NIAS Area Studies
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Photo : Alexis Moradian/US Marine Corps
War in Ukraine: Day 43
By Padmashree Anandhan and Ashwin Dhanabalan
War on the Ground:
Zelensky's address in the Cyprus Parliament
Zelensky's address
On 07 April, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his daily address, highlighted that the damages and destruction in the Borodianka were worse than in Bucha. He said: "It's much more horrific there, there are even more victims of Russian occupiers." Apart from this, while addressing the Cyprus Parliament, he asked to revoke the passports issued to the Russians through the investment scheme. He thanked the Cyprus authorities for closing the port for Russian Yachts.
Ukraine Military
Ukraine's Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova reported the finding of 26 bodies in destroyed buildings of Borodianka town. He added that it has been the worst destruction compared to all towns, the causality count seems to be unpredictable.
Ukraine Military warned that it expects a new set of attacks on Kyiv in the coming days if Russia takes over Donbas. Lugansk Regional Governor cautioned the residents to leave as the Russian attacks in eastern Ukraine block the exit for people.
Other developments
In the NATO meeting, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba urged more weapons from the West to fight against the civilian atrocities. He said that if the weapons were provided, Ukraine would fight using its security forces against Russia to ensure Putin does not attempt to attack NATO members. In response to Ukraine's request for.more weapons, NATO Cheif said that the since the invasion, NATO along with member countries have been coordinating to increase their share of military support.
On 07 April, a video was released where Ukrainian forces shot a captured Russian soldier. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba affirmed that the video will be investigated. The area is expected to be a road to the capital Kyiv, where the Russian forces were observed to be receding.
On 07 April, France24 reported that the road leading to Chuhuiv was empty post the continuous crossfires and bombardment. It also reported on the 200,000 Ukrainians who have moved to Lviv transit centers for accommodation, food, and security.
The Moscow View:
Claims by Russia
Russia's spokesperson Dmitry Peskov claimed that Russia had incurred "significant losses," in the war. He further detailed the troops withdrawal, stating the military withdrew from areas of Kyiv and Chernihiv to reduce tensions and create a stage for peace talks. So far there has been no report from Russia on the incurred losses since 24 February.
On 07 April, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Ukraine of constant change in the demands since the start of negotiation talks in Istanbul. He said that Ukraine was not keen on resolving the fight.
Russian Ministry of Defence
Russian Ministry of Defense claimed of destroying fuel storage facilities in four different cities, Mykolayiv, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Chuhuiv. Another claim of the Russian investigators was charging four Ukrainian military officers for involving in the torture and killing of civilians in the Donbas region. According to the statement released by the investigation committee: "As of today, the investigators have data on 59 military units and their affiliation with particular armed services and their stationing. They have identified four new commanders of the Ukrainian armed forces complicit in the bombardments of civilians in 2018, 2020, and 2021."
Other developments
Russia's spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that if Finland and Sweden became part of NATO, Russia, through its measures, will "rebalance the situation." It was observed that Russia's security position on the western flank will be strengthened.
An official from the separatists group commented on the stance of Russia on Mariupol. He said, the fighting is taking place mainly in the area of the industrial zone of the city and remarked that it was uncertain for Russia to capture the city entirely in the near time.
The West View
Responses from the US and Europe
The US
On 07 April, US Defence Department Spokesperson John Kirby said Washington was training Ukrainian soldiers to use the Switchblade drones. He talked about how the US had the opportunity to take in Ukrainian soldiers and train them for a couple of days on using the Switchblade. In turn, they would be able to teach others in the country. These remotely controlled drones were flying bombs that are crashed into targets to explode. Kirby added: "They arrived over there earlier this week. So they'll be getting into Ukraine quickly if they aren't already there."
On the same day, US President Joe Biden mentioned that Congress had approved two measures against Russia for its atrocities in Bucha. One was on the removal of Russia as a most favoured nation for trade, and the other consisted of oil ban imports. Senate Leader Chuck Schumer said: "Putin must absolutely be held accountable for the detestable, despicable war crimes he is committing against Ukraine." He added that these measures intended to put economic pressure on Putin and the Russian oligarchs.
Also, on 07 April, a report by the Pentagon said that Ukraine would surely win the war against Russia. Pentagon Spokesperson John Kirby added: "The proof is literally in the outcomes that you're seeing every day... absolutely they can win." He further mentioned how Putin could not achieve his objectives in Ukraine, and how Russia was now moving back from Kyiv, Chernihiv and his inability to take Mariupol.
On 08 April, the US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman said China could face sanctions if it supported Russia in its war. She added that the sanctions against Russia and the oligarchs should set an example for China's President Xi Jinping. She further said: "We hope that the PRC understands that any such action would see a response from the international community, not just from the United States."
Finland
On 07 April, as a security measure, Finland announced an increase in the funds of EUR 2.2 billion for the next four years. The funds will be utilised to pay hundreds of soldiers, bolster the border security and boost its missile systems and ammunition. According to the Prime Minister, Sanna Marin: "seriously mull over our own stance and approach to military alignment."
Estonia
On 07 April, the Estonian government announced its decision to stop the imports of gas from Russia. It will be the second Baltic state to cut down the gas imports after Lithuania. Estonia's gas import from Russia is only seven per cent, which is less compared to other countries in Europe.
The UK
On 07 April, the UK said it had announced further sanctions against eight Russian oligarchs, Russian Banks such as Sberbank and Credit Bank of Moscow. The UK's Foreign Office said that this was in response to the discovery of civilian bodies after the withdrawal of Russian forces in the north of Kyiv. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "I'm afraid when you look at what's happening in Bucha, the revelations that we are seeing from what Putin has done in Ukraine doesn't look far short of genocide to me."
On the same day, UK's Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said they and the allies were taking a more concentrated Russian offensive. She added that the government and NATO had agreed to supply heavier equipment to Ukraine. At Brussels, Truss said: "Putin has changed his tactics but not his intent. He wants a hold over the whole of Ukraine." The UK also announced sending EUR 30 million to Poland to help with vital supplies.
Also, on 07 April, a former Member of Parliament raised concerns about the UK's refugee visa process. She said the application system was too slow and was not easy to access for the refugees escaping war. In addition, she cited issues of uploading documents with lousy internet connection and the difficulties refugees face in a wartime situation.
On the same day, Stoltenberg at Brussels mentioned how the war in Ukraine could continue for years. He stressed on the need to have direct talks with Putin and for him to withdraw Russian troops from Ukraine. He further warned that if the war continued, there could be a possibility of an escalation to a more expanded war which would cause more casualties and drain resources.
Jersey
On 07 April, Jersey's International Development Minister Carolyn Labey visited Poland to assess how the island's aid was being used. Jersey has funded the distribution of 4000 trauma kits and 150 kevlar body armour vests and helmets to be used by Doctors. Donations were distributed within Poland or were sent to Kyiv. She said: "It's a humbling experience to meet ordinary Ukrainians who have displayed such extraordinary courage and resilience as well as the wonderful people assisting them.."
Italy
On 07 April, Italy announced that it would follow the EU's sanctions against Russia. Prime Minister Mario Draghi said: "If we are offered a gas embargo, we will follow the EU down this path, we want the most effective instrument to achieve peace." However, he also mentioned how Italy was not ready at the moment to deal with a gas embargo. Moreover, he contradicted himself by saying: "Today the gas embargo is not yet... on the table."
The EU
On 07 April, the EU's Council chief Charles Michel said the bloc was preparing a proposal to release EUR 500 million to provide arms for Ukraine. The proposal was agreed upon at the ambassador level by 27 EU nations. He added that this would bring the EU's contribution to EUR 1.5 billion in military support for Ukraine. Interestingly, he even compared the EU's funding to Russia's earnings in gas payments and said: "This may seem like a lot, but one billion euros is what we pay Putin every day for the energy he provides us."
NATO
On 07 April, NATO's chief Jens Stoltenberg said the member countries had agreed to increase their support for Ukraine. This comes after Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said more atrocities could break out if Ukraine does not get more military aid. Stoltenberg added: "We are closely coordinating and discussing these issues with Ukraine, so allies are providing and are willing to do more when it comes to military support." However, NATO has been hesitant in supplying heavy offensive equipment like tanks and fighter jets that could lead to a direct conflict with Russia.
The Global Fallouts
International implications of the Ukraine war
Australia
On 07 April, Australia said it would impose further sanctions to target Moscow's financial institutions and impose travel bans on additional 67 Russians. Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne said: "Today, I'm announcing 67 further sanctions of Russian elites and oligarchs, those close to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin who facilitate and support his outrageous actions." She added that these were in response to the emergence of war crimes in Bucha.
G7
On 07 April, the G7 condemned Russia's atrocities in Bucha. The Foreign Ministers said that Russia's atrocities were a severe violation of international law, international humanitarian law and human rights. The Ministers expressed "heartfelt solidarity with the Ukrainian people and our deepest condolences to the victims". They further pushed for Russia's suspension from the UN Human Rights Council.
The UN
On 07 April, the UN General Assembly voted to suspend Russia from the Human Rights Council. The vote was received with 93 nations in favour, 24 against, and the rest abstained within the 193 Member Assembly. The meeting further marked a resumption of a special emergency session held since the war in Ukraine broke out and with the emergence of the recent reports on Bucha.
WHO
On 07 April, the WHO said it was preparing for possible chemical assaults in Ukraine. WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge said: "Given the uncertainties of the current situation, there are no assurances that the war will not get worse." He added that the WHO considered all possibilities and prepared for situations of mass casualties and treatments to chemical assaults.
Shell
On 07 April, the oil giant Shell said it would be taking a hit of about USD five billion for withdrawing from Russia. However, the firm assured that it would not further buy oil from Russia but would keep its commitments that were signed before the war in Ukraine. The company also said it would end its partnership in the Nord Stream two pipeline.
References:
"Zelensky says scenes in Borodianka' much more horrific' than in Bucha," France24, 07 April 2022
"Nato: Ukraine asks for 'weapons, weapons, weapons'," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Video appears to show killing of captive Russian soldier," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Russia charges four Ukrainian military commanders in absentia with Donbass bombardments," TASS, 07 April 2022
"Peskov announced the "significant losses" of Russia in the war in Ukraine," Meduza, 07 April 2022
"Revoke Russian investor passports, Zelensky urges Cyprus," RFI, 07 April 2022
"Ukrainian President Zelensky to address Cypriot parliament at 18:00," In-cyprus, 07 April 2022
"Ukrainian soldiers training in US with Switchblade drones," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
"Ukraine could 'absolutely' win the war against Russia, Pentagon says," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
"The US congress has approved one measure to remove Russia's "most favored nation" trade status and another to ban oil imports from Russia," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
"US says China could face sanctions if it supports Russia's war in Ukraine," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
Joseph Lee & Doug Faulkner, "Ukraine war: Bucha deaths' not far short of genocide' - PM," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Ukraine war in new and different phase - Liz Truss," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Ex-MP calls for Ukraine refugee visa improvements," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Ukraine conflict: What is Nato and how has it responded to Russia's invasion?," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Nato: Ukraine asks for 'weapons, weapons, weapons'," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Nato's Stoltenberg: 'the easiest way to end this war is for Putin to pull back'" The Guardian, 07 April 2022
"Jersey minister visits Poland to see island's support," BBC, 07 April 2022
"Italy will "follow the decisions of the European Union" on new sanctions against Russia," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
"The European Union is proposing a 500m euro military aid package to Ukraine," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
"Oil giant Shell to take £3.8bn hit by leaving Russia," BBC, 07 April 2022
"The UN General Assembly will vote today on whether to suspend Russia from the UN human rights council," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
Emma Farge and Mrinalika Roy, "WHO says making contingency plans for possible 'chemical assaults' in Ukraine," Reuters, 07 April 2022
"G7 condemns Russian 'atrocities' committed in Bucha' in the strongest terms'," The Guardian, 07 April 2022
Robin Emmott, "Australia to impose sanctions on 67 more Russians over Ukraine," Reuters, 07 April 2022
IN BRIEF
By Emmanuel Royan, Sai Pranav, and Rishma Banerjee
FRANCE
Macron warns about Presidential candidate Le Pen’s unlawful manifesto
On 07 April, France’s President Emmanuel Macron intensified his warnings about the threat presented by his far-right rival Marine Le Pen ahead of the first-round presidential elections on 10 April. He admitted that he has not been able to ease the voters' anxieties and keep the far right at bay during his presidency. Le Pen's popularity has increased gradually, driven by her promises to reduce fuel tax to relieve the rising cost of living. Macron further continued to warn that her anti-immigration plan and a ban on the Muslim headscarf in all public spaces are xenophobic, racist, and violate the French constitution. According to polls, he might face Le Pen in a runoff after the first round, and she would dramatically close the gap on him in a final round on 24 April. (Angelique Chrisafis, “Macron steps up warnings over French far right before first-round vote,” The Guardian, 07 April 2022)
THE UK
Disputed Cambo oil fields to be developed by Ithaca Energy
On 07 April, Ithaca Energy agreed to acquire Siccar Point Energy, the disputed Cambo oil field’s major stakeholder, for USD 1.5 billion. The new company has proposed to develop Cambo and Rosebank oil fields off Shetland. CEO of Ithaca, Alan Bruce stated that developing them was a "huge opportunity to not only help secure the UK's energy future for at least another quarter of a century but also to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the process." However, the Scottish government said that the project should not be approved concerning obligations to follow the Paris climate agreement. (“Cambo: Ithaca Energy pledges to develop controversial oil field,” BBC, 08 April 2022)
Criticisms arise over the new Energy Security Plan
On 07 April, the UK released its energy security plan, which aims for energy independence and plans to enhance nuclear, wind and hydrogen power. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the strategy was for "tackling the mistakes of the past and making sure that we are set well for the future". The government aims to build up to eight new nuclear reactors, two at Sizewell. The delivery of the new plants will be overseen by a new body "Great British Nuclear." For onshore wind farms, the strategy pledges to form agreements with a limited number of “supportive communities” that wish to host wind turbines in exchange for lower energy prices. To expand solar capacity by up to five times by 2035, the government is considering revising laws for placing solar panels on residences and commercial buildings. However, the opposition has criticised the plan for not focusing on energy efficiency, insulation and reducing the cost of living. (“Energy strategy: Boris Johnson defends plan amid cost of living crisis,” BBC, 08 April 2022)
INTERNATIONAL
Mali was accused of killing civilians in an attack against insurgents
On 05 April, Human Rights Watch (HRW) alleged that the Malian forces and Russian mercenaries executed 300 civilians in an anti-jihadist operation. Local witnesses said hundreds of men were executed in small groups during the anti-jihadist operation on 23 March in the central town of Moura. Witnesses also claim that over 100 white soldiers talking in an unfamiliar language believed to be Russians were involved in the operation. The Malian government is fighting the insurgency with the support of private military contractors from Russia's Wagner group. Mali and Russia have previously said that they are not mercenaries but rather trainers assisting local forces with weapons from Russia. West Africa Director at HRW, Carrine Dufka stated: “The Malian government is responsible for this atrocity, the worst in Mali in a decade, whether carried about by Malian forces or associated foreign soldiers.” (Emmanuel Akinwotu, “Russian mercenaries and Mali army accused of killing 300 civilians,” The Guardian, 05 April 2022)
EU hosts peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia
On 06 April, Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s met with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev in Brussels. Hosted by the European Council, it marks the third time the two countries leaders have met in the last six months. The leaders of the two countries initiated peace talks following the recent clash and the escalation of violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh territory since the displacement of 250,000 people in 2020. Pashinyan’s statement mentioned that a bilateral border commission would be set up by the end of this month, and the Foreign Ministers of both countries have been asked to prepare for additional peace talks. However, European Council President Charles Michel said that “it doesn’t mean that everything is solved, of course.” (“Armenia, Azerbaijan agree to peace talks two years after Nagorno-Karabakh fighting,” Deutsche Welle, 07 April 2022)