Key Developments in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict: January 6

Combat Updates

• Russian Advances: Russian forces claim to have seized Kurakhove in Ukraine’s Donetsk region. According to the Russian Defence Ministry, this capture disrupts Ukrainian logistical operations. The village of Dachenske, south of Pokrovsk, was also reportedly taken by Russian troops. Moscow stated it repelled a Ukrainian attack near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
• Ukrainian Defense: Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting two Kh-59 cruise missiles and shooting down 79 drones overnight. Additionally, Ukrainian forces launched a new offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, where fighting has persisted for months. 
• Casualties: Russia claims to have inflicted significant losses on Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, including the destruction of a Ukrainian MiG-29. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s leadership described ongoing operations in Kursk as yielding "good news."

Regional Attacks

• Dnipropetrovsk Shelling: The Nikopol region was subjected to artillery and drone attacks, though no casualties were reported.
• Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported hearing blasts and gunfire near the site but has yet to confirm the extent of the damage. 

International Reactions

• US Perspective: Speaking in South Korea, the US Secretary of State emphasized the strategic importance of Ukraine’s position in Kursk and highlighted concerns about Russia’s military cooperation with North Korea, including potential technology transfers. The US reiterated its commitment to supporting Ukraine with military aid and security guarantees.
• Ukrainian Leadership: President Zelenskyy underlined the necessity of US involvement in any effective security guarantees. He warned that Russia could escalate its aggression in Europe without a robust NATO response.

Energy and Diplomacy

• A Slovak delegation is heading to Brussels to address gas supply concerns after Ukraine terminated an agreement allowing Russian gas transit through its territory to parts of Europe.