Overview
- Pope Leo XIV said he felt great sadness at Russia's apparent rejection of a Christmas truce and urged one full day of peace worldwide.
- Local officials reported Russia launched more than 650 drones and over 30 missiles, killing at least three people including a four-year-old and cutting power across multiple Ukrainian regions during very cold weather.
- Ukraine confirmed a tactical withdrawal from Siversk to preserve troops after fierce battles, noting that fighting continues on the town's outskirts.
- The director of the Chernobyl site warned that another strike could collapse the damaged internal shelter, with full restoration potentially taking three to four years.
- Leo expressed hope for progress on a Middle East ceasefire following Cardinal Pizzaballa’s visit to Gaza and said he was very disappointed by Illinois’ new assisted-suicide law.