Russian Novatek gas plant damaged in suspected Ukraine attack to resume operations within weeks

The Russian Novatek gas plant, reportedly damaged in a Ukrainian drone attack, is expected to resume normal operations in the coming weeks, according to analysts cited by Reuters. The gas-condensate plant at Ust-Luga caught fire following a possible coordinated attack on key Russian targets. Novatek, Russia's largest independent natural gas producer, processes stable gas condensate at the plant and exports oil products to international markets. The attack raises concerns about potential disruptions in naphtha supply amid existing challenges in shipping routes due to Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The economic impact on Novatek's revenues remains uncertain.

Russia deports 17 children with disabilities from occupied Donetsk Oblast

Russia has transferred 17 Ukrainian children with disabilities from the occupied part of Donetsk Oblast to a rehabilitation center near Moscow as part of the forced passportization campaign in the occupied territories of Ukraine, according to Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets. The practice involves imposing Russian citizenship on Ukrainians under the pretext of providing medical care, contrary to international law. The children were reportedly taken to the "Ogonyok" rehabilitation center near Moscow, facilitated by Russian Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Putin and Lvova-Belova in March for their role in the abduction of Ukrainian children.

Zelensky signs decree recognizing some Russian territories as historically inhabited by Ukrainians

Ukraine, under the leadership of President Volodymyr Zelensky, is embarking on an initiative to delve into and safeguard the histories of Ukrainians residing in parts of present-day Russia that have a historical connection to Ukrainian heritage. The presidential decree, announced on Unity Day, emphasizes the preservation of national identity and outlines cooperation with international experts to formulate a comprehensive plan. The targeted territories include Kuban, a historical region east of Crimea, Starodubshchyna to the north of Chernihiv, and northern and eastern Slobozhanshchyna, with the latter being a region that was significant during Tsarist rule.

The initiative extends beyond mere historical documentation. It mandates recording the testimonies of Ukrainians residing in these regions regarding their experiences of forced Russification, political repression, and deportations. The goal is to counteract disinformation and propaganda disseminated by Russia concerning the history and present status of Ukrainians in Russia. Furthermore, the decree envisions fostering relationships between Ukrainians and other peoples that have been historically subjugated by Russia. The government is directed to collaborate with the National Academy of Sciences to develop materials highlighting the thousand-year history of Ukrainian state formation and historical connections of lands inhabited by ethnic Ukrainians, ensuring the true history is incorporated into educational textbooks.

President Zelensky's decree reflects a strategic effort to address historical narratives, counter disinformation, and cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the Ukrainian identity in regions historically linked to Ukraine but now within the borders of the Russian Federation.