Description: Ukrainian and Russian forces have exchanged aerial attacks on the verge of Trump’s inauguration as both countries suffered losses. Ukraine stated that they downed up to 93 of the 141 fired drones on their territory while Russian forces claimed they neutralized 55 Ukrainian drones in attacks in the Voronezh region. Sources have stated that both sides converge on a possible peace deal as Trump takes office, but no concrete proposals were brought up. Vladimir Putin, immediately after Trump’s inauguration had talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping over future joint geostrategic priorities.
Impact: Although speculation has arisen concerning the initiation of peace talks, neither Ukraine nor Russia have shown the political will to encroach in negotiations. President Zelenskyy has urged on more military support while President Putin had stated that no concrete proposals can be accepted in the near future. The current state of the war indicates on continuance in the mid term as possible negotiation would require US and EU mediation.