Attacks by Russian forces continue in the Donbass region of Ukraine. The army chief fears an attack on Kiev. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is appealing for more weapons.
Despite Russia’s declaration of a unilateral ceasefire during the Orthodox Christmas festival, the country has in fact continued to attack. The attacks continued even after the festival. A heavy attack is underway on Soledar, near the city of Bakhmut, in eastern Ukraine, led by the mercenaries of Russia’s cousins. Despite the fact that the cities of Bakhmut and Soledar are not of such strategic importance, the behavior of the Bhagnar group is being questioned. The lack of coordination between these mercenaries and the Russian military has also been criticized.
Ukraine’s deputy defense minister, Hana Maliar, said Russia was launching renewed attacks despite Ukrainian forces maintaining control of the city. According to several sources in that country, the bodies of Russian soldiers are scattered on the battlefield and the wounded are not being rescued despite the severe winter. The Russian Foreign Ministry, however, did not mention any specific locations or casualties in the daily statement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his nightly video message that the country’s troops remained in control of the towns of Bakhmut and Soledar despite widespread destruction. According to him, the conflict in Soledar is giving the Ukrainian army some time in the rest of the country.
He appealed for more weapons and military equipment to the Western world. Zelenskiy discussed the matter with the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, the current president of the European Union, Petr Fiala. Britain is preparing to send battle tanks to Ukraine, according to media reports. After France, Germany and America, Poland is also thinking about sending tanks.
Ukraine’s military chief, General Valery Zaluzhny, has warned that Russia is preparing more troops for a renewed attack on Ukraine. According to him, Moscow may launch a direct attack on the capital Kiev this time.
Iran’s drones are being blamed for Russia’s partial military success in Ukraine. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said Iran is likely contributing to war crimes. The US administration has imposed sanctions on several individuals and companies associated with that country’s drone program. This time, Washington is preparing more steps to stop the production and export of drones.
