ukraine war news today

Here are the latest developments in the Ukraine-Russia conflict as of January 17, 2025:

Ukrainian Counterattack

Ukraine has launched a fresh counterattack in the Russian border region of Kursk, aiming to gain as much territory as possible ahead of potential peace negotiations or other developments2.

Capture of Kurakhove

Russia has claimed the capture of the Ukrainian front-line town of Kurakhove in the Donetsk region, although Ukraine has not acknowledged this1.

British Support and Partnership

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has visited Kyiv to solidify a 100-year partnership with Ukraine, focusing on deepening security, cultural, energy, and economic ties. This partnership includes £40m for Ukraine's economic recovery, support for grain verification and trade, and cooperation in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Sea of Azov to deter Russian aggression. Britain has provided £12.8bn in support to Ukraine since 20222.

Potential Peacekeeping Role

Sir Keir Starmer is considering plans to send British troops to Ukraine as peacekeepers in the event of a ceasefire with Russia. This was discussed during his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky2.

North Korean Involvement

Ukraine claims to have captured two North Korean soldiers during fighting in Russia's Kursk region, highlighting a new dimension of foreign involvement in the conflict2.

International Reactions and Future Negotiations

With Donald Trump set to return to the White House, there are concerns that any peace deal involving Ukraine giving up territory could breach international law and send a chilling message to aggressors worldwide. Russia has shown signs of warming up to Trump's remarks and is ready for talks2.

Ongoing Challenges

Ukrainian forces are facing manpower shortages and losing ground in the eastern Donetsk region as Russian troops continue their advance2.