On January 2, 2026, Kateryna Tereshchenko summarized the main developments of the day in her "KlochokTime" broadcast. Despite New Year celebrations, the war continues and the frontline remains tense. Ukrainian intelligence reported that the Kremlin is preparing a large-scale provocation that could occur during the celebration of Christmas by the Julian calendar. Moscow may stage an attack with heavy casualties and try to blame Ukraine, possibly planting Western drone debris at the scene.
Likely targets for such provocations include religious or symbolic sites in both Russia and occupied regions of Ukraine. The goal is to disrupt peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, mediated by the US. Intelligence claims the Kremlin fears a potential real peace accord and thus seeks to derail the process.
Politically, the US Democratic Party called on Zelensky not to agree to Trump’s peace plan, as its security guarantees are deemed insufficient. Experts note that the peace process is deadlocked, with 10% of the agreement text still unapproved, especially regarding occupied territories and security assurances for Ukraine.
Russia accused Ukraine of an alleged drone attack on Putin's residence in Valdai and provided “evidence” to the US, but Ukraine categorically rejected these claims. Neither Ukrainian nor US authorities confirm any strikes or explosions in that area.
The Ukrainian General Staff denied collaborator Saldo's claims of a New Year attack on the village of Khorly, stressing only enemy military targets are hit. Meanwhile, Russia’s Samara region saw explosions at oil refineries due to drone strikes—impacting key infrastructure for Russia’s military supply.
On Ukraine’s southern front, particularly around Hulyaipole, Ukrainian forces face severe pressure: positions intermingle, and Russian troops have numerical advantage. Nevertheless, Ukrainian defenders maintain their ground. Intense fighting is also reported around Pokrovsk, with a 20 km-wide combat zone.
In 2025, Russia occupied a further 4,336 sq. km of Ukrainian territory, over 0.72% of the country. These new occupations aren't limited to Donbas, but also affect Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions—impacting infrastructure, agriculture, and the economy.
The episode concludes with a US political story: Donald Trump, 79, claims to have taken a double dose of aspirin for 25 years and considers his health excellent. His health status is seen as significant for both US and global affairs.
Viewers are encouraged to follow the news, share the information, and stay informed about Ukraine's ongoing situation.
