**Belarusian Opposition Leader Missing**
Anzhalika Melnikava, the speaker of the Belarusian Coordination Council, has gone missing. She was last seen on March 25 and there has been no contact with her since.
The council reported that Polish authorities have been notified of Melnikava’s disappearance and are working to find out where she is. They believe Russian agents may be involved in her disappearance.
Melnikava’s duties will be taken over by Deputy Speaker Stasia Hlinnik until further notice.
**Belarusian Dictator Tightens Grip on Power**
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko has been in power since 1994 and has tightened his grip on the country through sham elections and mass repression of independent media, civil society, and opposition.
The Belarusian secret police, the KGB, is believed to be closely monitoring opposition members who have fled abroad. There have been reports of Belarusian activists being targeted and killed by Lukashenko’s agents.
**Russia Prepares for New Offensive**
Russia is preparing to launch a new offensive in Ukraine, according to Ukrainian analysts and G7 diplomatic sources. This comes as Russia faces increased pressure from the international community over its actions in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Air Force has been striking Russian targets, including a high-rise building, houses, and a school. The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported that dozens of Russian troops were killed in one such strike.
**International Community Responds**
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved $400 million in funds for Ukraine via the Extended Fund Facility. Ukraine is also working to finalize agreements with European nations for additional military aid shipments and expanded intelligence sharing.
The U.S. has disapproved of a proposed agreement that would grant Washington control over Ukraine’s natural resources through a joint investment fund.