Russia-Ukraine war latest updates: Kyiv continues call for fighter jets; fierce fighting in Bakhmut
Ukrainian authorities widened an anti-corruption drive Wednesday, raiding and searching multiple locations, including construction companies in Kyiv and the home of oligarch Ihor Kolomoisky.
Local media, including Ukrainska Pravda, reported that the raid against Kolomoisky — who made his fortune through energy companies, banking, airlines and media — was related to an investigation into embezzlement. The construction companies are also accused by Ukraine’s security service of laundering money to benefit former lawmakers allied with Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the searches in a nightly address and said the head of Ukraine’s customs service was also dismissed. “We will not allow anyone to weaken our state,” he said. “Change as much as necessary to ensure that people do not abuse power.” The moves come as Ukraine prepares to host a summit with the European Union in Kyiv.
Here’s the latest on the war and its ripple effects across the globe.
4. Analysis from our correspondents
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year, Kyiv has clamored for more arms. The West, in turn, has agreed to their requests at almost every stage, providing weapons ranging from drones and HIMARS launchers to battle tanks, writes Ishaan Tharoor.
But a recent report by the influential Rand Corp. advises Western powers to push for a diplomatic solution to the conflict rather than continuing to arm Ukraine and allowing the war to continue.
Annabelle Timsit, Alex Horton, David L. Stern and Natalia Abbakumova contributed to this report.