**Russia Plans to Build Ring Road Around Azov Sea**
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to build a ring road around the Azov Sea. The road will pass through occupied territories in Ukraine, including Mariupol, Melitopol, and Henichesk.
The road is expected to run from Russia’s Rostov Oblast, through the occupied Ukrainian towns, and end at Dzhankoi in occupied Crimea. Moscow has already built a 40-kilometer segment between Taganrog and Mariupol.
Putin said that the roads will be brought up to Russian standards within three years. However, Ukraine cannot verify these claims.
**Russia’s Railroad Plans**
In addition to the ring road, Russia is building a railroad from Rostov-on-Don to Crimea. The railroad will pass through occupied Donetsk, Mariupol, and Berdiansk. This project could serve as an alternative to the Kerch Bridge, which connects Russia to Crimea.
Ukraine’s military intelligence warns that this railroad poses a serious problem for Ukraine and is an important target for Kyiv.
**New Medical Commissions in Ukrainian Hospitals**
Starting January 1, Ukraine will introduce new medical commissions in major hospitals. These commissions will assess people’s medical status using a modern system. This change aims to improve healthcare services in the country.
**More on the Conflict**
The Russian President also claimed that Russia’s new missile can’t be intercepted by air defenses. However, US officials say sanctions are having an effect on Russia, but not of key importance.
Ukraine reports over 100 North Korean troops killed fighting for Russia against Ukraine. Ukrainian forces have been successful in defending their territories, and air defenses have shot down 45 Shahed-type drones.
**Fire at Russian Oil Refinery**
A fire broke out at the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery in Russia’s Rostov Oblast following a mass drone and missile attack on December 19.
**Ukraine Seeks Air Defense and Security Guarantees**
President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Brussels for talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Ukraine seeks more air defense and effective security guarantees from its Western allies.
Ukraine is discussing ideas with European leaders about deploying European peacekeeping forces to the country.
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