1. Ukraine seeks energy aid; Russia-Ukraine tensions continue

Ukrainian authorities have expressed concerns about their country's inability to meet the increasing demand for heating due to a shortage of electricity, leading them to seek assistance from neighboring EU countries. The request comes amidst fears of potential Russian strikes on Ukraine's production facilities. A Russian politician, known for his support of President Vladimir Putin, has refuted claims of adopting an infant who was allegedly taken forcibly from a Ukrainian orphanage. Meanwhile, the UK’s Ministry of Defence has officially recognized a group of former Wagner mercenary soldiers as Russian military veterans. Ukraine is seeking to open its export routes via Poland before engaging in talks with Warsaw and the European Commission to resolve protests by Polish truckers, which are impacting Ukrainian exports. In a separate incident, a Ukrainian attack in a Russian-controlled area of eastern Ukraine resulted in the death of a Russian actor who was performing for Russian troops, as confirmed by her theatre. Finland has announced plans to close all but one crossing point on its border with Russia to halt the influx of asylum seekers, while Estonia has accused Moscow of carrying out “a hybrid attack operation” at Europe’s eastern border. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy mentioned the strengthening of the Ukrainian air shield during a virtual meeting, without disclosing further details, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged Vladimir Putin, during a G20 video call, to end Russia’s war on Ukraine and withdraw all troops, to which Putin responded, blaming Kyiv for the lack of talks. Zelenskiy also highlighted the challenging defensive operations facing Ukraine’s troops as winter conditions set in, noting that forces in the south were still carrying out offensive actions.