Trump Calls Zelensky 'No Angel' as Russia Escalates Attacks on Ukraine

Former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview with Fox News, describing him as "no angel" and asserting that he "shouldn't have allowed this war to happen." Trump remarked that Zelensky was fighting against a much more powerful entity and suggested a deal could have prevented the Russian invasion. Trump reiterated his intention to end the war in Ukraine, stating he had instructed his team to arrange a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin for a meeting. He previously demanded that Russia agree to a deal to end the war, warning of stricter sanctions and tariffs if Moscow refused. Trump also aims to lower global oil prices, believing this could expedite an end to the conflict.

In Donetsk Oblast, Russian forces captured the settlement of Novovasylivka, as reported by the DeepState analytical project. Following a month of intense fighting, the Ukrainian 59th Separate Motorised Infantry Brigade held the position under dire conditions, even while encircled for the last two weeks. Russian troops, bolstered by a special forces battalion and GRU units, continued their offensive toward Uspenivka after taking Novovasylivka. DeepState highlighted that Ukrainian defenders bought crucial time, but the battle resulted in significant casualties for both sides, with Russia suffering heavier losses. One Russian regiment reportedly replenished all losses in Avdiivka within ten days, achieving a 92% staffing level for their units.

Meanwhile, Kyiv Oblast endured a deadly Russian drone attack on the night of 23-24 January, killing three people and injuring others. Mykola Kalashnyk, acting head of Kyiv Oblast Military Administration, confirmed the casualties, including a 36-year-old man who died...