For today, in an entry briefer than usual, links to reports from Reuters, the Associated Press, and National Public Radio; others are accessible by clicking on their names or initials below. (GAZA entry for this date is HERE.) — MCM

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Russian drones pound power system in Sumy region town, 14 people hurt, Ukraine says. From Reuters. KYIV — Russian drones inflicted significant damage to the northern Ukrainian town of Konotop’s energy infrastructure in an overnight attack that injured at least 14 people and cut electricity to the settlement, local officials said today. READ MORE . . .

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FROM SEPT. 11  U.S. and UK pledge almost $1.5 billion to help Ukraine during diplomats’ visit to Kyiv, by Matthew Lee and Illia Novikov | AP  KYIV — The United States and Britain pledged nearly $1.5 billion in additional aid to Ukraine on Wednesday during a visit to Kyiv by their top diplomats as Ukrainian officials renewed their pleas to use Western-provided missiles against targets deeper inside Russia. READ MORE . . .

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Restrictions on Ukraine’s use of U.S. weapons across Russia’s border may be lifted. Reported by Michel Martin | NPR  Ukraine’s president wants to attack targets inside Russia. Will the U.S. loosen restrictions on the long-range weapons it provides for the war? Click HERE to listen and, later, read.

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Ukraine businesses hire more women and teens amid labour shortages, by Olena Harmash | Reuters  As the war with Russia drains the labour force, businesses are trying to cover critical shortages by hiring more women in traditionally male-dominated roles and turning to teenagers, students and older workers. READ MORE . . .