US President Donald Trump has hinted that a peace deal between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky may be “near” as formal talks on ending the Ukraine war begin at the World Economic Forum. Trump also launched the Board of Peace at WEF with a United Nations tie-up, positioning the initiative as a platform to support global conflict resolution.


Davos 2026: Talks On Ukraine Peace Deal Begins At World Economic Forum 

Russian strikes have caused widespread power outages across Ukraine, forcing authorities to deploy more than 58,000 energy workers to repair damaged infrastructure and restore electricity.


Russia-Ukraine war: Russia Hits Ukraine’s Power Grid As 58,000 Workers Race To Restore Electricity

Nearly four years after the Russia-Ukraine war began in 2022, it is no longer just a two-nation conflict, fighters are now coming from almost every continent. 
Ukrainian officials say Russia has recruited over 18,000 foreign fighters from at least 37 countries. While more than 15,000 foreigners from over 70 countries are estimated to have joined Ukraine’s war effort. 


Russia-Ukraine is Preferred Conflict for Mercenaries Across World

Moscow claims Ukrainian forces suffered 1,200 troop losses in a single day during intensified fighting across key fronts, marking one of the highest reported daily tolls in the conflict.


Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow Claims Ukraine Lost 1,200 Troops in a Day

Ukraine and the United States have held talks focused on possible paths to peace, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying Washington has been fully briefed on the latest battlefield developments.

Davos 2026: Ukraine War A Key Topic as Russia Continues Targeting Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure

Ukraine and the United States have held talks focused on possible paths to peace, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying Washington has been fully briefed on the latest battlefield developments.


Ukraine–US Peace Talks: Zelensky Says Washington Briefed On Battlefield Developments 

Kyiv held “substantive” discussions on security and economic matters with Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s son-in-law, and envoy Steve Witkoff, Ukraine’s security chief said on Sunday, adding that further talks are expected in Davos later this week.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has said he hopes to sign documents with the US on security guarantees at Davos, said his team had held several rounds of talks in the US."We had substantive discussions on economic development and prosperity plan as well as security guarantees for Ukraine," security chief Rustem Umerov said on social media.More talks will be held at this week's Davos Economic Forum, he added.The talks came as the fourth anniversary of Moscow's invasion looms and as Russia has pounded Ukraine's energy facilities during a freezing winter -- with parts of Kyiv still without heating in temperatures as low as -12C.The Ukrainian team held talks with Kushner, Witkoff and US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. Kyiv wants clarity from allies on post-war security guarantees."There have already been several rounds of negotiations. They are working on the documents needed to end the war," Zelensky said in his evening address.He said he doubted Russia truly wanted to end its invasion, arguing that Moscow was instead focused on "missile strikes" and forcing "blackouts" in Ukraine.Russia was striking Ukraine's energy grid every night, Zelensky said.Some 58,000 workers in the country were racing to repair "power grids and power generation objects, as well as the heating network", he added.The situation in the capital, he said, was "very difficult".Zelensky's new chief of staff Kyrylo Budanov said Sunday Ukraine would receive heating equipment from Italy to "support the regions most affected by Russian terror".

The Ukrainian team held talks with Kushner, Witkoff and US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. Kyiv wants clarity from allies on post-war security guarantees.

Kyiv held “substantive” discussions on security and economic matters with Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s son-in-law, and envoy Steve Witkoff, Ukraine’s security chief said on Sunday, adding that further talks are expected in Davos later this week. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has said he hopes to sign documents with the US on security guarantees at Davos, said his team had held several rounds of talks in the US. "We had substantive discussions on economic development and prosperity plan as well as security guarantees for Ukraine," security chief Rustem Umerov said on social media. More talks will be held at this week's Davos Economic Forum, he added. The talks came as the fourth anniversary of Moscow's invasion looms and as Russia has pounded Ukraine's energy facilities during a freezing winter -- with parts of Kyiv still without heating in temperatures as low as -12C. The Ukrainian team held talks with Kushner, Witkoff and US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. Kyiv wants clarity from allies on post-war security guarantees. "There have already been several rounds of negotiations. They are working on the documents needed to end the war," Zelensky said in his evening address. He said he doubted Russia truly wanted to end its invasion, arguing that Moscow was instead focused on "missile strikes" and forcing "blackouts" in Ukraine. Russia was striking Ukraine's energy grid every night, Zelensky said. Some 58,000 workers in the country were racing to repair "power grids and power generation objects, as well as the heating network", he added. The situation in the capital, he said, was "very difficult". Zelensky's new chief of staff Kyrylo Budanov said Sunday Ukraine would receive heating equipment from Italy to "support the regions most affected by Russian terror".

The Ukrainian team held talks with Kushner, Witkoff and US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. Kyiv wants clarity from allies on post-war security guarantees.

Ukraine, US hold ‘substantive’ talks on security, economic issues

Ukraine’s military intelligence has warned that Russia is considering strike options against substations supplying Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, raising fears of a dangerous escalation in the war.

The assessment was issued by the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine, which said such attacks could disrupt power supplies critical for nuclear safety. Targeting substations linked to nuclear facilities could significantly increase risks for both Ukraine and neighbouring countries, amid continued Russian strikes on energy infrastructure.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Intelligence Warns Russia May Target Nuclear Power Plant Substations

Russia and Ukraine agreed to a temporary localised ceasefire on Friday (Jan 17), allowing repairs on the last remaining backup power line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said. The line was damaged and disconnected due to military activity earlier this month. The UN nuclear watchdog said in a statement that the repair work on the line should start “in the coming days.”“This temporary ceasefire, the fourth we have negotiated, demonstrates the indispensable role that we continue to play,” said IAEA director general Rafael Grossi. The Vienna-based agency added that its team heard “a large number of explosions, including some within the vicinity of the site.”“The team... has reported multiple air raid alarms each day over the past week and were informed that a military flying object had been observed approximately 10 kilometres (six miles) from the site,” it added.Zaporizhzhia, the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe, was occupied by Russian forces in March 2022. It is located on the Dnieper River and had its six reactors shut down since the occupation. Although the site still requires electricity to maintain its cooling and security systems.Meanwhile, Moscow and Kyiv have repeatedly accused each other of risking a nuclear catastrophe by attacking the site.<h2>Ukraine talks&nbsp;</h2>Ukrainian officials are set to hold talks with US counterparts, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The delegation from Kyiv includes Rustem Umerov, the secretary of the National Security and Defence Council; Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Presidential Office; and David Arakhamia, the parliamentary leader of Zelensky’s Servant of the People party.Kyiv Independent reported, citing a White House official, that the representatives from Ukraine will meet US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner.This comes after US President Donald Trump accused Zelensky of stalling the peace talks, despite the progress made on a 20-point peace plan. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian leader said that a deal between Kyiv and Washington on the war in his country could be signed at Davos next week if terms are agreed.

Russia and Ukraine agreed to a temporary, localised ceasefire to allow repairs on a damaged backup power line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, the IAEA said.

Russia and Ukraine agreed to a temporary localised ceasefire on Friday (Jan 17), allowing repairs on the last remaining backup power line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said. The line was damaged and disconnected due to military activity earlier this month. The UN nuclear watchdog said in a statement that the repair work on the line should start “in the coming days.” “This temporary ceasefire, the fourth we have negotiated, demonstrates the indispensable role that we continue to play,” said IAEA director general Rafael Grossi. The Vienna-based agency added that its team heard “a large number of explosions, including some within the vicinity of the site.” “The team... has reported multiple air raid alarms each day over the past week and were informed that a military flying object had been observed approximately 10 kilometres (six miles) from the site,” it added. Zaporizhzhia, the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe, was occupied by Russian forces in March 2022. It is located on the Dnieper River and had its six reactors shut down since the occupation. Although the site still requires electricity to maintain its cooling and security systems. Meanwhile, Moscow and Kyiv have repeatedly accused each other of risking a nuclear catastrophe by attacking the site. Ukraine talks Ukrainian officials are set to hold talks with US counterparts, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The delegation from Kyiv includes Rustem Umerov, the secretary of the National Security and Defence Council; Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Presidential Office; and David Arakhamia, the parliamentary leader of Zelensky’s Servant of the People party. Kyiv Independent reported, citing a White House official, that the representatives from Ukraine will meet US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner. This comes after US President Donald Trump accused Zelensky of stalling the peace talks, despite the progress made on a 20-point peace plan. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian leader said that a deal between Kyiv and Washington on the war in his country could be signed at Davos next week if terms are agreed.

Russia and Ukraine agreed to a temporary, localised ceasefire to allow repairs on a damaged backup power line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, the IAEA said.

Europe’s biggest nuclear plant at stake: Russia, Ukraine agree to ‘localised ceasefire’ for repairs at Zaporizhzhia

Russian forces launched over 300 drones and missiles, hitting power plants and substations across Ukraine, exacerbating a national energy emergency declared by President Zelenskyy. Ukrainian counterstrikes reached Rostov Oblast, downing defenses intercepted 25 drones but failing to prevent casualties and blazes at key sites. 

Russia-Ukraine War: One Dead in Ukrainian Drone Strike on Russia's Rostov 

The Russian military as claimed by Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the Russian General Staff, has captured more than 300 square kilometers (116 square miles) of Ukrainian territory in the first half of January. Since last year Moscow says it has taken over 6,640 square kilometres from Kyiv.The Russian forces are expanding the buffer zone in the bordering Sumy and Kharkov regions, the senior general said, according to Russian news agency TASS.&nbsp;There has, however, not been any statement from the Ukrainian military or official on the claims made by Russia on seizing the territory.&nbsp;But if true, this does escalate military confrontation and persistent tension in the contested areas. This also raises international concerns about the situation and regional stability.<h2>Russia uses nuclear capable missile to hit Ukraine?</h2>Just last week, January 9, it was reported that Russia hit Ukraine’s western Lviv Oblast with and intermediate-range ballistic system called the Oreshnik missile, which is capable of carrying a nuclear payload. The site of attack was about 70 kilometers from Poland border. The missile struck a large, underground gas storage facility, and caused blackout in the area, said Lviv Regional Military Administration head Maksym Kozytskyi.&nbsp;Just before the attack, Ukrainian Telegram channels alerted about likely launch of missile from Russia’s Kapustin Yar test site, while an air raid alert covering the entire country was sounded by the Ukrainian Air Force.&nbsp;Over ten powerful explosions, were reported by the locals which may have been caused by multiple warheads detonating upon impact.<h2>What is the Oreshnik missile</h2>The Oreshnik missile is nuclear capable and has a range of up to 5,500 kilometres and can mount both single or multiple conventional and nuclear warheads. The missile has speeds over 12,000 kilometres per hour, due to which Ukraine has no air defense capabilities against it. &nbsp;

The Russian forces are expanding the buffer zone in the bordering Sumy and Kharkov regions, as claimed by Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the Russian General Staff.

The Russian military as claimed by Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the Russian General Staff, has captured more than 300 square kilometers (116 square miles) of Ukrainian territory in the first half of January. Since last year Moscow says it has taken over 6,640 square kilometres from Kyiv. The Russian forces are expanding the buffer zone in the bordering Sumy and Kharkov regions, the senior general said, according to Russian news agency TASS. There has, however, not been any statement from the Ukrainian military or official on the claims made by Russia on seizing the territory. But if true, this does escalate military confrontation and persistent tension in the contested areas. This also raises international concerns about the situation and regional stability. Russia uses nuclear capable missile to hit Ukraine? Just last week, January 9, it was reported that Russia hit Ukraine’s western Lviv Oblast with and intermediate-range ballistic system called the Oreshnik missile, which is capable of carrying a nuclear payload. The site of attack was about 70 kilometers from Poland border. The missile struck a large, underground gas storage facility, and caused blackout in the area, said Lviv Regional Military Administration head Maksym Kozytskyi. Just before the attack, Ukrainian Telegram channels alerted about likely launch of missile from Russia’s Kapustin Yar test site, while an air raid alert covering the entire country was sounded by the Ukrainian Air Force. Over ten powerful explosions, were reported by the locals which may have been caused by multiple warheads detonating upon impact. What is the Oreshnik missile The Oreshnik missile is nuclear capable and has a range of up to 5,500 kilometres and can mount both single or multiple conventional and nuclear warheads. The missile has speeds over 12,000 kilometres per hour, due to which Ukraine has no air defense capabilities against it.

The Russian forces are expanding the buffer zone in the bordering Sumy and Kharkov regions, as claimed by Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the Russian General Staff.

Russia claims to have seized 116 square miles of Ukrainian territory in January

Russian missile and drone strikes have severely damaged Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, plunging large parts of Kyiv into darkness and freezing temperatures. With daytime temperatures falling below minus 12 degrees Celsius and nights dropping even lower, thousands of residents are struggling without electricity, water and heating. Ukraine’s state grid operator says the attacks are aimed at disconnecting the capital, as Moscow intensifies its campaign to cripple critical infrastructure during the harsh winter.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Strikes Leave Kyiv In Darkness And Freezing Cold As Power Grid Is Hit

Russia is increasing the intensity of attacks on Ukraine while making rapid gains on the ground. Kyiv has ordered fresh evacuations from frontline villages. As Kyiv begs for help, France is blocking a $104 billion fund from being spent on American weapons. Paris wants the money kept in Europe to boost its own industry. 


Russia-Ukraine War: France Blocks Weapons: Ukraine Left Defenceless? 

A Russian drone attack on Ukraine’s northeastern city of Kharkiv has killed at least four people and wounded several others, officials say. The strike came just hours after the United States accused Moscow at the UN Security Council of escalating the war, underscoring how distant any peace deal remains as fighting continues near the Russian border.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Drone Attack Kills 4 in Ukraine’s Kharkiv as Peace Remains Elusive |

The United States on Monday (Jan 12) sharply criticised Russia for using a nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile in Ukraine, calling the strike an "inexplicable escalation" during an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.<h2>Reckless escalation</h2>Speaking at the emergency session, US Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations Tammy Bruce said Russia's decision to fire the intermediate-range missile, even without a nuclear warhead, marked a dangerous new phase in the conflict. It "constitutes another dangerous and inexplicable escalation of this war," Bruce said, adding that it came at a moment when Washington was "even as the United States is urgently working with Kyiv, other partners and Moscow to end the war through a negotiated settlement". She also condemned Russia's "continuing and intensifying attacks on Ukraine's energy facilities and other civilian infrastructure".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/shot-dying-then-insulted-disturbing-video-shows-ice-agent-mutter-crude-slur-after-killing-renee-nicole-good-fucking-bitch-jonathan-ross-1768018859463">'Fu**ing b***h': Disturbing video shows ICE agent mutter crude slur after killing Renee Good</a><h2>UK condemns strike</h2>Britain also condemned the strike. Acting UK Ambassador James Kariuki described the use of the missile as "reckless," warning that it "it threatens regional and international security and carries significant risk of escalation and miscalculation."<h2>Oreshnik missile attack</h2>Moscow confirmed earlier on Monday that it had launched the Oreshnik missile on Friday (Jan 9), claiming it struck an aviation repair facility in Ukraine's western Lviv region. Russian officials said the strike was carried out in retaliation for what they alleged was a Ukrainian attempt to target one of Vladimir Putin's residences. Ukrainian authorities have denied that claim.Ukraine acknowledged that the missile was fired toward the Lviv region, close to the Polish border, but stopped short of confirming whether the aviation plant was hit.Also read | `<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lost-a-major-trade-deal-because-of-no-call-from-modi-says-trump-aide-lutnick-1767944914723">India lost a major trade deal with US because of ‘no call from Modi’, says Trump aide Lutnick</a> The same day, Russia carried out heavy air strikes on Kyiv, killing at least four people. The bombardment knocked out heating in roughly half of the city’s residential buildings, leaving thousands without warmth as temperatures dipped below freezing.

The US has accused Russia of a dangerous escalation after it fired a nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile at Ukraine. Britain echoed the warning, as Moscow defended the strike.

The United States on Monday (Jan 12) sharply criticised Russia for using a nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile in Ukraine, calling the strike an "inexplicable escalation" during an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Reckless escalation Speaking at the emergency session, US Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations Tammy Bruce said Russia's decision to fire the intermediate-range missile, even without a nuclear warhead, marked a dangerous new phase in the conflict. It "constitutes another dangerous and inexplicable escalation of this war," Bruce said, adding that it came at a moment when Washington was "even as the United States is urgently working with Kyiv, other partners and Moscow to end the war through a negotiated settlement". She also condemned Russia's "continuing and intensifying attacks on Ukraine's energy facilities and other civilian infrastructure". Also read | 'Fu**ing b***h': Disturbing video shows ICE agent mutter crude slur after killing Renee Good UK condemns strike Britain also condemned the strike. Acting UK Ambassador James Kariuki described the use of the missile as "reckless," warning that it "it threatens regional and international security and carries significant risk of escalation and miscalculation." Oreshnik missile attack Moscow confirmed earlier on Monday that it had launched the Oreshnik missile on Friday (Jan 9), claiming it struck an aviation repair facility in Ukraine's western Lviv region. Russian officials said the strike was carried out in retaliation for what they alleged was a Ukrainian attempt to target one of Vladimir Putin's residences. Ukrainian authorities have denied that claim. Ukraine acknowledged that the missile was fired toward the Lviv region, close to the Polish border, but stopped short of confirming whether the aviation plant was hit. Also read | `India lost a major trade deal with US because of ‘no call from Modi’, says Trump aide Lutnick The same day, Russia carried out heavy air strikes on Kyiv, killing at least four people. The bombardment knocked out heating in roughly half of the city’s residential buildings, leaving thousands without warmth as temperatures dipped below freezing.

The US has accused Russia of a dangerous escalation after it fired a nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile at Ukraine. Britain echoed the warning, as Moscow defended the strike.

US, UK slam Russia for 'reckless' escalation of Ukraine war with nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile use

Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) confirmed that Russia used its hypersonic Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile in an overnight strike on the Lviv region, close to the EU and NATO borders.


 Russia Fires Hypersonic Missiles in Ukraine Near NATO Border 

Ukraine said Friday that Russia had hit two cargo ships off its south coast in the Black Sea, killing a Syrian crew member on board one of the vessels.


Russia-Ukraine War| Kyiv: Russia Hit Two Cargo Ships in Black Sea

Moscow says it struck Ukraine with an Oreshnik missile overnight in response to an alleged attack on Putin’s residence, claiming it hit drone production and energy sites.

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow Retaliates For Attack on Putin's House

Russia has launched a widespread attack across Ukraine, escalating the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Explosions were reported in multiple cities as air defence systems were activated amid missile and drone strikes.

Breaking: Russia Launches Widespread Attack on Ukraine 

Russian strikes have plunged vast areas of Ukraine into darkness, cutting electricity to nearly one million people. The outages have disrupted homes, businesses, and essential services, underscoring the heavy toll the ongoing conflict is taking on civilians.


Ukraine Plunged Into Darkness After Russian Strikes 

Russia-Ukraine War:  Zelenskyy, Starmer, Macron sign trilateral declaration for multinational troops if ceasefire holds, focusing on deterrence against Russia.


Russia-Ukraine War: UK-France Pact: Troops for Ukraine Post-Ceasefire

The UK and France signed a declaration of intent on January 6, 2026, to deploy troops and establish military hubs across Ukraine if a peace deal is reached, aiming to deter future Russian aggression through multinational forces on land, air, and sea

Russia-Ukraine War: UK, France Agree on Security for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has strongly condemned a Russian strike on a residential area in Kharkiv, which caused civilian casualties and widespread damage.


Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Condemns Russian Strike on Kharkiv Housing Area

Russia claimed on Thursday that at least 24 people were killed and 50 injured in a Ukrainian drone attack on a cafe and hotel in the Moscow-controlled part of the coastal Kherson region.

"Late tonight, the opponent carried out a deliberate drone strike on a place where civilians were celebrating the New Year," said Vladimir Saldo, the Russia-appointed head of the region.

Kherson Governor Under Russian Appointment Calls Attack Deliberate

The Russian Defence Ministry said on Thursday that it has handed over proof that the Ukrainian military had targeted a Russian presidential residence this week. It said that a senior Russian military chief handed over part of a Ukrainian drone containing data to a US military attache. On Monday, Moscow accused Kyiv of trying to strike a residence of President Vladimir Putin in Russia’s northern Novgorod region with 91 long-range attack drones, after which Russia said it would review its negotiating position in ongoing talks with the US on ending the Ukraine war.&nbsp;Ukraine and Western countries disputed Russia’s account of the alleged attempted strike.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-killed-as-protests-over-high-inflation-economic-woes-turn-violent-in-iran-1767284635163">3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran</a>&nbsp;A video posted on the Russian Defence Ministry’s Telegram channel showed Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handing to the US attache what he described as the controlling mechanism of a drone found among downed fragments.&nbsp;“The decryption of the content of the memory of the navigation controller of the drones carried out by specialists of Russia’s special services confirms without question that the target of the attack was the complex of buildings of the Russian president’s residence in Novgorod region,” Kostyukov said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-gutted-in-fire-was-built-illegally-officials-colluded-with-owners-probe-report-1767278546548">Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners</a>&nbsp;“We presume that this measure will do away with any questions and allow for the truth to be established.”The Russian Defence Ministry had earlier posted a statement on Telegram saying its findings would be turned over to the United States.&nbsp;US media reports on Wednesday said that the US national security officials had found that Ukraine did not target Putin or any of his residences in a drone strike.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shares-new-york-post-editorial-highly-critical-of-putin-signalling-displeasure-1767270412761">Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump initially told reporters on Monday that Putin had informed him of the alleged incident and that he was “very angry” about it, but by Wednesday, Trump shared on social media a New York Post editorial accusing Russia of blocking peace in Ukraine.&nbsp;Ukraine denied carrying out any such attack and said the accusation was part of a Russian disinformation campaign meant to drive a wedge between Kyiv and Washington after a meeting between Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-praises-troops-hails-north-korea-s-invincible-alliance-with-russia-1767263998705">Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia</a>

Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handed over the controlling mechanism of a drone found among the downed fragments to a representative of the military attaché's office at the US Embassy in Moscow.

The Russian Defence Ministry said on Thursday that it has handed over proof that the Ukrainian military had targeted a Russian presidential residence this week. It said that a senior Russian military chief handed over part of a Ukrainian drone containing data to a US military attache. On Monday, Moscow accused Kyiv of trying to strike a residence of President Vladimir Putin in Russia’s northern Novgorod region with 91 long-range attack drones, after which Russia said it would review its negotiating position in ongoing talks with the US on ending the Ukraine war. Ukraine and Western countries disputed Russia’s account of the alleged attempted strike. Also Read: 3 killed as protests over high inflation, economic woes turn violent in Iran A video posted on the Russian Defence Ministry’s Telegram channel showed Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handing to the US attache what he described as the controlling mechanism of a drone found among downed fragments. “The decryption of the content of the memory of the navigation controller of the drones carried out by specialists of Russia’s special services confirms without question that the target of the attack was the complex of buildings of the Russian president’s residence in Novgorod region,” Kostyukov said. Also Read: Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners “We presume that this measure will do away with any questions and allow for the truth to be established.” The Russian Defence Ministry had earlier posted a statement on Telegram saying its findings would be turned over to the United States. US media reports on Wednesday said that the US national security officials had found that Ukraine did not target Putin or any of his residences in a drone strike. Also Read: Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure US President Donald Trump initially told reporters on Monday that Putin had informed him of the alleged incident and that he was “very angry” about it, but by Wednesday, Trump shared on social media a New York Post editorial accusing Russia of blocking peace in Ukraine. Ukraine denied carrying out any such attack and said the accusation was part of a Russian disinformation campaign meant to drive a wedge between Kyiv and Washington after a meeting between Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky. Also Read: Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia

Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of Russia’s Armed Forces, handed over the controlling mechanism of a drone found among the downed fragments to a representative of the military attaché's office at the US Embassy in Moscow.

Handed proof of attempted Ukrainian strike on Putin residence to US: Russia

Russia accused Ukraine on Thursday of killing at least 24 people, including a child, in a drone strike on a hotel and cafe where civilians were seeing in the New Year in a Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's southern Kherson region. Russia's Foreign Ministry said initial information indicated that 24 people, including one child, had been killed, and that 50 people had been injured, including six minors who were being treated in hospital

Russia Furious After Ukrainian Drone Attack Targets New Year Revellers in Kherson

Tensions escalate as Russia claims that Ukraine targeted President Vladimir Putin’s residence amid ongoing conflict. The attack highlights the intensity of the Russia-Ukraine war, with both sides engaged in strategic strikes.


Russia-Ukraine War | Russia: Ukraine Targeted Putin's Home 

Did Ukraine try to kill Putin at his residence? As Ukraine denied any involvement, Russia on Wednesday (Dec 31) gave “details” of a drone attack that it said targeted the president. Russia’s Defence Ministry held a press briefing showing animated maps of “the attack”, along with photos of snow-covered debris presented as alleged remnants of the drones. The briefing claimed Ukrainian drone flights from Sumy and Chernihiv towards Putin’s Valdai residence.<h2>Attack on Putin’s residence: What is Russia saying?</h2>The Russian Defence Ministry’s Major General Aleksander Romanenkov gave details of an alleged Ukrainian drone attack targeting President Putin’s Valdai residence in Novgorod Oblast. He claimed that Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones from the Sumy and Chernihiv regions on the night of December 28–29. According to him, the drones flew over the Bryansk, Smolensk, Tver, and Novgorod regions, specifically targeting the presidential residence. He said Russian air defences intercepted all the drones — 50 over Bryansk and Smolensk, which are hundreds of kilometres away, and 41 over Novgorod.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-president-putin-told-me-he-is-attacked-its-not-good-trump-netanyahu-florida-hamas-ukraine-1767036130285">'President Putin told me he is attacked, it's not good': Trump</a>&nbsp;There were no casualties or damage to the Putin residence. The ministry also released a map of the purported drone flight paths and video footage of a downed drone in a snowy forest, without providing exact details.Earlier, on December 29, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called the alleged attack “state terrorism”. Russia is framing the incident as a retaliatory strike.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-russia-has-a-long-record-of-false-claims-ukraine-fm-rejects-drone-attack-on-putin-s-house-claim-says-there-s-no-plausible-evidence-1767104656376">‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’</a><h2>‘Attack’ on Putin’s residence: What is Ukraine saying?</h2>Ukraine has rejected the claims, with President Volodymyr Zelensky describing them as “typical Russian lies” aimed at sabotaging recent diplomatic progress following his talks with US President Donald Trump to end the war with Russia.He said the claim was a pretext for further Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities or government buildings.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/attack-on-putin-s-residence-sparks-outrage-in-kremlin-ukraine-cries-foul-1767183739601/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/attack-on-putin-s-residence-sparks-outrage-in-kremlin-ukraine-cries-foul-1767183739601/embed</a>Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Russia had provided “no plausible evidence” for the attack, adding that “no such attack happened."

Russia gave more details of the alleged Ukraine drone attack targeting Putin’s residence. Ukraine has denied any attack


Did Ukraine try to kill Putin at his residence? As Ukraine denied any involvement, Russia on Wednesday (Dec 31) gave “details” of a drone attack that it said targeted the president. Russia’s Defence Ministry held a press briefing showing animated maps of “the attack”, along with photos of snow-covered debris presented as alleged remnants of the drones. The briefing claimed Ukrainian drone flights from Sumy and Chernihiv towards Putin’s Valdai residence. Attack on Putin’s residence: What is Russia saying? The Russian Defence Ministry’s Major General Aleksander Romanenkov gave details of an alleged Ukrainian drone attack targeting President Putin’s Valdai residence in Novgorod Oblast. He claimed that Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones from the Sumy and Chernihiv regions on the night of December 28–29. According to him, the drones flew over the Bryansk, Smolensk, Tver, and Novgorod regions, specifically targeting the presidential residence. He said Russian air defences intercepted all the drones — 50 over Bryansk and Smolensk, which are hundreds of kilometres away, and 41 over Novgorod. Also read: 'President Putin told me he is attacked, it's not good': Trump There were no casualties or damage to the Putin residence. The ministry also released a map of the purported drone flight paths and video footage of a downed drone in a snowy forest, without providing exact details. Earlier, on December 29, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called the alleged attack “state terrorism”. Russia is framing the incident as a retaliatory strike. Also read: ‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’ ‘Attack’ on Putin’s residence: What is Ukraine saying? Ukraine has rejected the claims, with President Volodymyr Zelensky describing them as “typical Russian lies” aimed at sabotaging recent diplomatic progress following his talks with US President Donald Trump to end the war with Russia. He said the claim was a pretext for further Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities or government buildings. https://www.wionews.com/videos/attack-on-putin-s-residence-sparks-outrage-in-kremlin-ukraine-cries-foul-1767183739601/embed Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Russia had provided “no plausible evidence” for the attack, adding that “no such attack happened."

Russia gave more details of the alleged Ukraine drone attack targeting Putin’s residence. Ukraine has denied any attack &nbsp;

Did Ukraine try to kill Putin? Russia gives more details about alleged drone attack

Despite a flurry of diplomatic efforts and an unusually optimistic statement from US President Donald Trump, military experts see scant chance of an early end to the war of aggression Russia began almost four years ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;The losses in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War 2 have been staggering. Precise, verified numbers on either side are secret, but estimates suggest well over a million Russian casualties killed or wounded, with Ukraine suffering at least 400,000. &nbsp;&nbsp;The war is being waged on two distinct fronts: on the battlefield and what the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War calls “cognitive warfare.” That is a battle for how key leaders, above all, Trump, assess the strengths of the warring parties. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Kremlin has gone all out in a campaign to convince the world that a Russian victory is inevitable. That has had some success. In a December interview with the news site Politico, Trump repeated a Kremlin talking point: “Russia has the upper hand, and they always had. They are much bigger. They are much stronger. You know, at some point, they will win.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Facts on the ground do not support this assessment. During this year’s summer offensive, Russia seized just under one per cent of Ukrainian territory at the cost of more than 200,000 dead or wounded.&nbsp;The “Russian victory is inevitable” message is designed to pressure the United States and Ukraine’s European allies into reducing their support and pushing Kyiv towards concessions.&nbsp;In late November, the Trump administration came up with a 28-point peace proposal, which prompted immediate criticism both from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s European allies and several US lawmakers for being favourable to Russia. It included territorial concessions and a cap on the size of the Ukrainian army.&nbsp;The hostile reaction prompted more rounds of diplomatic talks and resulted in a 20-point plan leaning less towards the Kremlin’s demands. &nbsp;&nbsp;That plan was discussed by Trump and Zelensky at Trump’s winter home in Florida on December 28. Both leaders expressed optimism after the talks, and Trump said that Russia and Ukraine were “getting a lot closer, maybe very close” to a peace deal.&nbsp;A day later, the Kremlin accused Ukraine of having launched a massive drone strike on one of Putin’s official residences, in the Novgorod region north of Moscow. The Russian Defence Ministry asserted the attack had involved 91 long-range drones – all of which were shot down.&nbsp;According to the Russians, there was no damage in what they termed “an act of state terrorism” which would be answered with toughened negotiating positions in forthcoming Trump-mediated talks. In other words, the Americans’ “maybe very close” might not be as close as he thought.&nbsp;There is no physical evidence of the alleged attack on a Putin residence, unusual in a world where almost nothing ever happens without video images.&nbsp;No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day.&nbsp;The first time he made that claim was on January 26, 2023 on his social network, Truth Social. “If I were president,” he said, “the Russia/Ukraine war would never have happened, but even now, if president, I would be able to negotiate an end to this horrible and rapidly escalating war within 24 hours.”&nbsp;That was 1,074 days ago, and the “solution in one day” assertion became a standard phrase in his campaign speeches. &nbsp;&nbsp;While Putin has made clear that he thinks time is on Russia’s side because of its greater size and larger numbers, some US analysts think he is making a strategic mistake in drawing out the conflict.&nbsp;In a thoughtful analysis in Foreign Affairs, the must-read publication of the American foreign policy establishment, Sergey Radchenko, a professor at the &nbsp;John Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, &nbsp;headlined his analysis America’s Magical Thinking about Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;He said that “it should be evident to anyone who has closely followed this conflict that, nearly four years on, Russia is much worse off than it was in February 2022. . Its economy… is now in dire straits. With runaway inflation and an interest rate of 16.5 per cent, Russia is on a steady track to recession. It has a shortage of labour, especially highly qualified labour.&nbsp;“Russia finds itself increasingly dependent on China as a source of key technologies and as a market for Russian hydrocarbons; such dependence makes Russia deeply vulnerable to the whims of Beijing.”Radchenko summed up with a sobering assessment of the conflict: “In reality, both countries are losing the war. The question is which one will lose first.”

No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day.



Despite a flurry of diplomatic efforts and an unusually optimistic statement from US President Donald Trump, military experts see scant chance of an early end to the war of aggression Russia began almost four years ago. The losses in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War 2 have been staggering. Precise, verified numbers on either side are secret, but estimates suggest well over a million Russian casualties killed or wounded, with Ukraine suffering at least 400,000. The war is being waged on two distinct fronts: on the battlefield and what the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War calls “cognitive warfare.” That is a battle for how key leaders, above all, Trump, assess the strengths of the warring parties. The Kremlin has gone all out in a campaign to convince the world that a Russian victory is inevitable. That has had some success. In a December interview with the news site Politico, Trump repeated a Kremlin talking point: “Russia has the upper hand, and they always had. They are much bigger. They are much stronger. You know, at some point, they will win.” Facts on the ground do not support this assessment. During this year’s summer offensive, Russia seized just under one per cent of Ukrainian territory at the cost of more than 200,000 dead or wounded. The “Russian victory is inevitable” message is designed to pressure the United States and Ukraine’s European allies into reducing their support and pushing Kyiv towards concessions. In late November, the Trump administration came up with a 28-point peace proposal, which prompted immediate criticism both from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s European allies and several US lawmakers for being favourable to Russia. It included territorial concessions and a cap on the size of the Ukrainian army. The hostile reaction prompted more rounds of diplomatic talks and resulted in a 20-point plan leaning less towards the Kremlin’s demands. That plan was discussed by Trump and Zelensky at Trump’s winter home in Florida on December 28. Both leaders expressed optimism after the talks, and Trump said that Russia and Ukraine were “getting a lot closer, maybe very close” to a peace deal. A day later, the Kremlin accused Ukraine of having launched a massive drone strike on one of Putin’s official residences, in the Novgorod region north of Moscow. The Russian Defence Ministry asserted the attack had involved 91 long-range drones – all of which were shot down. According to the Russians, there was no damage in what they termed “an act of state terrorism” which would be answered with toughened negotiating positions in forthcoming Trump-mediated talks. In other words, the Americans’ “maybe very close” might not be as close as he thought. There is no physical evidence of the alleged attack on a Putin residence, unusual in a world where almost nothing ever happens without video images. No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day. The first time he made that claim was on January 26, 2023 on his social network, Truth Social. “If I were president,” he said, “the Russia/Ukraine war would never have happened, but even now, if president, I would be able to negotiate an end to this horrible and rapidly escalating war within 24 hours.” That was 1,074 days ago, and the “solution in one day” assertion became a standard phrase in his campaign speeches. While Putin has made clear that he thinks time is on Russia’s side because of its greater size and larger numbers, some US analysts think he is making a strategic mistake in drawing out the conflict. In a thoughtful analysis in Foreign Affairs, the must-read publication of the American foreign policy establishment, Sergey Radchenko, a professor at the John Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, headlined his analysis America’s Magical Thinking about Ukraine. He said that “it should be evident to anyone who has closely followed this conflict that, nearly four years on, Russia is much worse off than it was in February 2022. . Its economy… is now in dire straits. With runaway inflation and an interest rate of 16.5 per cent, Russia is on a steady track to recession. It has a shortage of labour, especially highly qualified labour. “Russia finds itself increasingly dependent on China as a source of key technologies and as a market for Russian hydrocarbons; such dependence makes Russia deeply vulnerable to the whims of Beijing.” Radchenko summed up with a sobering assessment of the conflict: “In reality, both countries are losing the war. The question is which one will lose first.”

No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day.

Forget Ukraine progress reports. There’s no end in sight for the war

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;“We were disappointed and concerned to see the statements by the Emirati, Indian, and Pakistani sides expressing their concerns regarding the attack that never happened. It is even more surprising given that all three states failed to issue any official statements when a real Russian missile struck the real Ukrainian government building on September 7, 2025,” Sybiga said. &nbsp;&nbsp;“Russia has a long record of false claims — it’s their signature tactic. For instance, Russia claimed it wouldn’t attack Ukraine in the beginning of 2022. They also often accuse others of what they themselves plan to do. Their words should never be taken at face value. Such reactions to Russia’s baseless, manipulative claims only play into Russian propaganda and encourage Moscow for more atrocities and lies,” the Ukrainian FM added.&nbsp;This came after the Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans.&nbsp;Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters. &nbsp;

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X. “We were disappointed and concerned to see the statements by the Emirati, Indian, and Pakistani sides expressing their concerns regarding the attack that never happened. It is even more surprising given that all three states failed to issue any official statements when a real Russian missile struck the real Ukrainian government building on September 7, 2025,” Sybiga said. “Russia has a long record of false claims — it’s their signature tactic. For instance, Russia claimed it wouldn’t attack Ukraine in the beginning of 2022. They also often accuse others of what they themselves plan to do. Their words should never be taken at face value. Such reactions to Russia’s baseless, manipulative claims only play into Russian propaganda and encourage Moscow for more atrocities and lies,” the Ukrainian FM added. This came after the Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans. Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters.

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident.&nbsp;

‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans.&nbsp;Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;This came hours after the American President said on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida that his Russian counterpart told him that he had been attacked. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump said. The American president conceded it was “possible” the allegation was false, and such an attack had not occurred. He added, “But President Putin told me this morning it did.”&nbsp;“I just heard about it, actually, but I don’t know about it. That would be too bad. That would not be good,” he told reporters. Describing his call with the Russian president, Trump said, “It was a very productive talk. I mean, we have a few very thorny issues, as you can imagine. “We have a couple of issues that we’re going to get resolved, hopefully, and if we get them resolved, you can have peace," he added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans. Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters. This came hours after the American President said on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida that his Russian counterpart told him that he had been attacked. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump said. The American president conceded it was “possible” the allegation was false, and such an attack had not occurred. He added, “But President Putin told me this morning it did.” “I just heard about it, actually, but I don’t know about it. That would be too bad. That would not be good,” he told reporters. Describing his call with the Russian president, Trump said, “It was a very productive talk. I mean, we have a few very thorny issues, as you can imagine. “We have a couple of issues that we’re going to get resolved, hopefully, and if we get them resolved, you can have peace," he added. Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X.

Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war.

Kremlin says Russia’s stance on peace negotiation remains unchanged despite ‘Ukrainian drone attack’

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