The move comes as Zelensky lays the groundwork for either a peace deal and Ukraine's post-war reconstruction, or the continuation of the war, with recent appointments aimed at preparing the country for both.
Hello, this is Kateryna Hodunova reporting from Kyiv on day 1,412 of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Today's top story so far: Russian troops are trying to expand the combat zone near the state border area in Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts, Border Guard Service spokesperson Andrii Demchenko said on Jan. 5 on national television. The most active fighting is in the Khotyn and Yunakivka communities in Sumy Oblast, as well as the Vovchansk sector of the front line and near the settlements of D
Despite leading several of Ukraine's most consequential operations against Russia, Maliuk's tenure has been marked by controversy, particularly over his involvement in actions targeting anti-corruption bodies.
Russian troops are attempting to close in on Kupiansk from the north and east, aiming to solidify their presence on the western side of the Oskil River.
The move comes as Zelensky lays the groundwork for either a peace deal and Ukraine's post-war reconstruction, or the continuation of the war, with recent appointments aimed at preparing the country for both.
Russian forces launched 165 strike drones overnight, of which roughly 100 were Shahed-type drones, according to Zelensky. Two of the four wounded victims are in serious condition.
Russia had publicly accused Ukraine of launching 91 drones toward a residence used by Putin — a claim Putin personally conveyed to Trump during the phone call.
The Kyiv Independent’s Business Desk covers the biggest news in business, economics, and tech from Ukraine, as well as global developments that shape the economy of the region.
As 2026 opens, Vladimir Putin projects the image of a calm, confident leader. Although political maskirovka comes naturally from his KGB background, Putin very likely believes he is in a position of strength. He has good reason to, unfortunately, having sized up his foreign opponents and found them wanting. He sees no credible domestic threats to his power and thinks time is on his side. Accordingly, as he perceives it, Putin is in no mood to compromise. His strategy is to continue what he ha
