World

The European Union and United Kingdom have expanded sanctions against Russia, focusing on blocking oligarchs' access to luxury items like pure-bred horses and truffles. The measures also aim to limit Russia's global market engagement by preventing EU rating agencies from working with Russian clients and restricting steel export revenues.

Asian stocks fell on Tuesday as COVID-19 cases in China and ongoing Ukraine war concerns weighed on markets. MSCI's Asia-Pacific index dropped 1.97%, with Chinese stocks leading losses, reflecting broader economic uncertainties and potential demand disruptions.

During the Ukraine war, Western tech companies' withdrawal risks isolating Russians from independent information sources, potentially strengthening Kremlin propaganda and internet control strategies.

Russian strikes near Poland's border have driven thousands of refugees into eastern Europe, marking the fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II. UN data shows over 2.8 million Ukrainians have fled, with millions more internally displaced as conflict continues.

Approximately 30,000 people gathered at Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, protesting the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Demonstrators carried Ukrainian flags and signs with slogans like "Stop Putin" and "Solidarity with Ukraine!", expressing strong support for Ukrainian people and calling for peace.

Russian airstrikes hit a Ukrainian military training base near the Polish border, killing 35 people. The attack targeted a facility less than 25 kilometers from NATO member Poland, following threats to intercept Western weapon shipments supporting Ukrainian defense efforts.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization alerts that the war in Ukraine could severely impact food security in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Ukraine and Russia, responsible for one-third of global grain exports, face potential agricultural disruptions that may escalate international food prices and shortages.

Russian strikes hit western Ukraine, expanding military offensive. Armored columns move near Kyiv, while bombardment intensifies in Mariupol. U.S. and allies consider revoking Russia's trading status as invasion enters 16th day, with Putin claiming "positive developments" in negotiations.

A World Bank official highlights how persistent high oil prices triggered by the Ukraine conflict could reduce growth by a full percentage point for countries like China, Indonesia, South Africa, and Turkey, compounding existing economic challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic.

President Joe Biden banned all Russian oil imports to the US, aiming to economically punish Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. The move follows Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's request and will likely lead to higher fuel prices for Americans, with Biden stating that "defending freedom is going to cost."