**Ukraine Claims Attacks on Russia**
Ukrainian troops have attacked Russian forces in several directions in Kursk Oblast, according to Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s counter-disinformation center. This was reported on January 5.
Russian pro-war Telegram channels have also echoed this statement, saying that a new Kyiv offensive is underway. However, the Ukrainian military has not publicly confirmed any new operations in Kursk Oblast.
**Russia Recaptures Territory**
Recently, Ukraine had launched an offensive in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, achieving initial success. However, in recent months, Russia has reportedly recaptured half of the lost territory and deployed reinforcements, including North Korean troops.
The White House said on December 27 that North Korean soldiers suffered over 1,000 casualties in Kursk Oblast over the past week alone as they carried out “human wave” assaults with little effect.
**Other Developments**
Ukrainian forces have also been active in other areas. The Ukrainian Kraken unit killed Sergei Melnikov, the chief of staff of Russia’s Storm Ossetia battalion, and his driver in the occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast in late December.
Additionally, Ukrainian air defenses downed 61 out of 103 drones launched by Russia overnight, with another 42 drones “lost.” This includes 1,730 casualties Russian forces suffered just over the past day.
**International Developments**
Georgian citizens are being urged to participate in a nationwide strike on January 15 to demand the release of detained protestors and call for new elections.