First, links to reports from the Associated Press, National Public Radio, and Reuters; others are accessible by clicking on the organizations’ names below. Then, via Global Research, a link to one way to assess the effectiveness of Western sanctions against Russia; it was filed 10 days ago. — MCM
– –
First ship with Ukraine grain cleared to sail on to Lebanon, by Zeynep Bilginsoy | The Associated Press ISTANBUL — The first grain ship to depart Ukraine under a wartime deal was poised to cross through the Bosporus Strait and sail to Lebanon after its cargo was checked and approved today, Turkish and Ukrainian authorities said. An inspection team spent about 90 minutes conducting checks aboard the Sierra Leone-flagged Razoni, which was carrying Ukrainian corn and anchored off Istanbul, Turkey’s defense ministry said. The team included officials from Ukraine, Russia, Turkey and the United Nations. The Razoni’s horn rang out as the inspectors . . . READ MORE . . .
– – –
Ukraine’s army is waging its 1st major offensive against Russia to retake Kherson. Reported by Brian Mann | National Public Radio Could Ukraine’s army retake the strategic southern city of Kherson? Officers and soldiers near the front line say the counter-offensive is already underway. Click HERE to listen and read.
– – –
Russian soft drinks maker targets 50% of market to fill gap left by Coke, Pepsi. From Reuters. * This content was produced in Russia where the law restricts coverage of Russian military operations in Ukraine | MOSCOW — As the world’s biggest soft drinks makers cut their Russian ties, local producer Chernogolovka is aiming for a 50% share of the country’s near $9 billion market, its boss told Reuters. A mass exodus of Western firms due to sanctions and restrictions over Russia’s actions in Ukraine has created an unexpected opportunity for Russian businesses and entrepreneurs. Chernogolovka, named after the town outside Moscow . . . READ MORE . . .
– – –
‘Vogue’ cover of Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska sparks debate and controversy. Reported by Ashley Westermann | NPR Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska was criticized for not looking ladylike in a recent Vogue photoshoot. Her supporters pushed back, creating an online campaign asking what it means to #SitLikeAGirl. Click HERE to listen and read.
– – –
Sanctions Had No Effect on Moscow Yet Europe Lost Four Governments: Orban, by Al Mayadeen | Global Research Russia sanctions have not shaken Moscow’s resolve, despite the fact that Europe has already lost four governments due to economic and political crises, according to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Saturday. “The West’s strategy is like a car with flat tires on all four wheels… The sanctions did not destabilize Moscow. Europe is in trouble, economically and politically, and four governments have become victims: UK, Bulgarian, Italian, and Estonian… READ MORE . . .
– – –
TO BE CONTINUED TODAY, TOMORROW OR THURSDAY