January 14 was marked by several important events. Trump's special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are preparing to visit the Kremlin for talks with Putin regarding a 20-point peace plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war. The EU is also discussing the creation of a special representative post for dialogue with Russia, with the main goal of defending European interests, particularly Ukraine's NATO prospects. Potential candidates include Mario Draghi and Alexander Stubb.
In Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada appointed new ministers of defense and energy—Mykhailo Fedorov and Denys Shmyhal—and extended martial law. Additionally, Yulia Tymoshenko received formal suspicion for attempting to bribe deputies and could face up to 10 years in prison.
In Kyiv, the situation remains difficult due to heavy Russian attacks, but air defenses downed 10 enemy drones. Power supply has been partly restored, but some areas remain without heating or electricity.
On the global stage, the US highlights security in the Arctic: Trump stated that NATO should strengthen its position in Greenland, and there is talk of a possible US purchase of the island. Denmark responded by boosting its military presence, while Greenlanders oppose any change in the island's status.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov declared Moscow's openness to talks but accused the US and EU of seeking to buy time for Kyiv and trying to draw Ukraine into NATO. Russia continues its aggression, with discussions also covering Venezuela and Iran. In Iran, human rights groups report an imminent public execution of a protest participant, with the country facing a deep financial crisis and unrest.
The European Commission has approved a legislative package to provide Ukraine with a €90 billion credit line for 2026–2027, with about €30 billion for budget support and the rest for military needs.
In summary, the political and security situation in Ukraine and globally remains tense, with international diplomacy in constant motion.
