The Finnish Supreme Court has ruled against extraditing Russian neo-Nazi Jan Petrovsky to Ukraine, citing concerns over the conditions of Ukrainian prisons, which have been recognized by the European Court of Human Rights as violating human rights conventions. Petrovsky, second-in-command of the

Denis Pushilin ousted Andrey Purgin as the speaker of the separatist-controlled Donetsk People's Council, prompting speculation about Kremlin's influence and internal power struggles. Reports suggest Purgin and his wife may be under arrest, and Russian troops were involved. Experts like Mark Galeotti suggest this move indicates Moscow's tightening grip on the region, potentially leading to a 'soft annexation.' The conflict is also seen as a struggle over economic and political assets, with financial and personal rivalries playing a significant role.

The article discusses the necessity for Ukraine to regain Crimea, highlighting the historical context of Russia's annexation in 2014 and the subsequent lack of international support for Ukraine. It critiques the narrative that Ukraine is an artificial state and emphasizes the strategic importance of Crimea for Ukraine's military, economic, and political stability. The article argues that diplomatic means are unlikely to succeed in reclaiming Crimea and suggests that a combination of military force and diplomacy, or a significant regime change in Russia, would be required for Ukraine to regain control over the region.

The article discusses the possibility of Russian President Vladimir Putin agreeing to the February 23 borders as a diplomatic retreat, influenced by former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger's recent proposals. It highlights Russia's dire military situation and the strategic use of Kissinger to communicate Moscow's interests. The text underscores the importance of Ukrainian Armed Forces' victory and the skepticism towards Russia's peace initiatives.

The article discusses the significant changes in Crimea's strategic and socio-economic landscape following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Crimea has become a crucial military foothold for Russia, facilitating land, naval, and air invasions into various Ukrainian regions. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have successfully targeted key Russian military assets, including the flagship Moskva and the Saki air base, leading to significant Russian losses and a shift in control over the northwestern Black Sea. The text highlights the impact on Crimea's economy and the growing expectation of a Ukrainian offensive to reclaim the peninsula.

The Center for Countering Disinformation warns that Russia may be preparing chemical attacks against Ukraine, citing Russian media's false claims about Ukrainian chemical weapons labs. U.S. President Joe Biden and other officials express concern over the potential use of chemical weapons by Russia. The SBU Security Service of Ukraine reports that Russia might stage provocations to blame Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other officials deny the existence of chemical weapons in Ukraine, suggesting that Russia's accusations could be a pretext for their own attacks. The UN Security Council discusses these concerns, with the U.S. and allies accusing Russia of spreading unsubstantiated claims.

Mariia, a resident of Mariupol, recounts her harrowing escape from the destroyed Mariupol drama theater after an airstrike. She describes the chaos and desperation as people tried to flee, her own struggles with losing her pets, and her journey to safety through Melekine and Berdyansk to Zaporizhzhya. Despite the challenges, including a concussion and limited evacuation resources, she eventually found safety with the help of the Ukrainian military.

Boryspil Mayor Volodymyr Borysenko has urged residents to leave the city due to potential hostilities in the area, emphasizing that fewer civilians would make it easier for the Ukrainian military to protect the city. He assured that arrangements would be made for those unable to leave on their own.

Russian forces are deliberately targeting large food storage facilities in Severodonetsk, Luhansk Oblast, causing significant damage to local businesses and civilian infrastructure. Despite the destruction, local authorities have arranged for proper resupplies to ensure residents have access to food. Recent attacks have resulted in 14 fires and damage to 25 buildings, including residential areas, a children's hospital, and a school.

The likelihood of renewed Russian aggression in Ukraine has increased, prompting calls for Ukrainian neutrality. However, neutrality would not appease Putin or prevent further aggression. Historical and current Russian policies demonstrate a persistent effort to undermine Ukrainian independence. Putin's actions are driven by a sense of imperial decline and a need to maintain autocratic power. For genuine peace in Europe, it is crucial to thwart Moscow's ambitions and support Ukraine's sovereignty.