The article discusses the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting key developments in foreign affairs, military actions, and political events.
**Key Points:**
1. **Foreign Affairs**: The United States is seeking to maintain support for Ukraine under President-elect Trump by leveraging past strategies, bolstering alternative partnerships, and enhancing domestic defense capabilities.
2. **Military Actions**: Russia’s air attacks on Odesa have killed a woman and injured ten others, including a nine-year-old child. Other Russian attacks have injured at least eight civilians across frontline regions.
3. **Political Developments**:
* German Chancellor Scholz has called for peace in Ukraine during his first phone call with Putin in two years, despite Putin’s refusal to make concessions on Ukrainian territories.
* Trump insiders are frustrated with Elon Musk’s active role in the transition, accusing him of overstepping and pushing personal agendas.
* Kremlin policies signal Putin’s growing concern over long-term economic stability, including 21% interest rates and population growth plans.
4. **Denials and Criticisms**: Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has denied reports suggesting the country could develop nuclear weapons within months, emphasizing its commitment to international non-proliferation agreements. A Wall Street Journal article reveals deep tensions between Trump and Putin over Ukraine, despite their public display of a “warm” relationship.
5. **Humanitarian Concerns**: The sinking of a Russian landing ship in occupied Feodosia port resulted in the deaths of 34 Russian sailors.
**Sources:**
* Foreign Affairs
* Euromaidan Press
* NBC
* ISW (Institute for the Study of War)
* Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry
* Wall Street Journal
* Memorial (human rights organization)