**European Powers May Send 100,000 Peacekeeping Troops to Ukraine**
If a ceasefire is reached in Ukraine, European nations may consider deploying 100,000 peacekeeping troops to the country. This would be their largest military deployment to date and aims to guarantee Ukraine’s security.
**Russia Loses Hundreds of North Korean Soldiers in Ukraine**
According to US defense officials, Russia has lost “a couple hundred” North Korean soldiers in recent fighting against Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. The North Koreans were largely unprepared for modern warfare tactics and suffered devastating casualties due to their outdated combat approach and unfamiliarity with drone warfare.
**Ukrainian Forces Make Gains Against Russian Troops**
Ukrainian drones have struck key military facilities in Russia, targeting areas such as Rostov Oblast. Ukrainian forces also downed 51 out of 81 Russian drones overnight. Meanwhile, Russian attacks killed 3 people and injured 14 others in various parts of Ukraine.
**Russia Occupies Sontsivka in Donetsk Oblast**
Russia has occupied the town of Sontsivka in Donetsk Oblast, advancing near nine other locations. Ukrainian forces face a potential encirclement risk near Velyka Novosilka as Russia reduces the Vremivka salient.
**Losses Mount for Russian Armed Forces**
As of December 18, 2024, the Russian Armed Forces have suffered significant losses:
* Personnel: 766,690 (+1,580)
* Tanks: 9,571 (+4)
* Artillery systems: 21,164 (+5)
* Anti-aircraft systems: 1,025
* Aircraft: 369
* Helicopters: 329
* UAVs: 20,470 (+64)
**Ukraine’s Security Service Emerges as Key Lethal Force**
Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has transformed into a sophisticated force that regularly eliminates high-value targets deep within Russian territory.
**Germany to Transfer Equipment Repair Center to Ukraine**
Germany will transfer an equipment repair center for the Armed Forces of Ukraine from Slovakia. This development could impact the speed and efficiency of returning repaired equipment to Ukraine’s front lines.
**UK Plans Long-Term Support for Ukraine**
The UK plans to provide long-term support for Ukraine, despite Russia’s nuclear threats. Britain’s defense chief has arrived in Kyiv with promises of sustained support through 2025.
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