Inside Obukhiv’s high-stress draft patrols: An NV report from Ukraine’s mobilization front

"As Ukraine ramps up its wartime mobilization, NV spent several hours with a Territorial Recruitment Center (TCC) patrol team in Obukhiv — a town just south of Kyiv — to witness how conscripts are identified, how draft summonses are delivered, and why many of the officers carrying out these controversial orders are combat veterans who would rather be back at the front.

From 5 a.m. until noon, we shadowed a standard notification unit: two soldiers and two police officers. They staffed a checkpoint, stopped men of military age, checked IDs, and issued draft notices — all while fielding daily confrontations, distrust, and the recurring insult: “You should be out fighting instead.”
Even with permission from the head of the Obukhiv TCC, gaining access wasn’t easy. Officials initially kept us at arm’s length, citing concerns about “disrupting mobilization.” Officers say nearly every encounter ends in conflict.
During one stop, Cherkaskyi was called to verify a case where the database flagged a driver for failing to update his records. A summons was issued on the spot.
There’s no official daily quota, but there is a general plan, Cherkaskyi said. “If someone comes up in our system as ‘of interest,’ they’re called in. If we find a violation, we bring them to the TCC to verify it. If confirmed, a case file is opened.”
If a person is eligible for mobilization and medically fit, he added, they may be called up for service. In the Obukhiv district alone, hundreds are mobilized each month." NV

Russia expands year-round conscription, moves to call up more reservists

"Russia is stepping up forced mobilization of reservists. Kremlin’s current mobilization drive — likely aimed at deploying these reservists against Ukraine — highlights growing difficulty in sustaining its recruitment needs." NV

Three killed in Sweden as Storm Johannes sweeps across Nordic countries

"A powerful winter storm named Johannes swept across the Nordic countries over the

weekend, killing three people in Sweden and leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity across Sweden, Norway, and Finland. 

Sweden’s Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) issued widespread alerts for strong winds as the system moved north. The storm, known as Hannes in Finland, also caused major travel disruptions, grounding flights and halting rail and ferry traffic." W

Russians shell Kostiantynivka with tube artillery, civilian killed

"In Ukraine’s Donetsk region, Russian invaders shelled the town of Kostiantynivka with tube artillery, killing a civilian." Ukrin

Iranian protests expand beyond economy as students demand freedom, end to regime rule

"University students in different cities in Iran joined protests against the regime Tuesday by

chanting slogans that included “student, be the voice of your people,” and “death to Islamic Republic.”
The protests began Sunday in downtown Tehran as the Iranian currency hit a new low, but they have since expanded in size and scope, moving beyond the narrower cause of the economy to "freedom and equality" and an end to the regime, evident in the slogans protesters are chanting.
Many shop owners in two major malls in downtown Tehran and in other cities have closed their stores and joined the demonstrations, as severe uncertainty remains in the country’s currency trade market following a sharp decline in the value of the rial, the national currency.
Amid the widespread protests and the currency plunging to a new record low, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accepted the resignation of the head of the country's Central Bank on Monday, IRNA reported." msn

5.5 Earthquake - southwest of Isen, Kagoshima-ken, Japan

"A strong magnitude 5.5 earthquake occurred in the East China Sea near Tokuno Shima island,

Japan, in the afternoon at 5.12 pm local time (GMT +9). The depth of the quake could not be determined, but is assumed to be shallow.
The quake was felt widely in the area. The shallow depth of the quake caused it to be felt more strongly near the epicenter than a deeper quake of similar magnitude would." VD

'Bribes For Votes' Scheme Uncovered In Ukraine Parliament Involves Members Of Zelensky's Party

"Ukraine’s anti-corruption authorities have announced charges against members of an

organized crime group that operated in the Verkhovna Rada.
Among the suspects are five members of parliament from Volodymyr Zelensky’s party.
According to investigators’ findings, MPs were paid to influence decisions made in the legislative chamber in a persistent and well-organized manner.
In an official statement posted on Telegram, NABU announced that, in cooperation with SAP, an undercover investigation had identified an organized criminal group that included serving members of Ukraine’s parliament.
The investigation’s findings indicate that members of this group accepted illegal benefits in exchange for votes in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine." ZH

5.3 Earthquake - Departamento de Chuquisaca, 75 km northeast of Villamontes, Bolivia

"A strong magnitude 5.3 earthquake hit 75 km (47 mi) away from Villamontes, Departamento de Tarija, Bolivia, in the afternoon at 4.26 pm local time (America/La Paz GMT -4). The quake had a great depth of 547 km (340 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)." VD

142 clashes along frontline

"In the Northern Slobozhanshchyna and Kursk sectors, the enemy conducted two air strikes, dropped five aerial bombs, and carried out 60 shelling attacks on Ukrainian positions and populated areas, including two attacks using multiple-launch rocket systems.
In the Southern Slobozhanshchyna sector, Ukrainian troops repelled eight enemy attacks near the settlements of Vovchansk, Vovchanski Khutory, Starytsia, and toward Izbytske and Lyman.

In the Kupiansk sector, the enemy made four attempts to dislodge Ukrainian units from their positions in the directions of the settlements of Bohuslavka, Pishchane, and Shyikivka. One battle is still ongoing.
In the Lyman sector, Russian forces carried out 10 attacks, attempting to advance near the settlements of Zarichne, Novoselivka, Yampil, and toward Novoserhiivka, Drobyshcheve, Stavky, and Druzheliubivka.
In the Sloviansk sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled three enemy attacks near Dronivka and toward Platonivka.
No enemy offensive actions were recorded in the Kramatorsk sector.
In the Kostiantynivka sector, the enemy attempted to break through Ukrainian defenses 17 times near Oleksandro-Shultyne, Shcherbynivka, Pleshchiivka, Kleban-Byk, and toward Kostiantynivka, Stepanivka, Novopavlivka, and Sofiivka.
Throughout the day in the Pokrovsk sector, Russian forces carried out 28 assault and offensive actions near the settlements of Rodynske, Chervonyi Lyman, Rivne, Pokrovsk, Myrnohrad, Udachne, Molodetske, Filiia, and toward Sukhetske, Hryshyne, and Novopavlivka. Fighting is currently ongoing in three locations.
In the Oleksandrivka sector, Ukrainian defenders stopped 11 enemy attacks near the settlements of Yalta, Sichneve, Vyshneve, Pryvillia, Zlahoda, Rybne, and toward Oleksandrohrad and Danylivka. Velyka Mykhailivka was hit by an air strike.
In the Huliaipole sector, 22 combat engagements were recorded near the settlements of Solodke, Huliaipole, Bilohiria, and toward Varvarivka. Two engagements are still ongoing. Enemy air strikes targeted Zaliznychne, Boikove, and Sviatopetrivka.
In the Orikhiv sector, the enemy conducted no offensive actions throughout the day but carried out guided aerial bomb strikes on the settlements of Orikhiv and Zaporizhzhia.
In the Prydniprovske sector, Russian troops made two attempts to advance near the Antonivskyi Bridge but failed." Ukrin

Ukrainian drone attack on Putin residence

"Russian officials have denounced a Ukrainian drone attack on President Vladimir Putin’s

state residence as an act of “state terrorism,” saying it sought to sabotage ongoing peace efforts between Moscow and Washington.
Moscow revealed late on Monday that the Ukrainian military had fired a barrage of 91 long-range kamikaze drones overnight at Putin’s residence in Novgorod Region. All of the UAVs were downed by air defenses. The Kremlin said the “reckless terrorist actions” by Ukrainian forces “will, naturally, not be without consequences, [without] the most serious response.” US President Donald Trump said he was “very angry” about the attack. Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky has strongly denied the attack." RT

5.1 Earthquake - Solomon Sea, 116 km south of Kokopo, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea

"A strong magnitude 5.1 earthquake occurred in the Solomon Sea near the coast of Papua New
Guinea in the evening at 9.40 pm local time (GMT +10). 

The depth of the quake could not be determined, but is assumed to be shallow.

The quake was reported felt by some people near the epicenter." VD

136 clashes on front lines

"136 combat engagements were recorded between Ukraine's Defense Forces and Russian invaders along the front line.
In the Northern Slobozhanshchyna and Kursk sectors, Ukrainian troops repelled two enemy assaults. In addition, the enemy carried out 68 shelling attacks on the positions of Ukrainian forces and populated areas.
In the Southern Slobozhanshchyna sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled nine attacks near Vovchansk, Starytsia, Prylipky, and toward the settlement of Izbytske.
In the Kupiansk sector, the enemy made five attempts to dislodge Ukrainian units from their positions near the settlement of Pishchane and toward Petropavlivka.
In the Lyman sector, the enemy carried out nine attacks, trying to advance in the areas of Kolodiazi, Zarichne, and toward Yampil. Three combat engagements are still ongoing.
In the Sloviansk sector, Ukrainian troops repelled two enemy attacks near Dronivka, with one more battle still underway.
No offensive actions by the enemy were recorded in the Kramatorsk sector.
In the Kostiantynivka sector, the enemy attempted 16 times to break through Ukrainian defenses in the areas of Oleksandro-Shultyne, Shcherbynivka, Pleshchiivka, Yablunivka, Rusyn Yar, and toward Kostiantynivka and Sofiivka.
Throughout the day in the Pokrovsk sector, the aggressor carried out 40 assault and

offensive actions in the areas of the settlements of Pankivka, Chervonyi Lyman, Rodynske, Myrnohrad, Novoekonomichne, Pokrovsk, Kotlyne, Udachne, Molodetske, Novoserhiivka, and toward Filiia. Fighting is currently ongoing at four locations.
According to preliminary estimates, Ukrainian forces neutralized 130 occupiers in this sector, including 70 killed. Eleven enemy motor vehicles and four UAV control antennas were destroyed. In addition, a tank, three more vehicles, four UAV control points, and 14 personnel shelters were damaged.
In the Oleksandrivka sector, Ukrainian defenders stopped 12 enemy attacks in the areas of the settlements of Tovste, Oleksandrohrad, Verbove, and Rybne.
In the Huliaipole sector, 22 combat engagements were recorded near the settlements of Solodke, Huliaipole, and Bilohiria. Three engagements are still ongoing.
In the Orikhiv sector, the enemy have launched two attacks near Stepove and Shcherbaky since the beginning of the day." Ukrin

Fires erupt across Kyiv after Russian overnight drone and missile strikes

"Russian forces carried out a large-scale overnight and morning drone and missile attack on

Kyiv and surrounding areas, causing fires across multiple districts of the capital, local authorities said on Dec. 27.
At least 11 people were injured in Kyiv, including two children, according to the Kyiv City Military Administration. Eight people were hospitalized, while others received medical assistance at the scene or on an outpatient basis, Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko said on Dec. 27." NV

Trump says significant progress made in talks after meeting with Zelensky

"President Donald Trump

said that substantial progress had been made in negotiations to end
the war following his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which took place at the Mar-a-Lago residence in the state of Florida on Sunday.
"We had a terrific meeting. We discussed a lot of things. As you know, I had an excellent phone call with President Putin. It lasted for over two hours. We discussed a lot of points. I do think we're getting a lot closer, maybe very close," Trump said." Ukrin

Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces smash Russian special forces hub in Donetsk region

"As a result of a strike by Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces on a command post and

deployment sites of special forces of Russia’s 14th Brigade of Military Intelligence (GRU) in the temporarily occupied village of Berdianske in Donetsk region, 51 invaders were killed and 74 more wounded.
As reported by Ukrinform, this was announced on Facebook by Commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces Robert “Madjar” Brovdi.
“More than 120 special forces soldiers of Russia’s 14th GRU Special Forces Brigade were eliminated/wounded as a result of a planned operation carried out overnight on December 26 by the ‘birds’ of the 1st Separate Center of the Unmanned Systems Forces in the settlement of Berdianske, temporarily occupied territory of Donetsk region, according to confirmed operational information,” the post reads." Ukrin

5.0 Earthquake - South Pacific Ocean, 48 km west of Chimbote, Ancash, Peru

"A strong magnitude 5.0 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean near the coast of Peru in the late afternoon at 6.19 pm local time (GMT -5). The quake had a shallow depth of 68 km (42 mi) and was felt by many near the epicenter." VD

Syrian Mass Anti-Government Protests Result In Several Alawites Gunned Down

"Syrian citizens of the Alawite minority sect took to the streets on Sunday to protest against government violence and sectarian persecution, in line with a call made by the community’s religious leader a day earlier.

Members of the minority sect protested in the Alawite neighborhoods of the central governorate of Homs, and in several towns and cities on the country’s coast, including Tartous, Jableh, and Latakia. Protests also erupted in Hama governorate, including in the city of Masyaf. Alawite Syrians held up banners reading "Federalism is the solution" and "the blood of Alawites is not cheap," among other slogans.
The protesters also expressed anger over the killing of eight Alawite civilians and the injury of over a dozen others in a terror blast at a mosque a few days earlier.
According to local media reports, government forces have attacked protesters in several areas, firing live ammunition to disperse crowds and making arrests at random. Reuters reports that "Three people were killed on Sunday when protests in Syria's Alawite heartland of Latakia spiraled into gunfire and other violence, according to the province's media office." ZH

209 combat clashes on frontline

"Ukrainian Defense Forces engaged in 209 combat clashes with Russian invaders.
Russian aviation targeted settlements of Pidhavrylivka, Pokrovske, Havrylivka in Dnipropetrovsk region, Varvarivka, Verkhnia Tersa, Rizdvianka, Vozdvyzhivka, Zaliznychne, Liubytske in Zaporizhzhia region.

Ukrainian artillery hit two clusters of enemy personnel, weapons, and military equipment.
In the Northern Slobozhanshchyna and Kursk sectors, five clashes occurred; Russian invaders launched two airstrikes dropping four guided aerial bombs, and 103 artillery strikes including one MLRS strike.
In the Southern Slobozhanshchyna sector, Russian forces conducted seven attacks near Starytsia, Prylipka, and toward Hryhorivka and Izbytske.
In the Kupiansk sector, there were three clashes; Ukrainian forces repelled assaults toward Kupiansk, Pishchane, and Mala Shapkivka.
In the Lyman sector, Russians carried out 14 attacks attempting to breach Ukrainian defenses near Novoselivka, Zarichne, Myrne, and toward Lyman, Zakitne, Druzheliubivka, Dibrova, Ozerne, and Drobysheve.
In the Sloviansk sector, four enemy assaults were stopped near Serebrianka.
In the Kramatorsk sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled one Russian attack near Minkivka.
In the Kostiantynivka sector, Russian forces conducted 26 attacks near Kostiantynivka, Oleksandro-Shultyne, Pleshchiivka, Shcherbynivka, Rusyn Yar, Yablunivka, Kleban-Byk, and toward Sofiivka, Stepanivka, Berestka.
In the Pokrovsk sector, Ukrainian forces halted 52 enemy assaults near Chervonyi Lyman, Myrnohrad, Novoekonomichne, Pokrovsk, Kotlyne, Udachne, Molodetske, Filiia, and toward Novopavlivka, Nove Shakhove, Rodynske, Serhiivka, Vilne.
In the Oleksandrivka sector, 22 clashes occurred near Yalta, Vyshneve, Rybne, Oleksandrohrad, and toward Iskra, Khoroshe, Nove Zaporizhzhia, Ivanivka, Sosnivka.
In the Huliaipole sector, Ukraine’s Defense Forces stopped 19 enemy attempts near Huliaipole, Solodke, Dorozhnianka, Bilohiria, and toward Varvarivka.
In the Orikhiv sector, Ukrainian forces halted nine attacks near Shcherbaky, Mala Tokmachka, Stepove, Plavni, and toward Novoandriivka and Prymorske.
In the Prydniprovske sector, Russian forces carried out three unsuccessful attempts to approach Ukrainian positions." Ukrin

Russia's Syzran Oil Refinery under attack by Ukrainian drones

"Ukrainian drones attacked the Syzran Oil Refinery in Russia's Samara Oblast overnight.
The refinery was attacked multiple times in the night, the Exilenova-Plus Telegram channel reported, citing video footage from local residents. Locals posted videos of fire trucks heading to the refinery after explosions.
The strike may have hit the Syzran Oil Refinery's ELOU-AVT-5 installation, a primary oil processing facility at the plant." KI

Strong explosive activity at Etna opens new vent feeding lava flow toward Valle del Bove, Italy

"Etna’s eruptive activity intensified rapidly between December 24 and 27, 2025, culminating in short-lived lava fountains about 200 m (650 feet) high and a new lava flow from the upper Voragine crater toward the Valle del Bove. INGV Etna Observatory (OE) raised the Aviation Color Code to Red as tremor and infrasound amplitudes reached very high levels." W

6.2 Earthquake - South Pacific Ocean, 44 km west of Chimbote, Ancash, Peru

"A very strong magnitude 6.2 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean near the coast of

Ancash Region, Peru, in the evening at 9.51 pm local time (GMT -5). The quake had a shallow depth of 66 km (41 mi) and was felt over a large region. The shallow depth of the quake caused it to be felt more strongly near the epicenter than a deeper quake of similar magnitude would." VD

5.6 Earthquake - Departamento de Sarmiento, 38 km northwest of Anatuya, Departamento de General Taboada, Santiago del Estero Province, Argentina

"A strong magnitude 5.6 earthquake hit 38 km (24 mi) away from Anatuya, Santiago del Estero Province, Argentina, in the morning at 7.40 am local time (America/Argentina/Cordoba GMT -3). The quake had a great depth of 588 km (366 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)." VD

5.1 Earthquake - North Pacific Ocean, 299 km north of Chichijima Island, Japan

"A strong magnitude 5.1 earthquake occurred in the North Pacific Ocean 175 km (109 mi)
from Japan in the early morning at 2.44 am local time (GMT +9). The quake had a shallow depth of 46 km (29 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)." VD

62 clashes on front line

"Since the beginning of the day, 62 combat clashes have occurred between the Armed Forces of Ukraine and Russian troops.
Russian artillery again shelled border settlements, including Rohizne, Ulanove, and Hirky in the Sumy region.
In the Northern Slobozhanshchyna and Kursk sectors, the enemy carried out 62 shellings.
In the Southern Slobozhanshchyna sector, the Russian army attacked Ukrainian defensive positions four times near Starytsia, Vovchansk, Prylipka, and towards Hryhorivka. One clash is ongoing.

In the Kupiansk sector, the Ukrainian defenders repelled two enemy attacks towards Petropavlivka and Pishchane.
In the Lyman sector, the Russian army attacked six times near Serednie, Novoselivka, and towards Druzheliubivka, Stavky, and Drobysheve. Ukrainian forces have already stopped two attempts by the enemy to advance. Fighting continues in four locations.
In the Sloviansk sector, a battle is currently ongoing near Serebrianka.
In the Kramatorsk sector, the enemy attacked Ukrainian positions twice near Vasiukivka and Predtechyne.
In the Kostiantynivka sector, the Russian army launched 12 attacks near Kostiantynivka, Oleksandro-Shultyne, Pleshchiivka, and towards Sofiivka and Stepanivka. Three clashes are still ongoing.
In the Pokrovsk sector, the invaders made 19 attempts to push back Ukrainian defenders from current positions near Chervonyi Lyman, Myrnohrad, Pokrovsk, Kotlyne, Udachne, Molodetske, Filiia, and towards Nove Shakhove, Dorozhnye, Rodynske, and Hryshyne. One battle is ongoing.
In the Oleksandrivka sector, the enemy attacked seven times near Yalta, Vyshneve, Pryvilne, Rybne, and towards Andriivka-Klevtsove. Two clashes are still ongoing.
In the Huliaipole sector, Ukrainian defenders have already stopped three enemy advance attempts near Huliaipole and Bilohiria. Three clashes are still ongoing.
In the Orikhiv sector, Ukrainian forces repelled one enemy attack near Shcherbaky.
In the Prydniprovske sector, Ukrainian troops repelled two enemy attacks near the Antonivskyi Bridge." Ukrin

6.6 Earthquake - Philippine Sea near the coast of Okinawa, Japan

"A very strong magnitude 6.6 earthquake occurred in the Philippine Sea near the coast of Okinawa, Japan, late in the evening at 11.05 pm local time (Asia/Taipei GMT +8). The quake had a shallow depth of 68 km (42 mi) and was felt over a large region. The shallow depth of the quake caused it to be felt more strongly near the epicenter than a deeper quake of similar magnitude would." VD

Russia's mass missile attack targets Kyiv, injures 22 ahead of upcoming Trump-Zelensky meeting

"Kyiv came under a mass ballistic missile attack overnight after Russia launched several Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, Iskander ballistic missiles, and a group of Kalibr cruise missiles at the capital, monitoring channels reported.

At least 22 people were injured in Kyiv during the attack, including two children, Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported on the morning of Dec. 27. Of the wounded, 12 have been sent to the hospital.
The attack cut off heat to a third of the capital, including 2,600 residential buildings, 187 kindergartens, and 138 schools, Klitschko added. Engineers are working to restore power.
Drones and falling debris slammed into apartment blocks across the city, igniting fires that spread floor by floor. In one 18-story building in the city's Dniprovskyi district, a person is believed to be trapped under the rubble on the fifth floor, Klitschko said.
A fire was reported in the city’s Holosiivskyi district, while debris fell in the Obolonskyi and Desnianskyi districts." KI

Home Reef, Tonga

"Satellite images of Home Reef showed that new lobes of lava advanced in multiple directions

from a crater the center of the island. Flows to the E and SE each entered the ocean and extended the coastline by about 100 m. Near infrared data showed thermal anomalies over the summit; the 22 December image showed brighter areas over the at least six lava flows in all sectors except the SW.
Geologic summary: Home Reef, a submarine volcano midway between Metis Shoal and Late Island in the central Tonga islands." W

5.4 Earthquake - Indian Ocean, 19 km south of Pulau Enggano Island, Bengkulu, Indonesia

"A strong magnitude 5.4 earthquake occurred in the Indian Ocean near Pulau Enggano island,
Indonesia, in the morning at 8.10 am local time (Asia/Jakarta GMT +7). The quake had a very shallow depth of 22 km (14 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)." VD

5.6 Earthquake - Indian Ocean, 20 km south of Pulau Enggano Island, Bengkulu, Indonesia

"A strong magnitude 5.6 earthquake occurred in the Indian Ocean near Pulau Enggano island,
Indonesia, in the morning at 7.22 am local time (Asia/Jakarta GMT +7). The quake had a shallow depth of 39 km (24 mi) and was reported felt by some people near the epicenter." VD

Ukrainian ‘terrorist’ shot dead in Russia

"A Ukrainian agent who planned terrorist attacks in Russia has been shot dead while resisting arrest, the Federal Security Service (FSB) reported.
The suspect, born in Soviet Ukraine in the late 1970s and living in Kaluga, Russia, was

preparing bomb attacks against a natural gas storage facility and a defense plant parking lot, the FSB said. Acting on orders from Ukrainian special services, he had allegedly produced about 80kg of homemade explosives for the plot.
The agency reported that the suspect had also retrieved 300g of military-grade plastic explosives, fuses, and a handgun from a stash prepared by other Ukrainian assets. He shot the firearm at officers trying to apprehend him and was killed by return fire." RT

237 clashes on frontline

"On the front line, Ukrainian forces engaged in 237 combat clashes.
In the Northern Slobozhanshchyna and Kursk sectors, Ukrainian forces repelled three enemy assault attempts. The enemy also carried out two air strikes with four gulide bombs and conducted 86 artillery strikes, including one from a multiple-launch rocket system.
In the Southern Slobozhanshchyna sector, the enemy attacked Ukrainian positions nine times near Vovchanski Khutory, Prylipky, Starytsia, and toward Vilcha and Izbytske.

In the Kupiansk sector, Russian troops conducted 11 assault attempts, trying to break through Ukrainian positions near Pishchane, Kruhliakivka, and toward Petropavlivske, Novoplatonivka, and Kupiansk. Two clashes are ongoing.
In the Lyman sector, Russian forces attacked Ukrainian positions 31 times near Hrekivka, Novovodiane, Novoiehorivka, Novoselivka, Kopanky, Kolodiazi, Serednie, Ridkodub, Karpivka, Zarichne, and toward Lyman and Drobysheve. Ukrainian defenders are currently repelling attacks in two locations.
In the Sloviansk sector, the enemy attempted to break through eight times near Siversk and Dronivka.
In the Kramatorsk sector, Ukrainian forces repelled three attacks near Minkivka and toward Viroliubivka.
In the Kostiantynivka sector, Russians attacked 21 times, concentrating their efforts near Oleksandro-Shultyne, Shcherbynivka, Pleshchiivka, Yablunivka, Rusyn Yar, and toward Sofiivka.
In the Pokrovsk sector, Russian units attempted 50 attacks on Ukrainian positions near Shakhove, Pankivka, Nikanorivka, Myrnohrad, Rodynske, Pokrovsk, Kotlyne, Udachne, Novoserhiivka, and Dachne. Three clashes are ongoing. Ukrainian defenders are holding off the assaults, inflicting heavy losses – 100 invaders neutralized, 71 of them irreversibly. Ukrainian forces also destroyed four vehicles, 26 drones, two satellite communication terminals, a UAV control antenna, two command posts, an ammo and fuel depot, and hit an artillery system, an armored vehicle, a car, and six shelters for enemy personnel.
In the Oleksandrivka sector, Ukrainian forces stopped 13 enemy attacks near Zelenyi Hai, Yalta, Tovste, Sichneve, Verbove, Vyshneve, Vorone, and Rybne, with three clashes ongoing.
In the Huliaipole sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled 21 enemy attempts to advance near Varvarivka, Solodke, and Huliaipole.
In the Orikhiv sector, Ukrainian forces stopped six attacks near Mali Shcherbaky, Stepnohirsk, Stepove, and Mala Tokmachka, with two clashes still ongoing." Ukrin

Russian forces near collapse in Kupyansk as Moscow allies concede city lost

"Russian forces appear close to being pushed out of the northeastern Ukrainian city of Kupyansk, with only a small number of isolated troops remaining and even pro-Kremlin

voices acknowledging the setback, according to a report.
The Kyiv Post reported Thursday that Ukrainian military officials say Russian units left inside the city are cut off from reliable supply lines and are increasingly surrendering as their position deteriorates.
Viktor Trehubov, head of communications for Ukraine’s Joint Forces grouping, said Russian forces inside Kupyansk now number only several dozen and include foreign mercenaries fighting alongside Moscow’s troops." FOX

Zelensky would lose an election to his former top general

"Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky would overwhelmingly lose in a run-off presidential election to his former top commander Valery Zaluzhny, according to a Socis poll published.
64% of respondents say they would vote for the former top general in a hypothetical second round. More than a fifth said they would not vote for Zelensky under any circumstances.
Nearly 21% said they would also support Zaluzhny’s party in an upcoming parliamentary election, while only 12% said they would support the ruling Servant of the People party." RT

Trump launches ‘powerful and deadly’ Christmas Day strikes on ISIS targeting Christians in Nigeria

"President Trump announced that the US military hit ISIS terrorists in Nigeria targeting Christians with “numerous” deadly
airstrikes.
“Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was,” the president continued."
NYP

5.6 Earthquake - North Pacific Ocean, Hokkaido, 101 km east of Mutsu, Aomori, Japan

"A strong magnitude 5.6 earthquake occurred in the North Pacific Ocean 82 km (51 mi) from Japan in the early morning at 1.17 am local time (GMT +9). The quake had a shallow depth of 62 km (38 mi) and was reported felt by some people near the epicenter." VD

5.2 Earthquake - Gisborne, New Zealand

"A strong magnitude 5.2 earthquake hit 1,432 km (890 mi) away from Gisborne, Gisborne,
New Zealand, in the evening at 9.57 pm local time (GMT +12). The quake had a very shallow depth of 33 km (21 mi) and was not felt (or at least not reported so)." VD

61 clashes along frontline

"61 combat engagements have taken place between the Ukrainian Defense Forces and Russian troops.
In the Northern Slobozhanshchyna and Kursk sectors, the enemy conducted one airstrike, dropping a single bomb, and carried out 49 shelling attacks, including one from a multiple rocket launcher.
In the Southern Slobozhanshchyna sector, the invaders attacked five times near Vovchansk and Dvorichanske.

In the Kupiansk sector, Russian forces attempted to advance toward Hlushkivka. Fighting continues.
In the Lyman sector, Ukrainian forces repelled eight enemy attacks near Novoselivka, Stavky, Novoserhiivka, and toward Ozerne and Zarichne. Four clashes are ongoing.
In the Sloviansk sector, the enemy attacked three times near Siversk and Serebrianka. One engagement is ongoing.
No clashes were recorded in the Kramatorsk sector.
In the Kostiantynivka sector, the enemy carried out ten offensive actions near Kostiantynivka, Oleksandro-Shultyne, Pleshchiivka, Kleban-Byk, Shcherbynivka, and Sofiivka. One engagement is ongoing.
In the Pokrovsk sector, the enemy attempted 18 times to advance near Chervonyi Lyman, Rodynske, Myrnohrad, Leontovychi, Kotlyne, Molodetske, Filiia, Dachne, and toward Novopavlivka and Nove Shakhove. One engagement continues.
In the Oleksandrivka sector, the Russian invaders attacked nine times near Pryvilne, Rybne, Krasnohirsk, Zelenyi Hai, Vorone, and toward Iskra.
In the Huliaipole sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled four enemy attacks near Uspenivka and Huliaipole, while two clashes are ongoing. Additionally, Russian aviation struck Zaliznychne, Huliaipole, Ternuvate, and Bilohiria.
In the Orikhiv sector, the enemy attacked toward Pavlivka.
In the Prydniprovske sector, Ukrainian forces repelled two enemy attacks toward the Antonivskyi Bridge. Russian forces also carried out an airstrike with guided bombs on Novotiahynka." Ukrin

Russia attacks Kherson market, Chernihiv apartment building on Christmas Day

"Russian forces struck a market in Kherson and a residential building in Chernihiv on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, causing multiple civilian casualties, local authorities said.

Ukraine is marking its fourth Christmas under Russia's full-scale invasion. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested a Christmas truce on Dec. 16, a proposal welcomed Kyiv welcomed but Moscow rejected.
In Chernihiv, a drone struck a five-story residential building, killing an 80-year-old woman. Nine others were injured, at least three critically, Ukraine's State Emergency Service and Chernihiv Oblast Governor Viacheslav Chaus said.
The drone hit an apartment on the third floor, causing significant damage and sparking a fire, Chaus said." KI

Zelensky issues veiled insult at Putin in ‘Christmas’ address

"Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky used his Christmas Eve address to wish for a certain unnamed man, presumably Russian President Vladimir Putin, “to perish,” before urging Ukrainians to pray for a greater wish – peace for the country." RT

Another 'Trump-Like' Candidate Is Elected in Latin America

"The recent presidential elections in Honduras felt like the never-ending story in recent weeks,

but we can officially report that Nasry "Tito" Asfura is the winner. He's the conservative candidate who was backed by Trump earlier this year. It was close. Asfura received just over 40% of the vote, while center-right candidate Salvador Nasralla got about 39.5%. The far-left socialist candidate, Rixi Moncada, who was hand-picked by the sitting president received about 19% of the vote.
Tito Asfura's victory is a resounding defeat for narco-socialism and a clear signal that freedom is once again prevailing in Honduras." PJM

Very strong mag. 6.0 Earthquake - 12 km northeast of Taitung, Taiwan

"A very strong magnitude 6.0 earthquake hit 11.9 km (7 mi) away from Taitung, Taiwan, in the afternoon at 5.47 pm local time (Asia/Taipei GMT +8). The depth of the quake could not be determined, but is assumed to be shallow.

The earthquake was felt over a large region.. The shallow depth of the quake caused it to be felt more strongly near the epicenter than a deeper quake of similar magnitude would." VD

5.7 Earthquake - North Pacific Ocean, 239 km southwest of Guam Island

"A strong magnitude 5.7 earthquake occurred in the North Pacific Ocean 218 km (135 mi) from Guam in the early morning at 2.00 am local time (GMT +11). The depth of the quake could not be determined, but is assumed to be shallow. The quake was reported felt by some people near the epicenter." VD

5.1 Earthquake - Norwegian Sea

"A strong magnitude 5.1 earthquake occurred in the Norwegian Sea 340 km (211 mi) from Svalbard and Jan Mayen late in the evening at 10.37 pm local time (GMT +0). The depth of the quake could not be determined, but is assumed to be shallow.
The quake was not felt (or at least not reported so)." VD

52 clashes on front line

"Between the Defense Forces of Ukraine and Russian troops, 52 combat encounters have occurred since the start of the day.
In the Northern Slobozhanshchyna and Kursk sectors, the invaders have already conducted two attacks, shelled Ukrainian positions and settlements 76 times—including four times with multiple launch rocket systems—and also dropped six aerial bombs.

In the Southern Slobozhanshchyna sector, Russian forces attacked seven times in the areas of Prilypky, Vovchanski Khutory, and Dvorichanske, toward Izbytske, Hryhorivka, and Kolodiazne. Three clashes are still ongoing.
In the Kupiansk sector, the Russians are attempting to advance toward Petropavlivka, Pishchane, and Kupiansk. Four of their attacks have already been repelled.
In the Lyman sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled three enemy attacks in the areas of Novoselivka, Stavky, and Shandryholove.
In the Slovyansk sector, fighting is ongoing in the Siversk area.
In the Kramatorsk sector, no clashes have occurred today.
In the Kostiantynivka sector, the Russian army carried out seven offensive actions near Kostiantynivka, Oleksandro-Shultyne, Pleshchiyivka, and Sofiivka. One of their attacks is still ongoing.
In the Pokrovsk sector, throughout the day, Russian troops tried 11 times to advance on Defense Forces’ positions near Ivanivka, Rodynske, Chervonyi Lyman, Kotlyne, Udachne, Molodetske, Dachne, and Filiya. Three clashes are still ongoing.
In the Oleksandrivka sector, the invaders attacked three times in the areas of Zlahoda, Krasnohirsk, and Pryvilne. Two clashes are still ongoing.
In the Huliaipole sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled nine enemy attacks near Solodke and Huliaipole. Four clashes are still ongoing.
In the Orikhiv sector, the Russians have not conducted any offensive actions today.
In the Prydniprovske sector, Ukrainian defenders repelled an enemy attack toward the Antonivskyi Bridge." Ukrin

Zelensky reveals full 20-point peace plan draft backed by Ukraine, U.S.

"After weeks of talks, Ukraine and the U.S. have prepared a draft of the revised peace plan to

end Russia’s full-scale war.
The initial 28-point plan, which effectively pushed Ukraine toward capitulation, has been reworked into a 20-point framework, which President Volodymyr Zelensky presented to journalists.
In addition, a three-party security guarantee draft between Ukraine, the U.S., and Europe has been developed, as well as a bilateral security guarantee agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. Another document between Kyiv and Washington is focused on economic cooperation and was described as the “roadmap for Ukraine’s prosperity.” KI