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During his year-end message, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a possible peace deal was ninety percent ready. "The deal is 90% complete, ten percent remains," he said. "And that is far more than simply figures."

A Deal Requires Robust Guarantees, Not a Weak Ceasefire

The president emphasized that Ukraine seeks peace but not at "any cost". "What does our nation desires? An end to hostilities? Yes. At any cost? No," he declared. "Our goal is a conclusion to the conflict but not the end of Ukraine."

"Are we tired? Extremely. Does that imply we are prepared to capitulate? Any person who believes that is profoundly mistaken," Zelenskyy added.

He voiced skepticism about Russian aims, stating that should forces withdrew from the eastern Donbas, the conflict would not necessarily cease. "Withdraw from the eastern regions, and everything will end. That is how deception translates," he commented.

European Leaders to Plan Post-War Security

In related news, French leader Emmanuel Macron announced that EU allies and partners meeting in Paris in early January will establish solid pledges towards ensuring the security of Ukraine following a potential agreement with Moscow is reached.

Cross-Border Strikes Reported

At the same time, reports of hostile strikes persisted. A source from Ukraine's security service said that Ukraine's unmanned aerial vehicles hit an oil depot in the Russian city of Rybinsk, sparking a significant fire.

In southern Ukraine, a Russian-launched drone attack struck residential blocks and energy infrastructure in Odesa, wounding six people, among them children. Officials confirmed four buildings were damaged and considerable harm was caused to two power facilities.

Disputed Claims Over Aerial Incident

Regarding recent claims of a UAV strike aimed at a residence of Russian leader, American and European authorities agree that Ukraine was not behind the incident. A report stated that US security agencies concluded the alleged attack "did not happen".

Reacting, The Russian defence ministry published a footage claiming to show debris of a destroyed Ukrainian drone. A Ukrainian foreign ministry ridiculed the footage as "laughable" and suggested it showed a lack of seriousness in creating the narrative.

EU Official Labels Claims a "Diversion"

The EU's top diplomat described Russia's claims "an intentional diversion". "No one should believe unfounded allegations from the aggressor," she said.

Other Developments

• North Korean Involvement: The DPRK's leader, Kim Jong-un, according to state media hailed troops serving in an "alien territory" in a new year's address. Intelligence assessments suggest North Korea has sent a significant number of troops to support Russia's military campaign in the region.
• Restrictions Reprieve: The US have according to a minister granted a temporary reprieve from restrictions to a Serbian, largely Russian-controlled energy firm until 23 January. This entity operates the country's sole refinery.