Zelensky: Ukraine’s delegation returns from the US tomorrow with documents on security guarantees and a 20-point peace framework discussed with American officials, including Trump’s team. He stresses that Putin will only shift from war if pressure continues, sanctions, oil price drops, and global isolation. “Putin fights as long as he has the money to buy loyalty and pay for killings.”

Zelensky warns Russia may launch a massive strike on Ukraine in the coming days. Monitoring channels also report unusual activity in Russian strategic aviation and likely preparations for a record drone and missile attack, potentially up to 800 drones, between December 25 and 26.

Over the past year, three Russian lieutenant generals were killed in Moscow car bombings: Ihor Kyrylov (RCB Protection Troops, Dec 2024), Yaroslav Moskalyk (Gen Staff, Apr 2025), and Fanil Sarvarov (Operational Training, Dec 2025). All were close to Putin and personally appointed by him.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denies claims that Russia aims to restore Soviet-era spheres of influence, calling them false. He added that Putin will be briefed by envoy Dmitriev after his U.S. trip to talk with US envoys Witkoff and Kushner.

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance took a jab at Ukraine aid, saying, “We help American seniors by cutting Social Security taxes because we believe in honoring our parents, not sending all their money to Ukraine.”

Senator Lindsey Graham urged Trump to seize ships carrying sanctioned Russian oil. He called for Trump to back his bill imposing tariffs on countries like China that buy cheap Russian crude, label Russia a state sponsor of terrorism for abducting Ukrainian children, and treat Russian oil tankers like those from Venezuela.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warns that China and Russia could coordinate attacks on Taiwan and Europe. He believes if China acts militarily, Russia, its junior partner, won’t hesitate to divert the West’s attention by escalating in Europe. “We must be prepared,” Rutte stressed.