**Ukraine Tests New Missile, Receives $20 Billion Loan from US**
Ukraine has successfully tested a new missile called Ruta (Rue), President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on December 10. However, no details were given about the missile’s characteristics.
This news comes as Ukraine continues to develop its own missile capabilities. The country has already produced and deployed several home-grown missiles, including the Palianytsia and Peklo (Hell) hybrids. These advancements show a rapid growth in Ukraine’s missile program since Russia‘s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
**US Provides Loan Assistance to Ukraine**
On December 10, the US Treasury Department announced that it will provide $20 billion in loan assistance to Ukraine as part of a broader initiative supported by G7 countries. This is in addition to Western partners’ approval for using foreign-made missiles on Russia’s Kursk Oblast.
**Other Developments**
* Russian forces have occupied 2 square kilometers in Sumy and are advancing in the Kursk Oblast, according to recent map changes.
* There are reports that Russia may have transferred fighter jets to North Korea in exchange for soldiers.
* Poland intends to play an active role in European Union talks as it assumes presidency on January 1.
* Germany‘s Chancellor candidate has proposed closely coordinating Taurus missile deliveries with the US and Europe.
**Violence Continues**
Russian attacks across Ukraine killed at least three civilians and injured 14 over the past day, regional authorities reported. A Russian missile attack also injured 11 people in a town in Kharkiv Oblast.
**Surveys Show Shifts in Public Opinion**
A survey by New Europe Center found that Ukrainians’ trust in US President-elect Donald Trump has decreased to 44.6%, while their trust in incumbent President Joe Biden remains higher at around 54.1%.
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