Ukraine War

Russian-installed authorities reported that several explosions were heard in the city of Melitopol on January 4. Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft, a Ka-52 attack helicopter, and an Orlan-10 drone on January 4. The Chief of Ukraine’s military intelligence alleges Russian troops are using bodies as “shields” on the battlefield. Meanwhile, Putin ordered a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine on Orthodox Christmas, an announcement Kyiv dismissed as “hypocrisy”. An advisor to President Zelensky said there would only be a truce when Russia leaves Ukraine. US President Joe Biden also said he was sceptical about Putin’s 36-hour ceasefire.