Seven Tajik citizens and a Kyrgyz-born Russian citizen, Alisher Qosimov, have been detained in connection with the Moscow terror attack. Qosimov allegedly rented a house to one of the attackers. Investigations and detentions are also underway in Tajikistan, with President Rahmon overseeing the process. The ISHID – Xuroson group claimed responsibility, but Russian authorities suspect Ukrainian involvement. Statements from Russian officials, including FSB head Bortnikov, suggest a broader conspiracy involving Western intelligence. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have condemned the reported torture of suspects.

The Ukrainian Army is facing ammunition shortages, leading to a significant reduction in the number of strikes against Russian military positions, with some areas seeing a tenfold decrease. Soldiers, such as 'Kichkina bola' and 'Belarus', express the difficulties of conserving ammunition and the psychological toll of being away from family. The Ukrainian government is aware of the soldiers' fatigue and is discussing a controversial draft law to recruit an additional 500,000 people into the army. In the meantime, soldiers find moments of respite in quieter times, such as cooking meat together in bunkers.

In the backdrop of heightened pressures on opposition and critics at home and abroad, Russia's presidential election commenced on March 15. The day before the election, Russia's Foreign Ministry released a list of U.S. citizens banned from entering Russia, accused of anti-Russian propaganda, including VOA journalist Jeff Seldin. The U.S. State Department expressed concern over the increasing restrictions on freedom of speech in Russia. In response to U.S. sanctions against Russians supporting the 'special military operation' in Ukraine, Russia has sanctioned American citizens involved in anti-Russian propaganda. The crackdown in Russia began well before the Ukraine conflict, intensifying with the 'foreign agent' law. Central Asian countries, particularly Kyrgyzstan, are seen as potentially following Russia's example, with Kyrgyzstan's parliament recently approving a similar 'foreign agent' law. U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has warned Kyrgyzstan of the negative consequences of such a law, while Kyrgyz President Sadir Japarov accused the U.S. of interference. The situation indicates a shift towards authoritarianism in Kyrgyzstan, mirroring Russian political rhetoric and policies.

Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev recently expressed confidence in Vladimir Putin's victory in the upcoming Russian presidential elections, a sentiment previously reciprocated by Putin. The article suggests that elections in both Russia and Uzbekistan are unlikely to change the regimes, with outcomes typically as the leaders indicate, especially considering the absence of opposition in these elections. Despite the Russian opposition's calls for participation and voting against Putin, the government has blocked their website. The article also touches on the increased threats from Russia towards Central Asia and the political tension between Russia and Uzbekistan. It highlights the potential extension of Putin's power until 2030 through constitutional changes and the implications of the Russian elections being held in occupied Ukrainian territories, which are not recognized by most of the world, including Central Asia.

A new decree allows immigrants who sign at least a one-year contract with the Russian army and participate in active military operations for at least six months to apply for citizenship, even if they do not meet the usual requirements of sufficient Russian language proficiency or five years of continuous residence.

Ukrainian sources warn that Russia may be looking to circumvent sanctions by utilizing Uzbekistan. A recent meeting in Saint Petersburg between Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Vladimir Putin is alleged to have reached an agreement on this matter. Discussions included establishing several enterprises in Uzbekistan with Russian financing, focusing on cooperation in the transport sector, and potentially producing sanctioned goods for export to Russia, such as drones and military components. These claims have not been corroborated beyond the sources of the Ukraine National Resistance Center. Additionally, there is interest from Russia in purchasing Soviet-era weapons and military equipment from Uzbekistan, which may be related to the high expenditure of artillery shells in the Ukraine war. Western sanctions on Russia primarily target modern weaponry components, which are reportedly being circumvented through third countries.

Ukraine plans to mobilize 500,000 people for the war in 2024, as announced by President Volodymyr Zelensky during a major press conference held at the end of the year.

In Kyiv, a book presentation was held for 'Umerovlar,' dedicated to the life and activities of Ilmi Umerov, a leader of the Crimean Tatar national movement. Ilmi Umerov was born in Margilan in a family of exiled Crimean Tatars and moved to Crimea in the 1990s.

A nationwide operation against crime, street people, and authorities in Uzbekistan has been the main topic of public attention for two weeks.

President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized in his speech that the Ukrainian armed forces continue to fight to liberate their territories, stating that the main struggle to free the occupied areas is still ahead and there is no alternative path.

In 2024, Vladimir Putin's second term will end. Similar to the former Soviet Union and Uzbekistan, Russia's constitution was amended to reset Putin's presidential terms, allowing him to run for re-election.

Ukraine's summer offensives against Russia, supported by Western aid, have not yielded significant results. Winter battles are expected to be even more challenging. Jahongir Bozorboyev, serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, shares his perspective on the situation at the front.

As Ukraine commemorates the 9th anniversary of the Maidan revolutions, it stands on the verge of taking concrete steps towards European Union membership. The European Commission has recommended initiating negotiations for Ukraine's accession to the EU. While this is not a final decision but a recommendation, it is an encouraging sign for Ukrainians who have aspired to EU membership, especially in the face of Russian aggression. Despite regular support from the EU in Ukraine's conflict with Russia, the membership process will not be easy for Kyiv, as acknowledged by President Volodimir Zelenskiy. The recommendation must be approved by EU member states, and there is a possibility of it being blocked by countries like Hungary, which has strained relations with Ukraine and is known for withholding military aid and blocking EU assistance. Regardless of these challenges, the Ukrainian society remains hopeful and has been preparing to meet the membership criteria since the Maidan revolutions, despite ongoing corruption issues within the country.

An exhibition titled 'Shield' by Rustem Skibin, an Uzbek Crimean Tatar artist, is currently being held at a renowned visual arts museum in Ukraine. The exhibition underscores the urgent need for strong defense amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has indicated that holding presidential elections during wartime would be irresponsible, though he has not entirely ruled out the possibility. His term ends in May 2024, and while Ukrainian law prohibits elections during wartime, there are calls from some opposition figures and international partners, including U.S. senators, to proceed with the elections. The Ukrainian parliament has extended martial law and general mobilization until February 2024. Public opinion in Ukraine is divided, with many seeing no need for elections during the ongoing conflict, partly due to the lack of a strong competitor to Zelenskiy. Former President Petro Poroshenko has also reduced his criticism of the government, emphasizing the inappropriateness of political struggles during war. However, political tensions are resurfacing, with figures like former presidential advisor Aleksey Arestovich warning against potential authoritarianism if elections are not held.

Uzbekistan supports the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and has allocated $1.5 million in aid for the affected population in the Gaza Strip. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced this on October 31 in Tashkent, emphasizing solidarity with the Palestinian people and their right to statehood as per UN resolutions. Recent protests in Tashkent in support of Palestine led to some detentions, highlighting Uzbekistan's stance on the Middle East conflict. The ongoing war, which escalated on October 7 with Hamas's attack on Israel, has resulted in significant casualties, particularly among Palestinians.

The CIS summit concluded in Bishkek, with Central Asian leaders in attendance. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who was awarded the CIS Honorary Order, did not comment on the Middle East issue.

The CIS summit in Bishkek concluded with discussions on various topics, including the Middle East conflict, where only the President of Kazakhstan briefly commented. Armenia and Moldova did not attend, likely due to Vladimir Putin's presence. Speculations arise about these countries potentially leaving CIS, similar to Georgia and Ukraine. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was awarded the CIS Honorary Badge. The summit saw the signing of agreements to strengthen the status of the Russian language and a joint statement on international relations. Russia emphasized the need for a fair global system and respect for sovereign states. The summit did not produce specific statements on the international situation but highlighted the importance of multilateral relations.

The ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict has heightened the already unstable geopolitical situation, particularly affecting the Russia-Ukraine war and international military support for Ukraine. The United Nations calls for an end to the conflict, but global opinions are divided, with the West supporting Israel and many Muslim countries backing Palestine. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy unequivocally supports Israel, likening Hamas's actions to Russian terrorism, which may impact Ukraine's relations with the Islamic world. Within Ukraine, the significant Muslim community, including Crimean Tatars, largely supports Zelenskiy. Activist Erfan Quddusov suggests that Russia's actions have influenced the Middle Eastern conflict, and the situation in Ukraine is also affected by these global tensions.

Uzbekistan expresses serious concern over the Middle East conflict, advocating for a diplomatic resolution. Central Asian countries, including Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, support immediate cessation of hostilities and diplomatic solutions. Kazakhstan has not issued an official statement but is preparing to evacuate its citizens from Israel. The conflict has divided global opinion, with Muslim countries generally supporting Hamas and Western countries condemning it as terrorism and supporting Israel. Social media debates reflect diverse views, with some condemning Hamas's methods and others viewing the conflict as a struggle for Palestinian freedom. Official Uzbek positions are cautious, with some analysts suggesting support for a Palestinian state.

The war in Ukraine has intensified the religious situation in the country, particularly among the predominantly Christian population. The conflict is rooted in politics and war rather than religious beliefs. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which was influential before the war, is now under scrutiny for alleged espionage in favor of Russia. The Ukrainian Security Service has conducted raids, and several clergy members have been arrested. Moscow claims that religious rights are being violated in Ukraine, a claim Kyiv denies, stating that the actions are based on national security threats. The issue has also surfaced in U.S. political debates, with some Republican politicians expressing concerns. The Ukrainian Parliament has approved a draft law to ban religious organizations with foreign influence, particularly those linked to Russia, which has faced criticism for potentially violating international norms.

Ukraine plans to mobilize 500,000 people for the war in 2024, as announced by President Volodymyr Zelensky during a press conference. The situation for Ukraine is challenging both on the front and internationally. Zelensky expressed confidence in continued U.S. support but refrained from discussing future military plans. Relations between Zelensky and General Valeriy Zaluzhny were a focal point, with public trust in Zaluzhny remaining high despite some tension. The War Studies Institute notes increased Russian military activity, emphasizing that Ukraine's primary task is defense, which will require significant resources and mobilization efforts.

Following the Biden-Central Asia summit in the United States, another meeting is expected to take place on September 29 in Germany, where Central Asian leaders will meet with Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin. The occurrence of such summits for the first time indicates political shifts in the region.

Recent efforts in Russia to recruit Central Asian citizens for military service, particularly for the war in Ukraine, have intensified. The article raises concerns about the potential coercion of these individuals into joining the Russian army.

Central Asian leaders are heading to the US for the C5+1 summit following a regional meeting in Dushanbe. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is already in the US, where he will also address the UN General Assembly. The C5+1 group, consisting of Central Asian countries and the US, will hold its first summit to discuss trade relations, regional security, and ongoing reforms. The US has warned Central Asian countries about secondary sanctions if they help Russia circumvent sanctions related to the Ukraine war. The summit is expected to take place on September 19-20, following the leaders' speeches at the UN General Assembly. The C5+1 dialogue group, established in 2015, aims to enhance political and economic ties, regional security cooperation, and support democratic reforms in Central Asia. The summit comes amid growing regional cooperation and initiatives, such as the proposal to establish a Central Asian economic council, indicating a potential shift in the region's geopolitical dynamics.

During the war in Ukraine, volunteers and city authorities have taken measures to protect cultural monuments in Kiev from Russian attacks. Statues and monuments, including those of Mikola Lisenko, Mixail Grushevskiy, and Taras Shevchenko, have been covered with protective barriers. Despite these efforts, there is no guarantee of safety, and many cultural and historical sites have already been damaged or destroyed. UNESCO reports that over 200 cultural sites in Ukraine have been affected by the war.

Migrant workers in Russia, facing a devalued ruble and potential fourfold increase in patent costs, are now also at risk of being forced to sign contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defense as a condition for obtaining Russian citizenship. Those who have already acquired citizenship are not exempt, as their military registration status is being checked. The lack of success in Russia's war with Ukraine and the need for more soldiers are driving this recruitment effort. Human rights defender Tatyana Kotlyar reported on several cases involving migrants from Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, noting that such demands are widespread and illegal for those without citizenship. The Russian police conduct raids to enlist migrants in the military registry, preparing them for mobilization. The exact number of Central Asians serving in the Russian army and participating in the war in Ukraine is unknown, but it is estimated to be significant. The war's continuation is likely to demand new mobilization phases in both Russia and Ukraine.

Ukraine's Independence Day celebration features a display of destroyed Russian military equipment, aimed at demonstrating the strength of Ukraine's armed forces to its citizens, the international community, and its primary adversary, Russia.

The information war surrounding the Ukraine conflict has intensified, with recent reports suggesting that Russia is targeting historical and cultural monuments in Ukraine. The Kremlin denies these allegations, leaving the truth in question.

Uzbekistan is preparing to send a delegation to Afghanistan, led by the Deputy Prime Minister, as the Taliban marks two years in power. Despite initial regional concerns, Uzbekistan has maintained relatively warm and consistent relations with the Taliban, advocating for dialogue. The main interest for Uzbekistan remains the Trans-Afghan Corridor project, which aims to connect Uzbekistan to Pakistani seaports, significantly reducing transportation costs and time. The project has seen recent developments, including a revised route through Pakistan. However, Uzbekistan's engagement with the Taliban has drawn criticism from some quarters, particularly regarding the treatment of ethnic Uzbeks in Afghanistan and the potential domestic implications of supporting the Taliban regime.

No’monjon Umarov, an Uzbek from Andijan, has been living and working in Ukraine for nearly 30 years. His pride in his cultural identity is symbolized by his skullcap, which he wears wherever he goes. Recently, he and his friends opened the 'Samarqand' restaurant, which stands as a testament to their cultural heritage.

According to UNESCO, the war initiated by Russia has caused approximately $2.5 billion in damages to Ukraine's cultural sites and tourism potential. Artworks from Ukraine's Khanenko Museum have been displayed in Warsaw's Royal Castle as part of a collection sent to Poland for safekeeping. The museum's director, Yuliya Vaganova, acknowledges the lack of safe places in Ukraine and appreciates the support from the Royal Castle. The Khanenko Museum preemptively moved its collections abroad and is currently empty, but efforts are being made to showcase Ukrainian cultural treasures globally. A part of the museum's collection is also set to be exhibited in Vilnius and the Louvre in Paris. The exhibition at the Royal Castle is being prepared for a 2024 opening, with assistance from the staff of the Khanenko Museum.

Following the presidential elections in Uzbekistan, there has been an increase in repression against activists. Three labor migrants who supported the opposition party 'Haqiqat, taraqqiyot va birdamlik' in Russia have been arrested and are expected to be deported. The elections, which extended the president's term, did not bring any significant changes, with officials retaining their positions and opposition facing threats. The article suggests that the country is moving towards another period of stagnation similar to the Karimov era, with the Mirziyoyev family consolidating power. Despite some social media activism, there is a general apathy towards politics among the populace.

Public trust in elections and referendums in Uzbekistan remains low, with expectations that this will not change even after seven years of Shavkat Mirziyoyev's presidency. Despite upcoming presidential elections, Mirziyoyev is anticipated to win by a significant margin, with no serious contenders. The article questions the purpose of holding elections under these circumstances and discusses public sentiment towards the electoral process with human rights activist A'zam Turg'unov.

Ukrainian writer Viktoriya Amelina, aged 37, was killed in Kramatorsk by Russian Iskander missiles. She was accompanying her Colombian colleagues near the front line, assisting their creative team.

Ukrainian writer Viktoriya Amelina, aged 37, was killed by a Russian missile strike in Kramatorsk. She was accompanying Colombian colleagues near the front line and aiding their creative team. The attack on June 27 also injured Colombian writers. Amelina, who documented Russian war crimes, was hospitalized but succumbed to her injuries. A memorial service was held in Kyiv, and she was buried in her native Lviv region. Amelina's works, translated into several languages, include novels and children's books. She was working on a documentary novel about war victims, particularly women, which is expected to be published posthumously.

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) observation mission released an interim report on Uzbekistan's presidential elections, highlighting the peaceful nature of the campaign due to the lack of opposition to the incumbent president. The report notes that the election campaign, which began on June 7 and will continue until July 7, has been calm, with no significant conflicts or negative aspects observed. Four candidates, including the current president Shavkat Mirziyoyev, are running for the presidency, but it is widely acknowledged that no one else is a serious contender. The OSCE mission also points out that despite some legislative changes, many recommendations for democratic elections, freedom of speech, and civil society have not been implemented. The report underscores concerns about the lack of political freedom and the inability of new political parties to register, reflecting a stagnant political situation reminiscent of the authoritarian era of former president Islam Karimov.

A $60 billion fund is being allocated for the reconstruction of war-torn Ukraine, as concluded at an international conference in London. Major donors include the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The Ukrainian government has presented a 'Green Marshall Plan' requiring an initial $40 billion. Despite the significant allocation, it is insufficient for Ukraine's full recovery, with damages from the Russian invasion estimated at over $400 billion. International financial organizations like the World Bank, IMF, and EBRD are actively participating in the reconstruction efforts. The UK is considering a legislative initiative to encourage sanctioned Russian billionaires to voluntarily aid Ukraine using their frozen assets, with the total value of such assets in the UK estimated at around $30 billion. Canada remains the only country to have agreed to transfer Russian assets to Ukraine.

Following the rebellion by the Wagner Private Military Company, anti-terrorist measures have been implemented in several Russian cities. Reports suggest that the Wagner military convoy heading towards Moscow may be turning back due to an agreement.

Discusses how Crimean Tatars, who were exiled to Uzbekistan during World War II and later returned to their historical homeland, remember their time in Uzbekistan. The narrative explores the cultural and historical memories of the Crimean Tatar community.

Activists briefly conclude that the people of Uzbekistan have lost enthusiasm for elections and referendums, a sentiment that has not been restored in the seven years following President Mirziyoyev's victory.

Jahongir Bozorboyev, an Uzbek blogger living in Ukraine since 2017, has joined the Ukrainian Army to protect his family amidst the ongoing war. His wife, Lesiya, recalls the fear and chaos at the war's onset. Despite initial opposition, she now supports Jahongir's decision. Their son, Timofey, who has overcome a severe illness, remains in contact with his grandmother in Uzbekistan. Jahongir is confident in Ukraine's victory and dreams of starting a business post-war.

The Ukrainian army has initiated long-awaited counteroffensives against Russian forces, with significant actions reported in the Kherson region and Zaporizhzhia direction. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy condemned the destruction of the Kakhovka dam as another act of Russian terror. Deputy Defense Minister Anna Malyar confirmed some advances, while Russia claimed heavy Ukrainian losses, which Kyiv denied. The counteroffensive is seen as crucial, with Western allies providing military support. The conflict's scale remains vast, with significant casualties on both sides.

The article highlights the challenges faced by Dutch farmer Kis Heyzinga, who has been farming in Ukraine for 20 years. Despite the Russian invasion, Heyzinga remains committed to his business and employees. The recent extension of a grain export agreement by Turkey and the UN provides some relief, but uncertainties and security concerns persist. The war has also led to food shortages and price hikes, prompting Heyzinga to diversify his farm's production. The article underscores the resilience of Ukrainian farmers, many of whom are also serving in the armed forces.

Turkey is approaching presidential and parliamentary elections on May 14, with a tight race expected between incumbent President Rajab Toyyib Erdogan and his main opponent Kamol Qilichdoro’g’li. No clear frontrunner has emerged from polls. Erdogan's tenure has seen Turkey's rise in economic and political terms but also face serious crises. The upcoming election occurs amidst a crisis environment, potentially benefiting Qilichdoro’g’li. Erdogan is criticized for authoritarian tendencies and democratic backsliding. The election's outcome could significantly impact Turkey's domestic and foreign policy, especially considering Ankara's increased international activity. Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, may experience changes in relations with Turkey, which have been politically focused and not fully integrated at the public level, according to independent journalist and human rights defender Yusuf Ro’zimurod.

Ukraine has expressed dissatisfaction with the participation of Central Asian leaders, including President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in the military parade in Moscow, considering it a sign of disrespect towards Ukraine's struggle for its freedom, according to a statement released by the Ukraine Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The ongoing World Boxing Championship in Tashkent is being boycotted by several countries, primarily the United States, Eastern European countries, and Ukraine. Ukrainian athletes are also absent from the World Judo Championship currently taking place in Qatar.

Several countries, including the United States, Eastern European nations, and Ukraine, are boycotting the World Boxing Championship in Tashkent. Ukrainian athletes are also absent from the Judo World Championship in Qatar and are expected to miss other upcoming world championships in various sports. This boycott, stemming from Ukraine's government decision to prohibit participation in events involving Russia and Belarus, could significantly hinder Ukrainian athletes' chances to compete in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Coaches Oleg Leshenko and Oleksandr Golavanov express concerns about the impact on athletes' preparations, while wrestler Nazar Zaxarkin finds it unacceptable to compete alongside Russian or Belarusian athletes given the ongoing war in Ukraine. The final decision on Russian and Belarusian participation in the Olympics is pending, but the boycott is already affecting Ukrainian athletes' Olympic preparations.

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has begun an official visit to Germany following the enactment of a new constitution that could allow him to remain in power until 2040. The visit has sparked protests among Uzbek activists in Germany, led by political refugee and human rights defender Malohat Eshonqulova, who aims to draw international attention to the situation in Uzbekistan, especially in light of the recent referendum. The trip, initiated by German President Frank-Valter Steinmeier's invitation, comes amid concerns over Uzbekistan's political direction, with recent arrests of journalists and bloggers, and ongoing persecution of opposition parties. Trade between the two countries reached 1.3 billion euros in 2022, and Uzbekistan is Germany's 66th largest trading partner. The visit is expected to include discussions on strengthening German business involvement in Uzbekistan and the overall relationship between Uzbekistan and the European Union.

Aleksandr Bondarenko, a journalist who joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces following Russia's invasion, was killed in the Donbass region. He previously managed a news agency in Kyiv and worked for BBC radio. Many journalists in Ukraine have volunteered for the army, with several losing their lives at the front. Bondarenko is remembered by colleagues and his son as a brave and cheerful individual.

Examines the current changes and pressing issues related to freedom of speech in Uzbekistan, focusing on the challenges faced by journalists in the country.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin visited the Kherson and Luhansk regions of Ukraine. The timing of the visit to these war-torn areas remains unknown. Russian media footage shows Putin disembarking from a helicopter, being received in Kherson, and listening to reports from commanders.

Experts suggest that the Ukraine war presents a significant opportunity for Central Asia to break free from Russia's sphere of influence. However, it is noted that the political regimes in the region, which are closely aligned with Russia, currently lack the will to pursue such a shift. The perspectives of activists from Uzbekistan on this matter are also discussed.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Kherson and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, though the exact timing of the visit is unclear. Ukrainian officials have neither confirmed nor denied the visit. Mikhail Podolyak, an advisor to the Ukrainian president, criticized Putin's visit on Twitter, describing it as a 'tour' of occupied territories. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not commented on Putin's visit but was in Avdiivka, awarding soldiers defending the city. The international community, including Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, has condemned Russia's occupation of Ukrainian territories. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko held talks with Denis Pushilin, leader of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic.

The Ukrainian government is moving to evict the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which is under the Moscow Patriarchate, from a historic complex in Kyiv. This action is due to allegations that the church supports Russian aggression and political propaganda. Metropolitan Pavel has been placed under house arrest for justifying Russia's invasion and inciting religious hatred. The decision has sparked protests from the church's supporters, who claim the charges are fabricated and politically motivated. The Ukrainian Security Service has found Russian flags and propaganda materials in church searches, leading to a court ruling to transfer the complex to the Ministry of Culture. The situation highlights the complex religious landscape in Ukraine, with significant tensions between pro-Russian and pro-Western Orthodox factions.

Russia is significantly strengthening its defenses in Crimea in anticipation of a potential Ukrainian counteroffensive. Sergey Aksenov, the Russian-appointed head of Crimea, stated that the peninsula is prepared for any Ukrainian attack, with modern defense systems and sufficient military resources in place. This comes after Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy reaffirmed Kyiv's determination to reclaim Crimea. Satellite images show defensive structures being built around Medvedovka, indicating Russia's expectations of an attack in that area. Military experts predict that Ukraine, equipped with modern Western technology, may attempt to sever the land connection between Russia and Crimea. However, challenges remain for Kyiv, including Russian fortifications and minefields. The conflict continues with Russia targeting Ukrainian territories, causing civilian casualties and destruction. A recent study by Kyiv's Forensic Research Institute estimated the damage caused by Russia's occupation of Crimea at nearly $106 billion.

A terrorist attack in Moscow on March 22 resulted in nearly 140 casualties, with the death toll potentially rising. The attack, claimed by ISIS-Khorasan, involved Tajik nationals and led to the arrest of 11 suspects. Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated claims that the terrorists attempted to flee to Ukraine. The incident has sparked widespread discussion and speculation, with some suggesting Russian special services' involvement to justify further mobilization for the Ukraine war. The U.S. and EU condemned the attack, while Ukraine denied any involvement. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev expressed condolences to Russia.