Russian troops are nearing Pokrovsk, while Pope Francis calls for a ceasefire amid holiday prayers. Ukraine hits a Russian oil depot and discusses Moldova's EU aspirations, as tensions escalate further.

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Russian troops are advancing towards Pokrovsk, the city associated with Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych, creator of the famous "" As the conflict intensifies, Ukrainians are focused on preserving their cultural heritage amid the turmoil. Meanwhile, Pope Francis has called for a ceasefire in his Christmas prayers, condemning attacks on schools and hospitals in Ukraine and Gaza. Ukrainian forces have also targeted a Russian oil terminal for a second time this month, disrupting supply lines critical to Moscow's military efforts. In Moldova, Deputy Prime Minister Dumitru Alaiba discussed the country's internal divides regarding EU membership and the influence of Russia. Additionally, Russian President Putin vowed "destruction" following a drone attack in Kazan, which reportedly hit civilian areas far from the front lines. In a separate development, Biden's hostage envoy, Roger Carstens, expressed shock at the number of prisons operating under the Assad regime in Syria, complicating efforts to locate missing American journalist Austin Tice.