This article from the Kyiv Independent reports on various developments related to the war between Ukraine and Russia. Here are some key points:
* Former US President Donald Trump has said he will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington on February 28 to sign an agreement on minerals.
* The agreement is unrelated to peace negotiations with Russia, which would likely involve sanctions relief for Moscow.
* US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously indicated that sanctions relief could be part of negotiations, but insisted the US would maintain restrictions at least until an agreement is reached.
* Trump’s comments come as Zelensky prepares to visit Washington.
* Ukrainian drones successfully struck the Tuapse oil refinery in Russia’s Krasnodar Krai region overnight on February 26, according to a source in Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR).
* The attack resulted in at least 40 explosions and a fire, damaging oil refining equipment.
* Ukraine has escalated attacks against Russia’s oil industry, successfully reducing the processing capacities of multiple facilities.
Note: This article is based on information from the Kyiv Independent news desk team.