Ukraine longs for the American Patriot anti-missile system
08:00 | Kiev is looking forward to the arrival of the Patriot anti-missile system next year. Also because Russia has declared its intention to buy long-range ballistic missiles from Iran. “The Patriot can shoot down nine objects at once,” says defense specialist Peter Wijninga of the Center for Strategic Studies in The Hague.
Zelensky: About nine million people still without power
07:00 | Due to the Russian attacks on the Ukrainian energy grid, some nine million Ukrainians are still unaware of this Boxing Day. This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky in his daily video message. “The number of outages and the duration of power outages are decreasing,” he added.
For months, Russia has been carrying out attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Zelensky said he had discussed the measures with energy and related infrastructure officials, without disclosing details. “We’re gearing up for next year, not just the winter months.”
Zelensky also hinted at anti-aircraft preparations for next year. Ukraine can then start using the American Patriot system, which the United States will supply to the country. The hope of the Ukrainians is that more Russian missiles, planes and drones can be launched from the sky.
Kazakhstan generators to hospitals
06:00 | Kazakhstan has supplied Ukraine with 41 generators, which can be used to power hospitals. The Ministry of Health of Ukraine calls it “a wonderful gift under the Christmas tree of our brothers.”
The donation proves once again that Kazakhstan, traditionally a staunch ally of Moscow, is charting its own course when it comes to the war in Ukraine. The country has also previously refused to recognize Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories. Ukraine can use generators well. The country is facing severe energy problems due to continued Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. In many cities, electricity and heat supplies are routinely cut off due to violence.
Kazakhstan is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union, in which Russia plays a dominant role. The countries are also working together in the field of defence. Earlier this year, troops from Russia and other countries in the region helped end unrest in the country. In doing so they secured the position of President Kassim-Jomart Tokayev.