Ukraine Condemns Hungary‘s “Peacekeeping” Stance as Manipulative
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has criticized Hungary’s statements on the war in Ukraine, calling them unrealistic and manipulative. The ministry said that Hungarian officials are effectively asking Ukraine to surrender to Russian aggression while obstructing international efforts to support Kyiv.
Hungary’s foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, claimed that President Volodymyr Zelensky had declined a proposal for a Christmas ceasefire from Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. However, the Ukrainian ministry said that this statement does not reflect reality and that Hungary’s actual proposals are far from peacemaking.
Hungary has consistently criticized EU sanctions against Russia and blocked initiatives to provide military aid to Ukraine. The Ukrainian ministry accused Hungary of undermining collective efforts to achieve a just and sustainable peace.
North Korean Troops Join Russian Forces in Ukraine
Meanwhile, North Korean troops have joined combat operations in the Kursk Oblast, marking the first confirmed engagement of North Korean soldiers alongside Russian military. This development was announced by Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder on December 16.
Ukrainian Air Defenses Shoot Down 27 Drones Launched by Russia Overnight
Ukrainian air defenses shot down 27 of the 49 drones launched by Russia overnight, according to the Air Force. Nineteen drones were reportedly lost across the country thanks to electronic warfare countermeasures.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz Fails Confidence Vote in Germany
In other news, Chancellor Olaf Scholz failed a confidence vote in the Bundestag on December 16, paving the way for early parliamentary elections scheduled for February 23.