**US Tightens Sanctions on Russia**
The US has made it harder for countries to buy Russian oil by not renewing a special exemption that lets Russian banks use American payment systems. This could lead to higher oil prices.
The exemption was first given by the Biden administration, but President Donald Trump didn’t extend it. This means it will be more difficult for countries to trade with Russia’s energy industry.
**US-Russia Talks**
Meanwhile, the US and Russia are talking about a ceasefire in Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin said Russia is ready to agree to a 30-day ceasefire if Ukraine promises not to mobilize or train troops during that time.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he hasn’t received a meaningful response from Russia yet. The US and Russia have been discussing a ceasefire for some time now, but it’s unclear when one will happen.
**Ukraine Receives Aid**
Ukraine has received its first payment of 2.5 billion Canadian dollars (about $1.7 billion) under the G7’s Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration initiative.
The money is meant to help Ukraine with the economic challenges caused by the war with Russia.
**Other News**
A Russian drone strike in Kharkiv injured seven people, according to the city’s mayor. More Western companies are expanding their offerings to Ukrainian customers, and some are reopening storefronts across the country.
Hungary‘s ambassador to the EU is demanding that a businessman be removed from the sanctions list or they will block the extension of EU sanctions on Russians.
The European Court of Human Rights has ruled that Ukraine failed to prevent deadly clashes between supporters and opponents of the EuroMaidan movement in 2014.