Tensions escalate as Ukraine prepares for grain shipments while both sides probe deaths of prisoners of war.

Ukraine has confirmed that its Black Sea ports are ready to resume grain exports, with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announcing that the country is prepared to begin shipping the vital commodity, pending final United Nations approval. This marks a significant development in alleviating the global food crisis exacerbated by the ongoing war.

Meanwhile, both Ukraine and Russia have launched investigations into the deaths of at least 40 Ukrainian prisoners of war following a deadly strike on a prison in Russian-occupied Donbas. Ukraine has denied responsibility for the attack and accused Russia of attempting to cover up the brutal torture and murder of the prisoners. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba labeled the incident a “barbaric war crime.”

The controversy surrounding these deaths has intensified with the circulation of disturbing videos showing Russian soldiers allegedly abusing Ukrainian captives, further inflaming tensions. These videos contribute to mounting accusations of war crimes, including torture and extrajudicial killings.