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In a New Year's Eve message, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that a potential peace deal was ninety percent complete. "The peace agreement is 90 percent complete, 10% is left," he noted. "This is far more than just numbers."

A Deal Needs Strong Assurances, Not a Fragile Ceasefire

The president stressed that Ukraine desires an end to the war but not at "any possible price". "What does our nation desires? Peace? Absolutely. No matter the price? Certainly not," he said. "Our goal is an end to the war but not the destruction of Ukraine."

"Is the nation weary? Extremely. Does that imply we are prepared to give up? Anyone who thinks so is profoundly wrong," he added.

He voiced doubt about Russian intentions, stating that even if forces withdrew from the eastern region, the war would not necessarily end. "Pull out from the eastern regions, and everything will end. This is how deception sounds," he commented.

EU Allies to Plan Post-War Security

In related news, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that European allies and partners meeting in Paris in early January will make firm pledges towards ensuring the security of the country following a potential agreement with Moscow is brokered.

Cross-Border Attacks Continue

At the same time, accounts of military strikes continued. A source from Ukraine's security service reported that Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles struck an oil depot in the Russian city of Rybinsk, sparking a significant blaze.

On the other side, in southern Ukraine, a Russian aerial assault struck residential blocks and the power grid in Odesa, injuring several people, including children. Local authorities said multiple apartment buildings were damaged and considerable damage was reported to a couple of power facilities.

Disputed Claims Over Drone Incident

Concerning previous claims of a drone attack targeting a property of Russian leader, American and European officials agree that Ukraine did not target the incident. An article indicated that American national security officials determined the reported attack "did not happen".

In response, Russia's defence ministry published a video claiming to show fragments of a destroyed Ukrainian-made drone. An official from Ukraine's foreign ministry ridiculed the evidence as "absurd" and stated it showed a lack of seriousness in creating the story.

European Official Labels Allegations a "Diversion"

The EU's top diplomat described Moscow's claims "a deliberate diversion". "Nobody should believe baseless allegations from the invading force," she remarked.

Other Developments

• North Korean Role: North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-un, according to state media praised troops serving in an "foreign territory" in a New Year address. Reports indicate North Korea has sent a significant number of personnel to support the Russian invasion in the region.
• Sanctions Reprieve: United States authorities have reportedly given a temporary reprieve from restrictions to a Serbian, largely Russian-controlled oil company until 23 January. The company manages the country's only refinery.