**Russia Escalates Hybrid Attacks Across Europe Amid Ukraine Invasion**
As Russia continues its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has also intensified its hybrid attacks across Europe. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky recently claimed that Russia could be behind around 100 “suspicious incidents” in Europe alone this year.
In addition to the military conflict in Ukraine, Russia’s activities have heightened tensions between Russia and Europe. The Dutch intelligence agency has reported an increase in Russian sabotage efforts, with the US scaling down its counter-measures. This has led to a buildup of pressure on both sides.
**Key Developments in the Conflict**
* US President Donald Trump expressed uncertainty about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin would attend Ukraine peace talks in Turkey.
* The Financial Times reported that Russia may be preparing for a major offensive in Ukraine despite ongoing peace efforts.
* Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he will meet with Putin at the peace talks, putting pressure on the Kremlin to confirm or deny Putin’s attendance.
* Trump said he believes both leaders will attend the talks, further increasing tension between Russia and Europe.
**EU Imposes New Sanctions on Russia**
The European Union has agreed on its 17th package of sanctions against Russia. The measures target almost 200 ships in Russia’s “shadow fleet,” as well as 30 companies involved in sanctions evasion and 75 entities linked to the Russian military-industrial complex.
While EU officials hail the new sanctions as a symbol of steady resolve, critics outside the EU bubble view them as incremental and failing to match the urgency of the situation. Some even acknowledge that the package was watered down during negotiations.
**Ukraine’s Underground Gas Storage Facilities Reach Critical Levels**
According to estimates, Ukraine’s underground storage facilities are currently using 19.4% of their capacity, with almost 32% less gas available than in the previous year. This has raised concerns about the country’s energy security.
**Ukrainian Public Opinion Divided on Elections and Peace Deal**
A recent poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology found that 71% of Ukrainians do not support holding elections before a full peace deal, even with a ceasefire and security guarantees. The majority of respondents prefer to prioritize achieving a lasting peace over electoral processes.
**Council of Europe Approves Special Tribunal for Russia’s Aggression**
The Council of Europe has approved the creation of a special tribunal to prosecute Russia’s top leadership for aggression against Ukraine. Ukrainian lawmaker Maria Mezentseva announced this development, citing efforts to bring Russia to justice for its actions in Ukraine.
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