The Kyiv Independent’s Francis Farrell sits down with Oleksii "Leo," a Ukrainian battalion commander with the legendary Azov Brigade, as it holds the line in one of the hottest sectors of the front in Donetsk Oblast. They discuss Russia's rapid advances in the east, Ukraine's manpower shortage, and Azov's personnel practices, as well as potential scenarios for the future of the war — as Russia shows no signs of stopping and Ukraine refuses to capitulate.
The blast occurred as the soldier was opening the trunk of his car, the Kyiv City Prosecutor's Office said.
The Ukrainian army has eliminated more than 90,000 Russian troops over the past three months, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Jan. 5 after meeting with Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who is expected to lead the Defense Ministry soon.
The meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" will bring together leaders from around 30 countries to discuss long-term security arrangements for Ukraine.
"(Indian Prime Minister Narendra) Modi is a good guy. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy," U.S. President Donald Trump said.
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.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Jan. 4, Trump said: "We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security."
The Energia factory in Lipetsk Oblast produces components for Russian missiles and drones, including batteries for the Iskander ballistic missile system and cruise missiles.
Kyiv is ready for "both options," Zelensky said: the diplomatic track, or ongoing active defense against Russia. "Ukraine will never surrender," he said.
