Russian court extends detention of journalist Alsu Kurmasheva until June
A Russian court has decided to extend the pre-trial detention of journalist Alsu Kurmasheva until June 5, as reported by her employer, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). Kurmasheva, a 47-year-old editor based in Prague, was arrested in Kazan, southwest Russia, last year for alleged failure to register as a "foreign agent" and for disseminating "false information" under censorship laws implemented after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite smiling during her court appearance on Monday, Kurmasheva expressed dissatisfaction with the poor conditions of her cell. She holds both US and Russian passports and had entered Russia in May to attend to a family emergency. However, she was detained at an airport on June 2 while waiting for her return flight, and her passports were confiscated. Kurmasheva's editing of a book titled "Saying No to War," which features interviews and stories from Russians opposing Moscow's campaign in Ukraine, led to additional charges of spreading false information about the Russian army. Kurmasheva's case is the latest in a series of arrests involving US citizens in Russia, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who faces espionage charges, and Paul Whelan, convicted of spying in 2020. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russia calls off search for trapped gold miners
Russian emergency services have ceased their efforts to rescue 13 miners trapped in a gold mine in the country's far east, citing flooded caverns that have raised fears for the miners' safety. The operator of the Pioneer gold mine announced the decision, stating that search operations revealed flooded areas where the miners could have sought shelter, making continued rescue efforts too risky. The miners were buried over 120 meters underground following a landslide at the facility in the Amur region near the Chinese border two weeks ago. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed disappointment at the termination of the rescue mission, while regional authorities vowed to provide financial support to the miners' families. The mine, owned by Ural Mining And Metallurgical Company (UMMC), faces investigation for suspected safety breaches, with the managing director already under arrest.
Russia seizes explosive sent from Ukraine via EU countries
Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has announced the seizure of dozens of kilograms of explosives sent from Ukraine concealed in Orthodox Christian religious icons that transited through several European Union countries. The cargo, comprising 70 kilograms of homemade explosives and explosive devices hidden in icons, was intercepted in the northwestern Pskov region near the Latvian border. One person was arrested in connection with the incident, and the FSB intends to pursue legal proceedings against all involved, including foreigners. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
NATO agrees to work on long-term military support for Ukraine
NATO members have taken steps to enhance military support for Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing invasion, with Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg urging increased coordination. While the alliance is considering plans for long-term weapon deliveries to Kyiv, a proposed $107 billion fund faced resistance during discussions among member states. Stoltenberg emphasized the urgency of providing support to Ukraine, citing the seriousness of the situation on the battlefield. Although NATO does not directly provide weapons to Ukraine, the move signifies a deeper involvement in coordinating security assistance. The plan aims to address Ukraine's urgent needs and enhance NATO's role in supporting the country's defense efforts. However, challenges remain in reaching consensus among member states, with some expressing skepticism about certain aspects of the proposal. The plan is expected to be further discussed and potentially endorsed at a summit of NATO leaders in July. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Ukraine Repels Major Assault Amid Heightened Tensions with Russia
Ukraine successfully repelled a battalion-sized mechanized assault on its eastern front, marking the first major attack in five months and showcasing its defense resilience amid growing concerns of an imminent major offensive by Russia. The assault, near Tonenke close to Avdiivka, saw the destruction of a significant number of tanks and infantry fighting vehicles. President Zelenskyy highlighted the critical need for US support, stalled due to political factors, while Europe offered aid to cover shortages. Despite Ukrainian forces stabilizing the front line, marginal advances by Russian forces continue, with ongoing targeting of Ukraine's power plants and infrastructure. In response, Ukraine has targeted Russian energy infrastructure, including oil refineries, in retaliatory strikes. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Ukraine says Russia killed 3 and wounded 13 in attacks on Zaporizhzhia
Russia launched five missiles on Ukraine's southern city of Zaporizhzhia, killing at least three people and injuring thirteen others, including a nine-year-old boy. The attack damaged several apartment blocks, private houses, shops, and an industrial facility. Ukraine's air force issued a ballistic missile raid alert for the region. In a separate incident, Russian officials accused Ukraine of attacking the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant with military drones, although there was no immediate confirmation from Ukraine. Russia claimed to have downed 53 Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine reported constant fire from advancing Russian troops in the eastern Donetsk region and the capture of the village of Vodiane by Russian forces. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russia evacuates 4,000 people after dam bursts
Russia has conducted a massive evacuation effort in the Orenburg region near the Kazakhstan border, relocating over 4,000 individuals following a dam rupture triggered by heavy rainfall. According to the Orenburg governor's office, the flooding affected more than 2,500 homes, prompting the evacuation of 1,019 children among others. Governor Denis Pasler noted that the flood had peaked, with Orsk, a city of 230,000 people, particularly hard hit. Approximately 2,000 individuals were evacuated from Orsk alone. The situation remains precarious across the region, with dangerous water levels observed in the Ural river in Orenburg. The burst dam, constructed in 2014, has led to a criminal investigation into allegations of negligence and construction safety violations. Authorities attributed the breach to inadequate maintenance. The flooding has affected multiple regions in the Urals and western Siberia, as well as parts of Kazakhstan, with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev describing it as potentially the country's most significant natural disaster in 80 years. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
At least eight killed in Russian strikes on Ukraine’s Kharkiv
Russian missile strikes on Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, have resulted in at least 8 deaths and 10 injuries, according to regional officials. The attack, launched by drones according to Ukraine's national police, targeted residential areas and caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure. Photos released by police showed fires in civilian areas, including near residential high-rises. The strikes, which occurred just after midnight, prompted air raid alerts in Kharkiv and other parts of Ukraine. Kharkiv, located near the Russian border, has faced frequent bombardment since the start of Russia's invasion in February 2022, with attacks intensifying in recent weeks. Ukrainian officials have called for increased anti-aircraft defense systems, particularly modern US-made Patriot systems, amid dwindling US military aid to Ukraine due to congressional opposition. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Peter Pellegrini becomes Slovakia president
Slovak nationalist-left government candidate Peter Pellegrini has won the country’s presidential election, securing 53.26% of the vote against pro-Western opposition candidate Ivan Korcok's 46.73%. Pellegrini's victory solidifies the influence of pro-Russian Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has shifted the country's foreign policy towards Russia and initiated controversial reforms. While Slovak presidents have limited executive powers, they can veto laws and nominate Constitutional Court judges, potentially impacting Fico's reforms. Pellegrini, formerly Fico's deputy, emphasized support for the government's agenda and a commitment to peace in his victory speech. His win marks a comeback for Fico after previous presidential election losses. Meanwhile, Korcok conceded defeat, expressing disappointment and emphasizing the importance of an independent presidency. He criticized Pellegrini's campaign tactics, accusing him of fear mongering. Despite their differing views, both candidates pledged continued EU and NATO membership for Slovakia. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Ural Mountains Flooding Sparks Evacuations and Protests in Russia
Russia's Ural Mountains are grappling with unprecedented flooding triggered by rapidly melting snow, compelling thousands to evacuate amid surging river levels across Europe's major waterways. The Orenburg region, bordering Kazakhstan, declared a state of emergency as the Ural River, Europe's third-longest, surged several meters within hours on Friday, breaching a dam embankment in Orsk. Downriver in Orenburg, home to half a million people, dangerous conditions are forecasted to peak on April 10. In Orsk, which was submerged by floodwaters over the weekend, rare protests erupted against the government's perceived inadequate response, with demonstrators chanting "Shame!" and "Putin, help!" The crisis extends beyond Orsk, with over 10,400 homes inundated across Russia's Urals, Siberia, Volga, and central regions. Emergency Minister Alexander Kurenkov highlighted numerous flooded settlements across federal districts, warning of rising temperatures, snowmelt, and river surges. President Vladimir Putin has directed officials to address the situation, with Kurenkov dispatched to the affected areas and online meetings convened with regional governors. Emergency declarations have been issued in Orenburg, Kurgan, and Tyumen regions, with Orenburg's mayor urging prompt evacuation as river levels approach record highs. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russia and China Deepen Security Cooperation Against US Influence
Russia and China have agreed to deepen their security cooperation in Asia and Europe, aiming to counter perceived attempts by the United States to exert dominance in the region. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized existing Euro-Atlantic security structures like NATO and the OSCE, advocating for negotiations based on a balance of interests. Despite not explicitly mentioning the US or the Ukraine conflict, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized opposition to hegemonism and power politics, pledging continued economic ties with Moscow despite Western attempts to isolate Russia. Lavrov denounced Western sanctions against Russia and warned of potential similar actions against China, while Wang reiterated China's support for Russia's stable development under President Putin's leadership. This alignment underscores their shared interests in countering US influence and consolidating their global positions, with Lavrov's visit serving as preparation for Putin's upcoming trip to Beijing in May. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Record Floods Prompt Evacuation of 110,000 in Russia and Kazakhstan
Fast-melting snow has led to unprecedented flooding along the Ural River, prompting the evacuation of over 110,000 people in Russia and Kazakhstan. In Kazakhstan, more than 97,000 individuals were forced to flee, while at least 12,000 were relocated in Russia, primarily from the heavily affected Orenburg region. Authorities in both countries are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in the Russian city of Orsk, where the Ural River breached its embankments on April 5, inundating streets and homes. The regional capital of Orenburg, with a population of 550,000, is grappling with historic flooding, described by local officials as "completely unprecedented." Emergency declarations have been issued in several regions, including Orenburg, Kurgan, and Tyumen, as fears mount over the Tobol River's swelling in Kurgan, where 4,500 people have been evacuated. The situation remains tense, with forecasts indicating further flooding in western Siberia and areas along the Volga River. Despite criticism from the Russian opposition for not visiting the affected areas, President Vladimir Putin has been regularly briefed on the situation and has pledged cooperation with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to address the crisis. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russia Launches Angara A5 Rocket into Space
Russia successfully launched its Angara A5 rocket from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region bordering China, after technical issues caused two previous launch attempts to be aborted. The launch aims to demonstrate Russia's space ambitions and the significance of the Vostochny Cosmodrome. The Angara project, initiated after the fall of the Soviet Union, is crucial for Russia's independent access to space. The Angara A5, a heavy booster rocket, promises more environmentally friendly operations compared to its predecessor, the Proton M. Moreover, Russia plans to utilize the rocket for constructing a rival to the International Space Station (ISS). Despite recent setbacks in its space program, including a delayed Soyuz spacecraft launch and a failed moon mission last year, the successful Angara A5 launch marks a significant milestone for Russia's space endeavors. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russia among other countries issue travel warnings over Israel-Iran tensions
Al Jazeera reported that several countries, including France, India, Russia, Poland, and the United Kingdom, have issued warnings advising their citizens against traveling to Israel, the occupied Palestinian territories, and surrounding regions. These alerts stem from threats of an Iranian retaliatory attack following a strike on its consulate in Damascus earlier this month, resulting in the deaths of seven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members. The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs advised against travel to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Palestinian territories, while the UK cautioned against non-essential travel to Israel and Palestine due to the risk of an attack from Iran. Russia, Poland, and India also urged their citizens to refrain from traveling to these areas, citing security concerns and the potential for escalating tensions. Germany specifically advised its citizens to leave Iran, warning of the risk of arbitrary arrest and long prison sentences, while Lufthansa extended its flight suspension to and from Tehran and opted to avoid Iranian airspace amid heightened tensions.
Germany to Deliver Patriot Air Defense System to Ukraine
Germany has announced plans to deliver a United States-made Patriot air defense system and missiles to Ukraine, responding to urgent appeals from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Russia intensifies its attacks on the country's energy infrastructure. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's decision to provide additional military aid, including the Patriot system, was praised by Zelenskyy, who called on other world leaders to follow suit. This delivery marks Germany's third contribution of Patriot systems to Ukraine since the outbreak of the conflict in 2022, reflecting a departure from its traditional pacifist stance. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
How Russia and Ukraine reacted to Iran’s drone, missile raids on Israel
Iran's launch of explosive drones and missiles at Israel has sparked international alarm, marking its first direct attack on Israeli territory. The escalation follows an April 1 air raid in Syria, attributed to Israel, that destroyed Iran's consulate and resulted in casualties, including two Iranian generals. From its end, Russia expressed extreme concern over the Iranian strikes, urging all parties to exercise restraint and warning of the potential for increased tension in the region. On the other hand, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Iran's actions, emphasizing the need to prevent further escalation and calling for a united response to counteract both Iranian and Russian aggression, which he sees as threatening global stability. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Georgia Lawmakers Clash Over 'Foreign Agents' Bill
Lawmakers in Georgia engaged in physical altercations inside parliament as tensions rose over a bill on "foreign agents" that critics argue is pro-Russia. The ruling Georgian Dream party, led by Mamuka Mdinaradze, faced opposition from legislators like Aleko Elisashvili. The bill, reintroduced after being shelved due to protests, requires organizations accepting foreign funds to register as foreign agents. In return, this bill has strained relations with the EU and the US, who see it as incompatible with democratic values. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the bill, while Western countries warned it could derail Georgia's European aspirations. Critics fear it will stifle civil society and independent media. The bill's passage could deepen divisions in Georgia, with elections approaching and President Salome Zurabishvili condemning it as damaging to democracy. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Mass evacuations as floods in Russia’s Kurgan region set to peak
Authorities in Russia and Kazakhstan are urging people to evacuate as severe flooding hits the Kurgan and Tyumen regions of Russia and northern Kazakhstan. The Tobol River has swelled, causing widespread flooding, with Kurgan Governor Vadim Shumkov warning of a "sea" of water approaching the area. Over 7,100 people have already been evacuated from flooded residential buildings, but some are refusing to leave. In Kazakhstan, over 108,000 people have been evacuated since the floods began, with additional homes submerged in Petropavlovsk, prompting the evacuation of over 4,500 people. The flooding, exacerbated by heavy rain and rapid snowmelt, is described as the worst natural disaster in Kazakhstan in 80 years. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Putin urges restraint in call with Iran’s Raisi as tensions soar
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for restraint following Iran's unprecedented drone and missile attack on Israel in response to an Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus. During a phone call with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Putin emphasized the need to avoid actions that could escalate tensions and lead to catastrophic consequences for the Middle East. In return, Raisi stated that Iran's retaliatory actions were limited and forced, expressing Tehran's disinterest in further escalating tensions. Both leaders attributed the root cause of instability in the Middle East to the unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict and affirmed their support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. The call underscored Russia's close ties with Iran and its role as a mediator in regional conflicts, amid ongoing concerns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Iran's supply of military assets to Moscow. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russian peacekeepers start withdrawal from Azerbaijan’s Nagorno-Karabakh
Russian peacekeepers have commenced their withdrawal from Azerbaijan's Nagorno-Karabakh region, marking the end of Moscow's years-long military presence there. The withdrawal follows the deployment of nearly 2,000 Russian peacekeeping soldiers in November 2020 under a deal brokered by Moscow to halt six weeks of fighting between Azerbaijani and ethnic Armenian forces. Despite their presence, Azerbaijan forcefully retook Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2021, prompting an exodus of ethnic Armenians and criticism from Armenia over Russia's failure to protect Armenian interests. Originally slated to remain until November 2025, the peacekeepers' withdrawal process has now begun, with reports confirming the departure of personnel and equipment from key locations. This development coincides with broader regional dynamics, including Armenia's demand for the removal of Russian border guards from its main airport and protests in Georgia against perceived pro-Russian policies. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Is China growing tired of Russia’s war in Ukraine?
As Russia's war in Ukraine enters its third year, China faces a delicate balancing act amid mounting costs and implications for its global interests. Initially perceived as benefiting from the conflict through discounted Russian energy purchases and potential military advantages, China now grapples with unforeseen challenges. Expectations for a swift Russian victory, possibly reinforced by pre-arranged agreements between Putin and Xi, have been dashed by Ukraine's resilient defense and Western support. Economic disruptions, scrutiny, and blowback further strain China's position, prompting a recalibration of its stance. Recent diplomatic efforts and trade dynamics suggest China is reevaluating its approach, emphasizing calls for a ceasefire and negotiations. While historical ties and opposition to Western hegemony still tie China to Moscow, the war's escalating costs compel China to reconsider its strategy. The stark choice emerges between sustaining a diminished Russia or pursuing peace talks to end the conflict, with both options carrying risks and implications for China's future role on the global stage.(Al Jazeera Opinion Article, 2024)
Germany arrests two dual nationals over alleged Russian sabotage plot
Two German-Russian dual nationals, Dieter S and Alexander J, were arrested in Bayreuth, Bavaria, on suspicion of plotting sabotage attacks on US military sites in Germany to undermine Western military support for Ukraine. German prosecutors allege that Dieter communicated with a contact linked to the Russian secret service and was prepared to carry out explosive and arson attacks on military infrastructure, including US military facilities. Alexander began assisting him in March 2024. Dieter, who previously fought in eastern Ukraine, faces additional charges of belonging to a foreign terrorist organization. The arrests come amid Germany's significant role in providing military aid to Ukraine, with interior minister Nancy Faeser describing the case as a serious instance of alleged spy activity for the Russian regime. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
G7 Expresses Concern Over Chinese Transfers to Russia for Ukraine Offensive
At a meeting on the Italian island of Capri, the foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) countries expressed "strong concern" about the transfer of materials and weapons components from Chinese businesses to Russia for its military offensive in Ukraine. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged his counterparts to increase pressure on China, accusing it of supporting Russia's war effort by providing critical components for weaponry. The G7 ministers stated that these transfers were enabling Russia to reconstitute and revitalize its defense industrial base, posing a threat to Ukraine and international peace and security. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized that her country could not accept China's closer partnership with Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, calling on China to use its influence to encourage Russian President Vladimir Putin to change course. While China has positioned itself as a neutral party in the war and offered to hold talks between the two sides, the US has condemned what it refers to as China's "backdoor support" for Russia's military expansion, including joint production of drones and exports vital for producing ballistic missiles. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
US agrees to withdraw troops from Niger amid Sahel region’s pivot to Russia
The United States has decided to withdraw its troops from Niger amid reports that the country is shifting towards closer ties with Russia and distancing itself from Western powers. The decision, involving the withdrawal of about 1,000 troops, follows a meeting between US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, where the US committed to initiating an "orderly and responsible" withdrawal. The US had established a military base in Niger to combat armed groups associated with al-Qaeda and ISIS in the Sahel region, using the Agadez air base for surveillance flights and operations. While preparations for withdrawal had begun earlier, recent developments, including Niger's suspension of a military agreement with the US and public protests demanding the departure of US forces, underscored the shifting dynamics. Niger, along with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, has expelled French and European troops post-military takeovers and is now seeking support from Russia, which has confirmed sending military trainers and equipment to the country. This move aligns with a broader trend in the Sahel region, which not only faces security challenges from armed groups but also serves as a significant route for drug trafficking, as highlighted by increased seizures of cocaine in recent years. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
US House passes $95bn in aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. What next?
The United States House of Representatives has passed a $95 billion legislative package providing security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, receiving broad bipartisan support. The bill allocates $26.38 billion for Israel, including funds for missile defense systems and humanitarian aid, while also prohibiting funding for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. For Ukraine, $60.84 billion is designated to address the conflict, including replenishing weapons and providing non-military assistance. Additionally, $8.12 billion is allocated for the Asia Pacific region, including Taiwan. The bill also includes provisions to seize frozen Russian assets and impose sanctions on Iran, Russia, and China. Despite bipartisan support, there were some dissenting voices, with Democrats critical of Israeli actions and Republicans divided over aid to Ukraine. The bill now moves to the Senate, with President Biden expected to sign it swiftly. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy says Russian strike collapsed Kharkiv TV tower
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asserted that the missile strike targeting a 240-meter television tower in Kharkiv was a deliberate effort by Moscow to render Ukraine's second-largest city uninhabitable. The attack, captured in a video footage, caused the main mast of the tower to collapse, adding to weeks of missile and drone strikes in the region. Zelenskyy conveyed this information to US President Joe Biden during a telephone call, emphasizing Russia's intent to inflict significant damage on the city. Kharkiv, with a population of 1.3 million, has been vulnerable to attacks due to its proximity to the Russian border and the depletion of Ukraine's air defenses. The city's power facilities, including the television tower, have sustained substantial damage, disrupting services. Despite the strike, no casualties were reported as workers had taken shelter. The tower was previously targeted by Russia in early March 2022, and the recent escalation in attacks highlights the intensified assault on Kharkiv and its surrounding areas amid Ukraine's air defense challenges. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russian court rejects US journalist Evan Gershkovich’s detention appeal
A Moscow court has denied the appeal of American journalist Evan Gershkovich against his pre-trial detention in an espionage case, despite denials of espionage from him, The Wall Street Journal, and the US government. Gershkovich, 32, has been held in Moscow's Lefortovo Prison for over a year following his arrest during a reporting trip. His trial date is yet to be set, and his detention was recently extended to June 30. Gershkovich, the first Western journalist arrested by Moscow on spying charges since the Soviet era, stood in court on Tuesday, where Russian officials hinted at a potential prisoner exchange involving him. President Vladimir Putin suggested such a deal, possibly linking Gershkovich's release with that of a man accused of killing a Chechen rebel commander in Berlin. While talks continue, both Russian and US officials have remained tight-lipped about the details, with Washington accusing Moscow of using US citizens as bargaining chips, echoing a similar incident in 1986 involving journalist Nicholas Daniloff. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
US Senate passes Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan bill; Biden to sign on Wednesday
The United States Senate has finally approved a long-awaited $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan after months of delay. The bill, passed by a vote of 79 to 18, will provide crucial military support to Ukraine as it faces Russian aggression, with President Biden expressing his intention to swiftly sign it into law. The aid includes $61 billion for Ukraine, $26 billion for Israel, and over $8 billion for Taiwan, along with humanitarian assistance for Gaza, Sudan, and Haiti. The passage of the bill signals a shift in Congress towards prioritizing national security and democracy, with hopes that the aid will bolster the defense capabilities of the recipient countries and provide relief to those affected by conflicts and crises around the world. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
US secretly sent long-range ATACMS weapons to Ukraine
The United States discreetly supplied Ukraine with long-range ballistic missiles in March, part of a military support package, and Ukraine has reportedly used them twice, according to US officials. The Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) have a range of up to 300 km, and were previously withheld due to concerns about escalation. However, President Joe Biden approved their delivery in February, and a substantial number was included in a $300 million aid package. The deliveries were not publicly announced for operational security reasons, and Russia downplayed their significance, stating they wouldn't alter the war's outcome. Ukraine's rationing of weapons due to delays in US military assistance has heightened the need for such support. The recent use of these missiles against Russian targets underscores their importance in Ukraine's defense strategy, although Ukrainian officials have not publicly confirmed their receipt or use. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Qatar Pledges $3 Million to Support Victims of Russian-Ukrainian War
Qatar has pledged $3 million to the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights to aid in supporting the welfare and safety of those affected by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The funding aims to improve the lives of children and citizens impacted by armed conflicts, as well as to enhance legal support and infrastructure for affected families. Both Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the commissioner's office reaffirmed their commitment to upholding human dignity and protecting individual rights. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Qatar's assistance, particularly in facilitating the release and recovery of Ukrainian children who had been forcibly deported to Russia following the 2022 invasion. Qatar's ongoing mediation efforts have also led to the arrival of Ukrainian and Russian families in Doha for healthcare and support, amidst ongoing attempts to reunite families separated by the conflict. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Russia and Ukraine target each other’s energy sectors
Overnight, Russia and Ukraine engaged in renewed attacks on energy infrastructure, causing damage and fires, according to officials from both countries. The Ukrainian army reported a significant missile attack from Russia, targeting energy infrastructure in Dnipropetrovsk, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Lviv regions, resulting in equipment damage. Four thermal power plants operated by DTEK suffered severe damage, prompting preventive measures like disconnecting the main overhead power line in western Ukraine. Ukraine also claimed to have shot down 21 out of 34 drones deployed by Russia in the latest barrage. Moscow, on the other hand, asserted that its forces carried out 35 strikes targeting Ukrainian energy facilities and other infrastructure in response to Kyiv's alleged attempts to damage Russian assets. Amid escalating tensions, Ukraine reportedly launched drone attacks on Russian oil refineries in the Krasnodar region, causing fires. Despite Western calls to cease attacks, Kyiv considers Russian refineries legitimate targets. The Kremlin, meanwhile, reiterated its stance against peace talks due to Kyiv's refusal to negotiate directly with Moscow, a stance formalized by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in 2022. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Two Russian journalists arrested over alleged work for Navalny group
Two Russian journalists, Konstantin Gabov and Sergey Karelin, have been arrested on "extremism" charges for allegedly working with a group founded by the late opposition politician Alexey Navalny. Denied bail, they face up to six years in prison for their supposed involvement with Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, which is outlawed by Russian authorities. This crackdown on dissent and independent media has escalated since Russia's invasion of Ukraine over two years ago, with laws criminalizing false information about the military and curbing any criticism of the war. Gabov, a freelance producer, was detained in Moscow, while Karelin, who has dual citizenship with Israel, was apprehended in the Murmansk region. Both have contributed to various media outlets, with Karelin having previously worked for The Associated Press. The arrests are part of a broader pattern of repression targeting opposition figures, journalists, activists, and critics of the Kremlin, with numerous individuals facing imprisonment for their association with Navalny's movement. This includes American journalist Evan Gershkovich, detained on espionage charges, and opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza, sentenced to 25 years in prison. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
Ukraine’s military chief warns of deteriorating situation on frontline
Ukraine's top commander, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskii, revealed that Kyiv's troops have retreated to new positions west of three villages on the eastern front, where Russia has concentrated significant forces. Syrskii described the situation as deteriorating, especially near Maryinka and Avdiivka, where Russian forces have made tactical gains. Ukrainian troops have established new positions west of Berdychi, Semenivka, and Novomykhailivka, replacing units that suffered losses. The statement did not address the status of Novobakhmutivka, reportedly captured by Russian forces. Al Jazeera's correspondent highlighted Russian forces' concentration along various points on the front line, granting them battlefield initiative with superior ammunition and air power. Ukrainian forces await US aid to narrow the firepower gap, crucial for resisting Russia's ongoing invasion. Moscow's troops have advanced steadily since capturing Avdiivka, exploiting Ukrainian shortages in artillery shells and manpower. The town of Chasiv Yar has become a focal point due to its strategic position, with Syrskii identifying it as a hotspot along with the village of Ivanivske. Meanwhile, there are concerns over increased Russian troop presence near Kharkiv, signaling potential preparations for a northern offensive. Ukrainian forces have reinforced key areas in response to the threat. (Al Jazeera, 2024)
According to a report by United Nations sanctions monitors, debris recovered from a missile that landed in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on January 2, 2024, was identified as originating from a North Korean Hwasong-11 series ballistic missile. This finding violates the arms embargo imposed on North Korea by the UN since 2006. Three sanctions monitors inspected the debris earlier this month and found no evidence implicating Russia in the incident. While Ukrainian authorities suggested the missile was launched from within Russian territory, its origin remains unconfirmed. The US and others have accused North Korea of transferring weapons to Russia for use against Ukraine, allegations that both Moscow and Pyongyang deny. Despite these denials, the report underscores concerns regarding potential collaboration between Russia and North Korea in military activities. (Al Jazeera, 2024)