Ukraine’s President provides grim assessment as international aid and efforts to alleviate the food crisis intensify.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has stated that the Donbas region is “completely destroyed” as Russia’s invasion continues to devastate the area. His remarks come amidst relentless attacks on Ukrainian cities, particularly Mariupol, where Russian forces are claiming victory and taking control of key areas.

Zelenskiy’s statement underscores the severity of the situation in Donbas, where Ukrainian forces have been battling Russian troops for control of territory in the eastern part of the country. In a related development, the United Nations is urging Russia to lift its blockade on Ukrainian Black Sea ports, which has exacerbated the global food crisis. Russian officials, however, have indicated that they would only consider reopening the ports if sanctions on Russia are reviewed.

Meanwhile, the G7 has agreed to provide £14.7 billion in aid to support Ukraine’s war effort, with promises of further assistance. Despite international condemnation, Russia’s stance remains unchanged, adding to the urgency of finding diplomatic solutions to both the immediate conflict and its far-reaching economic consequences.