanced unmanned technology to Ukraine.

May 6

EU Proposes 14th Sanctions Package Against Russia

The European Commission has drafted a 14th sanctions package against Russia, targeting liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports and several LNG projects. It includes bans on transshipping Russian LNG at European ports and sanctions on Russia’s “shadow fleet” transporting oil against EU restrictions. Additionally, the proposal restricts Russian-owned transport companies, non-EU firms aiding Russia, and bans Russia from funding political entities. There are also export bans on manganese ore, mining machinery, and helium imports. This follows the 13th package approved in February 2024.

Russia Captures Two Frontline Villages in Ukraine’s Kharkiv and Donetsk Regions

Russia’s Defense Ministry announced that its forces captured the villages of Kotlyarivka in the Kharkiv region and Soloviove in the Donetsk People’s Republic. These gains are part of ongoing efforts to advance in eastern Ukraine, where Kyiv faces ammunition shortages and intense shelling. Ukraine’s military has been building new fortifications in response to these advances.

EU to Open Defence Innovation Office in Kyiv

The European Union has begun preparations to open a Defence Innovation Office in Kyiv, as announced by European Commissioner Thierry Breton at the EU-Ukraine Defence Industries Forum. This initiative aims to strengthen EU-Ukraine defense industry ties and support Ukrainian armed forces with innovative technologies from European start-ups. The office will act as a bridge between EU innovators and Ukrainian defense companies.

May 5

Russia Adds Zelensky to Criminal ‘Wanted’ List

Russia has added Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to its criminal “wanted” list, according to the Russian Interior Ministry’s database. The listing states Zelensky is wanted under an unspecified article of the criminal code. This move is part of ongoing tensions since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

May 3

Macron: France Could Send Troops to Ukraine Under Certain Conditions

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that France might send troops to Ukraine if Russia breaches Ukrainian front lines and if Ukraine requests assistance. His remarks emphasize the threat posed by Russia to European security. Macron highlighted the necessity of preventing a Russian victory in Ukraine, warning that a defeat could lead Russia to target other European countries.

May 2

Russia Claims Capture of Berdychi in Eastern Ukraine

Russia announced the capture of Berdychi in eastern Ukraine, marking another incremental advance in the region. Ukrainian forces have retreated from Berdychi and nearby villages to protect their troops. This gain is part of Russia’s efforts to secure more territory before U.S. military aid arrives in Ukraine. The area around Berdychi remains a highly contested frontline, with Ukrainian commander Oleksandr Syrsky acknowledging Russia’s tactical successes in the region.

David Cameron Pledges £3bn Annual Aid to Ukraine for As Long As Necessary

UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron committed £3bn annually to support Ukraine “for as long as necessary” during his second visit to Kyiv. This pledge, the largest since Russia’s 2022 invasion, includes precision-guided bombs, air defense missiles, and equipment for 100 mobile air defense teams. Additionally, the UK will double its domestic munitions production with a £10bn investment over ten years.

May 1

US Sanctions Over 280 Individuals and Entities Amid Russia’s Ongoing Aggression

The U.S. has sanctioned over 280 individuals and entities to penalize Russia for its foreign aggression and internal repression. This includes over 80 entities and individuals related to energy development, sanctions evasion, and supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. Sanctions were also imposed for Russia’s use of chemical weapons against Ukrainian troops and for involvement in Aleksey Navalny’s death. These measures target entities involved in Russia’s energy, metals, and mining sectors, as well as those aiding its war against Ukraine.