Russia has targeted Ukraine’s capital with ballistic missiles on Friday, December 20, killing at least one person and wounding 12. The attack damaged six embassies, a historical cathedral, and other buildings across the Ukrainian capital.
Ukraine’s air defense shot down all five Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles used by Russian forces to attack the capital. However, the country continues to face significant challenges as Russian troops rapidly advance into the Donetsk region, leaving the city on the brink of a humanitarian crisis.
Despite these challenges, Ukraine has ramped up its drone deliveries, supplying over 1.3 million units to its defense forces this year. The nation is also pursuing long-term procurement contracts to sustain production. However, Ukrainian drone production still relies heavily on imported components, exposing the country to external vulnerabilities.
Ukraine’s battered economy has adapted to wartime challenges and even thrived, outperforming Russia in critical metrics. Despite facing significant headwinds, including a diminished workforce, power shortages, and a precarious fiscal position, Ukraine is projected to grow by 4% in 2024. The European Commission has transferred nearly $4.25 billion to Ukraine through the Ukraine Facility program.
The World Bank has approved a $2 billion financial package for Ukraine, marking a milestone as it includes revenue derived from frozen Russian assets. Denmark and the UK have also provided significant military aid packages worth $300 million and $285 million respectively.
Russia is facing increased pressure to tighten restrictions on oil exports to limit war funding. The G-7 is considering lowering the price cap or imposing a full ban, while Western nations step up sanctions and insurance checks on Russian ships not regulated by standard providers.
Ukraine has also taken action against Russian forces, assassinating a general charged with chemical weapons crimes. The nation’s SBU claims responsibility for the attack, which killed Lt. Gen. Igor Kirilov in Moscow.
In a positive development, UNESCO has granted enhanced protection status to two Ukrainian cultural sites, Babyn Yar Memorial and the Odesa Literary Museum. These sites have benefited from this status, bringing international solidarity and protecting threatened cultural heritage.
As Ukraine celebrates the holiday season despite the ongoing conflict, residents are finding ways to resist through cultural events such as a play based on a satirical fairytale, music performances by local bands, and a festival of verteps.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/katyasoldak/2024/12/20/friday-december-20-russias-war-on-ukraine-news-and-information-from-ukraine