Ukraine

The Real Threat to Ukraine Emanates From Unbridled Corruption

The article argues that Ukraine's greatest threat is internal corruption, not external aggression. President Zelenskiy faces Russian attacks, US pressure, and declining popularity due to unchecked corruption among oligarchs and his inner circle. Major scandals include the energy sector, with former energy minister German Galushchenko detained in a money-laundering probe, and bribery involving Supreme Court President Kniaziev and billionaire Zhevago. Zelenskiy's approval fell from 91% in 2022 to 61% in December 2025. He resists holding elections during wartime, citing constitutional and security concerns.

US Senate Approves US$95 Billion Wartime Aid Package for Ukraine, Israel

Nepal Enforces Travel Restrictions to Russia and Ukraine Amid Rising Casualties

Nepal has banned its citizens from traveling to Russia and Ukraine for employment after reports that ten Nepali men were killed and dozens missing while fighting in the Russian military. Over 200 Nepali soldiers are believed to have joined the Russian army since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with more than 100 unaccounted for. A smaller number are thought to be fighting in the Ukrainian army. The foreign ministry confirmed suspension of work permits for both countries. Foreign employment director Kabiraj Upreti announced the temporary halt. Kathmandu also demanded that Nepali fighters not be deployed on either side and called for repatriation of bodies and compensation. Human traffickers have been smuggling young Nepali men to fight in Russia, offering fast-track citizenship and higher salaries. In December, 12 individuals were arrested for trafficking 150-200 men to Russia, charging US$9,000 for tourist visas. President Putin's decree expedites citizenship for foreigners enlisting in the Russian army for at least one year. Nepal previously urged Russia to return bodies of six soldiers and demanded compensation.

US Accuses Russia of Using Missiles From North Korea in Ukraine War

The White House has presented evidence that Russia used ballistic missiles from North Korea in attacks against Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby alleged that a North Korean ballistic missile with a range of 900km landed in an open field in Ukraine on 30 December. Additional missiles launched on 2 January await assessment. Kirby noted that Iranian missiles have not yet reached Russia but are likely. The US intends to impose sanctions on individuals facilitating the arms transfer and will address Russia's violation of an international arms embargo at the UN. Kirby urged Congress to pass an arms package for Ukraine, stressing that Russia's reliance on foreign arms strengthens North Korea's military capabilities.

Ukraine Strikes Belgorod, Russia Retaliates With Aerial Attacks

Ukraine struck the Russian border city of Belgorod using cluster munitions, killing 24 civilians and injuring 110. Russia retaliated with aerial attacks. Russian envoy Vasily Nebenzya called the strike a 'terrorist attack' at an emergency UN Security Council session. Russia vowed to respond. Kremlin stated President Putin was briefed and ordered the health minister to travel to Belgorod. Russia claimed Ukrainian Olkha and Czech-made Vampire rockets with cluster warheads were used. Ukraine did not officially acknowledge the strike. The assault followed Russia's largest missile bombardment on Ukraine, which killed 39 and injured nearly 160.

UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron Makes Unannounced Visit to Ukraine

UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron made an unannounced visit to Ukraine, his maiden official trip. He met President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, reaffirming UK support. He assured sustained moral, diplomatic, economic, and military support. He also met Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. Cameron was appointed to the House of Lords to take the role. The visit was praised as continuing the strong support from former PM Boris Johnson.