Number of Ukrainians open to territorial concessions rises to 38% - polls

A recent survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS), published on Jan. 3, revealed that 38% of Ukrainians are open to conceding some territories to preserve independence and end the war with Russia as quickly as possible. This marks a notable increase in willingness to compromise compared to previous years, rising from 32% in October 2024 and significantly from just 8% in December 2022. Meanwhile, 51% of respondents opposed territorial concessions, even if it prolonged the war, a decrease from 85% in December 2022. The responses were collected amid growing speculation about peace talks in 2025, spurred by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's pledge to mediate negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

The ongoing war, which will soon mark its third anniversary, continues to place immense strain on Ukraine. While President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized Ukraine's inability to retake all occupied territories militarily, he advocates for diplomatic efforts, particularly regarding Crimea. The survey did not specify which territories could be ceded, leaving the scope of potential compromises ambiguous. As Russian offensives intensify in Donetsk Oblast and Moscow retains control over approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, discussions around possible peace agreements are becoming increasingly pressing.

 Zelensky again rejects elections under martial law

President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly ruled out holding elections under martial law, even if Russia insists on it as a precondition for negotiations. In a Jan. 2 interview, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s constitution prohibits elections during martial law, which has been in effect since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Scheduled presidential elections in 2024 were postponed, but Zelensky affirmed that current officials remain legitimate until elections can legally take place. He outlined that once martial law is lifted, Ukraine will promptly organize elections, provided the war's active phase ends, the army remains strong, and robust security guarantees are in place.

Zelensky rejected Russia’s attempt to delegitimize him, accusing President Vladimir Putin of seeking excuses to avoid direct negotiations. The Ukrainian president dismissed the idea of elections as a bargaining chip in peace talks, stating that compromising Ukraine's legal framework to appease Russia would be unacceptable. With growing speculation of potential peace talks in 2025, particularly after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump promises to mediate negotiations, Ukraine remains steadfast in maintaining its constitutional order and sovereignty.

Russia attacked Chernihiv with ballistic missiles

The city was heavily hit by ballistic missiles. Preliminary, the enemy used Iskander-M/KN-23.

One person was killed, there were several injured in the attack, and two private houses were destroyed.

Russians occupied three more settlements south of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast

According to the Deep State analytical project, Russian forces are making gains in Donetsk Oblast, with notable advances reported near Pokrovsk and Kurakhove. South of Pokrovsk, Russian troops have captured Dachenske, Novyi Trud, and Vovkove, all located approximately 5-6 kilometers from the city. Additionally, they have advanced in the areas of Zelene and Novovasylivka, tightening pressure on Ukrainian defenses.

In the vicinity of Kurakhove, Russian forces have secured progress near the settlements of Yantarne and Sontsivka. These developments underline the intensification of Russian offensives in the region as they continue to target strategically significant locations in Ukraine's east.

Russian forces hit Kramatorsk in Donetsk Oblast

Russian forces attacked the city of Kramatorsk in Donetsk Oblast on the night of 2-3 January, striking a 4-storey apartment block.

Emergency workers successfully evacuated five residents from a nearby section and extinguished a fire spanning 370 square meters. The emergency response has concluded, with no casualties reported as a result of the attack.