As the conflict enters its 680th day, pivotal events shape the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Here’s a snapshot of the situation on Thursday, January 4, 2024.
Fighting:
Prisoner Exchange: Russia and Ukraine engaged in the largest single release of prisoners of war, with Ukraine releasing 230 prisoners, and Russia repatriating 248 soldiers following mediation by the United Arab Emirates.
Military Actions: Ukraine launched attacks on Russia’s Belgorod and Kursk regions, as well as the Crimean Peninsula. The situation remains tense after missiles were shot down over the Belgorod region, resulting in 25 casualties.
Regional Strikes: Russian strikes hit the Zaporizhia region, causing two fatalities and one injury. Heavy shelling in Ukraine’s southern Kherson region led to one fatality.
Missile Attacks: Avdiivka in the eastern region faced heavy Russian shelling, resulting in one fatality and one injury. Intense fighting continues in Bakhmut, with Russian forces regrouping for a new offensive.
Shift in Strategy: The UK Ministry of Defence suggests a change in Russia’s strike strategy, focusing on Ukraine’s defense industry rather than energy infrastructure.
Accidental Bombing: Russia accidentally bombed the village of Petropavlovka in southwest Russia, injuring four people and causing damage to buildings and vehicles.
Politics and Diplomacy:
EU Sanctions: The European Union imposed sanctions on Alrosa, the world’s largest diamond miner, and its CEO, further restricting Russian revenue sources.
Financial Assistance: Ukraine’s Prime Minister emphasized the country’s need for over $37 billion in foreign funding, relying on international partners for stable and timely assistance.
IAEA Access Denied: The International Atomic Energy Agency reported denied access to parts of Ukraine’s Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station for two weeks, with no receipt of 2024 maintenance plans.
Weapons:
Sanctions and Military Aid: Poland’s Foreign Minister called for tightened sanctions against Russia and urged Western countries to provide long-range missiles to Ukraine for targeting launch sites and command centers.
Fighter Jet Training: Norway will send two F-16 fighter jets to Denmark to facilitate Ukrainian pilots’ training in using US-made aircraft.
As day 680 unfolds, these developments underscore the complexity and ongoing challenges in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
