Ukraine has intensified strikes deep within Russian territory, using U.S.-approved ATACMS missiles, UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles, and drones targeting critical Russian infrastructure, including oil facilities. Russia launched its largest drone attack yet, with 188 devices deployed on November 26, targeting civilian infrastructure. The Donbas offensive brought territorial gains for the Russian army, but at a high cost, including 1,950 soldiers lost in a single day. In response to these challenges, Ukraine strengthened its defense capabilities with a $53.7 billion defense budget for 2025 and significant international support. Meanwhile, elected President Donald Trump announced the appointment of LTG (ret) Keith Kellogg as special envoy for Russia and Ukraine, signaling that peace negotiations will be a priority early in his term, starting in January 2025.
In retaliation for Ukrainian strikes, Russia launched the hypersonic missile “Oreshnik” at a factory in Dnipro and extended the conditions for nuclear weapon use with a new doctrine. This doctrine significantly broadens the circumstances under which nuclear weapons can be used, including non-nuclear aggression supported by nuclear states, territorial isolation attempts, military coalitions near Russia’s borders, and threats against Belarus. Economically, U.S. sanctions have weakened the ruble, while exchanges with North Korea have intensified, with oil deliveries in exchange for troops and weapons.
On November 24, Romania held the first round of its presidential elections, in which independent candidate Calin Georgescu, known for controversial anti-Western and pro-Russian statements, secured 22.94% of the vote, followed by Elena Lasconi (19.17%), a pro-West opposition leader, and Social Democrat Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu (19.14%). The December 1 parliamentary elections were won by the Social Democratic Party (PSD) with 22.5% of the vote, while three sovereignist parties secured nearly 40%. The formation of a coalition depends on the result of the second round of the presidential election, when Calin Georgescu and Elena Lasconi will face off on December 8. The Constitutional Court must validate the first-round results and rule on election challenges within the next two days.
In theRepublic of Moldova, Maia Sandu won a second presidential term with 55.3% of the vote, despite Russian interference, earning praise from Western allies for Moldova’s democratic resilience. Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi attended meetings in Brussels to discuss European integration and security issues, including violations of airspace by Russian missiles, which prompted plans for new radar systems.
In the Balkans, strategic alliances were a priority amid geopolitical challenges. Albania addressed migration policies with Italy and improved governance through OSCE-led human rights training and anti-crime cooperation with Belgium. Bulgaria deepened ties with Germany and the U.S., continuing its support for Ukraine. Tensions between Serbia and Kosovo remain over unresolved border disputes and mutual accusations of provocations, with NATO urging restraint and stability.