The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues as air strikes hit Kyiv and fierce battles rage in eastern Ukraine. President Putin reflects on the war's initiation, while economic challenges persist in Russia and labor disputes arise with Starbucks workers.

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Russia's invasion of Ukraine enters its 1,030th day as significant developments unfold. In Kyiv, missile attacks prompted air defenses to activate while President Putin controversially stated that Russia should have invaded Ukraine earlier. Ukrainian forces are struggling to maintain their defensive lines in fierce battles, particularly around Pokrovsk, where Russian troops are gaining the upper hand. Simultaneously, Russia's central bank surprised markets by keeping interest rates at 21% amid rampant inflation. In unrelated news, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has filed criminal charges against Apple over the use of "" A court in India resolved a prolonged naming dispute for a couple's child, while Starbucks baristas across the U.S. plan to strike for better wages and working conditions, following union demands.