Russian tanks advanced into Ukraine, with missiles targeting military and civilian installations. Vladimir Putin appeared on Russian television, threatening to demilitarize Ukraine and liberate its people from a neo-Nazi government, marking the start of the war. The article reflects on how Russia reached this point, tracing back to the disintegration of the USSR in 1991, which left the current Russian elite, who had grown up under the Soviet system, facing a rapidly disintegrating empire.

Natalia Chekanova continues to teach online classes in Kharkiv amidst the ongoing Russian invasion, using education as a form of resistance. Despite the destruction of her school, she and her daughter Veronika find solace in maintaining a routine. The article highlights the resilience of Ukrainian educators and students, the significant damage to educational institutions, and the support from organizations like the Ministry of Education, United Nations, and Unicef. The narrative underscores the importance of education for emotional support and normalcy during the conflict.

Russian peace activists are experiencing increased restrictions on freedom of expression as the presidential elections approach and the conflict with Ukraine continues. The case of Aleksandra Skochilenko, a lesbian peace activist facing a 10-year prison sentence for her anti-war stance, is highlighted as an example of the repression.

Moldova is actively countering what it perceives as Russian attempts to destabilize the country through propaganda. The Moldovan government has launched a campaign against Russian media influence, sparking debates on the use of the Russian language and freedom of expression. This initiative reflects Moldova's ongoing struggle between Western alignment and Russian influence, especially given its proximity to Ukraine.

Latvia, an EU country with the largest Russian minority, sees its ethnic Russians, who make up about 25% of the population, deeply affected by the war in Ukraine. The conflict has caused significant political and social upheaval for this community.

The Orthodox Church in Ukraine, like its population, is divided between Kiev and Moscow amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, led by Patriarch Filaret, declared independence from the Moscow Patriarchate in 2018, a move formalized by Patriarch Bartolomé I. Despite the military threat from Russia, support for the Moscow Patriarchate remains strong in Ukraine. Representatives from both sides express differing views on the division, with some calling for calm and support for the Ukrainian government.

The recent violence in Nagorno-Karabakh has raised doubts among Armenians about their alliances, particularly with Russia and the effectiveness of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Many Armenians feel betrayed by the lack of intervention from Russian peacekeeping forces. The Armenian government faces criticism for its inability to maintain a clear stance, with some advocating for closer ties with the West while others emphasize the importance of the existing relationship with Russia. Analysts suggest that Armenia is in a precarious position with no clear alternative alliances.

Israel continues its offensive against Hamas, launching multiple projectiles over Gaza. Thousands of Palestinians are evacuating the northern part of the city following announcements of more attacks. The report by Ricardo Marquina and Laura Sepúlveda from Voz de América contains sensitive material for some viewers.

Finland's accession to NATO and Sweden's bid for membership have significantly altered the political-military landscape of the Baltic region, creating a stronghold of alliance forces. This new scenario contrasts sharply with the pre-invasion status quo, highlighting the strategic shifts following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The first truckload of Russian humanitarian aid has arrived in Nagorno-Karabakh from Azerbaijan, but Armenian authorities and activists claim Azerbaijani troops continue to block access from Armenia. Reporter Ricardo Marquina provides coverage from the Armenian side, with Marcus Harton narrating from Yerevan.

The recent escalation of violence in Nagorno-Karabakh between Azerbaijan and Armenia is prompting discussions within Armenia about potential shifts in geopolitical alliances. Some Armenians feel betrayed by the perceived inaction of Russian peacekeepers, raising questions about the effectiveness of current alliances and the need for new strategies.

Lithuania, feeling threatened by Russia, has long warned of potential Russian aggression against its neighbors. With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Lithuanians are increasingly concerned about similar threats to their country. Volunteers in Vilnius are building portable stoves for Ukraine, reflecting Lithuania's continued support. Lithuania has provided over $700 million in aid to Ukraine, including $257 million in military assistance. The country hosts 75,000 Ukrainian refugees, supported by a national aid program. Ukrainian art is also being safeguarded in Lithuanian museums. Despite the prolonged conflict, Lithuanians remain committed to supporting Ukraine.

Estonia, a vocal critic of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has declared Moscow a state sponsor of terrorism and expelled the Russian ambassador. In response to the perceived threat of Russian aggression, Estonia is revisiting its Soviet history and educating young people about the dangers of totalitarianism. The report, narrated by Marcus Harton and filmed by Ricardo Marquina in Tallinn, underscores Estonia's proactive stance in safeguarding its sovereignty and educating its citizens.

Romania, sharing a border with Ukraine, has become one of the European countries most exposed to the war and a key NATO member supplying arms to Kyiv. Despite aiding Ukraine, Romania still faces challenges due to its tumultuous historical relations with Kyiv.

Russia’s prolonged aggression in Ukraine has raised fears that Moldova could be next on the Kremlin’s list. Moldova, with its close cultural ties to Russia and weak armed forces, is particularly vulnerable. The report highlights the significant challenges Moldova faces in its bid to break away from Moscow's influence.

Moldova is hosting a summit of EU leaders to advance its bid for integration into the European Union, a move that has both strong supporters and opponents.

With Russian troops occupying a significant portion of Ukrainian territory, Latvia is reorganizing its defenses, including revitalizing its volunteer force and considering the reinstatement of its draft system. This move reflects the heightened security concerns among Russia's Baltic neighbors in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Noize MC, a popular Russian musician critical of the Kremlin, has sought asylum in Lithuania along with his family, with no immediate plans to return home without significant systemic changes. Belarusian dissidents have also fled to Lithuania, escaping repression from Alexander Lukashenko's regime, which has imprisoned over 1,400 political prisoners since the 2020 protests. Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, in exile in Vilnius, expressed fears of Lukashenko joining the war against Ukraine, contrary to the will of the Belarusian people. A theater in Vilnius, which has provided refuge for Russian and Belarusian actors, faces criticism for using the Russian language in performances. Lithuania has banned Russians with EU tourist visas from entering since the war's start but remains open to political refugees. Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte reaffirms the country's welcome to those in complex situations due to their moral and political views.

Hundreds of thousands of Russians opposed to Putin’s war in Ukraine and Belarusians fleeing Lukashenko's repression have sought refuge in Baltic countries, particularly Lithuania. The Lithuanian government is providing sanctuary to these exiles, highlighting the ongoing political tensions and humanitarian issues in the region.

Lithuania is intensifying its military preparedness in response to the Russian threat, with increased training and motivation among its troops. As a member of the EU and NATO, Lithuania benefits from political and military protection, but the ongoing war in Ukraine has underscored the need for further readiness. NATO forces in Lithuania are learning from Ukrainian tactics to enhance their defense strategies. The Russian parliament's proposal to revoke Lithuania's independence has heightened tensions, prompting both the Lithuanian government and society to prepare for potential conflict. The presence of NATO forces in Lithuania marks a significant point of contact in the broader conflict between Russia and the West.

Lithuania, feeling directly threatened by Russia, has long warned of Russian aggression against its neighbors. With the ongoing war in Ukraine, Lithuanians are increasingly worried that their country could face a similar threat. Grass-roots efforts by ordinary citizens in Vilnius are being made to support their homeland.

Russia is experiencing significant economic repercussions from the ongoing war, characterized by product shortages and rising prices.

Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, independent journalists faced increased repression, leading many to flee to Latvia. A year later, exiled Russian journalists in Riga hold little hope of returning to their country to continue their profession.

The large-scale aggression by Russian President Vladimir Putin against Ukraine has led to a wave of repression against independent journalists within Russia, forcing many to seek refuge in neighboring Latvia. A year later, hopes for these journalists to return to Russia and practice their profession remain slim. Riga has become a preferred haven for hundreds of Russian journalists fleeing Kremlin repression. Despite being abroad, Moscow continues to undermine their work, with independent Russian media outlet Meduza being labeled as an 'undesirable agent' by Moscow, facing numerous restrictions. The Kremlin's goal is to curb the penetration of independent media, which offers an unpropagandized view of reality. The 'Fake News Law' signed by Putin has made it impossible for journalists to work freely in Moscow, leading many to exile in Riga, now considered the capital of free Russian journalism.

Estonia is increasingly concerned about Russian aggression as it escalates attacks in Ukraine. The presence of a significant Russian-speaking population in Estonia and the influence of Russian propaganda through media are sources of internal concern for the country.

In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Estonia's civil society, including volunteer groups like the Estonian Defense League, is mobilizing due to concerns that Russia could potentially target other ex-Soviet republics. The Estonian Defense League is actively training, preparing for a scenario they hope to avoid.

Russian troops on Ukrainian soil have increased the risk of a total war between Kiev and Moscow. Thousands of displaced people from the Luhansk and Donetsk regions are crossing the border into Russia to escape the potential conflict.

After nearly two months of heightened alert over a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine, Moscow announces the withdrawal of some units and expresses willingness to negotiate with NATO. However, doubts remain due to the uncertainty surrounding Vladimir Putin's true intentions.

Two Belarusian journalists from the Polish TV channel Belsat, Yekaterina Andreeva and Darya Chultsova, are on trial in Minsk for their coverage of the 2020 protests against President Alexander Lukashenko. They face up to three years in prison on charges of coordinating the protests through live broadcasts, which they deny. International human rights organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, have condemned their detention and called for their release. The protests erupted after Lukashenko's disputed election victory over opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leading to a severe government crackdown.

Belarus's human rights record is under scrutiny as the U.N. Human Rights Council begins its Universal Periodic Review. The country faces criticism for its crackdown on demonstrators following the allegedly rigged presidential elections in August. Despite efforts by Belarus's ambassador to shift focus to positive developments, nations expressed concerns about ongoing human rights violations. The U.S. ambassador called the elections fraudulent and condemned the violence against protesters. Supporters like China, Syria, and Venezuela praised Belarus's human rights record and condemned international interference.

In Belarus, independent journalists face increasing repression, including arrests and charges of tax fraud, as the government targets media organizations like Press Club Belarus. The crackdown follows contested elections and widespread protests against President Alexander Lukashenko. Human rights activists and media professionals criticize the government's actions as retaliatory and repressive, with journalists being detained and deprived of press credentials. Despite the challenges, support for journalists is growing, with some media outlets relocating abroad to continue their work. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle for press freedom and human rights in Belarus.

Vladimir Putin is maneuvering to extend his control over the Kremlin through constitutional changes that would allow him to remain in power until 2036. The proposal, presented by Valentina Tereshkova, was approved without opposition in the Duma. Critics, including Boris Kagorlitsky and Alexey Navalny, view this as a coup and a usurpation of power. The changes are seen as part of a broader strategy to consolidate a more centralized and authoritarian government. The recent resignation of Prime Minister Dmitri Medvedev and the appointment of Mikhail Mishustin are also part of this calculated move. Analysts believe that Putin's presence is crucial for the legitimacy of this new authoritarian state.

Russia is preparing to establish a helicopter maintenance base in Venezuela, demonstrating continued economic, political, and military support for Nicolas Maduro's government. Russian officials displayed the aircraft and equipment at a helicopter factory, indicating Moscow's commitment to its allies in Venezuela.