The Ukraine Daily Brief Newsletter – Monday, March 14, 2022
The Ukraine Daily Brief Podcast is now live. Please be sure to listen and review (we know you are receiving the podcast in the member feed, but reviews help with discoverability). Some notable links referenced in today’s podcast can be viewed here.
The War
Russian forces showed no signs of letting up their attacks on civilians in advance of the fourth round of peace talks. Casualties now include an estimated 2,100 people in Mariupol and a US journalist in Irpin. Meanwhile, Russia has reportedly brought engineers to Zaporizhzhya and Chernobyl after taking control of both power plants.
Economics
The banking asset exodus from Russia is continuing, with Citigroup ‘expanding its withdrawal.’ Deutsche Bank captured business headlines, first with CEO Sewing’s vow to stay in Russia, citing banking values, and now with a pledge to unwind positions after a public backlash.
Technology
Technology stories include the use of VPNs by Russians in search of independent news and the social media savvy of Zelensky’s young cabinet.
Europe
In Europe, Zelensky reports positive talks with Bulgaria and Poland on defense and EU accession. In its Russian-language news service, Deutsche Welle announced German plans to build an air bridge from Moldova.
U.S. and the World
In the rest of the world, the US will not horse-trade with Russia to save the Iran deal. A pair of airlines – one Turkish, one Kazakh – have suspended flights in Russia. Israel allowed at least fourteen private Russian jets to land, further muddying the waters about Bennett’s allegiances.
DSR Exclusive
Grant Haver argues for greater use of soft power against autocracies.
David Rothkopf asks us to look beyond the cold calculus of intervention.
Tune in to tomorrow’s podcast for new and evolving stories.
The DSR Network Team (Chris Cotnoir, Grant Haver, and Katherine Hill)
