Ukraine is marking 31 years since it broke free from the Soviet Union, as the war wages into its sixth month
Public gatherings are banned in Ukraine’s capital of Kyiv and a curfew remains in place in some cities as the country marks 31 years of independence.
The nation of 41 million people has been in the grips of a waging war against Russian forces for six months.
President Volodymyr Zelensky is warning Russia’s worst may be yet to come, and expects attacks to ramp up this week.
The wartime leader is pushing back against making any territorial concessions to Russia’s President Vladimir Putin.
“We are fighting against the most terrible threat to our statehood and also at a time when we have achieved the greatest level of national unity,” he said.
Thousands of civilians have been killed in the war as people flee their homes, and leave loved ones behind.
A virtual summit was held on Tuesday with 60 states and international organisations to discuss the situation in Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.
“In my remarks to the Crimea Platform Summit, I urged the international community to keep raising the costs and pressure on President Putin and his enablers until all Russian troops leave Ukraine,” said U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
The cost of war
The war in Ukraine has shaken global markets and shot up the price of basic goods, including grains and fuel.
Corporate giants have also responded with McDonald’s and Nike becoming some of the big companies to depart Russia as a result of its invasion.
The Kremlin maintains the war is a “special military operation” designed to “denazify” Ukraine.
However, western allies have banded together with sanctions against Russian institutions and oligarchs.
“I pay tribute to the brave Ukrainian women and men fighting for their freedom and their country.”
JENS STOLTENBERG, NATO SECRETARY GENERAL
The U.S. has contributed $10.6 billion in assistance to Ukraine, with another $3 billion expected this week.
Costa is a news producer at ticker NEWS. He has previously worked as a regional journalist at the Southern Highlands Express newspaper. He also has several years' experience in the fire and emergency services sector, where he has worked with researchers, policymakers and local communities. He has also worked at the Seven Network during their Olympic Games coverage and in the ABC Melbourne newsroom.
He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Professional), with expertise in journalism, politics and international relations. His other interests include colonial legacies in the Pacific, counter-terrorism, aviation and travel.
Andrew Tate, the controversial 36-year-old influencer, has been granted a partial reprieve from the travel restrictions imposed on him.
Since August, Tate had been confined to the Bucharest area, requiring judicial approval for any travel beyond these limits. However, a recent court decision has slightly eased these restrictions, allowing him to move within Romania.
Andrew Tate has faced a litany of serious allegations, including human trafficking, rape, and involvement in an organized crime group. These accusations stem from his alleged exploitation of women to generate income for his webcam business. Multiple women have come forward, claiming they were deceived with promises of love and marriage, only to be subjected to sexual exploitation and control.
Despite the loosening of travel restrictions, it’s important to note that Tate remains unable to leave Romania. This development comes following his appearance in court this Tuesday, where he and his brother, Tristan, vehemently denied all allegations against them.
Outside the courthouse, Andrew Tate expressed cautious optimism, stating that “things are moving in the correct direction.” This statement reflects the ongoing legal battle and uncertainty surrounding his future. It remains to be seen how these legal proceedings will unfold and whether further changes in travel restrictions will occur.
The case of Andrew Tate continues to be a matter of intense public interest and debate, as the allegations against him are of a grave nature. As legal proceedings progress, many will be watching closely to see how this controversial influencer’s story unfolds.
Citigroup’s CEO, Jane Fraser, has unveiled a major restructuring plan that includes layoffs as the company seeks to streamline its operations and enhance profitability.
In a recent statement, Fraser emphasised the need to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure that every employee contributes actively to the bank’s success.
Fraser stated, “We don’t have room for bystanders. Citigroup is committed to being a leaner, more agile organization, and that means making tough decisions.”
This move comes as the financial industry faces increased competition, changing customer preferences, and technological advancements that require banks to adapt swiftly.
The overhaul plan aims to reduce costs significantly by cutting jobs across various departments. While specific numbers have not been disclosed, it is expected that thousands of employees will be affected. The restructuring will also involve consolidating certain business units and reallocating resources to areas with higher growth potential.
Citigroup’s CEO stressed that the goal is not just cost-cutting but also fostering innovation and digital transformation. The bank aims to invest in technology and modernize its services to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
As the financial industry continues to evolve, Citigroup’s decision to take proactive steps to remain competitive is in line with broader industry trends. Fraser’s leadership in making tough decisions reflects the bank’s commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
For centuries, the Roman Empire has remained an enduring fascination for men worldwide.
The allure of this ancient civilization seems impervious to the passage of time, and a recent study suggests that its unending appeal may be intertwined with what researchers are calling the “masculinity polycrisis.”
The study, conducted by a team of anthropologists and historians, delves into the reasons behind men’s persistent obsession with the Roman Empire. It points to a multifaceted phenomenon characterised by a crisis in masculinity – a sense of lost identity and purpose that many modern men grapple with.
It’s led to the rise of social media influencers like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson.
The Roman Empire, often associated with strength, power, and conquest, provides a historical backdrop against which men can examine and reevaluate their own masculinity. Its military prowess, stoic values, and patriarchal hierarchy offer a stark contrast to the evolving gender roles in today’s society.
Furthermore, the study highlights the influence of pop culture, where depictions of Roman warriors, gladiators, and emperors reinforce traditional ideals of manhood. From Hollywood blockbusters to bestselling novels, these portrayals perpetuate the enduring appeal of the Roman Empire.
In the age of digital media, online forums and social media platforms serve as virtual amphitheaters where men engage in discussions about Roman history, masculinity, and identity. These spaces provide a sense of belonging and validation for those seeking to navigate the complexities of modern masculinity.