Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised Israel for purchasing grain that Kyiv claims was stolen by Russia from occupied Ukrainian territories, stating it "cannot be legitimate business" and that Ukraine is preparing sanctions. This comes as the war enters a new phase with record numbers of Russian drones being shot down.
Record Drone Interceptions
Ukraine's defence minister reported that a record 33,000 Russian drones were shot down in March alone, highlighting the scale of aerial warfare. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone attacks caused a major fire at Russia's Tuapse oil refinery and killed three civilians in the Belgorod region.
North Korean Soldiers' Suicide Policy
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un confirmed that his soldiers deployed to fight alongside Russian forces have a policy of "self-blasting, suicide attack" to avoid capture. This underscores the deepening military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow.
German Chancellor Suggests Territorial Concessions
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested that Ukraine might need to cede territory to Russia as part of a peace deal, which could pave the way for EU membership. Such a move would require a referendum in Ukraine, according to Merz.
Fighting on the Ground
Russian forces claimed control of the villages of Illichivka and Taratutyne in eastern Ukraine. In Odesa, an overnight Russian drone attack wounded over a dozen people, including children. The ongoing strikes continue to inflict civilian casualties and damage infrastructure across the country.
