**Russian Ex-Defense Official Charged with Embezzlement**
A former high-ranking official in Russia’s Defense Ministry is facing charges of embezzling 600 million rubles, or $5.8 million.
Vladimir Shishov, a former deputy head of the military property department, is accused of working with businessman Dmitry Levchenko to steal the money. The funds were allegedly meant for a “special infrastructure project.”
Shishov was arrested in October 2023 on suspicion of fraud. This is not the first time high-ranking officials have been arrested and charged with corruption.
In recent months, several top military officials have faced charges ranging from bribery to abuse of power. President Vladimir Putin has also dismissed his Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and replaced him with former Prime Minister Andrei Belousov.
The embezzlement case comes as Ukraine reports a sharp increase in registered criminal proceedings for bribery in the Russian military. Transparency International’s corruption perception index saw Russia drop to its worst score in years, while Ukraine’s score improved.
**Russian Forces Suffer Heavy Losses**
Russian forces continue to face heavy losses in their assaults on Ukrainian positions. Over the past day, they suffered 1,070 casualties and lost two tankers that were carrying fuel oil. The vessels sank due to severe weather conditions.
Ukrainian officials report that Russian forces are using diverse weaponry and tactics to try and gain an advantage. However, they continue to face strong resistance from Ukrainian defenders.
**International Reaction**
The international community is increasingly critical of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for additional sanctions and enhanced military support for Ukraine.
Lithuania and Estonia have imposed sanctions on Georgian officials over human rights concerns. Hungary continues to maintain close economic and diplomatic ties with Moscow, despite the invasion of Ukraine.
The Pope’s earlier remarks about relativizing Russia’s responsibility in the war have been met with criticism from Ukrainians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for greater international support in the fight against Russian aggression.
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