Daily Flyer - January 22, 2025

A voice of Ukraine to the West

Daily Flyer - January 22, 2025

President Zelensky called on Europe to unite against Russian aggression at the Davos Economic Forum

During the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a compelling address emphasizing the necessity for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities and unity in the face of Russian aggression. He highlighted the disparity in military production, noting that Russia, despite its smaller economic size, produces significantly more ammunition and military equipment than all European nations combined.

Zelenskyy proposed the development of a unified European security and defense policy, urging European countries to allocate sufficient resources to defense, even if it requires up to 5% of their GDP. He advocated for joint production initiatives, including artillery, drones, and advanced air defense systems, to enhance collective security. Additionally, he stressed the importance of achieving energy independence to reduce reliance on Russian energy supplies.

Addressing the geopolitical landscape, Zelenskyy warned of Russia's increasing cooperation with Iran and North Korea, describing these alliances as strategic threats to Europe and global stability. He called for a united European response to counter these challenges effectively.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy underscored the critical role of Ukraine in European security architecture, asserting that real security guarantees for Ukraine would translate into security for the entire continent. He emphasized that Europe's strength and unity are essential for maintaining peace and stability, and that Europe's active participation in global security decisions is imperative.

Russian forces attacked the city of Kupiansk and the village of Bilyi Kolodiaz in the Chuhuiv district of Kharkiv Oblast

On 21 January, Russian forces launched attacks on civilian areas in Kharkiv Oblast, targeting the city of Kupiansk and the village of Bilyi Kolodiaz in the Chuhuiv district. The strikes left four women injured and caused significant damage to residential properties.

The first attack occurred around 9:00 AM in Bilyi Kolodiaz, where Russian shelling damaged a residential building. An 87-year-old woman, caught in the assault, suffered an acute stress reaction due to the traumatic events.

Later in the day, at approximately 3:00 PM, the city of Kupiansk came under heavy fire. The attack, reportedly carried out with multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS), caused injuries to three women. Two women, aged 68 and 72, experienced acute stress reactions, while another 68-year-old woman sustained physical injuries. The shelling also inflicted damage on houses and outbuildings in the area.

These incidents highlight the ongoing risks faced by civilians in frontline regions like Kharkiv Oblast, where residential areas remain frequent targets of indiscriminate Russian shelling. The attacks not only result in physical harm but also leave lasting psychological scars, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly.

Local authorities have confirmed that assistance is being provided to those affected, including medical care for the injured and support for residents whose homes were damaged. The need for humanitarian aid and mental health services in the region remains urgent as the conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilians.

Russia's ultimatum to Ukraine in 2022 was to replace Zelensky with pro-Russian oligarch and politician Medvedchuk

Viktor Medvedchuk 

During the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 22, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed details of an ultimatum issued by the Kremlin in the early days of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The ultimatum outlined sweeping demands, including Zelensky’s resignation and the installation of pro-Kremlin oligarch Viktor Medvedchuk as Ukraine’s president.

Zelensky disclosed that intermediaries, described as "some people from Ukraine," approached him at the onset of the invasion with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s demands. According to the ultimatum, in addition to Zelensky stepping down, Ukraine was required to recognize Russian occupation authorities in the Donbas region, amend its constitution to commit to neutrality, reduce its army to 50,000 troops, relinquish much of its weaponry, and designate Russian as an official language.

"This was not a negotiation; it’s an ultimatum," Zelensky remarked, underscoring the coercive nature of the Kremlin's approach. He further noted that these demands mirrored the terms presented during unsuccessful peace talks in Turkey in 2022.

Viktor Medvedchuk, a former Ukrainian lawmaker and businessman, has long been regarded as one of the most prominent pro-Russian figures in Ukraine. Known for his close personal ties to Putin—who is the godfather of Medvedchuk’s daughter—the oligarch was a natural choice for Moscow’s plans to install a loyal regime in Kyiv.

In 2022, Medvedchuk was detained by Ukrainian authorities on charges of treason. He was later exchanged in a prisoner swap with Russia.

The Kremlin’s initial demands highlight the deep divide between Moscow and Kyiv’s positions, a chasm that continues to hinder peace negotiations. During the forum, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a “quick but just peace” this year despite mounting pressure for talks.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent pledge to bring Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiating table has reignited discussions about potential peace talks. However, Zelensky’s revelations underscore the high stakes and the enduring challenge of securing an agreement that upholds Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

This account sheds light on the aggressive strategies employed by Moscow early in the war and the unwavering resistance of Ukraine’s leadership in the face of threats to its sovereignty.