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In a New Year's Eve speech, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a possible treaty was ninety percent prepared. "This deal is 90% complete, 10% remains," he noted. "This is far more than just figures."

A Deal Needs Strong Guarantees, Not a Weak Ceasefire

The president made clear that his country desires an end to the war but not at "any possible price". "What is it that our nation want? An end to hostilities? Yes. No matter the price? No," he said. "We want an end to the conflict but not the end of Ukraine."

"Are we tired? Very. Does this mean we are ready to capitulate? Anyone who thinks so is profoundly wrong," he continued.

He voiced skepticism about Moscow's aims, suggesting that should troops pulled out from the Donbas region, the conflict would not necessarily end. "Pull out from the eastern regions, and it will all be over. This is how a lie translates," he commented.

European Leaders to Plan Post-War Guarantees

Separately, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that EU allies and partners gathering in Paris on 6 January will establish solid commitments towards ensuring the security of the country following any peace deal with Moscow is brokered.

Cross-Border Attacks Continue

At the same time, reports of military strikes persisted. A source from Ukraine's SBU reported that Ukraine's long-range drones hit a fuel storage facility in the Russian city of Rybinsk, sparking a large fire.

In Ukraine, a Russian-launched drone attack struck apartment buildings and energy infrastructure in Odesa, injuring several people, among them minors. Officials confirmed four buildings were damaged and significant harm was reported to two energy facilities.

Disputed Allegations Over Aerial Incident

Regarding previous claims of a UAV strike aimed at a property of Russian president, American and European officials are in agreement that Ukraine was not behind the event. A report stated that American national security agencies concluded the reported attack "never occurred".

In response, Russia's ministry of defense released a video claiming to show debris of a downed Ukrainian drone. An official from Ukraine's foreign ministry ridiculed the footage as "laughable" and suggested it demonstrated a lack of credibility in creating the story.

EU Diplomat Labels Claims a "Distraction"

Kaja Kallas called Moscow's claims "a deliberate diversion". "Nobody should accept unfounded allegations from the invading force," she said.

Additional Updates

• North Korean Role: The DPRK's leader, Kim Jong-un, reportedly hailed troops serving in an "alien territory" in a new year's address. Reports indicate North Korea has sent thousands of personnel to aid Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.
• Restrictions Extension: The US have according to a minister granted a temporary reprieve from restrictions to a Serbia-based, majority Russian-owned oil company until 23 January. The company manages the country's sole oil refinery.