Ukraine's Ports: EU's 50 Million Euro Boost
The EU is punching back at Russian aggression by investing 50 million euros in rebuilding and enhancing Ukraine's damaged ports. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen penned a letter to President Volodymyr Zelenskyi, outlining the EU's commitment to bolstering Ukraine's capacity to export food and other commodities to global markets. Von der Leyen highlighted the project's potential to propel Ukraine's ports back to their pre-war export volumes.
Holodomor Remembrance Day: Zelenskyi Honors Genocide Victims
In observance of Holodomor Remembrance Day, President Zelenskyi emphasized the importance of recognizing the 1932-33 Soviet-era famine as a genocide. Millions of Ukrainians lost their lives during this period, faced with the cruel intentions of extermination. In a moving speech, Zelenskyi recalled the humiliation and suffering Ukraine endured, acknowledging the resilience of the Ukrainian people who ultimately managed to stand tall against the Soviet union's oppressive regime.
U.S. President Joe Biden mirrored Zelenskyi's sentiments, drawing parallels between the dark days of Holodomor and the current Russian aggression against Ukraine. Biden condemned Putin's war of aggression, emphasizing the link between the past and present injustices.
Russia Intercepts Ukrainian Drones
Russian air defenses reportedly thwarted an attempted drone attack from Ukraine by shooting down over ten drones on Sunday night. The clash occurred over various regions near Ukraine's border, resulting in some minor damage to a resident and a halted drone defense in Tula. The incident underscores the friction between the two nations, reflecting the heightened tensions in a war that has now lasted more than 21 months.
Finland Bears Brunt of Migrant Surge
Despite the largely closed border with Russia, Finland has seen an influx of over 55 migrants from Russia. Border guards reported that most of these migrants crossed near Raja-Jooseppi, a remote location in the Arctic Circle. Border head Kimmo Louhelainen stated that they anticipated the possibility of larger numbers and were prepared to handle the situation accordingly. Meanwhile, a small protest took place in Helsinki, denouncing the closure of the border crossings.
Barring a breakthrough in negotiations, tensions in the Kherson region continue to mount
Ukrainian forces are holding their ground in the Kherson region despite intense skirmishes with Russian forces. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that their troops have been able to maintain a presence on the left bank of the Dnipro River, the majority of which is under Russian control. Over the past several days, Ukrainian forces have demonstrated remarkable feats, warding off multiple Russian drone attacks.
Enrichment Insights
Due to the war against Ukraine, the EU has resorted to a series of sanctions packages to curb Russian military capabilities and weaken its economic base. Key components of these packages include:
- Targeting the "shadow fleet"
- Hybrid Threats and Other Regimes
- Legal Protection and Divestment Wind-Down
In addition, Ukrainian air defenses have shown remarkable proficiency in repelling Russian drone attacks on multiple occasions, intercepting over 500 Russian drones and missiles between January 20 and 26.
