On December 10, a Washington Post columnist published an article examining the idea of ending the war in Ukraine via a so-called "Korean scenario." The op-ed outlines plans to establish a demilitarized zone along the front line from Donetsk to Kherson, similar to the division between South and North Korea.
Under this scenario, Ukraine would receive security guarantees from the US and could potentially join the EU as early as 2027. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant may leave Russian control and come under international management. The US is also proposing to use frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine’s reconstruction, with the creation of a special investment fund.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced ongoing talks with the American side regarding finalizing a peace deal and postwar rebuilding. European leaders are preparing to meet next week to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine. According to media reports, Trump is demanding the peace agreement be signed before Christmas, though the exact date remains unclear.
Russia is increasing its military presence in Transnistria, which, according to intelligence, could create additional threats for southern Ukraine. The region is experiencing mobilization, weapons are being taken out of storage, and drone production is being organized.
The EU plans to phase out Russian gas imports by 2027, as part of an energy strategy. Financial discussions continue regarding a €10 billion loan to Ukraine, with a final decision expected at the end of December.
Key developments in Ukraine include the seizure of a Russian ship in Odesa, closure of statistics on military desertion, investigations into bail funding in corruption cases, an attempt on Mindich's life in Israel, and the awarding of the Hero of Russia title to Andriy Derkach.
