January 1, Ukraine Blamed for Russian Nuclear Plant Fire

Wyatt’s Take

• Russia says Ukraine hit a nuclear plant with drones
• No injuries, radiation stays normal, but a transformer burned
• Ukraine marks independence as tensions rise

Russia claims Ukraine targeted a nuclear power plant in the Kursk region, causing a fire that was put out quickly with no injuries or radiation problems reported.

Officials noted only a damaged transformer and assured the situation was under control.

The United Nations nuclear agency said it was tracking the situation but hadn’t independently confirmed the details.

Firefighters also handled a separate blaze at a major fuel port in Ust-Luga after Russian officials reported downing about 10 Ukrainian drones.

Russia’s Defense Ministry stated its forces intercepted 95 Ukrainian drones overnight.

Ukraine’s air force reported Russia sent dozens of drones and a cruise missile into Ukraine, but nearly half were stopped or jammed.

These attacks happened as Ukraine celebrated over three decades of independence from Soviet rule.

President Zelenskyy told Ukrainians, “We are building a Ukraine that will have enough strength and power to live in security and peace.”

He added, “What our future will be is up to us alone,” making clear Ukraine’s determination to choose its own path.

U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg was in Kyiv for the celebrations, receiving an award from Zelenskyy.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Kyiv to show support for Ukraine on its independence day.

Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, wrote, “On this special day – Ukraine’s Independence Day – it is especially important for us to feel the support of our friends. And Canada has always stood by our side.”

Norway promised nearly $700 million in military aid, teaming up with Germany to push air defenses into Ukraine.

Meanwhile, fighting dragged on in eastern Ukraine, with Russia claiming new ground in Donetsk.

Source

Wyatt Matters

When foreign wars hit home with attacks on nuclear plants and fresh military funding, it’s important to remember how these global conflicts can trickle back to our neighborhoods, energy costs, and security. Folks in Middle America keep their eye on these stories, because peace and safety matter as much here as anywhere.