The Ukrainian ambassador to the US, Oksana Markarova, has accused Russia of using thermobaric weapons, also known as vacuum bombs, during air strikes in Ukraine. The bombs are banned by the Geneva Convention and are considered among the most dangerous weapons in the world, capable of generating supersonic shockwaves that destroy everything in their path.
The claim comes amid reports that 352 civilians have been killed and over 1,600 wounded since the Russian invasion began, according to Ukraine's interior ministry. President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for a no-fly zone to be imposed over Ukraine, stating that Russia has launched 56 rocket strikes and 113 cruise missiles in the past five days.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has received Starlink satellite internet terminals from SpaceX, donated by CEO Elon Musk. However, security researchers have warned that the terminals could become targets for Russian airstrikes, as their uplink transmissions could be detected.
In other developments, Russia's communications regulator has demanded that TikTok stop recommending military-related content to minors, accusing the platform of hosting anti-Russian material. TikTok has already restricted access to Russian state media outlets RT and Sputnik within the EU, following sanctions.
UFC fighter Maryna Moroz has condemned President Putin, while Ukrainian athletes including Oleksandr Usyk and Yaroslav Amosov have returned to defend their country. Reports also suggest that the Wagner Group, a private militia linked to Russia, has plans to assassinate President Zelensky.
