Here are the main developments as the war in Ukraine continues into its 616th day:
1. Fighting: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned against expecting quick progress in reclaiming Russian-occupied land, as Moscow’s forces prepare for new attacks along the 1,000km front line. The UN human rights office found evidence linking Russia to a missile strike that killed 59 people in Hroza, Ukraine, likely involving an Iskander missile. Russian investigators detained two soldiers suspected of killing a family in Volnovakha, attributing the murders to a personal conflict. A Russian-installed court sentenced three Ukrainian soldiers to life imprisonment for crimes committed during the port city of Mariupol siege. The FSB arrested a Russian man accused of involvement in the shooting of Moscow-backed separatist leader Oleg Tsaryov in Crimea.
2. Politics and diplomacy: The UN’s humanitarian office reported that 18 million Ukrainians, 40% of the population, require humanitarian aid. The upcoming winter exacerbates concerns, particularly for the 4 million people in eastern areas controlled by Russia who lack access to aid. The UN has requested $3.9bn to support Ukraine’s humanitarian needs this year but faces a funding shortfall of $1.9bn. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of US support to Ukraine during a Senate hearing, stating that without it, Russia’s invasion would succeed. US-Russian journalist Alsu Kurmasheva had her appeal denied and remains in pre-trial detention on charges of failing to register as a “foreign agent.” French prosecutors detained Russian tycoon Alexey Kuzmichev for questioning regarding alleged tax evasion, money laundering, and violating international sanctions. A delegation of religious leaders from Ukraine visited the US to plea for continued support against Russia and to address concerns about religious freedom amid legislation to ban the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
3. Weapons: The US Department of Homeland Security arrested three Russians in New York for allegedly smuggling electronic components worth $10 million to Moscow for use in Ukraine, in violation of sanctions.
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