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Key events of the Russia-Ukraine war on day 1,059
On January 18, Ukrainian officials reported that four people were killed in Kyiv overnight following explosions and air raid sirens. Ukrainian military forces intercepted multiple Russian missile and drone strikes, destroying 24 drones and two ballistic missiles. A total of 39 drones and four missiles were launched at various locations in Ukraine. The Ukrainian forces also targeted Russian oil infrastructure, including depots in the Tula and Kaluga regions. Meanwhile, Russian air defenses shot down 14 Ukrainian drones in the Bryansk and Smolensk regions, with no casualties reported.
Casualties and Damage
A joint investigation revealed that nearly 89,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in Ukraine, marking an increase of almost 4,000 deaths since mid-December. This number is considered an underestimation, as it only accounts for troops whose deaths were immediately verifiable.
War Crimes
A pro-Russian Telegram channel shared disturbing videos showing two Russian soldiers with decapitated Ukrainian heads on display. Additional graphic footage showed the abuse of Ukrainian prisoners of war and desecration of bodies.
Russian Oil and Gas
According to reports, Russian petroleum exports dropped by over 10% in 2024 due to Ukrainian drone strikes targeting oil infrastructure. In response, the United States imposed sanctions on six Russian oil tankers under construction, marking the first time sanctions have targeted Russia’s "shadow fleet."
Diplomatic Developments
Russia and Iran signed a renewed partnership agreement to strengthen military and intelligence cooperation, although Iran did not commit to direct military assistance. Meanwhile, a French patrol aircraft was reportedly targeted by Russian ground-to-air defense systems over the Baltic Sea, prompting complaints of Russian intimidation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with Slovakia’s opposition leader amid tensions with the Slovak Prime Minister.
In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the Auschwitz Nazi death camp, emphasizing historical remembrance while also holding discussions with Polish President Donald Tusk. Starmer’s visit followed a security agreement signed with Zelenskyy during his recent trip to Ukraine.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concerns that the incoming Trump administration would alter Biden-era policies on Ukraine, though he hoped for continuity in US support.