Why Ukraine has ruled out a ceasefire by Christmas
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out a ceasefire by Christmas, anticipating Russia's rejection of a new European-backed peace proposal, and said that Ukraine is preparing for continued fighting.
- Zelensky confirmed that a final set of peace proposals would be completed within two days and be presented by the United States to Moscow, though Kyiv expects the Kremlin to refuse the plan after already dismissing calls for a Christmas truce.
- Washington has offered “platinum standard” security guarantees to Ukraine, linked to Nato's Article 5, but Kyiv remains wary, citing past unfulfilled assurances.
- Russia has designated German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle an ”undesirable organisation”, effectively outlawing its operations in the country.
- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko urged swift action to end the conflict, suggesting that Donald Trump's earlier policies might have prevented the war and that his continued involvement is crucial for a resolution.