On Friday, December 20, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated dramatically, as Russia launched missile strikes against Kyiv, hitting at least eight ballistic missiles, some of which were hypersonic. This assault resulted in at least one confirmed death and marked a tense moment for the Ukrainian capital, which had already been on edge following recent exchanges of military strikes.
The day before, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a provocative challenge to the United States, daring them to shield Kyiv with air defense systems against the newly developed Orechnik missile, which he referred to as part of a 'technological duel.' The Orechnik, which translates to ‘hazelnut’ in Russian, was initially tested during combat only once before, against Dnipro. Designed for nuclear warfare, it can carry multiple warheads and has remarkably high terminal speeds, making interception incredibly challenging. Fortunately for Ukraine, five of the eight missiles fired were intercepted, highlighting the efficacy of their air defense systems.
The destruction caused by the missile strike impacted 630 buildings, leaving many without heat or electricity as temperatures hovered just above freezing. Among the structural damages was the historic church, as well as the Portuguese Embassy, which prompted the government of Portugal to lodge formal protests. The missile strikes on Kyiv weren’t isolated incidents; strikes also targeted Kherson, where one person was killed and six were injured. Additional missile strikes occurred across other cities, including Kryvyi Rih, the hometown of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, resulting in injuries to six more individuals. The Ukrainian military successfully intercepted 40 of the 65 Russian drones deployed during this wave of air attacks.
Following the missile strikes, Ukraine retaliated with their tactical ATACMS missile systems, hitting the city of Rilsk, located within Russia's Kursk region, responsible for invading southern Ukraine. This counterattack reportedly resulted in at least six deaths and left ten people injured, underlining the intensifying back-and-forth between the two nations.
President Zelenskiy, facing considerable military pressure as Ukraine lost two more localities to Russian forces in Donetsk on the same day, commented to European authorities, labeling Putin's aggressive maneuvers as madness. 'Do you think this is someone sane? They are just scoundrels,' he declared, reflecting Ukraine's desperate plea for international support amid increasing fatigue and hesitation from Western allies.
The geopolitical situation remains fraught. With the commencement of Donald Trump's presidency expected soon, there are growing concerns within Ukraine about possible changes to US foreign policy. Trump has previously criticized President Joe Biden's authorization for Ukraine to use weaponry against targets within Russia and hinted at plans to end the conflict swiftly once he is back in power.
Meanwhile, Zelenskiy has been pushing for European nations to send troops to Ukraine to freeze the conflict—essentially conceding temporary control of 20% of the country to Russia. Though France has shown interest in the idea of deploying troops, consensus remains elusive among NATO members.
The recent round of missile exchanges marks not just tactical maneuvers on the battlefield, but also highlights the broader strategic calculus facing Ukraine and its allies. The shifting dynamics and palpable tensions serve as stark reminders of the perilous state of affairs as both nations grapple with their next moves amid uncertain international support.
Despite the challenges, Ukraine’s resilience remains at the forefront. The Ukrainian military continues to adapt and respond, demonstrating capabilities to defend against heavy bombardment. Reports indicate strong morale among Ukrainian forces and the population, bolstered by international solidarity and support.
Moving forward, the eyes of the world will be carefully watching how diplomatic channels evolve, the outcome of military engagements, and the influence of shifting political landscapes, particularly as the new leadership emerges in the United States. The fragility of peace and the potential for renewed conflict loom large, with both Ukraine and Russia entrenched in their positions and unwilling to back down.
