On January 8, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a bilateral document on security guarantees for Ukraine is ready for finalization with Donald Trump. This agreement concerns security guarantees from the United States. In Paris, similar guarantees from European partners were discussed, but a final document was not reached. Meanwhile, Le Monde reported that Kirill Dmitriev was seen in the French capital, visiting the US embassy.
Europe stated that the deployment of multinational forces in Ukraine is impossible without Russia's consent. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed that first there must be a ceasefire, then security guarantees, followed by a long-term agreement. Lithuania, France, and the UK signed a tripartite declaration on intentions to deploy forces in Ukraine after the end of hostilities.
French President Macron criticized the Trump administration for violating international order and commented on China's position, pointing out its increasing commercial aggressiveness in the post-pandemic period. Russian media actively circulated Macron's statements, highlighting a rift between the US and Europe.
In Ukraine, discussions continue regarding elections during wartime. A parliamentary working group is preparing proposals, but most experts believe elections should be postponed until after martial law and not combined with a referendum.
Among other noteworthy events: a court granted MP Skorokhod's petition and raised her bail to 4 million UAH. MP Shufrych was also released on bail. Police in Mykolaiv region are investigating illegal detention and abuse of conscripts at the Territorial Recruitment Centers. Russia continues to attack Ukrainian cities. In Kryvyi Rih, missile strikes caused civilian casualties, and there were fatalities in the Kherson region.
In the Black Sea, a drone attacked a tanker heading to Russia, which is now being towed to port for inspection. In Iran, protests are intensifying due to the economic situation, with protesters taking control of some cities.
Zelensky warned of possible missile strikes overnight and urged people to heed air raid alarms. Despite challenging circumstances, the authorities pledge to keep citizens informed and ensure safety.
