Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stood firm against calls to lower the country’s conscription age, prioritizing the equipping of existing brigades over mobilizing young soldiers to fill gaps in military equipment and training. Zelensky emphasized the need to focus on providing missiles and reducing Russia’s military potential rather than lowering the draft age, in order to preserve as many lives as possible.
In response to pressure to mobilize more troops in exchange for additional military support from the US, Zelensky expressed gratitude for support from French President Emmanuel Macron and President-elect Donald Trump. He emphasized the importance of decisiveness in bringing an end to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Russia’s recent deployment of the hypersonic missile “Oreshnik” in Ukraine has raised tensions further. President Putin has boasted about the missile’s capabilities, warning that it could potentially be used against Ukraine’s NATO allies as well. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to Russian advances in eastern regions, prompting calls for additional air-defense systems to protect Ukrainian skies.
In response to these threats, the US State Department has approved the sale of F-16 sustainment services worth millions to Ukraine. President-elect Joe Biden is expediting military aid to Kyiv before the change of administration. Additionally, the UK has announced new sanctions on individuals involved in the illegal gold trade, aiming to reduce Russia’s war funding.
Amidst escalating tensions, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has confirmed the hosting of Russian nuclear weapons in his country, signaling a deepening alliance with Moscow. Despite attacks on international entities like the UN nuclear watchdog, efforts are being made to prevent further escalation of conflict in the region.
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