Russia Loses Troops and Equipment in Ukraine
Russia has lost a large number of troops, tanks, and equipment since its invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022. According to the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, Russia has lost 774,100 troops. This includes 1,820 casualties over just one day.
Russia has also lost a significant amount of military equipment. The report states that Russia has lost 9,609 tanks, 19,870 armored fighting vehicles, and 31,972 vehicles and fuel tanks. Additionally, Russia has lost 21,284 artillery systems, 1,256 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,030 air defense systems, 369 airplanes, 329 helicopters, 20,735 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine.
The war in Ukraine is expected to be the deadliest year yet, with over 20,000 deaths confirmed since February 24, 2022. However, final conclusions cannot be made as data on casualties continues to emerge.
Ukrainian Drone Attack in Russia
On December 22, Ukrainian drones attacked an oil depot in the suburbs of Oryol, a city in western Russia. The attack caused a fire to break out, according to Oryol Oblast Governor Andrey Klychkov.
Heavyweight Boxing Championship
Oleksandr Usyk, a Ukrainian boxer, defeated Tyson Fury from the UK by unanimous decision on December 22. This victory allows Usyk to retain his unified heavyweight championship title.
Incident in Germany
A car plowed into a crowd at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany on December 20. The incident has claimed five lives and left over 200 people injured, many of them critically. A Ukrainian woman is in serious condition after the incident.
Meeting Between President Zelensky and CIA Director Burns
President Volodymyr Zelensky met with CIA Director William Burns in Ukraine on December 21. This meeting was a rare public acknowledgment of their discussions during Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Russian Embassy Criticizes UK Plan
The Russian embassy in London has criticized the UK’s plan to transfer over $2.5 billion from frozen Russian assets to Ukraine. The embassy called this plan a “fraudulent scheme”.
Critical Air Defense Situation in Serbia
A source told the Guardian that the air defense situation was reaching a critical level in Serbia. This is because of doubts about its ability to function effectively.
Ukraine Rejects Transit Agreement for Russian Gas
Ukraine has said it will not extend the transit agreement for Russian gas through its territory, which is set to expire on December 31.
Debt Brake Reform in Germany
Boris Pistorius has come out in favor of a reform of the debt brake in order to increase funding for military defense in Germany.