As the year ends, a series of significant updates emerged regarding Ramzan Kadyrov’s health—he was urgently hospitalized in Moscow during a state council meeting. After a stay in the ICU, Kadyrov returned home and has remained out of public view. Earlier in 2023, he had also been hospitalized in Grozny and experienced a health scare in Turkey.
On the international front, the Financial Times and Washington Post released analytical forecasts for political changes projected for 2026. According to WP columnist David Ignatius, possible future Ukrainian leaders could include Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the current ambassador to the UK, Kyrylo Budanov, Oleh Tatarov, and Vitalii Shabunin. The war is forecast to remain in a deadlock, but Ukrainian drones are expected to continue hampering Russian military capabilities and reduce Russia’s energy exports significantly.
Ukraine’s financial aid is growing: Romania and Croatia joined the PUR arms procurement program, allocating tens of millions of euros. India has started purchasing oil from Colombia, potentially curbing Russian energy export shares.
FT’s other 2026 forecasts include political stability in Japan and France, shifts in the US Congress, and Ukraine retaining its territorial integrity. Amid these changes, Ukrainians show unity and resilience, preparing for next year’s challenges with hope for victory and better times.
