December 16 ‘Ghost ships’ ferrying illicit oil have sailed into Trump’s crosshairs Secret fleet of oil tankers uses fake flags, shell companies and disabled tracking to smuggle crude from Russia, Iran and Venezuela despite sanctions.
December 15 US officials tout progress in talks to reach 'lasting and durable peace' between Ukraine, Russia President Donald Trump has directed U.S. officials to help to facilitate a “lasting and durable peace" between Ukraine and Russia, with a "very, very strong" package being presented.
December 14 Zelenskyy visits frontline Ukrainian city weeks after Russia claimed it took control Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits the frontline city of Kupiansk days before crucial Berlin talks with Trump envoys on security guarantees.
December 11 UK ready to send troops, jets, ships if Trump clinches Ukraine ceasefire, defense chief says Britain readies troops and a 30-nation coalition for Ukraine ceasefire enforcement as Trump pushes peace negotiations with Russia and European allies.
December 11 NATO secretary general warns Russia could target alliance members next amid rising tensions Russia's growing aggression prompts NATO warning as recent railway blast in Poland and airspace violations signal escalating security threats across Europe.
December 11 Putin doubles down on backing Maduro amid mounting US pressure on Venezuela Vladimir Putin calls Nicolás Maduro to pledge Russian support as U.S. pressure on Venezuela intensifies following massive oil tanker seizure and Caribbean military buildup.
December 10 Ukrainian woman charged over Russian-backed cyberattacks; $10M reward offered for others Victoria Eduardovna Dubranova faces up to 32 years for allegedly helping Russian-backed cyber groups in attacks on critical infrastructure.
December 10 Lavrov warns Europe of retaliation as Zelenskyy opens reconstruction talks with Trump officials Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy announces first formal reconstruction meeting with Trump officials to discuss Ukraine's post-war recovery efforts.
December 10 Zelenskyy appears to change his mind on holding elections after Trump's criticism Zelenskyy said Ukraine could be ready for its first election since Russia's 2022 invasion if international partners provide security guarantees.
December 9 European talks reshape Ukraine’s peace plan as Zelenskyy refuses territorial concessions Ukraine's Zelenskyy firmly rejects ceding territory to Russia as Trump administration pushes new peace plan, complicating diplomatic efforts to end the war.