Strike on Belbek air base and security guarantees plan for Ukraine - Thursday brief
RBC-Ukraine collage
Ukrainian drones successfully attacked the Belbek airfield in the temporarily occupied Crimea. Meanwhile, the US and Europe have developed a detailed security guarantees plan for Ukraine.
Read more about what happened on Thursday, December 18.
Ukraine's SBU strikes Russian MiG-31 jet, S-400 radar, and Pantsir missile system in Crimea
Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) struck a Russian MiG-31 aircraft, as well as S-400 and Pantsir air defense systems, at the Belbek airfield in temporarily occupied Crimea.
Ukraine's SBU struck:
- 2 Nebo-SVU long-range radar detection systems (each costing around $60-100 million);
- A 92N6 radar, which is part of the S-400 Triumph anti-aircraft missile system (estimated price for the domestic market is $30 million);
- A Pantsir-S2 anti-aircraft missile system (estimated price for the domestic market is $12 million);
- MiG-31 aircraft with a full combat load (approximate price: $30-50 million, depending on configuration and armament).
US and Europe prepare detailed security guarantees plan for Ukraine
The United States and Europe have developed a security guarantees plan for Ukraine, which includes detailed, strict, and serious measures aimed at deterring Russia from renewed aggression.
Unnamed officials told the outlet that under the plan, Ukraine's army of around 800,000 soldiers will serve as the first line of post-war deterrence. Weapons deliveries and other support programs are expected to continue to ensure Ukrainian forces are properly trained.
The US will provide intelligence and monitoring to track any attempts to violate the peace agreement along the demarcation line, including potential Russian operations under a false flag.
Meanwhile, soldiers from the Coalition of the Willing will be stationed far from the front line "to bolster confidence." European leaders confirmed that they will be able to operate in Ukraine as part of security measures.
Zelenskyy backs electronic voting for presidential elections
Ukraine is considering the option of electronic voting in elections. However, this currently only applies to presidential elections—parliamentary and local elections are not being considered at this time.
Trump on peace talks: 'I hope Ukraine moves quickly'
Trump was asked about his expectations ahead of a meeting between Ukrainian and US government officials in Florida, scheduled to take place over the weekend.
"Well, they're getting close to something, but I hope Ukraine moves quickly. I hope Ukraine moves quickly because Russia is there. And you know, every time they take too much time, then Russia changes their mind," the US President said.