Ukraine–Russia Strikes at Sea and on Land: Ukraine says it hit 105 vessels tied to Russia’s “shadow fleet” in the Sea of Azov, forcing Russia to suspend shipping and Kerch Strait transits; Russia retaliated with strikes on commercial shipping, including a Togo-flagged vessel in Odesa where three sailors were killed and five injured, as Kyiv targets port infrastructure. Missile and Drone Pressure on Cities: Russia struck Kyiv with missiles early Tuesday, with no casualties reported, while drones hit Zaporizhzhia and areas near Kharkiv, injuring dozens; Russian officials also claim 13 killed in occupied regions from Ukrainian drone attacks. Putin’s Response and War Momentum: Putin warned of “more powerful” retaliation after Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries and ports, as reports say the Kremlin is leaning toward continued escalation rather than talks. EU Sanctions and Culture Fallout: The EU moved to sanction VK and other firms over surveillance and cyber activity, while the Commission recommended ending €2m Venice Biennale grant funding tied to a Russian pavilion; the 21st sanctions package is still under debate. Domestic Crackdown in Russia: Anti-war politician Boris Nadezhdin was arrested and summoned to court after being labeled a “foreign agent,” signaling tighter pressure ahead of elections. Cyber Escalation: The EU and UK imposed joint cyber sanctions and multiple European governments summoned Russian diplomats over alleged hacking of critical infrastructure and aid routes. Energy and Military Capacity: Ukraine’s campaign is blamed for pushing Russian refining to the lowest levels since 2005, while intelligence claims Russia has turned the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant into a military base.