**Top Stories**.
**Reports of Russian Offensive in Eastern Ukraine**.
Heavy fighting has been reported in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donbas region, as Russia continues its offensive. Ukrainian officials say Russian forces are trying to break through Ukrainian defenses in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions..
**US and NATO to Increase Military Support for Ukraine**.
The United States and NATO allies have pledged to increase military support for Ukraine, including providing more weapons and equipment. This comes as Russian forces continue to escalate their attacks in eastern Ukraine..
**Global Food Crisis Worsens as War in Ukraine Disrupts Supply Chains**.
The war in Ukraine is having a devastating impact on global food supply chains, leading to rising food prices and shortages in many parts of the world. The conflict has disrupted grain exports from Ukraine, which is a major producer of wheat and other grains..
**Other Developments**.
* China reports a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases, prompting new lockdown measures in several cities..
* The United Kingdom imposes new sanctions on Russia, targeting individuals and companies linked to the Kremlin..
* The United States and Iran are reportedly close to a deal to revive the Iran nuclear agreement..
* Elon Musk’s SpaceX launches the Starlink satellite constellation, providing high-speed internet access to remote areas..
**In-Depth Analysis**.
**The Escalating Conflict in Eastern Ukraine**.
The Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine is a major escalation in the conflict, which has been ongoing for over eight years. Russian forces are using heavy artillery and air strikes to try to break through Ukrainian defenses. Ukrainian officials say they are holding their ground but acknowledge that the fighting is intense..
**The Global Food Crisis**.
The war in Ukraine has severely disrupted global food supply chains. Ukraine is a major producer of wheat, corn, and other grains. The conflict has blocked exports from Ukraine, leading to shortages and rising prices. The World Food Programme warns that the crisis could lead to famine in some parts of the world..
**The Iran Nuclear Deal**.
The United States and Iran are reportedly close to a deal to revive the Iran nuclear agreement. The original agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 but collapsed in 2018 when the United States withdrew. A new deal would limit Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief..
**Perspectives**.
**Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky:** .
