Ukraine Update: Monday, Jan. 27, 2025

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Ukraine has showcased strength, resilience, and hope amid the death and destruction of Russia’s war.

US has not stopped military aid to Ukraine, Zelensky says. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that U.S. military aid to Ukraine continues despite U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announcing a 90-day pause on foreign aid grants. Speaking alongside Moldovan President Maia Sandu in Kyiv on Saturday, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s reliance on the U.S. for 40% of its military supplies. The U.S. has provided $65.9 billion in military support since Russia’s 2022 invasion. Associated Press

US officials push to exempt Ukraine from Rubio’s foreign aid freeze. U.S. diplomats urgently seek exemptions for Ukraine-related programs from Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s 90-day freeze on foreign aid, citing national security concerns. Rubio’s Friday directive halted most foreign aid disbursements, impacting over $70 billion in contracts. While military aid to Ukraine remains unaffected, support for schools, hospitals, and infrastructure is at risk. USAID in Ukraine has paused issuing “stop work” orders while awaiting a decision on the waiver request. However, some organizations have already received suspension notices. The freeze excludes military financing for Israel and Egypt but lacks explicit exceptions for Ukraine’s non-military programs. Financial Times Bloomberg

Putin echoes Trump’s claim that war in Ukraine could have been avoided had he been in office. Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised U.S. President Donald Trump as “clever and pragmatic” and expressed readiness to meet for talks on Ukraine and other issues. Putin echoed Trump’s assertion that the Ukraine war could have been avoided if Trump had been in office in 2022, calling the 2020 U.S. election “stolen.” Trump has repeatedly claimed he would have prevented the war and criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for not negotiating with Putin earlier, saying, “He shouldn’t have allowed this war to happen.” Putin pointed to a 2022 decree by Zelensky barring negotiations as a barrier to peace. Trump has threatened new sanctions and tariffs on Russia while urging OPEC to lower oil prices to reduce the Kremlin’s financial ability to sustain the war. Associated Press The Guardian Reuters Euronews

Putin is trying to ‘manipulate’ Trump, says Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of attempting to “manipulate” U.S. President Donald Trump to secure a peace deal favorable to Russia, sidelining Ukraine and Europe. Zelensky warned of “Putin’s readiness to continue the war and manipulate world leaders” but expressed confidence that such efforts would fail. Putin, praising Trump as “smart” and “pragmatic,” echoed Trump’s claim that the 2020 U.S. election was “stolen” and suggested the Ukraine war might have been avoided under Trump’s leadership. “We are ready for these negotiations on Ukrainian issues,” Putin said, proposing talks with Trump based on “today’s realities.” Reuters

Trump envoy hopeful Russia-Ukraine war will end as deadline looms. In an interview Friday with Fox News, Keith Kellogg, special envoy to Russia and Ukraine under President Donald Trump, expressed optimism about ending Russia’s war on Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of economic strategies in ending the war, suggesting that financial pressures could be pivotal in compelling both parties toward a peace agreement. Kellogg also highlighted the international demand for a diplomatic solution, noting that sustained economic sanctions and support for Ukraine’s defense capabilities are essential in influencing Russia’s actions. He underscored the need for a unified global stance to achieve a lasting resolution. Fox News

Lukashenko says he has ‘no regrets’ about Belarus helping Russia to invade Ukraine. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said Sunday he has “no regrets” about allowing Russia to use Belarus as a launchpad for its invasion of Ukraine, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin as his “older brother.” During a press conference, Lukashenko dismissed concerns about Western criticism and reiterated his support for Russia’s actions. He rejected claims that recent political prisoner releases were aimed at mending ties with the West and showed no inclination to shift his stance on the war in Ukraine. Lukashenko’s alignment with Russia has deepened Belarus’s international isolation since Russia’s 2022 invasion. The Guardian

‘Just evil’: Top Republican details Russia’s mass abductions of Ukrainian children. Rep. Michael McCaul, a Texas Republican and former chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has highlighted Russia’s abduction of up to 250,000 Ukrainian children as one of the most egregious atrocities of the war. McCaul described Russia’s actions as “just evil.” He detailed accounts of forced indoctrination, with some children subjected to military training or housed in harsh conditions. “It’s horrific,” McCaul stated, reflecting on the anguish of parents coerced into surrendering children under threats or outright abductions. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Children’s Rights Commissioner Maria Lvova-Belova in 2023 for war crimes. McCaul continues raising awareness by screening a documentary, Children in the Fire: Ukraine’s War Through the Children’s Eyes. He condemned the Kremlin’s denials as propaganda, asserting this barbarity exemplifies Putin’s strategy to weaponize Ukrainian youth. Fox News

Putin lauds the strength of Russia’s war economy. Others see a mirage. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s claims of economic resilience, including GDP growth outpacing the U.S. and Europe, mask deeper issues. Analysts describe Russia’s war economy as running “on steroids” or “cocaine”—unnatural and unsustainable. Inflation surged to 9.5% in 2024 despite a 21% interest rate. A credit bubble linked to hidden war financing risks overwhelming banks. Western sanctions are biting harder, with Gazprom reporting a $7 billion loss, its first in decades. Rising labor shortages, xenophobia, and sanctions leave Russia’s economy stretched thin. Despite Putin’s bravado, these headwinds suggest Moscow may struggle to sustain war spending and social stability, potentially forcing new compromises. CNN

Russia sees no signs that Ukraine and the West are ready for peace talks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday that neither Ukraine nor the West appears ready for peace talks despite increasing rhetoric about their necessity. Lavrov criticized continued Western military support for Ukraine, Kyiv’s legal ban on negotiations, and unresolved questions about the legitimacy of Ukrainian authorities. Lavrov’s remarks, published on the Russian Foreign Ministry’s website, contrasted with President Vladimir Putin’s December assertion that Russia was open to talks with anyone, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Reuters

Russia says its troops have captured Velyka Novosilka, a strategic town in eastern Ukraine. Russia claimed on Sunday the capture of Velyka Novosilka, a town of 5,000 in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region, after months of battle. Russia’s capture of Velyka Novosilka would mark its first major 2025 victory, with implications for neighboring Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts. Ukraine confirmed strategic withdrawals to prevent encirclement while fighting continues. The withdrawal aims to complicate further Russian advances by using the Mokryi Yaly River as a natural barrier. Russian forces have sought to break Ukrainian defenses in Donetsk, capturing key cities like Avdiivka and Vuhledar last year. Analysts like Pasi Paroinen criticize Ukrainian leadership for delaying withdrawals, potentially trapping hundreds of troops. Critics emphasize the need for quicker Ukrainian strategic decisions. Associated Press Kyiv Independent

Another Ukrainian Brigade Is Disintegrating as It Deploys To Pokrovsk. The 157th Mechanized Brigade, a newly formed Ukrainian unit, is disintegrating as it deploys to defend Pokrovsk, a key frontline city in Russia’s war on Ukraine. The brigade has suffered heavy losses and poor morale. It lacks proper training, experienced leadership, and modern equipment. Similar issues plagued the 155th Mechanized Brigade, which collapsed in December. Critics argue that Kyiv should have reinforced veteran units instead of deploying fragile new brigades, citing leadership and organizational failures. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has since halted the formation of new brigades, redirecting recruits to strengthen existing units, but too late for the 157th Brigade. Forbes

Zelensky again replaces the commander of Ukraine’s key eastern front. President Volodymyr Zelensky replaced Major General Andriy Hnatov with Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi as commander of Ukraine’s Khortytsia operational-strategic group, marking the third leadership change in less than a year for this key eastern front. Drapatyi’s appointment aims to strengthen frontline operations and improve brigade training amid intensified Russian advances in the Donetsk region. Zelensky emphasized aligning staffing and training with battlefield needs in his nightly address on Sunday. Russian forces are advancing near Pokrovsk, a vital defensive hub, threatening supply routes and Ukraine’s hold on the region. Hnatov will transition to Deputy Chief of the General Staff for training and communication. Reuters

Facing exhaustion and North Korean troops, Ukraine’s soldiers say the war needs to end. Ukrainian soldiers facing exhaustion and mounting challenges in the Kursk region have voiced their desire for peace. “Morale is down. The boys are tired,” said Chapi, a fighter, adding, “We need to freeze the lines for six months and negotiate.” The front line, reinforced by North Korean troops, has intensified the conflict. Soldiers described the North Koreans as aggressive and precise, with some refusing capture by choosing death instead. Ukraine’s conscription has introduced less experienced soldiers, and training remains insufficient, with one medic, Voodoo, calling it “a box-ticking exercise.” Google, a conscript, dreams of returning to civilian life but acknowledges, “We want peace.” Despite capturing two North Koreans, holding Kursk has become increasingly difficult. Soldiers like Yaryi, a former martial arts fighter, believe peace is impossible without Russia’s withdrawal. “If they get 20 percent of our territory, it’s not peace. They’d attack again,” he warned. CBC

Ukraine’s Kursk invasion was a risky play, but it might have nailed the timing. Ukraine’s bold incursion into Russia’s Kursk region in August 2024 could become a key bargaining chip as peace negotiations gain traction. The operation, described as “quite deliberate” by Tim Willasey-Wilsey of King’s College London, aimed to seize territory and momentum, with Colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon emphasizing, “Whoever holds Kursk is going to be in the box seat for any ceasefire negotiations.” While Ukraine has struggled to retain control of Kursk, Zelenskyy’s October “victory plan” and Trump’s push for negotiations underscore the region’s strategic value. Trump’s economic pressure on Russia may accelerate talks. Business Insider

Ukraine Claims Second Hit on Major Russian Oil Plant in Days. Ukraine launched drone strikes on Sunday, targeting Russia’s Ryazan oil refinery for the second time in three days. The facility, key to fueling Russia’s military, sustained explosions and fire, according to Ukraine’s General Staff. A prior attack on Friday damaged equipment critical for producing diesel and jet fuel. Russia’s Defense Ministry reported intercepting 15 drones across Kursk, Belgorod, and Ryazan but did not confirm the refinery attack. Ryazan Governor Pavel Malkov cited ongoing damage assessments with no reported casualties. The refinery, owned by Rosneft PJSC, processes 340,000 barrels daily and supplies fuel to central Russia, including Moscow. Bloomberg Reuters Reuters Reuters Moscow Times

Ukraine strikes drone storage facility in Russia’s Oryol Oblast and destroys 200 Shaheds. Ukrainian forces struck a drone storage facility in Russia’s Oryol Oblast on Sunday, destroying over 200 Shahed drones, according to Ukraine’s General Staff. The targeted facility housed thermobaric warheads, causing a secondary explosion. Shahed-136 drones, widely used by Russia since 2022, have been deployed against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. This follows earlier strikes in Oryol, including the destruction of drone maintenance centers and an oil depot in December. Kyiv Independent

Inside the Ukrainian drone unit conducting deep strikes on Russia. Ukraine’s 14th Unmanned Aerial Systems Regiment has intensified long-range drone strikes on Russia, targeting logistics hubs, ammunition depots, and infrastructure deep behind the front lines. Known for its secrecy, the regiment’s operations aim to weaken Russia’s military-industrial capacity. Casper, the battalion commander, emphasized, “Our main goal is to decrease our enemy’s pressure on the front.” The regiment, equipped with domestically produced “Lyuty” drones, includes analysts and engineers and claims some drones have a range of 2,000 kilometers. Co-founder Fidel highlighted their successes, including strikes on Russia’s Engels airbase, while cautioning that drones alone cannot determine the war’s outcome: “You still need infantry, artillery, and aviation.” A recent attack reportedly hit a Russian oil refinery and microchip factory, with dramatic footage showing flames in the Ryazan region. Casper estimated a 40-50% efficiency for their weaponry. Reuters

Transfer of Air Force personnel to infantry continues despite scandal. ​​The Ukrainian military’s controversial transfer of Air Force personnel to infantry units continues despite public backlash and presidential condemnation. Over 5,000 personnel, including aviation specialists, are set to transition due to poor mobilization results. Soldiers report significant risks, with transferred Air Force members suffering high casualty rates. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi admitted to a critical shortage in mechanized brigades but emphasized safeguarding irreplaceable specialists. Lawmaker Ruslan Gorbenko defended the transfers, citing evolving defense needs. Critics warn the reassignments threaten Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, with many personnel lacking adequate training for ground combat. Despite reassurances, soldiers say little has changed operationally. Kyiv Independent

Ukrainian defense minister fires weapons director tasked with sniffing out corruption. Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov fired Maryna Bezrukova, head of the Defense Procurement Agency (DPA), despite the board unanimously voting to extend her contract. Umerov cited “unsatisfactory” results, amending the DPA charter to override board decisions. Bezrukova, managing a $7.3 billion budget, stated, “I will stand in my position until the end.” Under Bezrukova, 61% of contracts were signed with Ukrainian companies, 27% with foreign defense firms, and 12% with intermediaries. She focused on cutting out corrupt middlemen and securing direct deals for critical military supplies. Tensions arose when Umerov redirected $546 million from the DPA to the State Border Guard Service, disrupting pre-contracted deals and raising concerns about procurement integrity. Critics, including Anastasiia Radina, head of parliament’s anti-corruption committee, called for Umerov’s resignation, warning his actions undermine reforms and jeopardize Western aid. Meanwhile, U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg proposed using frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine’s defense. Kyiv Independent New York Post Ukrainska Pravda

Europe is cautiously optimistic about Trump’s Ukraine comments. Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has drawn mixed reactions from Europe, particularly regarding Ukraine. While his unpredictability and contentious policies, like tariffs and Greenland discussions, spark concern, his comments on pressuring Russia to end the war in Ukraine offer cautious optimism. Trump’s proposals to increase NATO defense spending to 5% of GDP have gained some acceptance, reflecting evolving European defense priorities. His Cabinet choices, including Russia hawks like Mike Waltz and Marco Rubio, bolster hopes among Ukraine supporters. However, skepticism remains. Trump’s Vice President JD Vance and others oppose ongoing aid to Ukraine, raising fears of compromised support. Critics argue Trump prioritizes expediency over democratic principles, increasing the risk of a flawed deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin. European officials worry a premature peace deal could allow Russia to regroup for future aggression. Trump’s inconsistent approach keeps allies vigilant as they brace for potential policy shocks. Politico

What leverage does Trump have over Putin in Ukraine peace negotiations? Quite a lot. Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has introduced new dynamics in Ukraine peace negotiations. Trump warned Russia of harsh sanctions, tariffs, and “negotiating the hard way” if Vladimir Putin resists peace talks, declaring, “If a deal is not reached, I will have no other choice.” Experts believe Trump’s leverage lies in Russia’s faltering economy, military losses, and diplomatic vulnerabilities. “The leverage is with Trump, not Putin,” said Timothy Ash of Chatham House. Economic pressure, particularly sanctions targeting Russian energy giants like Gazprom and Rosneft, could cripple Russia’s economy further. Research scholar Edward Fishman emphasized that “turning up the heat now” could get Russia to negotiate. Military aid is another lever; a Trump-approved weapons package, potentially funded by frozen Russian assets, might accelerate talks. Diplomatically, Trump must unify allies and consider Ukraine’s territorial compromises. “Unity among Ukraine, Europe, and the U.S. strengthens Trump’s hand,” Thomas Graham of the Council on Foreign Relations said. Kyiv Independent

‘An opportunity, not a burden:’ Ukraine House Davos seeks investors amid war. At Ukraine House Davos, Executive Director Ulyana Khromyak emphasized Ukraine’s investment potential, stating, “Ukraine is not a burden, but a country of opportunity.” Addressing world leaders and investors, she highlighted Ukraine’s $26 trillion in natural resources, including $12 trillion in minerals, as well as opportunities in agriculture, defense, and infrastructure. Khromyak urged investors to act now, stating, “Everyone will be queuing after the war,” while showcasing success stories like the $1.5 billion Datagroup-Volia-Lifecell merger. Discussions also centered on securing war risk insurance and utilizing $350 billion in frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s recovery. Khromyak expressed optimism about U.S. President Donald Trump’s support, referencing his “strong messages” for peace and economic growth. “We have no choice other than to win this war,” Khromyak said. Kyiv Independent

Zelensky Says Ukraine Is Ready to Transit Gas from Azerbaijan. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced readiness to transit Azerbaijani gas to Europe using Ukraine’s infrastructure, saying, “We won’t let the Russians profit, but will we let the Azerbaijanis earn? With pleasure.” The proposal follows Russia’s cessation of gas transit through Ukraine after a key agreement expired on Jan. 1, drawing criticism from Slovakia and Hungary, which previously relied on the route. Zelensky discussed the plan with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, highlighting Azerbaijan’s export capacity of 25 billion cubic meters annually. However, experts doubt Azerbaijan’s ability to supply big volumes, suggesting potential swaps involving Russian gas rebranded as Azerbaijani. Additionally, Zelensky offered free coal to Moldova’s energy-stricken Transnistria region in exchange for electricity. Bloomberg Politico EU

Russian attacks against Ukraine kill 4, injure 7 over past day. Russian attacks killed four civilians and injured seven in the past day, regional authorities reported on Monday. In Kherson, one was killed and two injured; in Donetsk, one killed and four injured. Two women were killed in Kharkiv, with an elderly woman injured. Air defenses shot down 57 of 104 drones targeting Ukraine overnight. A strike on Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast hit infrastructure but caused no casualties. Kyiv Independent

Russia launched over 1,250 bombs, 750 drones at Ukraine during Trump’s first week in office. President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday that Russia launched over 1,250 bombs, 750 drones, and 20 missiles targeting multiple Ukrainian regions, including Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, during the past week. Highlighting the need for unity, sanctions, and long-range defense systems, Zelensky emphasized protecting lives. This comes as U.S. President Donald Trump, in a Jan. 23 Davos address, proposed leveraging oil prices and sanctions against Russia to end its war on Ukraine swiftly. Kyiv Independent

Explosions reported in Khmelnytskyi, Ivano-Frankivsk amid drone attack, apartment building damaged in Dnipro. Russian drone attacks early Monday struck multiple Ukrainian regions, including Ivano-Frankivsk, Khmelnytskyi, and Dnipro. In Ivano-Frankivsk, residents were urged to stay in shelters during a prolonged air raid alert. A residential building in Dnipro suffered damage to its upper floors, windows, and nearby vehicles, though no casualties were reported. Khmelnytskyi also experienced explosions. This follows previous strikes on Jan. 15 in Ivano-Frankivsk targeting critical infrastructure. Kyiv Independent

Russia launches four drone strikes in Kharkiv. Russian forces launched four drone strikes on Kharkiv Saturday, targeting the Shevchenkivskyi, Kyivskyi, and Kholodnohirskyi districts. A Molniya drone strike caused a fire in Shevchenkivskyi, while disruptions to water and electricity were resolved within hours. Three individuals experienced stress-related symptoms. Kharkiv, located near the Russian border, has endured frequent attacks over the past two years, with Moscow often targeting densely populated areas. Kyiv Independent

SBU foils Russian missile plot on Ukrainian military institute. Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) arrested an 18-year-old military cadet in Lviv Oblast on Friday for allegedly aiding Russia’s Federal Security Service. Accused of treason, she reportedly provided geolocations of military facilities and barracks in exchange for money, enabling potential strikes on Ukrainian positions. The cadet was detained while attempting to send coordinates and flee. Evidence seized included a mobile phone and laptop. If convicted, she faces up to life imprisonment and property confiscation. Kyiv Independent

Zelensky’s man in DC. David Arakhamia, a close ally of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and leader of the Servant of the People Party, attended Donald Trump’s January 20, 2025, inauguration. As one of the few foreign dignitaries present, his participation highlighted Ukraine’s effort to secure continued U.S. support amid the war with Russia. Insiders claim Trump takes the issue seriously, with formal talks expected soon. Despite calling Zelensky “no angel,” Trump has warned Russia and pledged military aid while aiming to broker a deal by spring. The Independent

Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment for Friday, Jan. 24-Sunday, Jan. 26. SUNDAY–Russian forces claimed full control of Velyka Novosilka on Sunday, but Ukrainian forces maintained positions, with heavy fighting ongoing. The Russian Ministry of Defense highlighted Velyka Novosilka’s seizure to shape Western perceptions and undermine support for Ukraine. The Russian command may shift Eastern Military District forces from Velyka Novosilka to prioritize operations in Toretsk, Zaporizhia, or other fronts for spring and summer offensives. Russian forces near Toretsk aim to advance toward Kostyantynivka, while Ukrainian salients southwest of Toretsk face intensified pressure. Ukraine struck the Ryazan Oil Refinery for the second time on Saturday-Sunday, targeting Russian military fuel supplies. SATURDAY–Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Moldovan President Maia Sandu met to discuss energy solutions for Transnistria, proposing coal supplies and electricity-sharing agreements to lower Moldova’s energy costs by 30% despite Transnistria’s reliance on Russian gas. The Kremlin aims to strengthen Russian-Iraqi relations. FRIDAY–Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to misrepresent Ukraine’s 2022 decree banning talks with him as an obstacle while signaling disinterest in good-faith negotiations. Zelensky signed the 2022 decree in response to Russia’s illegal annexation of Ukrainian territories but remains open to negotiations under specific conditions. Putin sought to present himself as an equal to Donald Trump, proposing direct talks to bypass Ukraine’s involvement. Putin expressed concerns over falling oil prices, which could destabilize Russia’s economy and impact its war efforts. Russia is reviving efforts to dissuade Western military aid to Ukraine, mischaracterizing battlefield realities. A new 2025 security framework with Belarus aims to integrate the two nations under Russian control further.

Battlefield update: Russian forces advanced near Toretsk, Pokrovsk, Kurakhove, Borova, and Velyka Novosilka, while Ukrainian forces regained positions in Toretsk and Kursk Oblast. Sunday-Institute for the Study of War Saturday-Institute for the Study of War Friday-Institute for the Study of War

Opinion: Does Putin know why Ukraine fights? Because we prize freedom above stability and wealth. Andrey Kurkov emphasizes that Ukraine’s war against Russia is fundamentally a battle over the value of freedom. Ukrainians prioritize freedom over stability or wealth. He recounts the sacrifices of individuals like Volodymyr Vakulenko and Victoria Amelina, whose dedication to freedom cost their lives. Kurkov warns that freedom requires vigilance, as complacency risks its loss. Ukraine thrives culturally and democratically despite the war, demonstrating freedom’s enduring importance. The Guardian

Opinion: When Ukrainian resistance symbols fade. Artem Chekh reflects on how symbols of Ukrainian resistance, once powerful and inspiring, have faded as the war drags on and heroism becomes routine. He recounts the personal loss of his symbolic mug during a retreat, marking the shift from idealism to survival. Chekh emphasizes that the true symbols now are the resilient people who persist—fighting, working, and contributing despite exhaustion. He asserts that Ukraine’s strength lies not in external symbols but in its unyielding individuals enduring the hardships of war. Al Jazeera

Opinion: To end the Russia-Ukraine war, Trump will need to get leverage. Steven Pifer argues that President Donald Trump needs substantial leverage to mediate a durable settlement in the Russia-Ukraine war. He suggests Trump request a $40-$50 billion U.S. military aid package for Ukraine, work with allies to tighten sanctions on Russia, and transfer frozen Russian Central Bank assets to Ukraine. These measures, Pifer notes, would pressure Vladimir Putin to negotiate seriously and signal Trump’s tough stance as a mediator. A successful agreement with strong security guarantees for Ukraine would enhance Trump’s global influence and reputation, potentially securing the Nobel Peace Prize he reportedly desires. The Hill