US officials are reportedly considering expanding the Donald Trump-led Gaza “Board of Peace” to include other conflict-torn countries such as Ukraine and Venezuela.
A senior Kyiv official involved in talks with Washington said a separate “Board of Peace” is being discussed as part of proposals to end Russia’s war, reported the Financial Times.
Diplomats have raised concerns that the Trump-led body could act as a parallel alternative to the UN, with details of its mandate and membership expected to be unveiled at the World Economic Forum in Davos next week.
It comes as Volodymyr Zelensky said documents for a deal between Ukraine and the US on the war in Ukraine could be signed at Davos.
A Ukrainian delegation is travelling to the US for negotiations on security guarantees and a “prosperity package” in the event of a ceasefire.
During the talks, Zelensky said his team would seek clarity from the US on the Russian stance towards diplomatic efforts to end the war. Moscow has refused to budge on its maximalist demands for a peace deal.
The trip comes after Trump said Vladimir Putin “is ready to make a deal” while “Ukraine is less ready to make a deal”.
Key Points
- Trump eyes expanding Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ beyond Middle East - report
- Kyiv has only half of the electricity it needs, mayor says
- Agreements could be signed in Davos, says Zelensky
- Localised ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as repairs begin on Zaporizhizia nuclear power plant
- Russia destroys large energy facility in Kharkiv, mayor says
Zelensky says air defence supplies insufficient, warns of new massive Russian strikes
07:30 , Shweta SharmaUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that allied supplies of air defence systems and missiles were insufficient, warning that Russia was preparing new large-scale strikes.
In his evening address, Zelensky said it was crucial that Ukraine’s partners heed Kyiv’s requests for additional support.
Trump eyes expanding Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ beyond Middle East - report
07:10 , Shweta SharmaThe Trump administration has been mulling the idea of expanding the Gaza “Board of Peace” to include Ukraine and other conflict-torn countries, the Financial Times reported.
A senior Kyiv official involved in talks with Washington said a separate “board of peace” is being discussed as part of proposals to end Russia’s war, reported the Financial Times.
The so called Gaza “Board of Peace” plan is modeled off US president Donald Trump’s plans for post-war reconstruction of Gaza.
The details of the plan are not known.
Trump first announced the creation of a Gaza Board of Peace on 15 January in a post on Truth Social, signaling the start of the second phase of a US-led plan aimed at establishing long-term peace between Israel and the Palestinians.
The board, to be chaired by Trump, is expected to take temporary charge of Gaza’s administration and reconstruction efforts.
Trump named several world leaders to the board, including World Bank president Ajay Banga and Canadian prime minister Mark Carney.
The full list is expected to be unveiled next week at the World Economic Forum in Davos and includes senior figures involved in Ukraine–Russia peace talks, such as special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as well as Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
A person briefed on the proposal told FT that the Trump administration views the concept "as a potential substitute for the UN... a kind of parallel unofficial body to deal with other conflicts beyond Gaza."
Czechs set to provide Ukraine with drone-fighting jets, president says
07:00 , Shweta SharmaThe Czech Republic is set to provide Ukraine with combat aircraft capable of shooting down incoming drones in the near term, president Petr Pavel told Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky during talks in Kyiv on Friday.
Pavel did not provide details, but said two years ago that Czech-made subsonic L-159 fighter jets could be transferred to Ukraine, which has been fighting a full-scale Russian invasion for nearly four years.
“The Czech Republic can, in a relatively short time, provide several medium combat aircraft that are highly effective against drones, and I believe we can conclude this issue quickly and successfully,” Pavel said at a joint news conference with Zelensky.
He added that Prague may also supply early-warning systems, including passive radars.
Pavel, a former army general and former head of Nato’s military committee, has been a strong supporter of Ukraine and of a Czech-led initiative to supply Kyiv with large-calibre ammunition funded by Western donors.
A new Czech government led by populist Andrej Babis has agreed to continue the initiative but has pledged not to provide national funding for military aid to Ukraine.
The Czech military operates 24 L-159 aircraft in single- and two-seat configurations, primarily for training and ground-support roles. Its main fighter jets are 14 Swedish Saab JAS-39 Gripens, and it has ordered 24 US-made F-35 fighters, with deliveries expected after 2030.
Under the previous government, the Czech Republic supplied Ukraine with heavy equipment, including tanks and helicopters from army stocks, and received compensation from NATO allies as it rearmed with Western systems.
Ukrainian team heading to US for security guarantee talks, Zelensky says
06:30 , Shweta SharmaA Ukrainian delegation is heading to the United States for talks on security guarantees and a post-war recovery package, president Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday, adding that the documents could be signed on the sidelines of next week’s World Economic Forum in Davos.
Zelensky said Kyiv also wants clarity from Washington on Russia’s position toward US-backed peace efforts to end the nearly four-year war.
A White House official told the Kyiv Independent that the Ukrainian delegation is expected to meet US special envoy Steve Witkoff, as well as president Donald Trump’s adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Ukraine hopes to gain greater clarity on “documents that we have actually drafted with the American side, and on Russia’s response to all this diplomatic work,” Zelensky said at a joint news conference with Czech President Petr Pavel in Kyiv.
“We have worked well with the American side, we are just not on the same side on some issues,” he said.
Zelensky accused Moscow of stalling peace efforts, citing recent strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. “They are not interested in agreements, but in the further destruction of Ukraine,” he said.
He also urged faster delivery of air defence aid, saying some systems had run out of missiles. “We need to fight for these packages with blood, with people’s lives,” Zelensky said.
Kyiv has only half of the electricity it needs, mayor says
05:30 , Shweta SharmaUkrainian capital Kyiv is only left with half the electricity it needs for its population as it faces the most severe wartime energy crisis following waves of Russian attacks on its infrastructure, mayor Vitali Klitschko said.
Kyiv, one of Eastern Europe's largest cities, requires 1,700 megawatts of electricity to power the services for its 3.6 million people, Klitschko told Reuters.
Klitschko said the current energy crisis was the most difficult challenge facing the capital in nearly four years since Russia's invasion in February 2022.
"It's the first time in the history of our city that, in such severe frosts, most of the city was left without heating and with a huge shortage of electricity," Klitschko, a former world heavyweight boxing champion, said in an interview in his office at the heart of Kyiv.
Bitter cold weather with icy rain and snow exacerbated the challenges. Nighttime minimum temperatures have dipped to -17C in Kyiv this week.
Klitschko said Ukraine's international partners had rushed in additional generators, and repair teams had worked round the clock to restore heating following a Russian strike last week that knocked out supplies to 6,000 apartment buildings.
About 100 buildings still have no heating, he said.
"We're not just working during the day now, we're working at night too," he said. "There is no such thing as the start and end of the working day for us."
David Lammy says UK's support for Ukraine is unwavering
05:00 , Shweta SharmaDavid Lammy has insisted the UK stands "shoulder to shoulder" with Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv.
The deputy prime minister visited Ukraine's capital to mark the first anniversary of a 100-year partnership agreement between the two countries, aimed at fostering closer defence and trade ties among other things.
During the trip, Mr Lammy visited a site struck by Russian missiles, spoke at a summit of business leaders, and met Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky.
The visit came as the government announced it was giving Ukraine a further £20 million to help bolster its energy infrastructure, a prime target of Russian strikes.
"I am privileged to be here to mark the first anniversary of our 100-year partnership because Ukraine's security is our security," Mr Lammy said during the visit.
He added: "This is more than just solidarity. Our friendship is a shared stand against Russian aggression across Europe.
Our support for Ukraine is unwavering. https://t.co/PrdNXXDuJA
— David Lammy (@DavidLammy) January 16, 2026
"But today we go further: unlocking investment, deepening joint action, and reaffirming our leadership of the Coalition of the Willing. The UK and Ukraine stand shoulder to shoulder as true partners for freedom, committed to a just peace and a stronger, safer future for both our nations."
Writing on social media, Mr Zelensky said he and the deputy PM had "discussed Russia's daily missile strikes on our energy infrastructure and ways to strengthen protection against them".
UN’s nuclear watchdog secures localised ceasefire between Russia, Ukraine for backup line to Zaporizhzhia plant
04:30 , Shweta SharmaThe International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Friday it had secured an agreement between Russia and Ukraine to implement a localised ceasefire to allow repairs to begin on the last remaining backup power line to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
“The IAEA continues to work closely with both sides to ensure nuclear safety at the ZNPP and to prevent a nuclear accident during the conflict,” director general Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a statement on Friday.
Zaporizhzhia which is the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe was occupied by Russian forces in March 2022.
The plant’s six reactors have been shut down since the occupation but it still needs electricity to keep its nuclear fuel safely cooled.
Watch: Zelensky rebuts Trump: 'Ukraine will never be a stumbling block to peace'
04:00 , Bryony GoochSuspects accused of Russia plot to send explosive parcels to UK and US
03:00 , Bryony Gooch Suspects accused of Russian plot to send explosive sex toy parcels face life sentence
Watch: David Lammy during a visit to Kyiv
02:00 , Bryony Gooch Watch: Zelensky says Trump’s peace agreement could be signed at Davos next week if terms agreed
01:00 , Bryony GoochOver half of Ukrainians oppose pulling back in return for security, poll shows
00:00 , Bryony GoochA majority of Ukrainians would strongly oppose withdrawing troops from the part of the eastern Donetsk region still controlled by Kyiv in exchange for European and US security guarantees, a poll released on Friday indicated.
According to the poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS), 54 per cent of Ukrainians categorically reject the idea of withdrawing from parts of Donbas in return for security reassurances from allies.
Some 39 per cent said they would reluctantly accept.
"Moreover, those who are ready to agree expect quite significant security guarantees. Therefore, if the level of security guarantees is lower than expected, approval of such a proposal will be even lower," said KIIS executive director Anton Hrushetskyi.
The survey was conducted in early January among 601 respondents on Ukrainian-controlled territory.
Almost 70 per cent did not believe current negotiations would lead to a lasting peace.
Kyiv has only half of the electricity it needs, mayor says
Friday 16 January 2026 23:00 , Bryony GoochUkraine's capital Kyiv has only about half the electricity that it needs as it faces its most severe wartime energy crisis following waves of Russian attacks on its infrastructure, mayor Vitali Klitschko told Reuters on Friday. Kyiv, one of Eastern Europe's largest cities, requires 1,700 megawatts of electricity to power the services for its 3.6 million people.
Mr Klitschko said the current energy crisis was the most difficult challenge facing the capital in the nearly four years since Russia's invasion in February 2022.
Watch: Zelensky says Russia is preparing ‘new massive attacks'
Friday 16 January 2026 22:28 , Bryony GoochRecap: Ukraine sends delegation back to the US for more talks
Friday 16 January 2026 22:00 , James ReynoldsA Ukrainian delegation is en route to the US for talks on security guarantees and a post-war recovery package, Zelensky said on Friday.
He was hopeful that the documents could be signed on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos next week.
During the talks, Kyiv's team also hopes to get clarity from the US on the Russian stance towards diplomatic efforts to end the nearly four-year war, Zelensky told a news conference in Kyiv alongside Czech President Petr Pavel.
"I think we have worked well with the American side, we are just not on the same side on some issues," Zelensky said of the negotiations with Washington.
Gaza "board of peace" could be opened up to include Ukraine - report
Friday 16 January 2026 21:35 , Bryony GoochUS officials have floated idea of broadening plans for a Gaza “board of peace” headed by Trump to include other hotspots such as Ukraine and Venezuela, according to the Financial Times.
Europe considering 'creative' ways to fast-track Ukraine into the EU
Friday 16 January 2026 21:00 , James ReynoldsThe European Commission is considering ways to allow Ukraine's quick accession to the EU as part of a peace deal with Russia.
EU officials said the deal would not give Kyiv full membership rights immediately. They would be “earned” after transition periods, they said.
The idea, which is at a very early stage, is intended as a possible gesture to Ukrainians who are seeking EU membership as part of a post-war security guarantee from Europe.
"It is Europe’s interest to have Ukraine in the EU, because of our own security," an EU diplomat said.
"It is why we need to look for creative solutions - how to get Ukraine in the EU quickly. The reversed membership concept reflects this idea - to have Ukraine joining the EU politically and then getting full rights and full-fledged membership once all conditions are met," the diplomat said.
Recap: Ukrainian team heading to US for security guarantee talks
Friday 16 January 2026 20:45 , Bryony GoochA Ukrainian delegation is en route to the US for talks on security guarantees and a post-war recovery package, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday, expressing hope the documents could be signed on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos next week.
During the talks, Kyiv's team also hopes to get clarity from the U.S. on the Russian stance towards US-backed diplomatic efforts to end the nearly four-year war, Zelensky told a news conference in Kyiv alongside Czech President Petr Pavel.
"I think we have worked well with the American side, we are just not on the same side on some issues," Zelensky said of the negotiations with Washington.
US president Donald Trump told Reuters earlier this week that he may meet with Zelensky at the WEF, a meeting which the Ukrainian leader has publicly sought.
Zelensky said that Ukraine had completed its part of the work on the documents outlining a "prosperity package" to unlock money for Ukraine's costly post-war recovery, as well as on US security guarantees designed to stop a future Russian attack. Ukrainian officials have said the country will need $800 billion for its post-war reconstruction.
Localised ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as repairs begin on Zaporizhizia nuclear power plant
Friday 16 January 2026 20:26 , Bryony GoochThe International Atomic Energy Agency said on Friday it has secured an agreement between Russia and Ukraine to implement a localised ceasefire for repairs to begin on last remaining backup power line to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
"The IAEA continues to work closely with both sides to ensure nuclear safety at the ZNPP and to prevent a nuclear accident during the conflict," Director General Rafael Mariano said in a statement.
Charles tells Ukraine: ‘We stand with you’
Friday 16 January 2026 20:00 , James ReynoldsThe King has reiterated the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, telling the nation “we stand with you” as he spoke of his hopes for a lasting peace that safeguards its “security, sovereignty and prosperity”.
Charles’ written comments marked the first anniversary of the 100-Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine, as the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion approaches at the end of February.
Read the full story:
Charles tells Ukraine: ‘We stand with you’
Zelensky warns Russia is preparing new massive strikes
Friday 16 January 2026 19:15 , Bryony GoochUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that allied supplies of air defence systems and missiles were insufficient and warned Russia was preparing new massive strikes.
Zelensky said in his evening address it was crucial that partners heard Ukraine's requests for additional supplies.
Ukrainian children risk hypothermia as Russia strikes energy infrastructure
Friday 16 January 2026 19:00 , James ReynoldsChildren across Ukraine risk hypothermia in freezing temperatures as emergency stocks of power generators run low following Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, international aid agencies said on Friday.
UNICEF said it faced a race against time to help restore water and heating services that have been pounded in missile and drone attacks.
"Children and families are in constant survival mode," UNICEF Country Representative for Ukraine Munir Mammadzade told reporters in Geneva.
Mammadzade said people were trying to stay safe from strikes on high-rise buildings while temperatures sank to around -18C at night.
Some families are stuffing their windows with soft toys to block out the freezing cold, UNICEF said.
Zelensky declares state of emergency for Ukraine’s energy sector as temperatures drop
Friday 16 January 2026 18:00 , James ReynoldsPresident Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of deliberately exploiting the -20C winter conditions to target power stations and energy storage facilities as he introduced a state of emergency.
Here’s the latest on Ukraine’s battle to keep the power on as Russia scales up its aerial winter campaign.
Zelensky declares state of emergency for Ukraine’s energy sector as temperatures drop
Recap: Ukraine sends delegation back to the US for more talks
Friday 16 January 2026 17:00 , James ReynoldsA Ukrainian delegation is en route to the US for talks on security guarantees and a post-war recovery package, Zelensky said on Friday.
He was hopeful that the documents could be signed on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos next week.
During the talks, Kyiv's team also hopes to get clarity from the US on the Russian stance towards diplomatic efforts to end the nearly four-year war, Zelensky told a news conference in Kyiv alongside Czech President Petr Pavel.
"I think we have worked well with the American side, we are just not on the same side on some issues," Zelensky said of the negotiations with Washington.
In pictures: Ukraine launches missiles towards Russian frontline positions
Friday 16 January 2026 16:45 , James Reynolds Kyiv has half the energy it needs, says mayor
Friday 16 January 2026 16:28 , James ReynoldsKyiv has only about half the electricity that it needs, mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Friday.
"It's the first time in the history of our city that, in such severe frosts, most of the city was left without heating and with a huge shortage of electricity," Klitschko told Reuters.
He said Ukraine's international partners had rushed in additional generators and repair teams had worked round the clock to restore heating following a Russian strike last week knocked out supplies to 6,000 apartment buildings.
About 100 buildings still have no heating, he said.
Recap: What are the main sticking points in negotiations?
Friday 16 January 2026 15:45 , James ReynoldsUkraine and the US have been holding talks for weeks towards ending the war. They are hoping to hammer out an agreement to present to Russia.
Ukraine says it needs clear security assurances from its partners to stop Russia from attacking again, citing examples in recent history in Ukraine and abroad.
It also wants to hold onto its territory in the east, warning it would set a dangerous precedent to give up land to the aggressor. Russia continues to demand Ukraine’s eastern lands, home to its ‘fortress belt’ defensive line and valuable resources.
European allies, with much to gain or lose from a deal between Ukraine and Russia, have stepped up to offer Kyiv support where the Trump administration has pulled back.
Trump this week said it was Ukraine stalling, despite Russia’s intransigence.
Two killed in Russian shelling in Ukraine
Friday 16 January 2026 15:15 , James ReynoldsTwo women were killed and six people were injured in Russian shelling in Dnipropetrovsk today, according to responding emergency services.
Two other women received first aid and were taken away from the scene, they said on Telegram.
King Charles praises 'valiant' Ukraine
Friday 16 January 2026 14:45 , James ReynoldsKing Charles praised Ukraine’s “valiant strength” in a message on the anniversary of the 100-year partnership between Kyiv and London.
"As we celebrate the first anniversary of the 100-year partnership between the UK and Ukraine, I do pray that the flourishing bonds between our two countries may bring some hope and moral support at this most difficult time,” he said.
“Ukraine's most valiant strength in the face of such appalling hardship and pain is an extraordinary example to the world, and I am constantly impressed by the sheer bravery, courage and resilience shown by the Ukrainian people."
Union boss ‘held up Communist flag alongside people singing pro-Russia chants in occupied Ukraine’
Friday 16 January 2026 14:45 , Daniel KeaneThe leader of a major railway union posed with a Communist flag and was pictured alongside people singing pro-Russia chants on a visit to occupied Ukraine, it has emerged.
The general secretary of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), Eddie Dempsey, travelled to the Donbas region of Ukraine in 2015, one year after it had been invaded by Russia.
While he characterised the trip as a “humanitarian convoy”, footage from his visit – obtained by The Telegraph – showed him holding the red Communist Party flag while those around him chanted slogans in Russian, such as “United, we will never be defeated” and “The Donbas, the tomb of fascism”.
He was also seen posing in front of a statue of Lenin on the trip, organised by the Anti-Fascist Forum.
Read our full story below.
Union boss ‘pictured alongside people singing pro-Russia chants in occupied Ukraine’
Pictured: A young biathlete trains outside destroyed ski base in Chernihiv
Friday 16 January 2026 14:15 , Daniel Keane Czechs to provide Ukraine with drone-fighting jets, president says
Friday 16 January 2026 13:45 , Daniel KeaneThe Czech Republic is set to provide Ukraine with combat planes shortly that can shoot down incoming drones, President Petr Pavel told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv.
He did not give specifics but two years ago said Czech-made subsonic L-159 fighter jets could be transferred to Ukraine.
"The Czech Republic can in relatively short time provide several medium combat planes, which are highly effective in fighting drones, and I believe we will manage to quickly and successfully conclude this issue," Pavel told a news conference with Zelensky.
He said Prague might also supply early-warning systems such as passive radars.
Zelensky declares state of emergency for Ukraine’s energy sector as temperatures drop
Friday 16 January 2026 13:20 , Daniel KeaneUkraine has fuel reserves for more than 20 days, the country’s energy minister told parliament on Friday as a state of emergency was declared in its ailing energy sector.
Denys Shmyhal said the overall energy situation was very difficult as the country grapples with an onslaught of Russian attacks against vital power infrastructure.
"There is not a single power plant left in Ukraine that the enemy has not attacked,” he said, assessing that winter preparations have “failed” in some cities and regions.
Shmyhal, who took office earlier this week, said the most challenging situation remains in the capital Kyiv, the regions of Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv and Odesa, and in towns near the frontline, where thousands of homes have been without electricity and heating for days in subzero temperatures.
President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of deliberately exploiting the -20C winter conditions to target power stations and energy storage facilities as he introduced the state of emergency on Wednesday.
Read our full story below.
Zelensky declares state of emergency for Ukraine’s energy sector as temperatures drop
Trump to visit Greenland in March
Friday 16 January 2026 12:53 , Daniel KeanePresident Donald Trump's special envoy to Greenland said he plans to visit the Danish territory in March, and that he believes a deal can be made.
"I do believe that there's a deal that should and will be made once this plays out," Jeff Landry told Fox News in an interview on Friday.
The news comes amid growing threats from the US to take over Greenland, which have prompted alarm in Nato. The territory is part of Greenland, a member of the alliance.
"The president is serious. I think he's laid the markers down. He's told Denmark what he's looking for, and now it's a matter of having Secretary (of State Marco) Rubio and Vice President JD Vance make a deal."
Agreements could be signed in Davos, says Zelensky
Friday 16 January 2026 12:09 , James ReynoldsDoubling down on his insistence that Russia is blame for any stalling in the peace process, Zelensky said that an agreement could be signed as soon as the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos next week.
He said he also hopes to get clarity on Russia’s stance on peace talks, and urges that ultimatums are not the way to do diplomacy.
Ukrainian delegation heading to US for more peace talks
Friday 16 January 2026 12:06 , James ReynoldsZelensky says that a Ukrainian delegation is heading to the US for more peace talks.
The talks will cover security guarantees and a prosperity package, he says.
He insists Ukraine still needs guarantees that will outlast Trump’s term in office.
Ukraine has fuel reserves for 20 days, new minister says
Friday 16 January 2026 11:31 , James ReynoldsUkraine has fuel reserves for more than 20 days, the country’s energy minister told parliament on Friday.
Denys Shmyhal said the overall energy situation remains very difficult, with Russia striking vital infrastructure.
"There is not a single power plant left in Ukraine that the enemy has not attacked,” he said, assessing that winter preparations have “failed” in some cities and regions.
Shmyhal, who took office earlier this week, said the most challenging situation remains in the capital Kyiv, the regions of Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv and Odesa, and in towns near the frontline, where thousands of homes have been without electricity and heating for days in subzero temperatures.
Ukrainians left without power, heat or savings, IFRC warns
Friday 16 January 2026 11:00 , James ReynoldsThe International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) warns that families in Ukraine face dire conditions without heat or savings as Putin ramps up his aerial attacks on power infrastructure.
Speaking at the UN press briefing this morning, Jaime Wah, IFRC Deputy Head of Delegation in Ukraine, said people are at risk of hypothermia, frostbite and respiratory illnesses as unpredictable power cuts sweep the nation, disrupting water supply, healthcare services and transport.
Older people, children, people with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses face the greatest risks, he said.
“Many families we speak to have almost no capacity left to cope. Our research with thousands of households across Ukraine shows that seven in ten people have no more savings.
“Rising prices for food, fuel, and medicine mean many families are being forced to choose between heating their homes, buying food, or accessing essential healthcare. These are choices no one should make.”
Deputy PM arrives in Ukraine
Friday 16 January 2026 10:40 , James ReynoldsDavid Lammy has arrived in Ukraine, Kyiv's ambassador to the UK said on Friday.
Valeriy Zaluzhnyi said on the Telegram app that the parties would hold a Centennial Partnership Forum and discuss future cooperation.
Royal Marines prepare for war in the Arctic
Friday 16 January 2026 10:30 , James ReynoldsBritain’s Royal Marines have been preparing for war in the Arctic in -20C temperatures.
The elite units were undergoing field training at Norway’s Camp Viking this week.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper told Politico the UK was “effectively doubling” the number of marines stationed at the camp over three years.
In pictures: Engineers work to restore power in Kyiv region following strikes
Friday 16 January 2026 10:00 , James Reynolds ICYMI: What is Project Nightfall? UK says it will develop new ballistic missile for Ukraine
Friday 16 January 2026 09:30 , James ReynoldsThe UK has revealed it will develop new tactical ballistic missiles for Kyiv and put “leading-edge weapons into the hands of Ukrainians” for their fight against Russia.
Code-named “Project Nightfall”, the missiles will help boost Ukrainian firepower and be capable of striking targets deep inside Russia, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement this week.
Here’s what we know so far:
What is Project Nightfall? UK says it will develop new ballistic missile for Ukraine
Ukraine's energy crisis still 'extremely serious'
Friday 16 January 2026 09:00 , James ReynoldsMaxim Timchenko, head of Ukraine's biggest private energy firm, said that Kyiv’s energy crisis remains “extremely serious”, following Russian attacks on key infrastructure.
“The situation facing Ukraine's energy sector is extremely serious due to unprecedented attacks by russia [sic] and extreme cold across the country,” he said.
Timchenko, the CEO of DTEK, said he joined Zelensky at a meeting to discuss the emergency on Wednesday.
Britain unveils extra £20m for Ukraine's battered energy infrastructure
Friday 16 January 2026 08:30 , James ReynoldsThe UK has today announced a further £20 million of energy infrastructure support to bolster Ukrainian energy security following “callous and intensifying” Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy sector.
Support announced today will help respond to urgent needs to keep heat and power available for millions of people, the FCDO said.
The UK is also expanding its school twinning programme for 54,000 British and Ukrainian pupils, aimed at fostering long-term security and growth across both nations.
Zelensky hits back at Trump over peace remark: 'Not an obstacle'
Friday 16 January 2026 07:57 , Arpan RaiPresident Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Ukraine is not an obstacle to peace, pushing back against comments made a day earlier by US president Donald Trump.
“We also talked about diplomatic work with America. Ukraine has never been and will never be an obstacle to peace," Zelensky said in his nightly video address, referring to a telephone conversation with Nato secretary general Mark Rutte.
In his comments, Zelensky said Russia's continued attacks on Ukrainian energy sites and other targets demonstrated that Moscow did not want peace.
“It is precisely Russian missiles, Russian 'Shaheds,' (drones) and Russia's attempt to destroy Ukraine that are clear evidence that Russia is not interested in agreements at all," he said.
Ukraine killed 27 Russian soldiers for every loss in Kupiansk
Friday 16 January 2026 07:35 , Arpan RaiAt least 27 Russian soldiers were killed for each Ukrainian soldier lost in the battle to regain the key city of Kupiansk, a recent intelligence assessment provided to the British military showed.
The kill ratio of 1:27 was given to British officials in a briefing with Ukrainian officials last week. The briefing was to share Kyiv’s ability to win back territory despite Moscow’s “meat grinder” tactics on the battlefield with sheer force of numbers.
As many as 200 Russian soldiers were surrounded by advancing Ukrainians in the battle for the northern city of Kupiansk in Kharkiv before Christmas, a defence source told The Times.
Ukraine last month regained the city and said it controlled nearly 90 per cent of the strategic northeastern town of Kupiansk.
Britain is ‘stepping up on Arctic security’, Yvette Cooper says amid Trump Greenland threats
Friday 16 January 2026 07:20 , Arpan RaiBritain is intensifying its focus on Arctic security, foreign secretary Yvette Cooper said as she tours Scandinavia.
Her visit earlier this week came amid ongoing concerns regarding US threats to annex Greenland, highlighting the strategic importance of the region.
Cooper advocated for enhanced Nato efforts to safeguard the High North from Russian aggression.
During her visit to Finland and Norway on Wednesday, she met with Finnish border guards and British Royal Marines at Norway's Camp Viking base.
Cooper said the government is "reinforcing our diplomatic and security commitment to the region."
Ahead of the trip, she said: “Britain is stepping up on Arctic security. With our allies we are working to strengthen Arctic defences and deter any attempts from the likes of Vladimir Putin to threaten our interests and our infrastructure.”
Britain ‘stepping up on Arctic security’ amid Trump Greenland threats
IMF chief vows to get a new funding programme for Ukraine cleared
Friday 16 January 2026 06:55 , Arpan RaiInternational Monetary Fund chief Kristalina Georgieva met with top Ukrainian officials in frosty, snow-covered Kyiv on Thursday and inspected energy infrastructure damaged in Russian strikes as Ukraine nears the fourth anniversary of Moscow's full-scale invasion on 24 February.
In a surprise visit on Thursday, Georgieva said she expected to send a new $8.1bn lending program to the Fund's board for approval in coming weeks.
Georgieva, who met with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and others in the frozen capital, said in an interview that the program would help to unlock funds from other institutions for the war-torn country.
During the trip, kept secret until her arrival on a special VIP train before dawn, she honored fallen soldiers and inspected energy infrastructure hit by Russian strikes.
Georgieva said the situation in Ukraine had clearly worsened since officials signed a preliminary lending agreement in November, but the thrust of the program's requirements would remain the same.
UK announces £20m emergency fund to repair Ukraine’s battered power grid
Friday 16 January 2026 06:29 , Arpan RaiBritain has announced an urgent £20 million in emergency energy support for Ukraine.
It comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared a state of emergency following sustained Russian attacks on the country's vital power infrastructure.
Emergency crews have been working tirelessly to restore heating and electricity in Kyiv and other cities, which have been plunged into darkness and sub-zero temperatures by recent assaults.
The additional funding is earmarked to repair, restore, and protect Ukraine's power grid throughout the winter months.
It aims to ensure that electricity and heating remain available for homes, hospitals, and schools amidst the harsh conditions.
UK announces £20m emergency fund to repair Ukraine’s battered power grid
France claims to provide two-thirds of Ukraine's intelligence information
Friday 16 January 2026 06:00 , Arpan RaiPresident Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday that France was now providing two-thirds of intelligence information to Ukraine, largely replacing the United States, which until last year had delivered the bulk of those services.
In March 2025, Washington made the decision to suspend intelligence sharing with Ukraine as part of efforts to crank up pressure on Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky to cooperate with President Donald Trump's bid to convene peace talks with Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
The relationship has had its ups and downs since, but there has been no indication that Washington has drastically cut its intelligence provision to Ukraine.
In a New Year's speech to the French military, Macron praised Europe's efforts over the last two years in taking over major strands of weapons support to Ukraine.
He said a coalition of some 35 countries was now providing all of the support, including financial, to Kyiv after Washington had decided to no longer fund or directly give weapons to Ukraine.
"Where Ukraine was extremely dependent on American intelligence capacity, huge majority (of it) a year ago, in (the space of) a year, two-thirds is today provided by France," Macron said.
Russia destroys large energy facility in Kharkiv
Friday 16 January 2026 05:35 , Arpan RaiRussian forces have destroyed a large energy facility in Kharkiv, the mayor said of Ukraine's second-biggest city said yesterday evening.
Kharkiv mayor Ihor Terekhov did not specify what sort of facility had been hit, but said emergency crews were working around the clock.
Kharkiv, 25km (15 miles) from the Russian border, has been regularly targeted by drones, missiles and glide bombs throughout the war, which enters its fifth year next month.
President Volodymyr Zelensky, a day after criticising recovery efforts in the capital Kyiv, proceeded with a drive to tackle the damage inflicted by Russian strikes, chairing a meeting aimed at securing quick decisions from regional leaders.
He said there had been new strikes on Kyiv into the evening.