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As part of his New Year's Eve speech, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that a potential treaty was ninety percent ready. "This deal is 90 percent ready, 10% remains," he remarked. "This is far more than simply figures."

An Agreement Requires Robust Assurances, Not Fragile Truce

Zelenskyy emphasized that his country seeks peace but not at "any possible cost". "What is it that Ukraine desires? An end to hostilities? Absolutely. At any cost? No," he declared. "Our goal is an end to the war but not the end of Ukraine."

"Is the nation exhausted? Very. Does this mean we are prepared to surrender? Anyone who believes that is profoundly mistaken," Zelenskyy continued.

He voiced skepticism about Moscow's intentions, suggesting that even if forces pulled out from the eastern Donbas, the war would not end. "Pull out from the Donbas, and it will all be over. That is how deception translates," he commented.

European Allies to Plan Post-Conflict Security

In related news, France's leader Emmanuel Macron stated that EU allies and partners gathering in Paris in early January will establish solid pledges towards ensuring the security of the country after any peace deal with Moscow is reached.

Cross-Border Strikes Reported

At the same time, reports of military actions continued. A source from Ukraine's SBU reported that Ukraine's unmanned aerial vehicles hit an oil depot in the Russian city of Rybinsk, causing a significant fire.

In Ukraine, a Russian-launched aerial assault hit apartment buildings and energy infrastructure in Odesa, wounding several people, among them children. Local authorities said four buildings were damaged and considerable damage was reported to two power facilities.

Disputed Claims Over Drone Attack

Concerning recent allegations of a drone strike aimed at a residence of Russian president, US and European officials agree that Ukrainian forces did not target the incident. A report indicated that US security officials determined the alleged attack "did not happen".

Reacting, Russia's defence ministry released a footage purporting to show fragments of a downed Ukrainian drone. An official from Ukraine's foreign ministry dismissed the footage as "absurd" and stated it showed a lack of credibility in creating the story.

European Official Labels Allegations a "Distraction"

The EU's top diplomat called Russia's claims "an intentional distraction". "No one should accept unfounded claims from the invading force," she remarked.

Additional Updates

• North Korean Role: North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-un, reportedly praised troops operating in an "foreign land" in a New Year message. Intelligence assessments suggest North Korea has sent thousands of personnel to support the Russian military campaign in the region.
• Sanctions Extension: United States authorities have according to a minister given a temporary exemption from sanctions to a Serbian, largely Russian-controlled oil company until 23 January. The company manages the country's sole oil refinery.