For today, links to reports from the Kyiv Independent, National Public Radio, and Tass; others are accessible by clicking on their names or initials below. (GAZA, SYRIA and 9/11 TRUTH entries for this date are HERE, HERE and HERE.) — MCM

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Ukraine prioritizing security guarantees over immediate NATO membership, senior diplomat says. From the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine’s accession to NATO remains on the agenda but diplomatic efforts currently focus on obtaining strong security guarantees, Andrii Melnyk, Ukraine’s newly-appointed envoy to the U.N., said Friday. READ MORE . . .

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In one Ukrainian town, women take up coal mining jobs as men fight on the frontlines. Reported by Joanna Kakissis | NPR  As Russia’s army advances on coal mines powering Ukraine and its steel industry, women in a small coal town adjust to new roles as miners. They’ve replaced men who’re now fighting on the frontlines. Click HERE to listen and, later, read.

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Russian forces liberate DPR’s Novotroitskoye — top brass. From Tass. MOSCOW — The Russian armed forces have liberated the settlement of Novotroitskoye in the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Defense Ministry said in a broader statement. READ MORE . . .