Russia's Military Advances in Ukraine and Diplomatic Shifts in Syria

As of Christmas Eve 2024, the military situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate for Ukrainian forces. Russian troops are making significant advances in several key areas:

In the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna area, Russian forces have enlarged their bridgehead west of the Oskil River and are in the process of capturing several important villages. They have reportedly captured the village of Terny on the Zherebets River, potentially opening the way for an advance towards Lyman.

In Bakhmut, Russians have captured another micro-district in the northern part of the city. While Ukrainians claim to have recaptured some areas in counterattacks, the overall trend shows Russian forces gradually gaining control of most of the urban area.

Around Avdiivka, Russian troops continue to make progress, clearing villages and tightening their grip on the town. Ukrainian counterattacks have reportedly resulted in heavy losses without reversing Russian gains.

In the area of Velyka Novosilka, Russian forces have captured two important villages - Storozheve and Makarivka. The road from Velyka Novosilka to Vuhledar has been cut, effectively surrounding Ukrainian troops in the town.

Meanwhile, the current U.S. administration is considering imposing new large-scale sanctions on the Russian energy sector, despite the incoming Trump administration. This move is ostensibly to give leverage in future Ukraine talks, but is more likely intended to create difficulties for the new administration.

In Syria, there are signs that Russia may be preparing to reduce its military presence. In recent comments, President Putin raised questions about Russia's future role in Syria and suggested Russian bases could be used for humanitarian purposes instead. This indicates Russia may be looking to exit Syria in an organized and dignified manner, in contrast to the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Overall, the military situation continues to favor Russia in Ukraine, while diplomatically Russia appears to be repositioning itself in Syria as the conflict there enters a new phase. The actions of the outgoing U.S. administration may complicate matters further as a transition of power approaches in Washington.

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