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In a year-end message, Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated that a possible peace deal was 90% prepared. "The peace agreement is 90% complete, ten percent remains," he said. "This is much more than just numbers."

A Deal Needs Robust Guarantees, Not Fragile Ceasefire

Zelenskyy stressed that his country seeks peace but would not accept it at "any cost". "What does Ukraine want? Peace? Yes. No matter the price? No," he declared. "Our goal is an end to the conflict but not the destruction of Ukraine."

"Is the nation exhausted? Very. Does that imply we are ready to give up? Any person who thinks so is profoundly mistaken," Zelenskyy added.

He expressed doubt about Russian aims, suggesting that should troops pulled out from the Donbas region, the war would not end. "Withdraw from the eastern regions, and everything will end. That is how deception sounds," he commented.

European Leaders to Discuss Post-Conflict Guarantees

In related news, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that European allies and partners meeting in Paris on 6 January will establish firm pledges towards protecting Ukraine after any peace deal with Russia is reached.

Cross-Border Attacks Reported

At the same time, reports of military actions continued. An official from Kyiv's SBU said that Ukrainian long-range drones struck an oil depot in the Russian city of Rybinsk, causing a large fire.

In Ukraine, a Russian-launched drone attack struck residential blocks and the power grid in Odesa, wounding several people, including minors. Officials said multiple buildings were damaged and significant damage was caused to two energy facilities.

Disputed Allegations Over Aerial Incident

Concerning previous allegations of a UAV strike aimed at a residence of Russia's leader, American and European officials agree that Ukraine did not target the incident. A report stated that US security agencies concluded the reported attack "never occurred".

In response, Russia's defence ministry released a footage claiming to show fragments of a downed Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle. A Ukrainian ministry of foreign affairs ridiculed the evidence as "laughable" and stated it demonstrated a lack of credibility in creating the narrative.

EU Diplomat Labels Claims a "Distraction"

The EU's top diplomat described Russia's claims "an intentional diversion". "No one should accept baseless allegations from the invading force," she remarked.

Additional Developments

• DPRK Role: The DPRK's supreme leader, Kim Jong-un, reportedly hailed troops operating in an "foreign territory" in a new year's message. Reports indicate the country has sent a significant number of troops to support the Russian invasion in the region.
• Restrictions Reprieve: The US have reportedly granted a short-term exemption from restrictions to a Serbia-based, largely Russian-controlled oil company until 23 January. This entity operates the country's sole refinery.