During his annual address, Putin claimed Russia is ready to “immediately” end the war if its demands are met, essentially calling for Ukrainian surrender. He denied any responsibility for the war’s casualties, saying: “We didn’t start this war.” He also blamed Ukraine and its “European sponsors,” insisting the “ball is entirely in their court.” Putin went further, remarking: “We too would like to live in peace next year without military conflict.” Denial, deflection, and absurdity.

Ukraine’s Finance Minister Serhii Marchenko says the €90B EU loan is interest-free and, in practice, won’t need to be repaid unless Russia pays reparations. The funds will go toward Ukraine’s budget and defense needs. Work on the legal and technical details for the reparations‑based credit mechanism is still ongoing.

Germany is stepping up winter aid for Ukraine with an extra €70 million to support decentralized energy and heating. The funds will help up to 2.6 million people access heat, water, and power amid intensified Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. Equipment will include hybrid generators, pellet systems, and solar-battery units, 65% of contracts going to German firms.

The US is preparing new sanctions against Russia, which could be announced as soon as this week, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, cited by Bloomberg.