According to BBC, in recent attacks, Russian air defenses intercepted over 180 of 620 drones flown toward the Moscow area, though some civilians were wounded, though a prior night’s strike killed nine and injured 23, including a child. Ukraine fired 822 drones the night before, with 600 aimed at Moscow, reported as one of the most massive drone attacks in recent memory. Seven deaths were recorded across Russia. Russian strikes on Ukraine also killed at least seven and injured 39.

Trump’s Mixed Messaging on Sanctions and NATO

CNN reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump has delayed imposing sanctions on Russia despite ongoing attacks on Ukrainian civilians; he suggested peace was imminent following a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska and has downplayed drone incursions into NATO countries. Trump’s remarks contrast with the hardline stance of former President Ronald Reagan and have raised questions about his commitment to European security. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he was ready to impose major sanctions on Russia but conditioned action on NATO members ceasing Russian oil imports.

EU’s 2030 Defense Readiness Plan

Politico reports that the EU plans to be prepared for war with Russia by 2030, as outlined in the Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030. The document, to be presented by the European Commission, emphasizes the need for a strong European defense posture to deter aggression, particularly in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine and uncertainty over U.S. support under Trump. The plan will be discussed by defense ministers and presented to EU leaders in the coming weeks.

Escalation to Aerial Warfare and ICBM Use

According to Todo Alicante, Russia has escalated its tactics, including the use of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in combat. In November 2024, the Oreshnik missile, equipped with six warheads, targeted Dnipropetrovsk, marking the first known battlefield use of a MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle). Hans Kristensen of the Federation of American Scientists called the use of such a weapon a significant escalation; Russian President Vladimir Putin framed the strike as a “worldwide” message in response to Western weapons shipments, including long-range British drones. By 2026, the war had largely shifted to aerial combat, with limited movement on the ground.