The battle for Kyiv and “war crime” calls have filled the news as Ukraine continues to face the Russian invasion. New photos and videos fill the internet of the aftermath of the destruction as many cities lay in ruin.

Ukraine’s Azov Battalion uploaded a video showing the destroyed buildings in the city of Mariupol. Thick smoke can be seen at a distance coming from what were once were apartment complexes. Epicenter K shopping center is borne open as explosions and fire devastate the remaining buildings.

Ukraine’s military has carried out an airstrike on Russians positioned on the forests just outside of Kyiv. The village of Ozera and the northern end of the runway at Antonov Air Base is visible on the video. Both show significant destruction of properties.

“War Crimes”

In a message of President Volodymyr Zelensky, he said that the Russian military has a “responsibility for war crimes.”

“Responsibility for war crimes of the Russian military is inevitable,” Zelensky said early Tuesday. “Responsibility for a deliberate humanitarian catastrophe in Ukrainian cities is inevitable.”

In an agreed humanitarian corridor, he reports that the Russians have violated the cease-fire on these areas. “Mariupol. Kharkiv. Chernihiv. Sumy. Okhtyrka. Hostomel. Irpin. In all our cities.”

“Our convoy with 100 tons of what is most necessary for Mariupol is still kept in Berdyansk. For three days already. But we will try. We will do everything to ensure that Mariupol residents receive food, water, and medicine,” he said.

“Everyone who is responsible for the war. Everyone is responsible for the destruction of democracy”. He added, “everyone is responsible for repression against people. Everyone will get an answer. The answer of the world. And this is just the beginning,” he said.

“Every aggressive action of the invaders only pushes the world to new sanctions.”

“Our delegation also worked on this in negotiations with the Russian party. Pretty good, as I was told. But let’s see. They will continue tomorrow,” he said.

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The lawsuit stems from a temporary adjustment to Meta’s hate speech policy, which permits certain Facebook and Instagram users to express violent emotions against Russian-backed military forces invading Ukraine. The policy change was originally reported by Reuters on Thursday.

“A criminal case has been initiated in the Main Investigation Department of the Russian Investigative Committee in connection with illegal calls for murder and violence against citizens of the Russian Federation by employees of the American company Meta, which owns the social networks Facebook and Instagram,” the Investigative Committee’s statement said, citing the policy change.

“These actions contain signs of crimes under Articles 280 and 205.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation – public calls for extremist activities; assistance to terrorist activities,” the statement reads.

In response, Meta (FB) did not immediately answer. However, the business underlined in a statement on Thursday that the policy modification does not allow for incitement for violence against Russians outside of the context of the invasion of Ukraine.

“In light of the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, we made a temporary exception for those affected by war, to express violent sentiments toward invading armed forces such as ‘death to the Russian invaders.’ These are temporary measures designed to preserve voice and expression for people who are facing invasion,” Meta said in a statement to CNN Thursday. “As always, we are prohibiting calls for violence against Russians outside of the narrow context of the current invasion.”

Roskonadzor, Russia’s information watchdog, said Friday it will restrict access to Instagram, saying the “social network distributes informational materials containing calls to commit violent acts against citizens of the Russian Federation, including military personnel.”

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Fedorov was accused of terrorism and was under investigation by the Russian-backed Luhansk regional prosecutor a short time afterward. Fedorov is suspected of helping and funding terrorist acts. He is also accused of being a member of a criminal community. This is according to a notice on the Luhansk prosecutor’s website.

Fedorov’s capture by armed men is the first reported imprisonment of a Ukrainian political official by Russian or Russian-backed troops. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky demanded his immediate release, saying it was a “crime against democracy”. He added that Russia has “switched to a new stage of terror” in its invasion by “trying to physically eliminate representatives of the legitimate local Ukrainian authorities.”

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry called Fedorov’s detention an “abduction” and a “war crime.” Hundreds of people protested the kidnapping outside Melitopol’s city hall. The crowd was chanting “Freedom for the Mayor.”

Galina Danilchenko, a former member of the city council, is now the new mayor. She was assigned by the Zaporozhye regional administration on Saturday.

Danilchenko said that her “main task is to take all necessary steps to get the city back to normal.”

In Lviv, reports of Russian military airstrikes filled the news. Among the ones hit was the International Peacekeeping and Security Center (IPSC). It is a huge military base in the northwestern city of Lviv. It is predominantly kept for peace-seeking missions. Russia fired eight missiles near Lviv, the regional government said. Officials are looking into whether there are casualties.

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Kyiv is under fire and Russia warns the US they will shoot down any weapons given by the US to Ukraine. Russian troops continue to bombard the city of Ukraine and significant damages are being made.

Russia says that any convoy carrying foreign weapons are considered “legitimate targets”. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov issued a warning that they will be shot down. This could spark a direct confrontation between Russia and NATO.

The US recently authorized a $200 million immediate defense aid. The aid includes military education and training for Ukraine. A US official announced that “anti-armor, anti-aircraft systems, and small arms in support of Ukraine’s front-line defenders facing down Russia’s unprovoked attack.”

Kyiv is under attack as Russians move closer to the capital. They are 25 kilometers away from the center of the city. Civilians are constantly in the line of fire as Russia continues the bombing. The city of Marakiv has seen large damage from the bombings. Residential apartments, schools, and a medical facility were damaged.

Chernobyl and Other Cities

On March 9, Chernobyl was hit by Russian attacks and was cut from the electrical grid. It is now running on external diesel generators to keep the reactors working. Russians also took over Ukraine’s largest nuclear power plant.

Kharkiv, Mariupol, Mykolaiv, Dnipro, Chernihiv, and Sumy have also sustained a significant amount of damages. Mariupol also shows gasoline stations and apartment buildings destroyed by the attacks.

Zelensky said 12,729 Ukrainians were successfully evacuated.

In Peremoga, in the Kyiv region, civilians were killed when they were they were trying to feel. Seven civilians were killed including women and children.

Zelensky also said that he has seen a “lack of courage from the members of NATO to come together for Ukraine. it’s a huge problem. A philosophical problem of the alliance.” He also announced that about 1300 troops were killed since the war started.

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Fighting for Kyiv. Recent satellite photos show updates on what is happening on the outskirts of Kyiv. The capital city has not yet fallen, but Russian troops are beginning to enter the city.

The northern city of Chernihiv shows significant damage. In Hostomel, northwest suburb of Kyiv, Antonov Airbase is now under Russian control. Smoke rises from the tanks that were set on fire.

Northwest of Kyiv in the town of Borodyanka shows a series of apartment buildings demolished. The demolition was caused by Russian airstrikes. Just outside Kyiv in Stoyanka, the satellite shows images of a warehouse completely stripped open.

80 miles northeast of Kyiv shows Chernihiv consumed by fire. Among the buildings that were destroyed was the Epicenter K supermarket. On the south side of Chernihiv, industrial buildings are also on fire.

Russian Convoy

The 40-mile Russian convoy near Kyiv seems to have dispersed. Recent satellite images show most of the vehicles have moved to a different position. Some were hidden in the forest while some has traveled miles.

Parts of the convoy are seen repositioned into the forests tree line areas near Lubyanka. In the residential areas of Ozera, some Russian vehicles were seen sitting on the roadways. This is just 17 miles from Kyiv. In some patched areas, artillery and other vehicles are hidden, they are spotted 3 miles from the Antonov Airbase. In Berestyanka, hidden within the tree line are rocket launchers. Towards the end of the convoy about southeast of Ivankiv, some vehicles were just sitting on the roadway.

In the eastern part of Kyiv, in Brovary, there has been increased activity on the ground. Heavy fighting has ensued between the Russian and Ukrainian armies. It appears that the Russians continue to advance but Ukrainians resisted. However, as both armies go head-to-head, the civilians continue to suffer. In the suburb, there is no supply of water, food, or medicines.

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Chernobyl is off the grid. Ukraine’s Chernobyl nuclear power plant has been disconnected from the electricity grid. This was announced by Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s energy operator, and Energoatom, the state-run nuclear company.

Chernobyl was the site of the worst nuclear disaster in 1986. It is no longer an operational power plant and it does not handle any nuclear material. The facility however is home to decommissioned reactors and radioactive wastes.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that the loss of power has “no critical impact” on the plant’s safety.

“Specifically, regarding the site’s spent fuel storage facility, the volume of cooling water in the pool is sufficient to maintain effective heat removal from the spent fuel without a supply of electricity. The site also has reserve emergency power supplies with diesel generators and batteries,” IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a statement.

However, the lack of power “is likely to lead to a further deterioration of operational radiation safety at the site,” Grossi said.

A possible leak

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba however suggests in a tweet that there could be a leak.

“Reserve diesel generators have a 48-hour capacity to power the Chornobyl NPP. After that, cooling systems of the storage facility for spent nuclear fuel will stop, making radiation leaks imminent,” Kuleba said.

IAEA has also raised concerns regarding the staff of Chernobyl that is currently under Russian control.

“From day today, we are seeing a worsening situation at the Chornobyl NPP, especially for radiation safety, and for the staff managing the facility under extremely difficult and challenging circumstances,” Grossi said. “I repeat my urgent appeal to the forces in effective control of the plant to respect internal radiation protection procedures, to facilitate the safe rotation of staff, and to take other important steps to ensure safety.”

Europe’s largest nuclear power plant, Zaporizhzhya is also currently under Russian control. At moment, radiation levels appear normal. The plant was previously reported to have caught fire that could have caused the cooling system to fail. It was close to having a nuclear meltdown.

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Mariupol bombing is “proof of genocide” according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In a video message through Telegram, he said that the bombing of the maternity hospital is proof of genocide.

The hospitals are ruined, the schools are ruined, the churches are ruined, ordinary buildings and all the dead people, dead children, he said. He added, “a strike on a maternity hospital is a final proof, proof of a genocide of Ukrainians taking place.”

“Europeans you won’t be able to say you haven’t seen what was going on to the Ukrainians, what was going on in Mariupol, to the residents of Mariupol, you have seen it and you know what’s going on so you have to strengthen sanctions against Russia in a manner that leaves it no more chance to continue this genocide,” he said.

He asks that sanctions against Russia be increased to stop the further invasion.

Chemical Weapons

Wendy Sherman, Deputy Secretary of State tweeted she is “horrified, outraged, and heartbroken by credible reports that a Russian airstrike destroyed a maternity and children’s hospital in Mariupol. How much more devastation will Putin’s senseless war of choice bring to the people of Ukraine? He must stop these heinous acts now.”

The White House sends a warning of the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki claims Russia could use it as a false flag.

“Now that Russia has made these false claims, and China has seemingly endorsed this propaganda, we should all be on the lookout for Russia to possibly use chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine, or to create a false flag operation using them. It’s a clear pattern.”

Psaki also noted Russia’s “long and well-documented track record of using chemical weapons”. Also, its pattern of “accusing the West of the very violations that Russia itself is perpetrating.”

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China offers to mediate talks with Russia and Ukraine. President Xi Jinping stated that China is prepared to “work actively” with the international community. The goal is to settle the conflict in Ukraine, but he did not provide any specifics. He also maintained his opposition to Western sanctions on Russia.

During a call with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron, China’s president agreed it is “worrisome”. China is “deeply grieved by the outbreak of war again on the European continent.”

“China will stay in communication and coordination with France, Germany, and the EU and, in light of the needs of the parties involved, work actively together with the international community,” the statement said, adding that all efforts “conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis must be supported.”

Germany, France, and China

Germany and France are ready to strengthen their relationship with China to promote peace. China and Russia share the same views regarding the West. It was clear when China abstained from voting on the UN condemnation of Russia.

China has not imposed any sanctions on Russia nor have they publicly condemned their actions. They have not aided Russia’s economy in any way as well. Beijing seems to be neutral as it also fears being sanctioned for helping Russia.

The Chinese government has never called the war a Russian invasion. They also share the point of view of Russia that this was due to NATO’s eastward expansion. President Xi however urges both sides to “keep the talks going and bring about peaceful outcomes.”

China calls for both sides to exercise “maximum restraint” in the hopes of preventing a humanitarian crisis. They also agreed to provide Ukraine with humanitarian aid. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the Chinese are “ready to seek a peaceful solution”.

President Xi is against the Western sanctions as they will “dampen the global economy that is already ravaged by the pandemic.”

“This is in the interest of no one. We need to actively advocate a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security,” Xi said.

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The residents are determined in defending Kyiv as the Russians encircle the city. Civilians volunteered to defend their city and helped construct defenses in the city. They are also the ones guarding these defenses.

Trenches stretch deep into the forests that surround the motorway from the south that leads towards Kyiv. Fallback positions that have been strengthened are prepared for whatever happens next. Huge metal anti-tank barriers called “the hedgehogs” because of their spiky design are set at regular intervals along the route. At each exit, makeshift blockades made of sandbags and large concrete blocks stand.

Many volunteers appear to be underdressed for the frigid temperatures. They dress casually, with huge jackets and sweatpants serving as an unofficial uniform. Their trousers are generally green, black, or camouflage patterned. These are not military camouflage, but civilian camouflage used for hunting.

Call of Duty

According to the chief of staff of the Ukrainian armed forces, about 40,000 volunteers joined the Territorial Defense Forces. This is only in the first two days after the invasion began. When authorities in Kyiv asked for volunteers and reservists to take up guns, 18,000 people responded.

There were so many who applied that the Territorial Defense Forces had to turn individuals away. Those who were unable to join the forces are assisting in other ways.

They’re constructing Molotov cocktails, stitching barrier camouflage netting, and handing out food, hot drinks, and smokes to the guards. In an attempt to confound invading soldiers, they are soliciting funds for the military, erecting extra roadblocks, and even painting over traffic signals.

They have answered the call of duty in many ways we could not imagine. These are people who were just a few weeks ago have normal lives. They used to go to work, they were regular people at the grocery, and they were with their families watching TV. The reality of war has dawned on them in a matter of days. They have proven their patriotism by simply answering the call. They have one purpose: defending Kyiv. Their strength inspires the world as we all watch what happens next.

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There is a divide between Asia and the West. As political tensions rise due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, two Asian superpowers remain silent.

Both China and India have hesitated to express explicit condemnation of Russia’s savage invasion. They also both have refrained from voting on UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions urging that Moscow cease its war on Ukraine immediately.

The US made it plain that countries that do not criticize Putin’s war are linked with Russia. The world’s two most populous countries are under greater international pressure to speak out. Or they could face being labeled complicit.

The fact that neither nation has decided to do so highlights Russia’s disproportionate power in Asia. The arms sales and no-strings-attached commerce have allowed Moscow to show Asia’s weakening connections with the West.

China

China has so far refrained to denounce the Russian strike or refer to it as an “invasion,” instead of stating that it recognizes Moscow’s “legitimate security concerns.” Russia’s talking lines on Ukraine have also been parroted by China’s official media. Guo Shuqing, head of the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, stated on Wednesday that China will not cooperate in sanctions.

India

So far, India has tried to play both sides — Modi has spoken with both Zelensky and Putin, and has pledged humanitarian aid for Ukraine. Modi hasn’t explicitly condemned Russia’s attacks — he’s called for “an immediate cessation of violence” and “concerted efforts from all sides” to negotiate, according to a read-out of his February 24 call with Putin.

Russia and India have a long history of friendly relations, which stretch back to the Soviet era when the USSR helped India win its 1971 war with Pakistan. There’s also the relationship between Putin and Modi, who was one of only two world leaders Putin traveled to see last year, for a visit to New Delhi in December.

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“We cannot allow Russia to be active there only, because they’re bombing us, they are shelling us, they are sending missiles, helicopters, jet fighters — a lot of things,” Zelensky said. “We don’t control our sky.”

He also commented on President Joe Biden having the capability to do more to stop the war. “I am sure he can and I would like to believe that. He is capable of doing that,” Zelensky said.

He also put out a warning for the rest of the world.

“Everyone thinks that we are far away from America or Canada. No, we are in this zone of freedom. And when the limits of rights and freedoms are being violated and stepped on, then you have to protect us. Because we will come first. You will come second. Because the more this beast will eat, he wants more, more, and more.”

Russia has proposed a cease-fire beginning March 8, 10 am Moscow time. The cease-fire will occur in Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Mariupol. This is to give way to humanitarian corridors.

“Russia declares a ceasefire from 10 a.m. (Moscow time) on March 8, and is ready to provide humanitarian corridors: from Kyiv and adjacent settlements to the Russian Federation through the territory of the Republic of Belarus to Gomel,” Russian media quotes the statement. 

The Russian statement added that evacuation corridors “will also be open from Chernihiv through the territory of Belarus, from the city of Sumy along two routes to Poltava and to the territory of Russia, from Kharkiv to the territory of Russia or to Lviv, Uzhgorod, Ivano-Frankivsk. Also, a humanitarian corridor will be opened from Mariupol along the two routes to the territory of Russia and Zaporizhie.”

Ukraine has not yet agreed on the cease-fire.

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Macron expressed the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. President Putin answered, “the provocation staged by Ukrainian radicals in the area of ​​the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant with the involvement of a sabotage group.”

“Russian troops are in cooperation with Ukrainian personnel and continue to ensure the operation of the nuclear power plant in the normal mode and the radioactive background remains normal,” Putin said. He added that these details can be confirmed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

“The physical and nuclear safety of the plant is well protected,” the readout said.

Russian Armed Forces “control the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant” to ensure there are no “provocations fraught with catastrophic consequences by Ukrainian neo-Nazis or terrorists.”

The French president also suggested holding a trilateral (IAEA-Russia-Ukraine) meeting in the Chernobyl zone. Putin responded with “In principle, this idea could be useful, but it would be worth considering whether to hold such a meeting via videoconference or in a third country.”

Both leaders were also talking about evacuating the civilian population. Putin said that Ukraine “is not fulfilling the agreements reached on such an acute humanitarian issue.”

“Ukrainian nationalists did not allow the evacuation from these cities. And the pause in hostilities was again used to build up forces and means in their positions.”

This is part of the French president’s ongoing effort to calm the situation and find a diplomatic solution to the conflict. He believes that there could be talks done to deescalate the conflict.

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95% of Russia’s combat power is now in Ukraine according to s senior US official. Russia has also fired a total of 600 missiles since the war has begun. Kherson and Mykolaiv have already fallen under Russian troops while Kyiv, Kharkiv, Chernihiv, and Mariupol still stand.

Ukrainians continue to present a hard resistance to the Russian troops. Many Ukrainian soldiers and civilians continue to defend their respective cities.

The 40-mile Russian convoy headed for Kyiv has stalled for some time. The last update was that it was 25 kilometers from the city. There is no additional information as to why it has stalled.

The skies are almost clear at the moment as both sides try to retain their air combat power.

“We believe the Ukrainian people in most parts of the country still have means of communication, access to the internet and the media,” the official added.

A Message from Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky published a new Facebook video on Sunday. “Today is Forgiveness Sunday. But we cannot forgive the hundreds upon hundreds of victims. Nor the thousands upon thousands who have suffered,” the video was captioned. “And God will not forgive. Not today. Not tomorrow. Never. And instead of Forgiveness, there will be Judgment.”

“For tomorrow Russia has officially announced the shelling of our territory. Our enterprises of the defense complex. Most were built decades ago by the Soviet government, built in cities. And now they are in the middle of an ordinary urban environment,” Zelensky said. “Thousands of people work there. Hundreds of thousands live nearby.”

He added, “this is murder. Deliberate murder.”

“And I have not heard a reaction from any world leader today. From no Western politician. There are no reactions to this announcement. Think about the sense of impunity of the occupiers: they announce the atrocities that are planned. Why?”

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According to Chatchai Viriyavejakul, director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Department of Consular Affairs, the second group of 45 landed at Suvarnabhumi around 12:05 p.m. on Emirates aircraft EK 384 from Warsaw.

As part of Covid-19 prevention efforts, everyone was given RT-PCR testing upon arrival. They then boarded buses for a one-day quarantine at the Bamrasnaradura Infectious Disease Institute in Nonthaburi, pending test results.

Mr. Chatchai stated that the Thai embassies in Bucharest and Warsaw have been aiding the 256 Thais who have tried to leave Ukraine, with 203 having returned home thus far.

The Russian embassy in Bangkok has issued a warning to Thai people from fighting alongside Ukrainians. The Russian Defense Ministry strongly cautions against such engagement in foreign military actions. This is according to a message posted on the embassy’s Facebook page on Saturday.

Last week, Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, issued a plea to international nationals to assist the country in fighting Russia’s incursion, which some have compared to a war. According to the Russian embassy, such mercenaries do not qualify as combatants under international humanitarian law and hence cannot be awarded prisoner-of-war status.

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Sanctions are Like Declarations of War. – Sanctions imposed by Western nations for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have been compared to “a declaration of war” by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“But thank God it has not come to that,” he added.

Any effort to enforce a no-fly zone over Ukraine would be viewed as participation in the military conflict, according to Mr. Putin.

He also dismissed concerns that he will declare martial law or declare a state of emergency in Russia.

Mr. Putin made the comments to a group of female flight attendants at an Aeroflot training facility in Moscow.

The West has slapped a slew of penalties on Russia since the invasion began 10 days ago. This is including the freezing of Mr Putin’s overseas assets. Also, the withdrawal of a number of Russian institutions from the Swift international payments system.

In addition, numerous global corporations have stopped doing business in Russia. Zara, Paypal, and Samsung were among the latest major businesses to halt operations in the country on Saturday.

The rouble has already fallen in value as a result of the economic measures, forcing the Russian central bank to double interest rates.

Mr. Putin attempted to explain the conflict in Ukraine in his most recent remarks. He repeated his claim that he was attempting to preserve Russian-speaking minorities in the nation. This is by “demilitarizing and de-Nazifying” the country.

In response to Western defense analysts’ claims that Russia’s military campaign is failing to meet expectations. Putin said: “All of the duties will be completed by our army. That is something I have no doubt about. Everything is progressing according to schedule.”

Despite claims to the contrary, he stressed that only professional soldiers were involved in the fighting and that no conscripts were participating.

No-Fly Zone

Efforts to enforce a no-fly zone in Ukraine would be regarded as a step towards a military confrontation by Russia. Those responsible would be handled as enemy fighters, according to the Russian leader.

“The current leadership needs to understand that if they continue doing what they are doing, they risk the future of Ukrainian statehood,” he added.

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Ukraine update – President Volodymyr Zelensky has a message for the citizens of the Donbas region. He urged them to fight for their rights and freedom.

“To everyone who can hear us, whose memory hasn’t been erased by propaganda, whose eyes weren’t shut by fear, whose soul wasn’t disfigured by cynicism — Fight!” he said. “Fight for your rights! For your freedom, for Ukraine! Together with Kherson, together with Berdyansk, together with Kyiv and all the rest of Ukrainian cities that value life and are not afraid of anything.”

“I know that many of you believed that Ukraine allegedly hates you. Will allegedly attack you. Will allegedly destroy you. Liars on Russian TV talk about it every day. Liars. It’s their job to lie to you every day. But this should not be your destiny.”

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is still under the control of Russian troops. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed it on Saturday. Head of the IAEA, Rafael Grossi said that the staff is held at gunpoint. They are also forced to work. This goes the same for the workers at Chernobyl where they are also forced to work without changing shifts.

Starlink

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked SpaceX CEO Elon Musk for providing internet services to the country. Starlink sends antennas to assist destroyed cities.

“I’m grateful to him for supporting Ukraine with words and deeds,” Zelensky said in a tweet early Sunday. “Next week we will receive another batch of Starlink systems for destroyed cities.”

Mariupol

Mayor of the southern Ukrainian city of Mariupol, Vadym Boichenko shared the situation of his city.

“The situation is very complicated, the Russian army has already put up a blockade on the humanitarian corridor. We have a lot of social problems, which all the Russians have created. All our thermal substations rely on this power supply, so accordingly, we are without heat. Since the attack on Mariupol, we lost our reserve water supply, and so we are totally without water now. “

“[The Russian army] is working to besiege the city and set up a blockade,” he said. “They want to cut us off from the humanitarian corridor, shutting down the delivery of essential goods, medical supplies, even baby food. Their goal is to choke the city and place it under unbearable stress.”

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Singapore sanctions Russia in support of stopping the war in Ukraine. “We will impose export controls on items that can be directly used as weapons to inflict harm on or to subjugate the Ukrainians, as well as items that can contribute to offensive cyber operations,” according to the Singapore Foreign Minister.

Singapore Customs will reject all permit applications to Russia involving all items listed as military goods, electronics, computers, and “Telecommunications and Information Security.”

All financial institutions in Singapore will be prohibited from pursuing transactions or establishing business relations with major Russian financial institutions including VTB Bank, VEB.RF, Promsvyazbank, and Bank Rossiya.

Singapore will prohibit transactions or the facilitation of fundraising for the Russian government and Central Bank of Russia or any entity owned by them.

Singapore will prohibit providing financial services in the separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in the transport, telecommunication, and energy sector.

Digital payment token service providers are prohibited from facilitating any transactions “that could help to circumvent these financial measures.”

Switzerland

Switzerland has also adopted EU sanctions after staying neutral. “The export of all dual-use items to Russia is now prohibited, regardless of their end-use or end-user. In addition, the export of goods that could contribute to Russia’s military and technological enhancement or the development of the defense and security sector is prohibited,” the government said, adding that “it is also prohibited to provide technical assistance, brokering services or financing.”

Putin has called for the removal of the sanctions. “We have no bad intentions, there is no need to escalate the situation, impose restrictions, we fulfill all obligations,” he said. “If someone does not want to cooperate with us within the framework of single cooperation, and by doing so harms themselves, they will, of course, harm us too,” Putin added.

“We will just have to move some projects a little to the right, to acquire additional competencies. But we will still solve the problems that we face” he said. “In the end, we will even benefit from this because we will acquire additional competencies.”

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United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said at the UN that the Russian troops are closing in. “Russian forces are now 20 miles, and closing, from Ukraine’s second-largest nuclear facility,” she said.

“President Putin must stop this humanitarian catastrophe by ending this war and ceasing these unconscionable attacks against the people of Ukraine,” the ambassador added.

The meltdown of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Powerplant was narrowly avoided. Now, the radiation levels remain normal and the fires were extinguished. Had they continued the bombing of the plant and hit the cooling pits, it could have been a meltdown.

“The international community must be unanimous in demanding Russia’s forces stop their dangerous assault. And as I’ve said before, the people of Ukraine are counting on us and we must not let them down,” she said.

Refugees

In the meantime, the United Nations reported that 1.2 million refugees have left Ukraine. 1,209,976 refugees are currently in Poland. Others have fled to neighboring countries Hungary, Slovakia, Moldova, and Romania.

UN expects additional refugees to leave within the week as the bombardment continues. Countries have offered refugee visas for the Ukrainians fleeing the country.

In the next few days, Russia could send additional mercenaries to bombard cities into submission. Western intelligence officials warned that there are “some indications” that mercenaries could be involved. “We’ve seen some indications that they’re being employed,” the official said.

“The days to come are likely to be worse, with more death, more suffering, and more destruction, as the Russian armed forces bring in heavier weaponry and continue their attacks across the country,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Friday.

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Russian and Ukrainian delegations agreed to possible brief ceasefires during discussions from an unknown location, the second this week.

But, according to Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak, the cease-fires would only be in regions where humanitarian corridors were being established and for the length of civilian evacuations.

“To our great regret, we did not get the results we were counting on,” he added.

Since the assault began last Thursday, Ukraine says that over 2,000 people have perished. According to the United Nations, the fighting has forced over a million people to escape Ukraine.

According to the United Nations, Russia’s continuous shelling of residential areas across Ukraine has caused more than one million refugees to escape the nation in only seven days, as the battle enters its second week.

“I have worked in refugee catastrophes for over 40 years, and seldom have I seen an exodus as quick as this one,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said in a statement Thursday.

Millions more people are likely to be forced to flee Ukraine, Grandi said. He added: “International solidarity has been heartwarming. But nothing — nothing — can replace the need for the guns to be silenced; for dialogue and diplomacy to succeed. Peace is the only way to halt this tragedy.”

Following a day of continuous bombardment, residents in Ukraine’s capital Kyiv were startled in the early hours of Thursday by at least one massive explosion in the southwest of the city. To the south, the mayor of the strategically vital Black Sea city of Kherson said that Russian soldiers had taken control, however, allegations are still being debated. According to local officials, inhabitants in the port city of Mariupol, which has a population of over 400,000, are without electricity and water as Russian forces ramp up their onslaught.

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“Our Ukrainian army and National Guard are very brave, they stand and fight for Ukraine, for Mariupol. But the situation is quite critical,” Orlov said Thursday.

Russian assaults on the Kharkiv area in northeast Ukraine killed 34 civilians in less than a day, according to emergency services. Russian forces are making their way toward Odesa, a strategically important city on Ukraine’s southern coast.

In Kyiv, the Russian convoy is preparing to lay siege to the city. “As of this morning, we still assessed that the advance of the Russian forces was still about 25 kilometers from the city center, but they are trying to close in,” Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said. “They are still outside the city, but we still believe that their intent is to try to encircle Kyiv, and ultimately occupy it.”

The ongoing talks between Russia and Ukraine have not reached a conclusion. “Unfortunately, the results Ukraine needs are not yet achieved. There is a solution only for the organization of humanitarian corridors,” senior Ukrainian official  Mykhailo Podolyak said in a tweet after the talks ended.

Humanitarian help is urgently needed as a result of the Russian invasion. Food and resources are becoming increasingly limited throughout the country. Shelter, food, water, and extra relief are being provided by organizations on the ground in Ukraine and neighboring countries.

According to a statement by the United Nations, more than 10 million people may evacuate their homes in Ukraine, with four million crossing the border into neighboring countries.

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According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it contains 15 nuclear energy reactors. If the cooling system is destroyed, it could lead to a meltdown. At the moment, the radiation levels are normal.

Russians attacked the area to try to encircle the Ukrainian army. Also, as the supplier of 20% of Ukraine’s electrical energy, it can disrupt many things when taken offline. This could mean the loss of communication systems, heating, and electricity for Ukrainians.

Plant personnel is trying to contain the fire. They have also informed that essential equipment was not damaged. If electricity or fuel is cut off from the plant, it could cause the cooling system not to function. This will trigger an uncontrollable nuclear reaction that can set off radiation.

Spokesperson Andrii Tuz posted that a lot of technical equipment was hit. One of six power generation units is working.

American Nuclear Society President, Steven Nesbit urged both sides not to continue the fight in the area. “We also urge the securing of off-site power supplies for every nuclear facility, uninterrupted transportation to and from sites for plant workers and supply chains; and unfettered communications with regulators and inspectors.”

Enerhodar Mayor Dmytro Orlov posted earlier on social media. “A threat to world security!!! As a result of relentless shelling by the enemy of the buildings and blocks of the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is on fire!!!”

“I demand, stop! Immediately stop shelling the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant point-blank,” the mayor said in a video message.

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The resolution has a political weight although it is legally non-binding. It “also demands that the Russian Federation immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.”

“The message of the General Assembly is loud and clear: end hostilities in Ukraine now. Silence the guns now. Open the door to dialogue and diplomacy now. The territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine must be respected in line with the UN Charter,” Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said.

“We don’t have a moment to lose. The brutal effects of the conflict are plain to see. But as bad as the situation is for the people in Ukraine right now, it threatens to get much, much worse. The ticking clock is a time bomb,” he added.

Abstained

Cuba, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Bolivia are part of the 35 countries that have abstained from the votes.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has put into question the “destabilizing actions of NATO.” He has pledged support to the Russian President after numerous calls with him.

Long-time Russian allies Cuba and Nicaragua also blamed the conflict on NATO’s “increasingly offensive military doctrine that threatens peace.”

Mexican President López Obrador and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro both took a neutral stance.

“We’re not going to take any kind of economic reprisal because we want to have good relations with all the governments in the world,” said López Obrador. “We do not consider that [the war] concerns us, and we think that the best thing is to promote dialogue to achieve peace.”

Bolsonaro, who visited Moscow a few weeks ago, has said that his country was, “not going to take sides.”

“We are going to continue to be neutral and help however possible to find a solution,” said the president currently up for reelection later this year.

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Kherson has fallen but Kyiv stands – Kherson Mayor Ihor Kolykhaiev confirmed that the Ukrainian military is no longer in the city. Control of Kherson is now under “armed people who came to the city’s administration.”

Mayor Kolykhaiev announced that Russian officers entered the city hall building. Their plans are to install a new administration similar to the Donbask region. This marks the first major city occupied by the Russian army.

Head of Kherson regional administration, Hennady Lahuta issued a warning to all citizens. “I ask everyone who is not at home now, or who is planning to go outside, not to do so. The occupiers are in all areas of the city and are very dangerous.”

After the Russian occupation of the city, his final announcement was made. “Let it be for now. The flag above us is Ukrainian. And in order to keep it the same, these requirements will have to be met. I can’t offer anything else.”

Kyiv Stands

In Kyiv, President Zelensky claims that the Russian morale is breaking. “More and more occupiers are fleeing back to Russia, from us, from you, from all those who drive out the enemy with javelins, guns, tanks, helicopters – with everything that shoots. I wish you health, native Ukrainians, strong and kind, but not to the enemy!”

“We are a nation that broke the enemy’s plans in a week — plans those have been built for years, vile, calculated, with hate for our country, for our people, for any people who have 2 things: freedom and heart. But we stopped them and beat them.”

“Our military, our border guards, our territorial defense, even ordinary farmers capture the Russian military every day. And all the captives say only one thing: they do not know why they are here. Despite the fact that there are dozens of times more of them, the morale of the enemy is constantly deteriorating.”

“Blocking roads, people come out in front of enemy vehicles – it’s extremely dangerous, but how courageous. It is also salvation.”

“They will not have peace here, they will not have food here, they will not have a single quiet moment here. The occupiers will receive only one thing from Ukraine — a rebuff, a worthy rebuff. They will always remember that we do not give up.”

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Apple announced that they have stopped selling their products in Russia. “Last week, we stopped all exports into our sales channel in the country. Apple Pay and other services have been limited. RT News and Sputnik News are no longer available for download from the App Store outside Russia and we have disabled both traffic and live incidents in Apple Maps in Ukraine as a safety and precautionary measure for Ukrainian citizens.”

Exxon also announced the cancellation of the Sakhalin-1 project. “Last week, we stopped all exports into our sales channel in the country. Apple Pay and other services have been limited. RT News and Sputnik News are no longer available for download from the App Store outside Russia,” Apple said. “And we have disabled both traffic and live incidents in Apple Maps in Ukraine as a safety and precautionary measure for Ukrainian citizens.”

GM also announced that they will not be exporting to Russia. “GM is committed to complying with the laws and regulations of the markets in which we do business, including applicable US economic sanctions and export control laws and regulations,” according to the official statement. “We continue to monitor developments and take action to implement mitigation strategies as appropriate.” All exports to Russia are stopped “until further notice.”

Not just companies but even social media giants have also stepped in.

Facebook announced that they are “fully blocking the ability of a number of Russian state media entities from broadcasting into Ukraine.”

Twitter also said there are plans to “reduce the visibility and amplification of this content site-wide, no matter who it comes from.”

Youtube announced that it will be “significantly limiting recommendations to these [RT and Russian state media] channels.”

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The citizens of Kyiv lined up rows of concrete panels on the streets to help slow down the convoy. Piles of sandbags and improvised barriers made from metal, wood, and anything on hand line up the roadsides. The Ukraine flag defiantly standing in every corner as the men prepare to go head-on with the invaders.

Many citizens left the city, some chose to stay in bunkers, bomb shelters, and underground subways. Regular citizens are on the street carrying guns, manning checkpoints. Father, brothers, and husbands stand firm to protect their city.

These are not soldiers but they are true patrons who just a while back were regular people going to work. They have answered the call of their country.

The world watches as they prepare to meet a 40-mile-long convoy full of tanks, artillery, and Russian soldiers. Every hour, this convoy approaches the city. Ahead of the convoy, Russia has launched rockets aimed at the city. It has hit a maternity clinic as well as a Holocaust Memorial site. The target seems to be the city’s communication systems.

So far there are 136 casualties confirmed including 13 children. About 400 civilians including 26 children were injured. The actual number might be higher since these were only the reported ones according to the UN. About 677,000 have evacuated in less than a week. The country sees at least 150,000 citizens leaving every day. UN has pledged support to all the people who are in need.

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“The parties discussed holding another round of negotiations where these decisions can develop,” he said.

“I do not really believe in the result of this meeting, but let them try so that no citizen of Ukraine would have any doubt that I, as president, did not try to stop the war when there was even a small chance,” President Zelensky said Sunday.

President Zelensky also accused Russia of war crimes for the bombing of Kharkiv. He added that he is currently analyzing the talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Belarus has been the host of a joint military exercise with Russia. Its borders are also close to the capital city of Kyiv. Now, a 40-mile long Russian convoy is seen passing through the border on the way to Kyiv. The convoy includes tanks, artillery, armory, and logistical vehicles.

Australia sends a $50 million support package including missiles to Ukraine. The package contains lethal and non-lethal aid to be used to defend the country.

“We are answering the call from President (Volodymyr) Zelensky: he said we need ammo, not a ride and that’s exactly what we’re doing… we’ll provide 50 million US dollars to support Ukraine, lethal and non-lethal support… we’re talking missiles, we’re talking ammunition,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

A further $25 million will be for humanitarian support for the hundreds of thousands fleeing Ukraine and those displaced by war.

The war continues as many countries continue to sanction Russia in the hopes to deter any further invasion. Many social media outlets have also helped censor information regarding the conflict.

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The Thai Embassy in Warsaw arranges the evacuation of Thais in Ukraine. The city of Lviv is where the help center is currently set up. Currently, 47 Thais are in the city with more on their way.

When the Russian invasion has begun, the embassy did not waste time posting updates on their page. They announced plans for the safe evacuation of Thais from Ukraine. As soon the Thais reached Lviv, they will be transported by bus to Warsaw.

On Sunday, 43 Thais arrived in the city while the others confirmed they were safe and are on their way. There are about 100 Thais who are still confined to the cities of Mykolayiv and Kharkiv. They could not travel at the moment due to the imposed lockdowns. They must remain at their homes while the attacks are ongoing.

In the capital city of Kyiv, there are about 148 Thais living in the city. About 102 have already left and 43 have arrived. About 40 Thais are choosing to remain in Kyiv with their families. Most of them are women married to Ukrainians. Their husbands are currently enlisted to defend the city prompting them to remain with their children.

Evacuation Routes

There are currently two evacuation routes for Thais. The first one is through the city of Odessa in the southern part of the country. There are currently 41 Thais on this route. They will eventually be taken to the neighboring country of Romania. They will be traveling to Bucharest and will be flown home.

The second route is through the city of Lviv. They will travel to Warsaw where commercial flights are being booked from March 1-4.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed the Labour Ministry and the Foreign Affairs Ministry to provide all the assistance needed for all the Thais in Ukraine to be flown home safely. The Department of Employment is in touch with the families of the Thais in Ukraine to provide any financial assistance.

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Satellite images capture a Russian convoy 60 kilometers from Kyiv. The three-mile-long convoy is compose3d of fuel tanks, infantry vehicles, and artillery. There were also logistical trucks spotted.

Ukraine’s Ministry of Interior reports 1,684 people including 116 children were injured during the invasion. So far, there were 352 civilians including 14 children killed.

The world’s largest aircraft, the Mriya (Antonov AN-225) was destroyed by Russian attacks. Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs tweeted “Russia may have destroyed our ‘Mriya’, but they will never be able to destroy our dream of a strong, free, and democratic European state.”

As the US, UK, and EU continue to sanction Russia to deter the invasion, United Nations Assembly is also voting on additional sanctions for Russia. Australia is the most recent country to slap Russia with sanctions. Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed in a statement Monday.

“From midnight last night, Australian targeted financial sanctions and travel bans came into effect on the Russian President and remaining permanent members of Russia’s Security Council: Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, and Internal Affairs Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev. It is exceedingly rare to designate a head of state and reflects the depth of our concerns. President Putin joins a very small group that includes Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, Mu’ammar Gaddafi of Libya, and Bashar al-Assad of Syria.”

Russia and Ukraine delegations will take place on Monday. President Zelensky agreed to meet President Putin at the Ukraine-Belarus border. Meanwhile, Moscow is on high alert including its nuclear forces.

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Early Sunday morning, 30 kilometers southwest of Kyiv was met with two large explosions. The small town of Vasylkiv is the host for a military airbase and a couple of fuel tanks. There was a fire raging at the oil storage area of the Vasylkiv Air Base.

Heavy gunfire in a western district of the Ukrainian capital killed a six-year-old boy and injured several others. Kyiv’s Okhmatdyt hospital reported two teenagers injured along with three adults.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Air Defence system has performed quite well. It has hugely helped in defending the country. It has caused heavy losses to the Russian army.

United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees about 120,000 Ukrainians have already left. About 850,000 are currently displaced. Queues begin to show at various crossings as about 4 million Ukrainians are expected to flee if things get worse.

The White House, European Commission, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Canada have all stated that they support the expulsion of certain Russian banks from SWIFT, a high-security network that connects thousands of financial institutions around the world, and have pledged to work together to “ensure that this war is a strategic failure for Putin.”

According to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, Russian state media outlets will no longer be permitted to run ads or otherwise monetize their content on any platform owned by Meta. Similarly, YouTube has barred RT, a Russian state-run news organization, from operating in Ukraine and has halted its ability to monetize its video on the site worldwide.

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Video from eyewitnesses earlier Saturday showed explosions in a location northwest of Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital. In the region, there is a military base. Meanwhile, the severe battle was reported outside Vasylkiv, around 30 kilometers southwest of Kyiv, by Ukrainian military troops. “Heavy fighting is currently underway in the town of Vasylkiv in the Kyiv region, where the occupiers are trying to land a landing party.”

Russian soldiers are approaching Kyiv from the north and east, according to Zelensky’s statement, after capturing control of an airbase just north of the city on Thursday. “Ukrainians resist the Russian aggression heroically,” he said.

Russian reconnaissance forces have penetrated the Obolon neighborhood of northern Kyiv, just a few kilometers from the city center, according to the Ukrainian Defense Ministry. Civilians rushed to shelter from small weapons fire in chaotic scenes seen on video from the region.

According to the Ukrainian envoy to the United States, 92 employees working at the Chernobyl power plant, the site of the world’s worst-ever nuclear accident, have been kidnapped. On Thursday, Russian soldiers grabbed control of the complex, raising concerns that the conflict may disrupt the operation of nuclear waste facilities.

According to intelligence information, the city will fall in a few days. As Russia encircles, the capital, President Zelensky has acknowledged that he is target number 1. He is aware that when Russia reaches the city, they will replace him with a new leader.

Follow us and be updated on the battle for Kyiv

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Russia invades Ukraine just a few hours ago. Citizens of Kyiv and Kharkiv awoke to the sounds of sirens warning them to take cover. Then reports began to flood in that the Russian army has begun its invasion. Many rushed to the subway, others made a last-ditch effort to withdraw money from ATMs and buy gasoline. The stark reality of war has come down on the people of Ukraine.

Countries like the US, the UK, and members of the EU have condemned the attack made by President Putin. Most of them have slapped economic sanctions against Moscow. Everyone was asking to stop the violence.

President Vladimir Putin has addressed Ukrainians and asked them to lay down their arms and go home. Russian Government Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov says that the goal of the “special mission” regarding Ukraine is the “demilitarization and denazification” of the country.

“Ideally, Ukraine should be liberated, cleansed of Nazis, of pro-Nazi people and ideology,” he said. “The operation has its goals, they should be reached. The president has said that all the decisions have been made and all the goals will be reached,” Peskov said. “It all depends on the decision of supreme commander-in-chief.”

World Response

There were mixed responses to his move. Below are a few announcements made by governments across the world.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen – “We will freeze Russian assets in the European Union and stop the access of Russian banks to European financial markets,” she said.

“We condemn this barbaric attack and the cynical arguments that are being used to justify it.”

“These sanctions are designed to take a heavy toll on the Kremlin’s interests and their ability to finance the war. And we know that millions of Russians do not want war,” she added.

“We will not allow President Putin to replace the rule of law, by the rule of force, and ruthlessness, Ukraine will prevail.”

Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida – “We strongly criticize Russia’s actions and will cooperate with the United States and the international community to respond swiftly.”

Japan has also imposed sanctions against Russia. The sanctions include the issuance of visas and freezing of assets of people involved in the Donetsk and Luhansk declaration of independence. Import and exports to the regions are also banned.

Chinese Embassy has issued a warning to Chinese nationals in Ukraine

“The situation in Ukraine has deteriorated dramatically. There have been bombings in multiple cities, and the military operations are underway.” The statement also asked citizens to stay at home and away from windows or glass. They also added that for those Chinese nationals traveling on the roads, “the Chinese flag can be affixed to the visible part of the body.”

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20:49 (BKK): Russia spokesperson Dmitry Peskov says that the goal of the “special mission” regarding Ukraine is the “demilitarization and denazification” of the country.

“Ideally, Ukraine should be liberated, cleansed of Nazis, of pro-Nazi people and ideology,” he said. “The operation has its goals, they should be reached. The president has said that all the decisions have been made and all the goals will be reached,” Peskov said. “It all depends on the decision of supreme commander-in-chief.”

20:14 (BKK): Ukraine Presidential Adviser Mykhailo Podolyak says “Russia is attacking not just Ukraine, but all the rules of normal life in the modern world. What will be left of the security system on the continent? Zero.”

“The main thing now is to focus as much as possible on defending the country and preserving people’s normal lives,” Podolyak said.

19:17 (BKK): Indian Government and the Indian Air Force are in talks with the Ukrainian government regarding the evacuation of Indians in Ukraine. They are working on the best plans for a safe evacuation.

18:50 (BKK): Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov – “I cannot give you information on the military, technological and other components of this operation,” Peskov said. “The only primary source here should be our military and defense departments.”

“No one is talking about occupation, in this scenario that word is not applicable,” Peskov said. “This is a special operation. I do not think it’s necessary for me to explain anything here, because the president himself gave exhaustive explanations.”

18:31 (BKK): Ukraine reports casualties including 40 soldiers and 10 civilians since the attacks began.

18:22 (BKK): Chinese Embassy has issued a warning to Chinese nationals in Ukraine

“The situation in Ukraine has deteriorated dramatically. There have been bombings in multiple cities, and the military operations are underway.” The statement also asked citizens to stay at home and away from windows or glass. They also added that for those Chinese nationals traveling on the roads, “the Chinese flag can be affixed to the visible part of the body.”

17:25 (BKK): Multiple attacks are now being reported as many users take to social media to share photos of what is happening in Ukraine.

17:16 (BKK): Reports of Russian tanks presence in Kharkiv. Ukraine President Zelensky offers weapons to everyone who wants them. Many civilians have undergone basic military training in the past few weeks in preparation for an invasion.

16:42 (BKK): President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine officially cuts all diplomatic ties with Russia in a briefing.

16:50 (BKK): People begin to take shelter while some are trying to leave the capital. Many are stuck in traffic and some are queueing to access the ATM or groceries. The underground train stations has become a temporary bomb shelter.

16:33 (BKK): European stock markets plunge as Russia invades. FTSE 100 down by 2.5%, FrencH CAC down 4%, Germany’s Dax down by 4%.

Dow is 1.4% lower, S&P 500 is 1.8% lower and Nasdaq closed 2.6%

Asian Markets has shown the same pattern.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index – decrease by 3%

Korea’s Kospi – down by 2.6 %

Japan’s Nikkei 225 – down 2%

China’s Shanghai Composite – down 1.7%

16:14 (BKK): Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison – “We denounce what are unilateral hostile actions in Ukraine. Russia is flagrantly breaching international law and the UN Charter. Russia has chosen war, together with the international community, we are banding together in strong terms to condemn these outrageous acts in the strongest possible terms.” 

15:52 (BKK): Indian Embassy in Ukraine has released a statement.

For Indians living in Ukraine, the present situation is highly uncertain. Please maintain calm and remain safe wherever you are, be it in your homes, hotels, accommodations, or in transit.

All those who are traveling to Kyiv, including those traveling from western parts of Kyiv, are advised to return to their respective cities temporarily, especially towards safer places along the western bordering countries.

Further advisories will be issued for any update.

15:42 (BKK): French President Emmanuel Macron – “France strongly condemns Russia’s decision to wage war on Ukraine. Russia must end its military operations immediately, France stands in solidarity with Ukraine. It stands with Ukrainians and is working with its partners and allies to end the war.”

15:15 (BKK): EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen – “We will freeze Russian assets in the European Union and stop the access of Russian banks to European financial markets,” she said.

“We condemn this barbaric attack and the cynical arguments that are being used to justify it.”

“These sanctions are designed to take a heavy toll on the Kremlin’s interests and their ability to finance war. And we know that millions of Russians do not want war,” she added.
“We will not allow President Putin to replace the rule of law, by the rule of force, and ruthlessness, Ukraine will prevail.”

15:00 (BKK): Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida – “We strongly criticize Russia’s actions and will cooperate with the United States and the international community to respond swiftly.”

Japan has also imposed sanctions against Russia. The sanctions include the issueance of visa and freezing of assessts of people invovled in the Donetsk and Luhansk declaration of independece. Import and exports to the regions are also banned.

14:05 (BKK): The world has shown its support for Ukraine as leaders pledged their support. Leaders include US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, European Council President Charles Michel, Emir of Qatar, and Polish President Andrzej Duda.

14:00 (BKK): General Staff of Ukrainian Armed Forces reports five Russian aircrafts and a helicopter was shot down earlier today. Russian military claims Ukraine “did not provide any resistance.”

13:45 (BKK): Ukraine Foreign Ministry Dmytro Keleba urged Ukrainians to stay strong and share the truth.

“Putin attacked, but no one is running away,” he wrote. “Army, diplomats, everyone is working. Ukraine fights. Ukraine will defend itself. Ukraine will win. Share the truth about Putin’s invasion in your countries and call on governments to act immediately,” he said.

13:44 (BKK): Tanks begin to move in via Belarus border.

13:39 (BKK): Ukraine Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Oleg Nikolenko “This is an act of war, an attack on sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, a gross violation of the UN Statute and the fundamental norms and principles of international law,” the Russian attack is seen as move to “destroy the state of Ukraine, seize Ukrainian territory by force, and establish occupation control.”

13:03 (BKK): Kharkhiv Mayor  Igor Terekhov warns everyone to stay at home. “Please do not leave your homes today. Due to the complicated situation, schools, kindergartens and other institutions do not work today — until the situation becomes clearer.”

12:59 AM (BKK): Stocks plunge as Moscow Echange closes until further notice.

12:52 AM (BKK): South Korean embassy in Ukraine advises citizens to prepare for an evacuation. “Considering the urgent change in the current situation, we strongly recommend that the South Koreans who are still in Ukraine be fully prepared so that they can move to a safe area or location promptly in case of an emergency.” 

12:48 AM (BKK): Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced “The situation is tense. We will continue to work in collaboration with the international community, including the G7 nations. We will do our best to collect information and get a grasp of the situation.”

12:46 AM (BKK): Russian Military releases a statement “The Russian Armed Forces are not launching any missile or artillery strikes on the cities of Ukraine. High-precision weapons destroy military infrastructure: military airfields, aviation, air defense facilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine,” the statement read. “The civilian population is not at risk.” 

12:44 AM (BKK): Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says “The world must act immediately. Future of Europe & the world is at stake. ” Shares a few suggestions

1. Devastating sanctions on Russia NOW, including SWIFT
2. Fully isolate Russia by all means, in all formats 
3. Weapons, equipment for Ukraine 
4. Financial assistance 
5. Humanitarian assistance

12:18 AM (BKK): President Zelensky announced martial law – “No panic. We are strong. We are ready for everything. We will win over everybody because we are Ukraine.”

12:01 AM (BKK): “All parties concerned should exercise restraint and avoid the further escalation of tensions,” – Zhang Jun China UN Ambassador. China seeks to promote peace talks and diplomatic solutions.

11:52 AM (BKK): Attacks have begun as troops begin to cross the border. UN-Secretary General warns of war worse than any in this century. Meanwhile, flights announce that Ukraine is a no-fly zone.

11:49 AM (BKK): To those who threaten Russia “know that Russia’s response will be immediate and will lead you to such consequences as you have never experienced in your history”- Vladimir Putin

10:47 AM (BKK): UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warns Moscow to give peace a chance and to stop attacking Ukraine. Emergency meetings are ongoing to address the Russian advance.

10:32 AM (BKK): President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged the “special military operation” in the Donbas region. Explosions in Kyiv and Kharkiv. Russian invasion has began.

February 23, 2022: USA and UK sanction Russia to deter any attack.

February 22, 2022: Russia moves in for “peacekeeping” missions in eastern Ukraine.

February 21, 2022: Biden and Putin agree for talks

February 20, 2022: The US warns everyone of imminent attacks

February 19: 2022: US President Joe Biden says Russia will invade.

February 18, 2022: US says Russia has already selected targets in Ukraine.

February 17, 2022: Despite claims of pulling back, Russia has added more troops at the border.

February 16, 2022: Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense and two other banks were hacked.

February 15, 2022: Russian military advances closer to Ukraine

February 14, 2022: US warns that Russian Invasion will be any day now.

February 13, 2022: Experts begin to realize that Ukraine is surrounded.

February 12, 2022: Russia says that the west has a “large-scale disinformation” campaign.

February 11, 2022: Joe Biden urges americans living in Ukraine to “leave now”

Febraury 10, 2022: Russia advances further towards the Ukrainian border

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Russia announces military operation in Eastern Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged the “special military operation” in the Donbas region. This has come after US, UK, and other European nations have announced their sanctions to deter the Russian invasion.

A few signs have pointed to the beginning of the attacks. The first one was President Putin allegedly not answering the calls of President Zelensky. The second sign was Russia announcing the Ukraine region as a no-fly zone. Finally, the Russian President has responded.

A few days ago, President Putin declared the eastern separatist-held regions of Ukraine independent. While Ukraine’s president did not acknowledge any of it, Putin is beginning his operations in the region.

United Nations

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warns Moscow to give peace a chance and to stop attacking Ukraine. “The day was full of rumors and indications of an offensive against Ukraine was imminent. In the recent past, there were several situations with similar indications, similar rumors. And I never believed in them, convinced that nothing serious would happen,” Guterres told the council. “I was wrong. And I would like not to be wrong again today.”

US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield has also expressed her thoughts.

“We are here tonight because we believe, along with Ukraine, that a full-scale, further invasion into Ukraine by Russia is imminent,” Linda Thomas-Greenfield said at an emergency UN Security Council meeting.

“Tonight, we’re seeing the Russians close airspace, move troops into Donbas, and move forces into combat-ready positions,” she added, calling this “a perilous moment.”

“And we are here for one reason and one reason only: to ask Russia to stop. Return to your border. Send your troops, and your tanks, and your planes back to their barracks and hangars. And send your diplomats to the negotiating table,” she said.

Reports are coming in of explosions in Kyiv and the second largest city of the country Kharkiv.

President Putin addressed Ukrainian soldiers and advised them to lay down their arms and go home. He also warned that any military aggression will be on the conscience of the Ukrainian government.

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Just a few days ago, President Vladimir Putin has made his speech regarding the independence of east Ukraine. He also deployed Russian troops to these “independent” states for “peacekeeping” missions. However, the Ukrainian President did not acknowledge any of it saying their borders stay the same.

President Joe Biden announced its “first tranche” of sanctions. This includes two large financial institutions, Russian sovereign debt, and Russian elites and family members. They will be “cut off Russia’s government from Western finance.”

Additional US troops will also be deployed to strengthen the US allies on the Baltic nations. He did clarify that the troops will not be there to fight Russia.

“The United States and our allies and partners remain open to diplomacy if it is serious,” he said. “When all is said and done, we’re going to judge Russia by its actions, not its words.”
President Biden would still like to proceed with diplomatic solutions to the ongoing issues. He was also open to sharing his perspective regarding the acknowledgment of independence. He believes that Moscow was planning to redraw borders which violates international laws.

“Who in the Lord’s name does Putin think gives him the right to declare new so-called countries on territory that belonged to his neighbors? This is a flagrant violation of international law and demands a firm response from the international community,” Biden said.

He viewed it as a beginning of an invasion so de does believe it is also the right time to give a response. There has been no additional response from Russia after President Putin’s speech.

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Russia orders troops to move in for peacekeeping missions in eastern Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin signed decrees for Russia-backed regions’ declaration of independence. Separatist-held eastern Ukraine is known to be backed by Moscow and could mark the beginning of the invasion.

The decrees that were signed recognize Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic (DPR and LPR). Both are independent states in the Donbas region of Ukraine. The decree also guarantees that Russian Troops will defend them.

Many US government officials stated that this could be the beginning of a huge military attack.

Vladimir Putin has made a speech on Monday regarding the Ukrainian Socialist Soviet Republic. He called the eastern part of Ukraine, “ancient Russian lands.”

“Russia has always tried to resolve all conflicts by peaceful means. Nevertheless, the Kyiv authorities conducted two punitive operations in these territories [Donetsk and Luhansk], and it seems that we are now witnessing an escalation for the third time,” Putin said.

Zelensky Remains Steadfast

President Zelensky of Ukraine does not recognize these declarations of independence. He added that Russia has violated Ukraine’s “national integrity and sovereignty” and their borders will “remain as such”. “We are on our land, we are not afraid of anything and anyone. We don’t owe anything to anyone, and we will not give away anything to anyone. And we are confident of this,” Zelensky said.

Ukraine has begun the meeting for the Normandy Four which includes Germany, Russia, and France.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken backed the Ukrainian government recognizing this move as an attack on sovereignty. US President Joe Biden signed an executive decree prohibiting any investment, trade, and financing on the ‘Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics.’

Both President Putin and President Biden have agreed to meet “in principle” to talk about deescalating the issue. Among the points, Russia is demanding is not to allow Ukraine to join NATO. The reason was to avoid NATO spreading its foothold at the Russian borders.

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Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin agree to meet if Russia does not attack Ukraine. The White House announced that the US president will attend the French-brokered summit. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will meet on February 24. They will be discussing the details in advance.

“We are always ready for diplomacy. We are also ready to impose swift and severe consequences should Russia instead choose war. And currently, Russia appears to be continuing preparations for a full-scale assault on Ukraine very soon,” Press Secretary John Psaki said.

The summit was proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron. He talked to both President Joe Biden and President Vladimir Putin back-to-back. His efforts are towards exploring every available pathway to avoid conflict.

“President Biden is prepared to engage President Putin at any time, in any format, if that can help prevent a war,” according to Blinken.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson expressed his opinion. He said that Russia is planning “the biggest war in Europe since 1945.”

“I’m afraid to say, that the plan that we’re seeing, is for something that could be really the biggest war in Europe since 1945,” he said. He added that “people need to understand that the sheer cost in human life that could entail not just for Ukrainians, but also for, for Russians and for young Russians.”

Satellite Images

Maxar has also released additional satellite photos showing that Russian troops are mounting and moving into position. “Multiple new field deployments of armored equipment and troops have been observed northwest of Belgorod and near Soloti and Valuyki, Russia “. These are places 35 kilometers away from the border.

“This new activity represents a change in the pattern of the previously observed deployments of battle groups (tanks, armored personnel carriers, artillery, and support equipment). Until recently, most of the deployments had been seen primarily positioned at or near existing military garrisons and training areas. Today (Sunday) most of the combat units and support equipment at Soloti have departed and extensive vehicle tracks and some convoys of armored equipment are seen throughout the area. Some equipment has also been deployed east of nearby Valuyki, Russia in a field approximately 15 kilometers north of the Ukraine border,” Maxar noted.

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Interior Minister Denys Monastyrskiy reported several mortar fires on Sunday. He was on tour on the front lines and was giving interviews shortly prior to the bombing.

“We have information about the advance of the Russian army along with our territory,” he said. “There is also information that certain units of the Wagner PMC have entered our territory. The purpose of the stay is to organize sabotage in our territory.”

Munich Security Conference

Munich Security Conference

President Zelensky asked for the sanctions against Russia to be made public. The Munich Security Conference initially decided not to publicize the sanctions until Russia has invaded.

“The question of just making it public … just the list of sanctions, for them, for us, to know what will happen if they start the war — even that question does not have the support,” he said.

He argued that what use is the sanctions to them after their economy has collapsed due to invasion. He urged the members to make it public before applying pressure to Russia not to invade. He was asking for sanctions that can provide or he also suggested that Ukraine can provide a list.

“If you can’t even disclose what will happen to whom if the war starts … I doubt it will be triggered after it happens,” he added.

Russia has been amassing troops at the Ukrainian border. There were satellite images of about 150,000 soldiers. There were also additional reports of troops gathering in Crimea and other points of the border.

“Ukraine needs security guarantees,” Zelensky said. “We are smart people, we are not narrow-minded. We understand there are lots of different risks because of NATO, there is no consensus around other allies, everyone is saying there is some distance that we need to go between Ukraine and NATO that we need to walk. All we are saying is tell us how much time does it take to complete this distance?”

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Joe Biden says Russia will invade. “As of this moment, I am convinced he’s made the decision,” Biden said during his speech at the White House. He also added that they believe they will attack “in the coming week” or sooner. The target will be the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. He did emphasize that there is still room for diplomacy.

Biden will gather the national security team over the weekend and monitor any progress during the weekend. He will also remain in close contact with world leaders. His administration has disclosed several intelligence details on Russian troop movements. The reason he chose to do it is to say it “loudly and repeatedly, to remove any reason that Russia may give to justify invading Ukraine and prevent them from moving.”

Russia Refutes the Claims

“Make no mistake. If Russia pursues its plans, it will be responsible for a catastrophic and needless war of choice,” he added.

Mara Zakharova, Russian foreign ministry spokesperson denied the claims Biden made. “The American president also repeated the unsubstantiated thesis about Russia’s alleged attempts to ‘attack’ Ukraine, threatening Moscow with sanctions in the event of an escalation. The Russian Federation categorically denies such statements and escalation plans attributed to it,” the Russian news agency said.

It is up to Ukraine

Biden stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky must decide whether or not to attend the security summit in Germany this weekend. On Saturday, Vice President Kamala Harris is slated to meet with Zelensky at the conference.

The US also released a statement regarding the recent cyber attacks on the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense and two banks. “We believe that the Russian government is responsible for widescale cyberattacks on Ukrainian banks this week. We have technical information that links the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate, or GRU, as known GRU infrastructure was seen transmitting high volumes of communication to Ukraine based IP addresses and domains,” said Anne Neuberger, deputy national security advisor for cyber and emerging technology.

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The US claims that evidence shows that Russia is “moving towards an imminent invasion” despite Russia’s claim to withdraw. US officials including President Joe Biden believe that the attack will happen “in the next few days”.

“Every indication that we have is that they are prepared to go into Ukraine, attack Ukraine,” Biden said.

Russia however answer and said that these were “baseless accusations”.

Blinken suspects that Russia will generate a pretext of war. This could include fabricated terrorist bombing, the discovery of mass graves, or staged drone strikes. “Russia may describe this event as ethnic cleansing or a genocide, making a mockery of a concept that we in this chamber do not take lightly,” Blinken said.

“The information I presented here is validated by what we’ve seen unfolding in plain sight before our eyes for months,” Blinken said. “Remember that while Russia has repeatedly regarded our warnings as melodrama and nonsense. They’ve been steadily amassing more than 100,000 troops on Ukraine’s borders.”

Russian Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Sergey Vershinin, warned others about making the UN meeting a “circus,”. He said they should not present “baseless accusations saying that Russia allegedly was going to attack Ukraine.”

“We have long ago clarified everything and explained everything. And the announced date of this so-called invasion is behind us, so, therefore … my advice to you is [to] not present yourself in an awkward situation,” Vershinin said.

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A senior US administration official said that Russia’s claims of withdrawal were “false” and warned that these diplomatic claims were a farce.

“Every indication we have now is they mean only to publicly offer to talk. They make claims about de-escalation, while privately mobilizing for war,” the official said.

President Joe Biden mentioned during a televised speech that the estimate of Russian troops on the border is at 150,000. “Our analysts indicate that they remain very much in a threatening position,” Biden said. “And the fact remains right now Russia has more than 150,000 troops encircling Ukraine and Belarus and along Ukraine’s border.”

A senior diplomat cautioned that Russia may attack under a false pretext. This includes claiming NATO activities or an incursion into Russian territory. Or claiming atrocities were taking place in the eastern Donbas area, which has been under Russian-backed rebel rule since 2014.

“We should expect more false reports from Russian state media over the coming days,” an official said. “We don’t know what form the false pretext will take. But we hope the world is ready.”

“We will continue to pursue diplomacy over the coming days while being prepared to respond swiftly and decisively,” the official said. “Russia keeps saying it wants to pursue a diplomatic solution; their actions indicate otherwise. We hope they will change course before starting a war that will bring catastrophic death and destruction.”

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said the alliance had not yet seen “any sign of de-escalation on the ground,” but added that “signs from Moscow that diplomacy should continue” were grounds for cautious optimism.

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According to US President Joe Biden, Russia has massed an estimated 150,000 troops along Ukraine’s border. US authorities have warned that a new Russian invasion may happen at any time. Russia has rejected any intention of invading Ukraine.

The incident was characterized by SSSCIP as a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack. It involves flooding a website with bogus traffic in order to prevent access to it. DDoS assaults are inexpensive and simple to carry out. They can be disruptive, but they don’t always have to be sophisticated.

Access to the banks’ websites — PrivatBank and Oschadbank — had been restored by 7:30 p.m. local time (12:30 p.m. ET), according to Ukrainian officials. Tuesday night there were troubles accessing military agency websites.

According to Zhora, Ukrainian government authorities are “continuing to monitor and shut off” the IP addresses from which the hackers are flooding Ukrainian websites with traffic.

DDoS assaults are tough to track down because hackers can fake their geolocation to appear to be in a place they aren’t.

The DDoS assault looks to be “part of a wider campaign of harassment and demoralization against the public promoted by the Russian government,” according to Matt Tait, a cybersecurity expert and former information security specialist with the UK government’s signals intelligence agency.

Russia consistently denies carrying out cyberattacks.

Last month, a separate hack targeted Ukrainian government websites. Officials in Ukraine have indicated Russian and Belarusian participation, although the hack has yet to be officially pinned on those nations.

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The Russian military advances are closer to Ukraine. Social Media posts show submarines and amphibious landing ships in the Black Sea. They also reveal short-range ballistic missiles, tanks, and howitzers around Ukraine’s northeastern edges. Some of the videos come from official sources; most are from TikTok or YouTube. They are being analyzed by online observers and often complement satellite imagery.

There’s plenty of other evidence of the military build-up in the Belgorod region. Russian forces are also moving at night in the area showing tanks off-loaded from trains. The area around Voronezh also appears to be getting pretty crowded. A large collection of tanks and infantry fighting vehicles was filmed in the last couple of days from a passing train. Social media videos also featured the arrival of helicopters near the Ukrainian border.

Michael Kofman, the Russia analyst at CNA, notes that troops in Kursk “appear to be moving up to Belgorod with district-level artillery support. He says the 1st Guards Tank Army has started to move too — “presumably to a final staging area.” Of particular concern is the movement of convoys of Iskander-M short-range ballistic missiles. They have a range of up to 250 miles (402 km) and have been spotted in recent satellite imagery.

Belarus

Russian and Belarusian troops began sizeable joint exercises last week near the Polish border, but some Russian forces are on the move many miles from where the exercises are taking place and have taken up positions close to where the borders of Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus meet. Russian weaponry — and ships — continue to close in on the Ukrainian border. Sites, where equipment had been pre-positioned more than 100 miles (161 kilometers) from the border, have been progressively emptied as units have moved forward.

The Russian military movement is concerning and it is even more frightening not knowing what the next move is.

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“We cannot perfectly predict the day, but we have now been saying for some time that we are in the window, and an invasion could begin, a major military action could begin by Russia in Ukraine any day now — that includes this coming week, before the end of the Olympics,” Sullivan said on an interview with CNN.

“The way they have built up their forces, the way they have maneuvered things in place, makes it a distinct possibility there will be major military action very soon. And we are prepared to continue to work on diplomacy, but we are also prepared to respond in a united and decisive way with our allies and partners should Russia proceed.”

In a call between the US and Ukraine, Biden vowed that the US will respond “swiftly and decisively” should Russia attack.

“President Biden made clear that the United States would respond swiftly and decisively, together with its allies and partners, to any further Russian aggression against Ukraine. The two leaders agreed on the importance of continuing to pursue diplomacy and deterrence in response to Russia’s military build-up on Ukraine’s borders,” according to the White House.

Ukraine also called for an urgent meeting with Russia for the next 48 hours. They are hoping to understand the reason for the buildup of troops. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Russia did not respond to the request. This has prompted the west to speculate that there is an invasion. Russia continuously denied any plans of invasion.

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The Ukraine crisis has gained international coverage since it began. All eyes are now focused on Russia’s next move. The most recent reports show that Russia has amassed about 100,000 troops on the Ukrainian border. All the while, Russia claims that the US is on a disinformation campaign.

Experts have continued to track this growth and realized Russia has surrounded Ukraine on three points. The three points are in Crimea to the south, on the Russian side of the two countries’ border, and in Belarus to the north.

Most of the world knows about the troop build-up in Eastern Ukraine. The initial base is found in Yelnya which originally held Russian troops and artillery. Now, satellite images show that this base is empty. The troops have moved to a position even closer to Ukraine in the Bryansk region.

Belarus

The second pressure point is in Belarus. Russia and Belarus began 10 days of joint military drills on Thursday. The size and timing of which have sparked fears in the West. Belarus could provide Russia with an opening into Ukraine. The buildup in Belarus includes an expected 30,000 combat troops and Spetsnaz special operation forces. It also has fighter jets including SU-35, Iskander dual-capable missiles, and S-400 air defense systems. This is the largest buildup since the cold war. Experts from the west find it coincidental with the invasion threats.

Crimea

The third point is at Crimea. The peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014 would provide a natural staging ground for any new operation. A large deployment of troops and equipment has been observed by Maxar. They estimate that there are about 550 troop tents and hundreds of vehicles have arrived north of the Crimean capital, Simferopol. Then a new deployment was identified by Maxar for the first time Thursday near the town of Slavne. On the northwest coast of Crimea, they have begun to see armored vehicles. Those new deployments were observed on the same day that several Russian warships arrived in Sevastopol, Crimea’s main port.

With these movements, the west is interpreting the massive troop build-up as the beginning of the invasion plans. However, what if they are increasing a troop presence for defense purposes?

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The Russian Foreign Ministry statement came only hours before US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to speak on Saturday. Also, just hours after the US issued a harsh warning that a Russian invasion of Ukraine was near.

Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement late Friday – “At the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022, the global information space faced a media campaign unprecedented in its scale and sophistication, the purpose of which is to convince the world community that the Russian Federation is preparing an invasion of the territory of Ukraine,”

US national security advisor Jake Sullivan warned on Friday that a Russian assault on Ukraine, involving bombs and missiles, might start shortly. For their own safety, Sullivan recommended all Americans leave the country as soon as possible. This is an echo of the advice of President Biden earlier.

Russia said that their main concern is the increased presence of NATO on their western flank.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko provided steps to protect “critical and social infrastructure facilities” in “the event of a possible emergency”. He added, “our efforts are aimed at preventing or overcoming both possible provocations and withstanding a military attack.”

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The previous base was located in Yelnya about 160 miles from Ukraine. Senior director at satellite imagery company Maxar, Stephen Wood commented that it has moved. “It looks to me like a considerable amount of the vehicles [tanks, self-propelled artillery, and other support vehicles] have departed from the northeastern vehicle park. Additional armored vehicles departed from the more central vehicle park.”

Social media posts shot in the previous days show that equipment was carried towards the Bryansk region. This is much closer to Ukraine. Russian journalist Rusland Leviev of the Conflict Investigation Team (CIT) reported the movement. “We also saw videos of several trains that were posted by social media users from the Bryansk region. On the carriages we could read 8-digit identification codes, which, when checked against openly accessible databases, trace the train’s origins to Yelnya.”

“This is important because those vehicles previously were several hundred kilometers away from the border, and now [they] are stopping in mere dozens [of kilometers away].”

US national security adviser Jake Sullivan told ABC News: “We believe that there is a very distinct possibility that Vladimir Putin will order an attack on Ukraine. It could take a number of different forms. It could happen as soon as tomorrow or it could take some weeks yet.”

Russia has denied any plans of invasion. They have not commented on the troop movements but are in open discussions with NATO and the US.

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Russia advances its deployments in several locations in Belarus. This is according to a US-based technology company’s latest satellite images. This move concerns Ukraine and NATO as fears of invasion fill the news.

The advances could be because of the joint military exercise of Belarus and Russia that is set for Thursday. However, the satellite image was taken hundreds of miles away from the exercise venue.

Russia denied the claims that they are planning to invade Ukraine. However, some experts say that they have the 70% of what was needed for a full invasion at the border. There is no additional intel if Russia will add more troops however, the threat remains imminent.

Normandy Front

France President Emmanuel Macron urged the EU to have their separate talks with Russia. Macron hopes to revitalize the Normandy Front. The talk between Russia, France, Germany, and Ukraine. This would work towards a viable solution to the ongoing conflict.

The French president said “And we see that looking at the dialogue that the US and Russia are currently undertaking. I think that it is good for there to be coordination between Europe and the US but it is vital that Europe has its own dialogue with Russia.”

Russia has accused the US government and media of hyping up the situation. Even the Ukrainian president pleaded not to cause panic. Russia also said that their concern is the expansion of NATO footprint along their border. While NATO and the US responded that any sovereign nation has the right to join the alliance.

Russia currently holds a large chunk of Europe’s natural gas supply. There is also an economic tie between the nations that are vital to both of their economies.

China also expressed its support of the Russian President. They both agree on NATO’s expansion is unacceptable. As of this moment, there are no intelligence reports on the exact reason for the troop buildup. Both sides are speculating at this point. The Russian advance could be a defense of their border against NATO expansion.

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Just last week, President Vladimir Putin called out the US government and media saying they are hyping it up. He also said that the west is pushing Russia to respond through armed combat. His primary concern is that NATO is expanding its footprint near the Russian border. Ukrainians themselves say that the threat is there but uncertain.

USA and Russia caught up in talks regarding the NATO open-door policy and Ukraine has the right to join. China is showing support for Russia in terms of ideology but not economically. Europe is worried that Russia could use the natural gas supply as an economic threat. No one really is sure the reason for the escalations. Although both sides are open for talks, no one seems to agree on anything at the moment.

Military experts say that President Putin has 70% of what he needs for a full-scale invasion assembled at the border. This is based on the latest intelligence received by the US government. Although the source is not disclosed. US officials publicly and privately stated that they are not sure if President Putin will have a military response. At the moment, they are calculating it.

Russia continues to add forces along the border and the US estimates soon they would have enough to begin. Given all Putin has moved and his public rhetoric on Ukraine and NATO, he could soon make a decision.

Some of the experts’ calculations include Kyiv falling within 48 hours should Russia unleash its full capacity. They also calculate Putin could decide for a multipronged operation. He could be sending in forces from several directions across Ukraine to quickly fracture the ability of Ukraine’s military to fight.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley warned during a news conference. “There’s a potential they could launch on very little warning”.

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Russia and China called for the halt of the NATO invasion. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed this during a meeting. The increasing alienation of the west for both countries seems to have pushed them even closer.

Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said the two leaders “had an in-depth and thorough exchange of views on China-Russia relations and a series of major issues concerning international strategic security and stability.”

China seemed to be empathetic of Moscow’s current troubles with the west. Russia requests NATO to stop expanding its footprint along Russian borders. Russia and China agree on these terms.

The meeting took place as President Putin and President Xi were attending the Beijing Olympics. Most western leaders are not present due to a political boycott. The boycott was made to condemn the human rights violations in China.

Press Release

In an English-translated press release Russia and China “believe that certain States, military and political alliances and coalitions seek to obtain, directly or indirectly, unilateral military advantages to the detriment of the security of others”. They added, “oppose further enlargement of NATO and call on the North Atlantic Alliance to abandon its ideologized cold war approaches, to respect the sovereignty, security and interests of other countries, the diversity of their civilizational, cultural and historical backgrounds, and to exercise a fair and objective attitude towards the peaceful development of other States”.

On Monday, China was the only member of the United Nations Security Council to vote alongside Russia to dismiss a council meeting called by the US to discuss Russia’s military build-up at the Ukrainian border.

Due to the current tensions on the Russia-Ukraine border, Europe fears that Russia will leverage its natural gas supply. Russia provides around 30% of the European Union’s natural gas, with supplies from the country playing a vital role in power generation and home heating across central and eastern Europe. If Russia would withhold the supply, it could send Europe into an economic crisis.

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The US alleges that Russia is preparing to release a propaganda video to “fabricate a pretext for an invasion”. This contains a “very graphic propaganda video” showing Ukraine attacking Russia.

Russia continues to build up forces along the Ukraine border. This allegation is the latest of “intelligence” data suggesting Russia’s plan to invade. Pentagon suggests that Russia “is planning to stage a fake attack by Ukrainian military or intelligence forces against Russian sovereign territory or against Russian-speaking people”. This is to create a rationale for Russia’s invasion.

Press secretary John Kirby added, “As part of this fake attack, we believe that Russia would produce a very graphic propaganda video which would include corpses and actors that would be depicting mourners and images of destroyed locations, as well as military equipment at the hands of Ukraine or the West, even to the point where some of this equipment would be made to look like it was Western supplied … to Ukraine equipment.”

This same week, President Vladimir Putin said that the US is “hyping” the situation. In the same speech, he claims that the US government and media are pushing them towards armed conflict. The Russian president also said the US is ignoring their primary concerns.

Artillery

The US Ambassador to the UN claims that Russia had moved nearly 5,000 troops into Belarus. This includes short-range ballistic missiles, special forces, and anti-aircraft batteries. It is also with the intention of massing more than 30,000 troops near the Ukraine border.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said this is the biggest Russian deployment they have seen since the cold war. The deployment contains  “an expected 30,000 combat troops, Spetsnaz special operation forces, fighter jets including SU-35, Iskander dual-capable missiles and S-400 air defense systems.”

According to the data and intelligence reports, Russia might not need to cross the border to attack. Their missile systems are capable of reaching Kyiv from Belarus. Russia already has about 100,000 troops stationed at the border.

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A recent statement by President Vladimir Putin claims that the west is simply hyping up the situation. He further claims that the west is pushing them to an armed conflict. This comes as the controversy of having some 100,000 Russian troops gather along the border.

There will be about 2000 US troops to be deployed in Germany and Poland. About 1000 troops currently in Germany will be deployed to Romania. Pentagon claims that they are there to protect not to fight in Ukraine. They will simply help defend US allies.

“It’s important that we send a strong signal to Mr Putin and, frankly, to the world that NATO matters to the United States and it matters to our allies,” Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.

Pentagon also seems to back the contents of the leaked letter regarding the diplomatic talks. A story from a Spanish news media claim that they have information on the contents of the letter. In the talks between USA and Russia, they are moving to have trust-building measures. One of them is to cut back on the use of nuclear weaponry.

In a discussion between the UK, Ukraine, and the Russian leader on Wednesday, concerns were raised. Johnson stated that all European democracies have the right to join NATO. Putin answered that the west is pushing him to go on an armed conflict with Ukraine. He also stated that Ukraine violated the Minsk agreement. President Putin went further to say that this was a political move to force sanctions against Russia.

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He added that Russia have not seen “adequate consideration of our three key demands regarding NATO expansion, the renunciation of the deployment of strike weapons systems near Russian borders, and the return of the [NATO] bloc’s military infrastructure in Europe to the state of 1997 when the Russia-NATO founding act was signed.”

Putin also said that the United States is luring Russia into conflict. He claimed that Washington’s main goal is to force “allies in Europe to impose the very tough sanctions against us,” or “draw Ukraine into NATO.”

President Vladimir Putin also said “I hope that this dialogue will continue,” he said, adding: “I hope that we will eventually find this solution, although it is not an easy one, and we are aware of this. But what that will be, I’m not ready to say today, of course.”

Putin also characterized NATO’s history of deception, claiming that the alliance promised to expand “not an inch” eastward. “They said one thing, they did another,” Putin said. “As people say, they screwed us over, well they simply deceived us.”

Follow us for updates on Russia.

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“It turns out each time that the line they are supposed to defend is moving further east. Now, it has already come close to Ukraine,” Lavrov said.

Tensions continue to rise at the Ukraine-Russia border as both sides prepare to mount defenses. The Russian Minister also said that the joining of Ukraine to NATO would “really undermine relations with the Russian Federation”. “It will be a gross violation of obligations taken by the presidents of the US and other member states of the alliance,” he added.

Lavrov also said that they intend to clarify this situation. “[We are sending] a pressing request to explain how they intend to fulfill the commitment not to strengthen their security at the expense of the security of the others,” he said. “If they don’t plan this, then they should explain why. This will be the key question in determining our further proposals that we will report to Russian President Vladimir Putin.”

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg released a statement during the press conference. “We have no plans to deploy NATO combat troops to Ukraine…Ukraine is not a NATO ally, so the 100% security guarantees that the attack on one ally will trigger a response from the whole alliance, applies to NATO allies, not to a close and valuable partner,” Stoltenberg said.

Stay tuned for NATO updates

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Just yesterday, US Pentagon released a notification to about 8500 soldiers to be on high alert. Although there are no schedules for deployment, this move shows that the US is prepared to support Ukraine. There are 40,000 NATO soldiers at the border. The soldiers are composed of multi-national troops that will defend Ukraine in case of invasion.

At the moment there is an estimated build-up of 140,000 Russian troops along with their state-of-the-art equipment at the border. UK and USA began down staffing their respective embassies including their families. They have also encouraged Ukrainian citizens to leave if possible until the stand-off clears.

At the moment, there is no clear evidence to support the theory of why President Vladimir Puttin is placing troops at the border. As far as western intelligence has reported, the president is looking to install a different ruler for Ukraine. The country is trying to fight for independence as they decided to join NATO.

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