**Trump’s Peace Envoy to Visit Ukraine in Early January**
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that U.S. General Keith Kellogg, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump as Ukraine peace envoy, will visit the country before Trump’s inauguration in January.
According to Zelensky, the visit will take place in early January and will be followed by talks about what Kellogg had meant by his previous statements on potential Ukraine-Russia peace talks.
Kellogg recently told Fox News that he thinks both sides are ready for a peace agreement. However, Trump has not provided details on how he plans to end the war.
**Russia’s War Efforts**
Ukrainian air defenses have shot down 45 of the 85 Shahed-type drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles launched overnight. The Air Force reported that 40 drones were lost across Ukraine thanks to electronic warfare countermeasures.
In Russia, a fire broke out at an oil refinery in Rostov Oblast following a mass drone and missile attack. Russian forces suffered 1,530 casualties just over the past day.
**International Support**
The U.S., U.K., and Japan have pledged funding for Ukraine’s navy and defense against drones. The package includes equipment such as small boats, reconnaissance drones, and counter-drone electronic warfare systems worth over $164 million.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Brussels to discuss air defense with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. He also met with European leaders about the potential deployment of European peacekeeping forces to Ukraine.
**North Korean Missiles Found in Ukraine**
Researchers have examined remnants of four North Korean missiles recovered in Ukraine in July and August. One of them had marks showing it was procured in 2024, according to a researcher.
**Other Developments**
A Russian ice hockey player was convicted on charges of espionage by a Polish court and sentenced to nearly three years in prison.
Ukraine is discussing the potential deployment of European peacekeeping forces with European leaders. The country is also receiving international funding for its defense against drones and missiles.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com