Russian authorities reported major fires at an oil refinery and power station in the Ryazan region southeast of Moscow, following a wave of Ukrainian drone strikes overnight. Videos circulating on social media depicted massive flames engulfing industrial sites in the city. Local officials, including Ryazan Governor Pavel Markov, stated that air defense systems intercepted drones in the area, while Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed drone activity near the capital.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the Davos World Economic Forum, expressing his intent to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. Trump called the ongoing conflict a “carnage” and emphasized the human toll rather than economic implications, urging swift action to prevent further loss of life. Trump also criticized OPEC for maintaining high oil prices, asserting that cutting oil revenues could undermine Russia’s war funding and bring the conflict to an end.
The Kremlin, while dismissing the novelty of Trump’s remarks, noted its readiness for dialogue. Trump’s comments were well-received by Ukrainian officials, with Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressing hope that a Trump-led diplomatic effort could inject new momentum into peace negotiations.
On the battlefield, Ukraine is evacuating children from several towns in the northeastern Kharkiv region due to intensified Russian shelling. Governor Oleg Synegubov announced plans to relocate 267 children and their families from 16 settlements near Kupiansk, a town under heavy Russian assault. The evacuation underscores the mounting risks civilians face as hostilities escalate.
Amid the ongoing conflict, Ukraine is also reforming its military recruitment strategy. The newly appointed battlefield commander, Colonel Pavlo Palisa, outlined plans to attract younger conscripts aged 18 to 25, who are currently exempt from mobilization. The proposed “honest contract” includes financial incentives, enhanced training guarantees, and a focus on fostering better communication between soldiers and commanders. Palisa emphasized the shared responsibility of all Ukrainians in defending their nation, framing the initiative as a call to arms for broader societal involvement.
These developments come as Russia rejects proposals for NATO peacekeepers in Ukraine, warning of potential escalation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stressed the need for robust peacekeeping forces, estimating at least 200,000 personnel would be required to prevent future Russian aggression.
As the war enters its 1,066th day, both nations remain entrenched in a conflict marked by widespread devastation, shifting military strategies, and global political repercussions.
