**Ukraine Hits 2 Oil Depots in Russia Overnight**
On January 18, Ukrainian forces launched a surprise attack on two oil depots in Russia’s Tula and Kaluga oblasts. The General Staff and Ukraine’s military intelligence reported that the drones operated by Ukraine’s military hit the oil depots.
The attack was a significant blow to Russia’s economy and energy infrastructure. Oil is a crucial resource for Russia, and the loss of these depots will likely have a major impact on the country’s ability to produce and distribute fuel.
**Zelensky Sanctions Top Pro-Russian Politicians**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sanctioned several top pro-Russian politicians in response to their support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The sanctions include travel bans, asset freezes, and other measures designed to restrict the activities of these individuals.
The sanctions are a significant move by Zelensky to assert Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence from Russian influence. They also demonstrate the Ukrainian government’s commitment to holding those who support aggression against Ukraine accountable.
**Ukrainian Troops Withdraw From Chasiv Yar Refractory Plant**
Ukrainian forces have withdrawn from the refractory plant in Chasiv Yar, a city in eastern Ukraine that has been heavily shelled by Russian forces. The withdrawal was confirmed by Lieutenant Colonel Dmytro Zaporozhets, spokesperson for the Operational Tactical Group Luhansk.
The Ukrainian military launched an aerial attack against the plant, which had been occupied by Russian forces. The attack resulted in significant losses for the occupying troops and marked a major victory for Ukraine’s military.
**SBU Detains Metro Engineer Who Allegedly Directed Russian Missile Strikes**
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has detained a Kyiv Metro engineer who allegedly directed Russian missile strikes on Kyiv and Kharkiv. The SBU reported that the engineer had created a network of agents to monitor Ukrainian troop movements and coordinate Russian aerial attacks.
The investigation is ongoing, but the SBU has already charged two suspects with high treason in conjunction with the Prosecutor General’s Office. A third suspect is currently at large abroad.
**Rights of Soldiers Remain a Concern**
Ukraine’s Defense Ministry announced in April that it would create a new military ombudsman position to ensure soldiers had a way to report violations of their rights. The position has been filled, and the new military ombudsman, Lieutenant Colonel Dmytro Zaporozhets, is working to address issues related to the rights of soldiers.
The most common complaints include requests for medical treatment being denied or delayed, as well as problems with transferring between military units. These issues are being addressed manually by the military ombudsman’s office until a systemic solution can be found.
