EU leaders discuss ways to support Ukraine without Trump

European Union leaders met in Budapest on November 7 to discuss the potential need to expand military support for Ukraine if U.S. President-elect Donald Trump follows through on hints to reduce U.S. aid. As reported by Bloomberg, the primary concern was whether the EU could increase its financial and military contributions to Kyiv if Trump shifts more of the support burden onto Europe.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged EU leaders to continue prioritizing arms supplies rather than considering concessions to Russia. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized the importance of ongoing support, stating that Ukraine's resilience has been bolstered by Western backing.

Within the EU, there was debate on whether to wait for Trump’s January inauguration to see his formal stance or to start planning contingencies immediately. Some officials believe the European Commission should prepare options in advance, while others argue for a wait-and-see approach. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán voiced skepticism about the EU’s capacity to independently fund Ukraine’s defense. Meanwhile, Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal highlighted the upcoming months as pivotal for Europe’s defense strategy, especially given Trump's anticipated shift in U.S. foreign policy.

Russia aims to capture as much territory as possible before winter freeze

The Estonian Defence Forces’ General Staff has reported that Russian forces are pushing hard to seize additional territory before winter sets in. The primary focus of this offensive is in the Kurakhove and Pokrovsk regions, where over 60% of all current clashes are taking place. Despite this concentrated effort, Ukrainian forces have maintained a structured defense, causing significant Russian casualties, which could reach levels similar to October if the offensive pace continues.

To sustain this momentum, Russia has relaxed recruitment standards, enlisting individuals with health conditions like hepatitis B and C, likely due to the high percentage of injection drug users. Financial incentives have also increased, with a recruitment bonus of up to 5.2 million rubles per year (about €50,000), though many recruits may not survive to receive this payment.

Russia’s economic strain is also worsening, with inflation and potential ruble devaluation adding pressure. This economic downturn could lead to increased corruption and fraud, further destabilizing Russia’s financial and military logistics.

Updtae on the Russian strike on Zaporizhzhia: authorities report 15 people in hospital, including 5-year-old child

Following a Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia on November 7, fifteen people have been hospitalized, with five in serious condition, according to Ivan Fedorov, Head of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration. Among the injured is a five-year-old boy in critical condition who has undergone surgery and is currently on a ventilator. Four others, including two medical workers, are also in serious condition.

The strike specifically targeted the regional oncology clinic, prompting the evacuation of seventeen patients to other hospitals in Zaporizhzhia for continued care. Additionally, at least eight medical workers sustained injuries in the attack.