Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Russia plans to involve Belarus in the war against Ukraine and intends to deploy long-range drone control stations on Belarusian territory. He emphasized that Ukraine possesses clear information regarding these plans, including their deployment both in the temporarily occupied territories and in Belarus. The Ministry of Defense has instructed intelligence to inform partners and the media about the available declassified data.
Meanwhile, this week the Verkhovna Rada decided not to hold sessions, citing a crisis in state governance and deputies’ fatigue. The Parliament has also failed to approve several important programs, affecting the receipt of international financial assistance, particularly from the IMF, World Bank, and Ukraine Facility projects. According to experts, the postwar election bill is 65% complete, but will require at least another month to finalize.
In international news, Donald Trump has expressed optimism regarding US-Iran negotiations, reporting preliminary agreements on 15 points. However, Israeli media note that the US and Israel are not coordinating this policy, and Iran’s parliament has declared its unwillingness to return to previous negotiation formats.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, during an economic meeting, admitted to a decline in the Russian economy: in January 2026, Russia’s GDP was 2.1% lower year-on-year with reduced industrial output and shrinking budget revenues. International forecasts expect growth to dip further, driven by sanctions and internal challenges.
In Europe, the issue of aid to Ukraine is being debated: in France, Marine Le Pen supported Viktor Orban’s policy to limit assistance to Ukraine, citing French budget deficits. Experts warn, however, that failing to fund Ukraine’s defense could cost the EU much more in the event of further Russian aggression.
These developments reflect the complex political, economic, and security environment facing both Ukraine and the world, impacting prospects for ending the war and ensuring regional stability.
