On January 29, the main topic was the potential energy truce between Ukraine and Russia. Neither the Ukrainian nor Russian side officially confirmed such an agreement, though US President Donald Trump stated that he personally asked Russian President Putin not to attack Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities for a week, and that Putin supposedly agreed. However, there are no official or transparent confirmations from either side.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that talks between Ukraine and Russia in the UAE may last at least two days. He also reiterated the invitation for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to visit Moscow, stating that other options for negotiation sites would not be considered. The Ukrainian side has not yet responded officially to this invitation.
Additionally, a repatriation of fallen soldiers took place: according to Ukraine's coordination headquarters, Russia handed over 1,000 bodies of Ukrainian fighters, while Ukraine returned 38 bodies to Russia. This indicates that negotiating processes, with international intermediaries involved, are ongoing.
The energy situation in Ukraine remains challenging, especially in Kyiv, where many homes are still without heating during severe cold. Germany and the EU have provided financial and technical assistance, including cogeneration plants and humanitarian support for Ukraine's energy sector.
In domestic news, a man attacked a military serviceman with a knife in Uman, and a corruption scheme was uncovered at a local conscription office. In Kryvyi Rih, a woman died and three others were injured following a Russian attack.
International policy remains tense: the EU expanded sanctions against Iran, and the US has stated it retains the right to take preventive military action if needed. Russia calls for restraint in USA-Iran tensions, highlighting the importance of diplomatic approaches. China responded to accusations of supplying military equipment to Russia, emphasizing its peaceful intentions.
Finally, the issue of elections in Ukraine is once again relevant. According to official information, elections would only be possible after the end of military actions, with the Central Election Commission proposing at least a six-month transitional period following the war's conclusion.