Zelensky removes top aide and negotiator after anti-graft raids

Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, has stated his commitment to transparency regarding an ongoing investigation into a significant corruption scandal involving a $100-million kickback scheme in the energy sector. This declaration comes amid heightened scrutiny following anti-corruption raids at his home and offices.

Ukrainian negotiators are set to meet with U.S. officials in Florida to discuss a proposed framework aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia, following a weekend marked by deadly attacks in Ukraine. Key figures in the meeting include Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, who will engage with the Kyiv delegation ahead of U.S. talks with Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

A catastrophic fire erupted in multiple high-rise residential buildings in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, resulting in at least 128 fatalities and hundreds reported missing. The fire's rapid spread was exacerbated by external scaffolding and plastic coverings, leading to a significant emergency response and ongoing rescue operations.

Hondurans are casting their votes in a presidential election marked by significant external influence, particularly from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened to cut aid if his preferred candidate, Nasry 'Tito' Asfura, does not win. This election is characterized by a tight race among three candidates, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

Ukrainian negotiators, led by Rustem Umerov, are traveling to the United States for peace talks with U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff, amid ongoing violence in Ukraine and recent drone strikes on Russian oil tankers.

Ukrainian naval drones targeted two Russian oil tankers, the Kairos and Virat, in the Black Sea as they were en route to Novorossiysk to load oil for foreign markets. This attack is part of Kyiv's strategy to exert pressure on Russia's oil industry amidst ongoing military tensions.

A recent Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine resulted in six fatalities and numerous injuries, significantly impacting Kyiv's infrastructure and cutting power to half of the city. This assault involved nearly 600 drones and 36 rockets, underscoring the ongoing military escalation by Moscow against Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for Western support in air defense and other forms of assistance.

Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has resigned following anti-corruption raids at his home and offices, linked to a significant investigation into a $100-million kickback scheme in the energy sector. This resignation marks a pivotal moment in Ukraine's governance amid ongoing corruption concerns.