Sanctions
Donald Trump is not confident in the effectiveness of pressuring Russia and fears disrupting the negotiation process. Expert Stanislav Zhelikhovsky explained that Trump needs quick results for the elections, and sanctions do not provide an immediate effect.
Ukraine, the US, and Russia are planning another round of talks next week, possibly in Miami or Abu Dhabi. The main stumbling block remains territory, particularly Russia's demand to control the entire Donbas.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree on sanctions against 91 maritime vessels of Russia's shadow fleet. These vessels were used to transport oil in circumvention of sanctions.
Venezuelan lawmakers have postponed the adoption of an amnesty bill due to disagreements over its application. Thousands of opposition supporters are demanding the release of all political prisoners.
Secretary of State Rubio will hold talks with Hungary and Slovakia regarding the purchase of Russian energy. The visit to Hungary is bilateral, and the visit to Slovakia is a logical addition to the trip.
Children from the Kyiv football academy "Lokomotyv", whose base was destroyed by Russian shelling, presented a ball to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. They are asking for support for Ukrainian children and for Russia not to be reinstated in international football.
Ukraine is counting on the announcement of new contributions from partners to strengthen its defense, particularly in the areas of air defense, drone provision, and ammunition. Minister of Defense Mykhailo Fedorov emphasized the importance of strengthening sanctions against Russia.
UAF President Andriy Shevchenko met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, discussing the prevention of Russians' return to international competitions. The issue of Russians was not considered at the UEFA Congress, which was confirmed by UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.
The head of the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate, Oleh Korikov, stated that the situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is deteriorating, with four power outages recorded. Minister of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sybiha called on the world to stop Russia and impose sanctions against "Rosatom."
Tens of thousands of cars are being exported from China to Russia through 'grey market' schemes, circumventing sanctions. Some of these vehicles are manufactured in China, while others are imported from third countries.
The aviation industry of Ukraine retains critical technological competencies and generates foreign exchange earnings. The lack of state support can lead to a loss of competitiveness.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted a resolution that allows for faster and more effective sale of confiscated assets. Funds from the sale will be directed to the Fund for the Elimination of the Consequences of Armed Aggression.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the US remains a key player in supporting Ukraine and pressuring Russia. Washington is a leader in sanctions policy, provides military assistance, and plays a role in diplomatic efforts.
Oil prices rose due to investor concerns about escalating tensions between the US and Iran. Brent futures rose to $69.67, and WTI to $64.92.
The Estonian Foreign Intelligence Department reports that the Kremlin is trying to restore political influence in the Baltic region through controlled academic structures. The "Baltic-Scandinavian Macroregion" project is coordinated by the Russian Presidential Administration and is a hybrid influence operation.
A Latvian court sentenced a truck driver to three years in prison for attempting to illegally smuggle 10,000 cartridges into Russia. The man hid the ammunition in a toolbox, claiming he was transporting it for shooting sports.
President Zelenskyy accepted the US proposal to hold the next round of negotiations to end the war, where the issue of territory will be discussed. Ukraine may approve a peace proposal through a parliamentary vote or a national referendum.
The Verkhovna Rada adopted a resolution calling on the International Olympic Committee to allow Ukrainian athletes to use symbols honoring those killed by Russian aggression. This came after Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych was banned from competing in a helmet featuring portraits of deceased athletes.
The Arctic LNG 2 project will receive two domestically produced icebreaking gas carriers in 2026. This will expand liquefied natural gas export capabilities, despite international restrictions.
The number of patents in Russia has shrunk to a minimum in over two decades, and real innovations have virtually disappeared. Russia invests more in purchasing foreign technologies than in developing its own science.
Retired judge Denys Nevyadomsky spoke about how to identify politically motivated criminal proceedings used to pressure businesses. He named signs of such cases, including investigators' focus on pressure rather than evidence collection, property seizures, and dragging out investigations.
President Zelenskyy reported the deaths of three children and their father in the Kharkiv region, as well as the shelling of a Zaporizhzhia hospital and a railway depot in Konotop. In total, the enemy launched 129 attack drones, which, according to Zelenskyy, undermines trust in diplomacy.
The European Parliament has approved the resumption of a trade agreement with the United States, which was suspended due to tariff threats over Greenland. The agreement will be valid for 24 months, provides for the abolition of EU tariffs on US industrial goods and a 15% US rate on most EU goods.
Kaja Kallas stated that she would propose a list of concessions that Europe should demand from Russia for a settlement of the conflict in Ukraine. Among the conditions are the return of Ukrainian children and restrictions on Russian armed forces.
Georgia is patiently awaiting the restoration of relations with the United States after US Vice President J. D. Vance visited Armenia and Azerbaijan, bypassing Tbilisi. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that Georgia is ready to restore the partnership without preconditions.
Greece and Malta have expressed concerns about the EU's proposal to replace the price cap on Russian oil with a services ban. They fear the impact on the shipping industry and energy prices.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit Hungary and Slovakia next week. The visit comes after Donald Trump endorsed Viktor Orban, who is trailing in the polls ahead of the elections.
Global oil prices are rising for the second consecutive day due to risks of supply disruptions from the Middle East. WTI exceeded $64, Brent settled near $69.
The public association BOEC reported the discovery of a secret facility of the Russian paramilitary organization near the village of Kladnitsa. Activists claim that the building is used to coordinate subversive activities, has a Russian flag and the PMC emblem.
US President Donald Trump will visit Beijing in the first week of April 2026 to discuss a new trade agreement, the situation around Taiwan, and coordinate positions on Russia's war against Ukraine. The meeting aims to reduce tensions between the countries.