Russia-Ukraine Coverage

Updates on the Russian invasion of Ukraine as of March 15, 2022.

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Issue 13, Volume 112

RUSSO-UKRAINIAN WAR UPDATES AS OF MARCH 15, 2022

How Nations Responded to the War

As of March 21, it has been almost a month since the Russo-Ukrainian War began. From fierce clashes in neighboring towns to swift explosions in city buildings, the war has not only adversely affected the Ukrainian people, but has also made an impression on countries across the world. Here is a look into how other nations have responded to the armed conflict.

United Kingdom

Since the onset of the Russo-Ukrainian war, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has displayed his animosity toward the Russian Federation and president Vladimir Putin. So far, Johnson, along with government forces in the UK, has issued sanctions against Russia. The measures that they have implemented currently ban the export of high-end luxury goods, works of art, and fashion garments to Russia. Additionally, the UK has sanctioned seven Russian oligarchs, including Chelsea F.C. owner Roman Abramovich, who has been issued a travel ban and whose assets have been frozen.

United States

The United States has employed a similar approach to the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, displaying sympathy toward the Ukrainian civilians and hostility toward Russia. Biden initially offered an evacuation plan for Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, but the proposal was later rejected, with Zelensky citing his moral obligation to help his fellow people as his reason to stay in Ukraine. Along with other G-7 nations, the US has issued economic sanctions against Russia in an attempt to cripple the Russian economy and prevent their advancement on Ukrainian land. Biden approved $13.6 billion dollars in humanitarian aid and security for Ukraine on March 15, a move that exemplifies the nation’s willingness to assist Ukraine in the most desperate of times.

China

Unlike other global actors, China has found itself at a crossroads regarding the war.

It is no secret that the nation has strong diplomatic relations with Russia, as Chinese leader Xi Jinping is on good terms with Putin. As of now, China refuses to condemn Russia for its invasion of Ukrainian soil, which has left many Western nations concerned. Through China’s extensively censored media, citizens currently receive pro-Russian coverage, with a disregard for any news information in support of Ukraine. On the other side, Chinese citizens currently in Ukraine find themselves in a precarious position, with China’s unwillingness to intervene in Russian invasion only adding to their safety concerns.

Germany

Initially, German politicians and government officials received criticism from defense leaders because of their unwillingness to address the situation. However, Chancellor Olaf Scholz made an official statement on February 27 announcing a complete reversal of their previous intentions. Since then, Germany has ceased plans for the Nord Stream II pipeline project with Russia. Germany has also agreed to send military weapons to Ukraine, and the nation has announced plans to increase its own defense budget. German leaders are debating a Russian oil boycott, as doing so would severely damage citizens’ heating and job security.

France

Aligned with NATO’s response to the Russo-Ukrainian war, French president Emmanuel Macron sided with Ukraine and condemned the Russian invasion. Along with the other G-7 nations, France has chosen to enforce strict economic sanctions on Russia. So far, France has been focused on the humanitarian crisis, with a $100 million contribution toward urgent supplies. France has also tended to Ukrainian refugees located in Poland.

Timeline

March 5, 2022: Russian ceasefire is declared in Mariupol for citizen evacuation, then violated in a matter of hours due to continuous Russian shelling.

March 6, 2022: Thousands of Russian citizens are detained due to anti-war protests, the number over 10 thousand since the start of the war.

March 6, 2022: Evacuations in Mariupol are deterred for the second time, as Russian explosions continue, leaving the city in its fifth day without electricity and water.

March 7, 2022: The third round of talks is held between Russia and Ukraine, with progress being made regarding humanitarian aid in certain locations.

March 8, 2022: Over two million people have evacuated Ukraine since the war’s beginning on February 24, and around half of them are children.

March 8, 2022: President Biden announces the ban of Russian oil, energy, and gas, which could have lasting effects on the American economy.

March 9, 2022: A Russian strike hits a maternity hospital, killing three and wounding several others, prompting furious reactions.

March 9, 2022: Nuclear power plant Chernobyl loses power and is running on backup diesel generators, which are expected to last the plant 48 hours.

March 10, 2022: Russian bombing of Kharkiv, the second largest city in Ukraine, continues as forces try and surround the city, as well as push south.

March 11, 2022: A bill for $13.6 million is passed and approved in the House of Representatives, providing funds to be put toward humanitarian and military aid.

March 11, 2022: President Biden announces permanent limitations on Russian trade, making it one of the three countries with which America does not follow regular trade.