Russia accused Ukraine of launching a drone swarm on President Vladimir Putin’s Novo-Ogaryovo residence near Moscow, intercepted by defenses but signaling escalation amid Trump’s Ukraine peace push. Zelenskyy denied involvement, calling it Kremlin provocation as 95% of the 20-point US-brokered plan nears finalization with 15-year security guarantees. China expanded Taiwan encirclement drills into week two, prompting US carrier deployment.
Putin Residence Drone Attack
Dozens of drones targeted Putin’s heavily guarded compound late January 9, downed without breach; Russia blamed “Kyiv terrorists” to derail peace, coinciding with Trump’s Mar-a-Lago-Zelenskyy summit. Zelenskyy labeled it “false flag” propaganda, focusing on Paris summit prep for European backing. Kremlin vowed retaliation; incident echoes 2024 Kursk incursions amid Zaporizhzhia fights.
Trump urged calm post-Putin call, insisting deal viability despite “tests.”
Ukraine Peace Plan Advances
Zelenskyy confirmed 95% readiness on framework: US guarantees, reconstruction, NATO ties; Macron hosts January 15 Paris talks with UK, Germany, Poland for unified Europe stance before Russia dialogue. Putin demands Donbas recognition; Ukraine cites Kupiansk liberation leverage. Canada ups aid $2.5B; December drone intercepts hit 4,300 record.
China-Taiwan Drills Intensify
PLA live-fires sealed Taiwan Strait second week, 60 warships/120 jets vs. US $11B arms; Xi warns “separatists.” USS Reagan carrier group sailed through; Japan/Philippines protested violations. Markets volatile; blockade fears rise.
Middle East Flashpoints
Netanyahu-Trump Mar-a-Lago: Trump endorses Iran strikes if Hamas balks Gaza phase two; pardon rumors swirl (denied). Saudi jets hit Yemen Mukalla over UAE arms; UAE withdraws fully. Somalia riots vs. Israel Somaliland nod; denies Gaza refugees/bases.
India OK’d $8.8B defense for jets/subs vs. China-Pakistan; denied Beijing mediation claim.
Global Developments
Bulgaria/Romania full Schengen; Poland EU presidency. Iran executed 1,500 in 2025; protests rage. Gen Z protests global surge. US seized 150 Virginia pipe bombs.
Pakistan PM vows hunger-free 2026; Bangladesh buries Khaleda Zia.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ukraine behind Putin drone attack?
Russia says yes; Zelenskyy calls false flag amid peace talks.
Ukraine deal details?
95% finalized; 15-year US pacts, Paris summit January 15.
China drills status?
Week two encirclement; US carrier response.
Trump-Netanyahu on Iran?
Endorses strikes; Gaza disarmament key.
India defense spend?
$8.8B for modernization vs. neighbors.
Aleda Kawis is the Professional Journalist and serving in the field since 2012. She keeps extensive experience as investigating journalist and media influencer.
