**Zelensky Blasts Putin’s Threats as a “High-Tech Duel”**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin‘s threat to use the new Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) against Kyiv. Putin proposed using the missile to test Western air defense systems, calling it a “high-tech duel”.
In a press conference in Brussels on December 19, Zelensky called Putin’s proposal a sign of weakness and a desperate attempt to intimidate the West.
“This is not a person who can be taken seriously,” Zelensky said. “He is just a thug.”
Putin had earlier threatened to use Oreshnik missiles to strike at “decision-making centers” in Kyiv.
**Ukraine Denounces Istanbul Agreement as Sham**
Zelensky also denounced Putin’s 2022 peace proposal, known as the Istanbul agreement, as a sham. The draft of the agreement was published by The New York Times in June.
Under the proposed deal, Ukraine would have had to surrender Crimea to Russia and abandon its aspirations to join NATO or any other military alliance. However, Kyiv would still be allowed to enter the EU.
“This is not an agreement, but a proposal to surrender our country,” Zelensky said.
**Ukraine Adapts to War Reality**
In contrast to Russia’s struggling economy, Ukraine has adapted well to the realities of full-scale war, according to The Economist.
The article highlights Ukraine’s resilience and ability to thrive despite Russian aggression.
“We are ready for any scenario,” a Ukrainian official said. “We will not be intimidated by Putin’s threats.”
**Russia’s Economy Faces Challenges**
Meanwhile, Russia faces increasingly unfavorable forecasts due to its involvement in the war with Ukraine.
“Everything that is happening in Syria is not a defeat for Russia,” Putin said.
However, experts warn that Russia’s economy may suffer long-term consequences due to its military actions.
“We are ready to face any challenge,” a Russian official said. “We will not be defeated by our enemies.”
**Russia’s Military Losses Mount**
In the ongoing war, Ukraine continues to make gains against Russian forces.
Ukrainian air defenses have shot down 45 of 85 Shahed–type drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles launched overnight.
At least 100 North Korean troops have been killed while fighting for Russia against Ukraine, according to a South Korean lawmaker.
**International Support**
The international community continues to provide support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
A package worth over $115 million has been provided to support Ukraine’s navy, including small boats and reconnaissance drones.
Ukraine is also discussing the potential deployment of European peacekeeping forces on its soil, President Zelensky said.
“We are grateful for the support we receive from our international partners,” a Ukrainian official said.