**Russia’s War on Ukraine**
The war between Russia and Ukraine is expected to continue into late 2025 or early 2026, according to the International Monetary Fund. This projection comes as former US President Donald Trump announced that Russian leader Vladimir Putin wants to meet with him “as soon as possible”.
**Military Developments**
In recent days, there have been several key military developments in the conflict. Ukrainian artillery has successfully stopped a large-scale infantry attack by North Korean troops near Cherkasskoe. Additionally, a high-rise building in Brovary was damaged during a nighttime drone attack.
The Russian Armed Forces have suffered significant losses since the start of the invasion. As of December 22, their approximate losses include:
* 774,100 personnel
* 9,609 tanks
* 19,870 armored vehicles
* 21,284 artillery systems
* 1,256 multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS)
* 1,027 anti-aircraft systems
* 369 aircraft
* 329 helicopters
* 20,735 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
* 2,947 cruise missiles
* 28 warships and boats
* 1 submarine
* 31,972 vehicles and fuel tanks
**Cyberattacks**
A Russian cyberattack has limited Ukrainian banks’ ability to open accounts and issue loans. The National Bank of Ukraine reported that the attack on government registries has affected their operations.
**International Response**
Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy believes that Ukraine can join NATO, but will need to convince its allies to make it happen. Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Meloni warned that Russia will remain a challenge even after the conflict in Ukraine ends.
The US Republicans have rejected Ukraine’s hesitance to hold elections, according to a DC expert. The EU is set to introduce new sanctions targeting Russian propagandists and the economy.
**Humanitarian Concerns**
A Georgian volunteer died defending Ukraine in Kursk Oblast. Additionally, five Ukrainian prisoners were shot by Russian forces, bringing the 2024 toll to nearly double that of the previous two years combined.
The Ukrainian government has formed a military unit to protect endangered cultural sites. Hungary’s leader is negotiating to preserve Russian gas transit through Ukraine.