Here are the main developments as the weekend nears its end in Moscow and Kyiv.
Putin warned that Ukraine could hit new targets if it receives long-range weapons from elsewhere. Russia’s president declared on Sunday that Moscow will strike “objects we haven’t yet hit” if the West supplies Ukraine with long-range missile systems. Vladimir Putin’s threat was made less than one week after the U.S. announced it would send advanced weapons and other security assistance to Ukraine in a $700 million package. This delivery includes medium-range, precise rocket systems.
After weeks of security, Russia attacks Kyiv. Russia attacked Ukraine’s capital early Sunday morning. This was the first attack in more than a month. Four Russian missiles crashed into four buildings in a large compound for railway car repairs. Russia claimed that it was attacking tanks, but journalists at the scene saw no evidence.
Opera in Kyiv has returned. The National Opera House in Ukraine has reopened after a three-month absence. During that time, the city was surrounded by rocket fire and sirens. The opening will be kicked off by the Kyiv Opera Company with a performance of Natalka Poltavka. This romantic drama showcases Ukrainian folk songs.
The Ukraine has lost its World Cup dream. The men’s national soccer team won a 3-1 victory over Scotland, before falling to Wales in the qualifying round. Ukraine lost 1-0 to Wales in the qualifying round of the 2022 Qatar tournament. This would have been their first attempt at qualifying for the World Cup since 2006.
Russian troops could take control of a key city in Ukraine. Russian troops have made recent gains in eastern Ukraine with ongoing assaults on Severodonetsk in the western Donbas. Officials believe that the Russians could take control of the city, which is a crucial area in Moscow’s plan to seize the entire Donbas. Putin acknowledged the independence of two Donbas separatist areas in his justification for deploying troops to Ukraine before he invaded Ukraine in February.
The United States pledged billions to combat climate change. Then came war in Ukraine.
The world is being changed by Russia’s war on Ukraine: You can see its ripple effects all around the globe.
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