Ukraine to Receive First ‘Mirage’ Fighter Jets from France
Ukraine will receive its first three ‘Mirage’ fighter jets from France this month. Some reports suggest that the aircraft have already arrived in Ukraine. The ‘Mirage’ is a type of combat aircraft, and France has modified these jets to be able to launch ‘Scalp‘ and ‘Storm Shadow’ missiles. In the coming days, further announcements regarding additional U.S. aid to Ukraine are expected.
Explosion Critically Injures Russian Commander Accused of War Crimes
Konstantīns Nagaiko, a Russian commander accused of war crimes in Ukraine, has been severely injured in an explosion in Ivanovo Oblast, Russia. Nagaiko is alleged to have ordered a rocket attack on the Ukrainian city of Hroza in 2023, resulting in the deaths of 59 civilians, including an eight-year-old boy. The cause of the explosion is not yet known, but Ukraine’s intelligence service has stated that no war crime will go unpunished. The 29-year-old commander is currently in critical condition with a low chance of survival.
Moldova’s Transnistria Region Faces Second Day Without Power
Almost all businesses in the self-proclaimed republic of Transnistria, Moldova, are closed, with only food production facilities operating. Part of the public transport is also not running. Until now, Transnistria has been receiving small amounts of gas from Russia for heating and electricity generation. However, following Ukraine’s decision to halt Russian gas transit through its territory, Transnistria is also affected. Despite this, the Transnistrian authorities still refuse assistance from Kishinev. Moldova, however, is able to supply its own territory with gas and electricity.
Slovakia Protests Against Prime Minister Over Gas Transit Decision
Thousands of Ukraine supporters in Slovakia have protested against Prime Minister Robert Fico, accusing him of being a traitor and urging him to move to Moscow. The protests were triggered by Fico’s threat to cut off gas supplies and energy support for Ukraine if it continues to halt Russian gas transit. Fico, known for his friendly relations with Putin, has faced criticism for his stance.
Poland Takes Over Presidency of the EU Council
Poland has taken over the presidency of the EU Council for the next six months. Polish farmers aim to use this time to raise awareness of their issues. During the inaugural concert in Warsaw, farmers staged noisy protests, expressing dissatisfaction with cheap Ukrainian food imports and the new trade agreement with Latin American countries.
Damascus Airport Resumes Commercial Flights
The Syrian government has announced that commercial passenger flights will resume at Damascus International Airport from tomorrow. Flights were suspended late last year after the resignation of longtime Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. Plans are also underway to restart flights from Aleppo airport. Domestic and international humanitarian flights have already resumed in Syria.
Latvia‘s Sigulda Hosts World Cup in Luge
Latvia’s Sigulda will host the Luge World Cup this weekend. Elīna Ieva Bota won the women’s singles event, while Mārtiņš Bots and Roberts Plūme took silver in the men’s doubles competition. Marta Robēdzíne and Kitija Bogdanova claimed bronze in the women’s doubles event. Tomorrow, team relay and men’s singles races will take place.
Weather Update
Latvia can expect changes in cloud cover. Snow, sleet, and rain showers are anticipated in some areas, with icy conditions on certain road sections. Wind will blow from the west, southwest, and seaside from the west, northwest at 4-9 m/s, with gusts up to 15-17 m/s along the coast during the night. Temperatures will range from -1°C to -6°C, with coastal areas near 0°C. Daytime highs are expected to reach +2°C to -3°C. In Riga, cloud cover will vary, with light snowfall anticipated. Wind will blow from the west, southwest at 4-9 m/s, gusting up to 15 m/s overnight. Temperatures will range from -2°C to -3°C overnight and 0°C to -1°C during the day. The weather outlook for the next 24 hours is rated as ‘favorable.’
