**Ukraine Denies Russian Accusations of Ceasefire Violation**
The Ukrainian military has denied launching drone attacks on energy facilities in Russia and occupied Crimea, despite Moscow’s claims that Ukraine had broken a partial ceasefire agreement.
On March 25, Ukraine agreed to halt strikes against energy facilities and “the use of force” in the Black Sea with the US and Russia. However, Russian authorities accused Kyiv of violating this agreement by launching drone attacks on Bryansk and Kursk oblasts, as well as Crimea between March 25 and 26.
**Russia’s Aggressive Actions**
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Russia has continued its aerial attacks against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Since March 18, Ukraine has recorded eight confirmed hits against its energy facilities by Russian forces. Additionally, an attack on a residential area in Sumy on March 24 injured over 100 people, including 24 children.
Ukraine’s General Staff said that Russia is spreading false accusations to prolong the war and continue its propaganda efforts.
**International Response**
The European Commission spokesperson has stated that Russia’s “unconditional withdrawal” from Ukraine is a precondition for changing or lifting EU sanctions. The EBRD also approved a loan of 270 million euros for Ukraine’s Naftogaz to purchase gas for the next two winters.
**Ukraine’s Air Defenses**
Ukraine’s air defenses intercepted 56 out of 117 Russian drones launched overnight, including Shahed-type attack drones.
**US and International Involvement**
The US is considering lifting additional sanctions on Russia in exchange for a Black Sea ceasefire agreement. The CIA Director has stated that the Ukrainian resistance has been underestimated for several years now, and that Ukraine and Russia may see a greater incentive to prolong war instead of settling for an unfavorable peace deal.
**Other Developments**
A temporary restraining order was issued against the administration‘s attempt to defund an organization. The Armenian parliament passed a bill on joining the European Union. Judge Royce Lamberth said that the administration’s actions were “unsupported by any facts or reasoning” and likely violated federal law.