**Russia Prepares for New Energy Strikes**
Russia is stockpiling missiles and drones to attack Ukraine’s energy grid. This comes despite Ukrainian counter-strikes that have disrupted Russian drone supplies. Russia’s Kh-101 and Kalibr missiles are being stored in preparation for new attacks.
**Losses Mount for Russian Forces**
As of December 30, the approximate losses of weapons and military equipment of the Russian Armed Forces from the start of the invasion to the present day include:
* Personnel: 787,940
* Tanks: 9,663
* Artillery systems: 21,494
* UAVs: 20,069
**Ukraine Receives Aid Packages**
The US has provided a $1.85 billion aid package to Ukraine, which includes military equipment and funding for the Ukrainian government.
**New Developments in the War**
Ukraine’s exports have surged 13% to $41 billion, despite war damage. The country‘s economic recovery is gaining momentum through revitalized sea routes.
**Diplomatic Efforts Continue**
Ukraine has signaled a diplomatic thaw with Syria following the fall of Assad’s regime. This marks Ukraine’s first high-level engagement with Syria since severing diplomatic ties.
**Russian Aggression Continues**
The Slovak defense minister has acknowledged that Russia is an aggressor in the war, but emphasized that “Ukraine will always share its largest border with the Russian Federation.”
**War Crimes Uncovered**
Ukrainian investigators have identified a Russian commander responsible for killing a woman from a viral photo in Bucha. The commander was accused of ordering troops to shoot civilians.
**Finnish Probe Uncovers Cable Damage**
A Finnish probe has uncovered kilometers-long anchor drag marks in Baltic cable damage, which is suspected to be the result of Russia’s shadow fleet damaging subsea cables.