**Ukrainian Lawmaker Apologizes for Pro-Russian Comments**
Ukrainian lawmaker Yuriy Boyko has apologized for his previous comments that were seen as pro-Russian. In a video on TikTok, he said that he did not want his words to be used by Russia or President Vladimir Putin to justify their aggression against Ukraine.
Boyko’s apology came after he was questioned by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) over his earlier statement. He said that he wanted to unite Ukrainians and focus on defeating the foreign enemy, rather than having internal differences.
**NATO Takes Charge of Western Military Aid**
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has taken responsibility for coordinating Western military aid to Ukraine. This move was reported by Reuters on December 17, citing sources.
Meanwhile, a survey found that 55% of respondents in Ukraine prioritize ending the conflict over maintaining territorial integrity. This number has increased from 39% in September and 26% in April.
**Zelensky Speaks Out**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine is a strong country and has proven it on the battlefield. He also stated that Poland’s EU presidency will open at least two clusters, with six in total.
**Other Developments**
* The United Kingdom sanctioned 20 vessels of Russia’s “shadow fleet” and pledged £35 million to repair Ukraine’s energy grid.
* Russian forces have been conducting intensive offensive operations in Kursk Oblast, using North Korean units.
* Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces killed 50 North Korean soldiers and injured 47 others in three days of fighting in Russia’s Kursk Oblast.
* South Korea imposed sanctions on individuals and entities involved in illegal military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.