Russia-Ukraine war intensifies as US-mediated diplomacy resumes
Key Questions
What shattered the ceasefire in Ukraine?
Massive drone and missile strikes on Kyiv shattered the ceasefire, with new attacks also reported in Belgorod. NATO-Russia clash odds have risen significantly.
Why did Zelensky sack the top army commander?
Zelensky dismissed the top army commander amid days of protests following the ceasefire breakdown. This move aims to address internal military challenges.
How has Russia impacted Odessa port operations?
Russia shut down Odessa port, leading Maersk to suspend services. Only 1/5 to 1/6 of cargo can be rerouted via land, raising European food crisis risks.
What does Mearsheimer say about the wars in Iran and Ukraine?
John Mearsheimer links US wars in Iran and Ukraine as driving the world toward catastrophe. He warns of merging regional conflicts escalating globally.
What is the risk of broader NATO involvement?
Odds of a NATO-Russia clash have risen from 4% in June to 22.5% by December. The conflicts are increasingly merging according to analysts.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met Vladimir Putin and subsequently held substantive talks with Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv, with European involvement and discussion of a possible refreshed peace proposal. No breakthrough or ceasefire has emerged: territorial and security disputes remain unresolved while Russian mass strikes and Ukrainian long-range attacks continue.