President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Sunday that Ukraine is prepared for all possibilities, encompassing both diplomatic avenues and continued defense efforts. He affirmed Ukraine’s readiness for peace while simultaneously asserting that the nation would not relinquish its strength to any aggressor.
Zelenskyy highlighted upcoming meetings in Europe aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities and seeking an end to the ongoing conflict. He emphasized that a “stable and predictable flow of aid to Ukraine is what can genuinely push Moscow towards diplomacy. We are counting on further defense assistance.”
Escalating Russian Airstrikes
On the ground, Zelenskyy reported a significant increase in Russian aerial attacks, stating that Russia launched over 2,000 airstrikes against Ukraine during the New Year’s week. He detailed the use of over 1,070 glide bombs, approximately 1,000 drones, and six missiles against Ukrainian territory during the past week.
Zelenskyy referenced the January 2nd attack on Kharkiv, in eastern Ukraine. According to Ukrainian authorities, the strike resulted in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to over 30, all recovered from the rubble of a bombed residential building.
Disruptions at Russian Airports
Meanwhile, Russian authorities reported intercepting at least 25 Ukrainian drones en route to Moscow on Sunday. These interceptions caused significant disruptions to air traffic at the capital’s airports.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin stated that Russian defenses intercepted the Ukrainian drones overnight and on Sunday. At least 25 drones were reportedly intercepted, with no reported casualties. Flight operations were temporarily suspended at three of Moscow’s four major airports – Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Zhukovsky – causing delays and cancellations.
Political Shifts and Security Guarantees
On the political front, Zelenskyy indicated that Kyiv is relying on future security guarantees from the United States and other allies.
