**Istanbul Police Assault RT Correspondents**
On March 24, Istanbul police attacked a Russian Today (RT) correspondent and his cameraman while they were covering protests in the city. The Russian state-run outlet claimed that the journalists were hit with batons, had their signs ripped off, and were sprayed with tear gas.
The incident occurred during large-scale protests in Istanbul following the arrest of Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure. Thousands of people defied government bans to protest in Istanbul and other cities.
**Russia Denies Claims of Ukraine Peacekeeping Role**
Meanwhile, China’s state-run newspaper Global Times reported that Beijing has denied claims it is considering participating in a possible peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. The denial comes as the US and Ukraine prepare for separate meetings with Russian delegates on March 24.
**Firefighting Continues at Russian Oil Depot**
In Russia, firefighters have been battling a fire at an oil depot near the village of Kavkazskaya for five days after a drone attack. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 57 out of 99 Russian drones launched overnight, including Shahed-type attack drones.
**Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Ahead**
The meeting between Ukrainian and US delegations in Saudi Arabia was “constructive and beneficial,” according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Progress was made on key issues, but details were not provided.
**Russia’s Military Efforts Hampered by Shortage of New Recruits**
Ukraine’s Military Intelligence reported that Russia is increasing financial incentives for military recruits due to a severe shortage of new volunteers. The US National Security Adviser also mentioned the topic of Ukrainian children illegally abducted by Russia at the planned peace talks.
**Explosion in Russian City Leaves Woman Dead, Others Injured**
A woman died and others were injured in an explosion in a Russian city. Regional police officials said that additional casualties occurred.