**Russian Troops Close In On Ukrainian Forces**
A monitoring group called DeepState says Russian troops are closing in on Ukrainian forces near the village of Velyka Novosilka, located 74 kilometers from the regional center of Donetsk. This is according to a report from December 17.
DeepState’s map shows that Ukrainian troops in Makarivka, south of Velyka Novosilka, have been almost surrounded by Russian forces. Analysts warn that the situation around Makarivka is becoming more critical as Russian troops continue their advances.
**Russian Offensives**
A recent Russian raid on the village of Novyi Komar, just 4 kilometers north of Velyka Novosilka, was partially successful, with Russian forces reportedly entering the village. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi has described the ongoing Russian offensive as “one of the most powerful” since the start of Moscow’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
**Other Developments**
The United Kingdom has sanctioned 20 vessels from Russia’s “shadow fleet.” The British government has also pledged $44 million to help repair Ukraine’s energy grid. In a separate development, Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces have killed 50 North Korean soldiers and injured 47 others in three days of fighting in Russia’s Kursk Oblast.
**International Reaction**
The United States has warned that if North Korean troops cross the border into Ukraine to fight for Russia, it would mark a serious escalation in the war. The U.S. State Department Spokesperson also called on the international community to help Ukraine achieve a better negotiating position for possible future negotiations.
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