Firefighters are dealing with the aftermath of the strike on Odessa. Photo: Nina Liashonok / Ukrinform / abaca / picture alliance.
- The Russian Ministry of Defense reported receiving instructions from Vladimir Putin to "ensure unhindered access" for foreign journalists, including Ukrainians, to areas where Ukrainian troops are blocked in Krasnoarmeysk, Dimitrov, and Kupyansk. However, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry does not recommend accepting this offer.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed laws passed by the Verkhovna Rada extending martial law and mobilization for 90 days, until February 3, 2026.
- In Sloviansk, three people were killed as a result of a strike by the Russian army, and over ten buildings were damaged.
- Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that five people were injured and hospitalized due to an explosion of a package at one of the "Ukrposhta" branches.
- Russian military forces attacked a television tower in Chernihiv.
- The High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine (HACC) on Thursday arrested two businessmen suspected of involvement in the embezzlement of 90 million hryvnias for the procurement of drones for the armed forces in 2023.
- In the Poltava region, in Kremenchuk, there was gunfire at the Territorial Recruitment Center (military enlistment office), resulting in injuries to two servicemen. Reports indicate that the shooting was initiated by a reservist who was brought to the center by the police.
- The border with Belarus will remain closed for both Lithuania and Poland.
- The Russian oil company "Lukoil" intends to sell its foreign assets registered in Cyprus following the imposition of American sanctions.
- In Munich, the Higher Regional Court issued a verdict in a case of espionage and preparation of sabotage on behalf of Russian authorities. The main defendant, Dieter S., received a six-year prison sentence for preparing sabotage and participating in hostilities in eastern Ukraine, while two other defendants were given suspended sentences of six months and one year.
