President Zelenskyy Declares The Nation Was Ten Percent Off from a Peace Deal, But Not at Any Cost

During his year-end address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a possible peace agreement was 90% complete. "The peace agreement is 90 percent ready, ten percent is left," he remarked. "This is much more than simply figures."

An Agreement Needs Robust Assurances, Not Fragile Ceasefire

Zelenskyy emphasized that his country seeks peace but would not accept it at "any possible price". "What does our nation desires? An end to hostilities? Absolutely. At any cost? No," he said. "We want a conclusion to the conflict but not the destruction of Ukraine."

"Are we exhausted? Very. Does this mean we are ready to surrender? Anyone who thinks so is deeply wrong," Zelenskyy added.

He expressed doubt about Russian aims, suggesting that even if troops withdrew from the Donbas region, the conflict would not necessarily end. "Withdraw from the eastern regions, and everything will end. That is how deception sounds," he commented.

EU Leaders to Discuss Post-Conflict Security

Separately, France's President Emmanuel Macron stated that EU allies and partners gathering in Paris in early January will make solid pledges towards protecting the country following a potential peace deal with Russia is reached.

Reciprocal Attacks Reported

At the same time, reports of military actions persisted. A source from Kyiv's security service reported that Ukraine's long-range drones struck an oil depot in the Russian city of Rybinsk, causing a significant fire.

In southern Ukraine, a Russian drone attack struck apartment buildings and energy infrastructure in Odesa, injuring several people, including minors. Officials confirmed four apartment buildings were affected and considerable damage was caused to two energy facilities.

Disputed Allegations Over Drone Attack

Regarding recent allegations of a drone attack targeting a residence of Russian leader, American and European officials agree that Ukrainian forces did not target the event. A report stated that US security agencies determined the alleged attack "never occurred".

Reacting, Russia's defence ministry published a video claiming to show debris of a downed Ukrainian-made unmanned aerial vehicle. An official from Ukraine's foreign ministry dismissed the footage as "absurd" and stated it demonstrated a lack of seriousness in creating the narrative.

EU Diplomat Labels Allegations a "Distraction"

The EU's top diplomat described Moscow's assertions "a deliberate diversion". "No one should believe baseless allegations from the aggressor," she remarked.

Other Developments

• DPRK Involvement: North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-un, according to state media praised troops serving in an "foreign territory" in a New Year address. Intelligence assessments suggest the country has sent a significant number of personnel to aid the Russian invasion in the region.
• Sanctions Reprieve: United States authorities have reportedly given a temporary reprieve from restrictions to a Serbian, majority Russian-owned energy firm until 23 January. The company manages the country's only refinery.