Russia has targeted civilian areas, but the resilience of the Ukrainian people has once again prevailed
UKRAINE WAR – It seems that Vladimir Putin is getting increasingly desperate. In the last 24 hours, Russian forces have struck several Ukrainian civilian areas, with an intent to cause damage and casualties.
This isn’t simply a case of mistaken targets, it’s a clear attempt to inflict further suffering to Ukraine and its people.
War Correspondent, Misha Zelinsky was in Kyiv as the missiles rained down.
“I was woken up by one of the attacks…I was shaken awake…
It was quite shocking for a lot of people.”
Misha zelinsky, war correspondent
Despite the adversities faced by the Ukrainian people, Zelinsky explained how resilient they are.
Shortly after the attacks on their capital, many Ukrainians gathered together to sing and huddle in solidarity. While other’s set up makeshift kiosks offering food and drinks.
On the battlefield, Ukraine is fighting back with momentum, and their forces are making advances on all fronts.
With the support of the U.S. and NATO, they are well-equipped to continue this fight and ultimately come out victorious.
“If Vladimir Putin’s plan is to intimidate Ukrainians to the point of breaking their spirit, it’s not going to work.”
misha zelinsky
Their forces are making prominent gains by taking or threatening territory Russia claimed to have control over.
Meanwhile, reports from inside Russia suggest that its army is in disarray, with little direction or strategy.
This could be the beginning of the end for Putin’s regime, however, concerns about Putin’s unpredictable behaviour is still front and centre.
Near the missile site, windows on four stories apartment buildings are blown out. Doors off hinges.
Following the recent strikes on civilian areas, Russia has warned of more similar attacks.
Putin often speaks about nuclear weapons, to remind the world that Russia has them.
They constitute Russia’s strongest claim to great power status. There are questions, however, about Russia’s nuclear posture and if it has or will change.
While some believe Putin’s nuclear threats are empty bluffs, but others say it’s impossible to predict what a humiliated leader like Putin will do when backed into a corner.
“Volodymyr Zelensky said today that Russia is trying to wipe Ukraine off the face of the map, and as I walk around Ukraine this morning and look at the images, it’s hard not to agree with him.”
misha zelinsky, war correspondent
“Putin talks about nuclear weapons for the sole purpose of bullying… Not just intimidating Ukraine, but intimidating the west.”
misha zelinsky, war correspondent
Holding Putin accountable
There are calls for the world to declare Russia as a terrorist state, and to bring Vladimir Putin to account.
However, that is easier said than done. Putin’s war crimes are evident but what does accountability look like at this point in time?
“More and more evidence of war crimes…Torture chambers are being revealed… Scenes we haven’t seen since WWII.”
misha zelinsky, war correspondent
How the world brings Putin and Russia back under control sets the precedent for other leaders like China’s, Xi Jinping.
If Russia can’t be stopped, what’s stopping China invading Taiwan?
I am standing next to the children playground which was hit by the Russian missile in the morning in Kyiv center. Putin, Lukashenko and other war criminals must be accountable. Help Ukraine to bring them to justice#StandWithUkrainepic.twitter.com/xBr8zjGgpz
Holly is an anchor and reporter at Ticker. She's experienced in live reporting, and has previously covered the Covid-19 pandemic on-location. She's passionate about telling stories in business, climate and health.
The ambitious hopes of a Ukrainian counteroffensive have failed to materialize as anticipated, according to a high-ranking security official.
The nation had been eagerly anticipating a resurgence in their military operations to reclaim lost territories, but the recent turn of events has cast a shadow of uncertainty.
The security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that despite meticulous planning and intense preparations, the counteroffensive has encountered unforeseen challenges, pushing back the timeline for its execution.
This setback has left Ukrainian citizens anxious, hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict that has plagued their country for far too long.
The disappointment in Ukraine’s counteroffensive ambitions raises crucial questions about the nation’s military strategy, the level of external support, and the overall stability of the region.
The international community watches with bated breath as Ukraine navigates this critical juncture, wondering what the future holds for this war-torn nation.
Fashion giant Zara has withdrawn one of its advertisements from the front page of its website after facing calls for a boycott over its alleged insensitivity to the situation in Gaza.
The controversy erupted when Zara featured an ad showcasing its latest collection on its website’s front page, coinciding with a period of heightened tensions in the Gaza Strip. Critics argued that the timing was inappropriate, given the ongoing conflict and suffering in the region.
Social media campaigns and online petitions quickly gained traction, with thousands of people expressing their disapproval and calling for a boycott of Zara products. The hashtag #BoycottZara trended on various platforms, putting immense pressure on the clothing retailer.
In response, Zara issued a statement announcing the removal of the controversial ad. The company expressed regret over any offense caused and reaffirmed its commitment to corporate responsibility.
However, this incident has sparked a broader debate about the intersection of fashion and political sensitivity in an increasingly interconnected world.
The world-renowned South Korean megaband BTS has announced an indefinite hiatus, with all seven members set to fulfil their mandatory military service obligations.
The news has sent shockwaves through the global entertainment industry and left fans wondering what the future holds for the chart-topping group.
This decision comes after the septet’s unprecedented rise to fame, conquering international music charts, and amassing a dedicated fan base known as the ARMY.
The group’s management agency, Big Hit Entertainment, released a statement confirming that the hiatus is aimed at allowing each member to complete their military service without interruption. This move is seen as a testament to their commitment to fulfilling their civic duties despite their immense success.
While BTS fans are undoubtedly disappointed by the hiatus, it raises intriguing questions about the group’s future. Will their time away from the spotlight allow them to explore new musical directions?