Russo-Ukrainian War, day 764: Ukraine gears up for potential Russian offensive, seeks quick aid; Russia vetoes North Korea monitors

Exclusive

Expert: Ukraine's persistent drone strikes could disrupt Russian war machine, trigger fuel deficit. Despite Russia's vast oil production, its ability to produce fuel shouldn't be overestimated. The number of major oil refineries is limited to 32 and at least 10 of them have already been targeted by drones. Explosions have partially or fully disrupted their work.

Military

Frontline report: Fierce battle rages along Zherebets River as Russians push toward Lyman. Despite heavy Russian bombardments, Ukrainian 45th Artillery Brigade and drone operators from multiple brigades destroy numerous Russian artillery pieces, tanks, APCs through precision strikes. Russia claims it downed 16 drones over Belgorod. Belgorod Governor claims Russian air system destoyed Ukrainian drones on the evening of 27 March. Ukraine's military did not confirm this. Russia attacks 4 oblasts overnight, injuring 4 civilians. Ukraine's military downed 26 of 28 drones Russian laucnhed overnight into 28 March Zelenskyy concerned about Russian offensive, expected around the end of May or June – CBS News. Zelenskyy also warned that without sufficient assistance, Russia's aggression could quickly extend to Europe. As of 28 Mar 2024, the approximate losses of weapons and military equipment of the Russian Armed Forces from the beginning of the invasion to the present day:

• • • Personnel: 439970 (+780)
    • Tanks: 6914 (+10)
    • APV: 13237 (+21)
    • Artillery systems: 10963 (+32)
    • MLRS: 1021 (+2)
    • Anti-aircraft systems: 729 (+1)
    • Aircraft: 347
    • Helicopters: 325
    • UAV: 86002 (+22)
    • Cruise missiles : 2017 (+2)
    • Warships/boats: 26
    • Submarines: 1
    • Vehicles and fuel tanks: 14595 (+56)

Intelligence and Technology

Germany announces new military aid package for Ukraine, including drones, ammunition, vehicles. It includes 18,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition, Leopard 2A6 tank munitions, 44 reconnaissance drones, mine-clearing and command vehicles. UK firm upgrades Ukraine drones to outwit Russian jamming. By developing alternative radio link algorithms, the UK firm aims to make it harder for Russia to jam signals controlling Ukraine's surveillance drones. Germany rushes 10.000 artillery rounds to Ukraine in days. The head of Germany's situational center on Ukraine revealed 10.000 artillery rounds from Bundeswehr stocks will be transferred to Kyiv in coming days.

International

Ukrainian MP urges UK to use frozen Russian assets to support war effort. Rudyk argued that utilizing these funds would not only relieve the burden on taxpayers but also hold Putin accountable. Scholz rejects Taurus missile deployment due to escalation fears. The Chancellor said that peace is possible at any time if Russian President Vladimir Putin ends his "barbaric campaign". Polish PM says progress made on Ukrainian agri-imports, Ukrainian Deputy PM points out disputed issues. Ukrainian Deputy PM criticizes current compromise proposal for two key changes. US rejects Russia's "nonsense," "propaganda" claims linking Ukraine to IS' Crocus concert hall attack. The US firmly rejected Russian claims alleging "Ukrainian nationalist" links to the ISIS-claimed deadly Moscow concert attack, calling them "nonsense and propaganda." Zelenskyy to Speaker Johnson: Swift passage of aid for Ukraine by Congress is critical. Facing shortages and escalating Russian air terror, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urges US House Speaker Johnson to rapidly greenlight the vote on the $60+ billion Ukraine military assistance bill, stalled by Republicans since last October. Russia vetoes renewal of North Korea sanctions monitors amid accusations of weapons transfer. This decision occurs against the backdrop of heightened tensions and allegations that North Korea has been supplying weapons to Russia, which are being used in the ongoing war against Ukraine. Ukraine calls NATO members for additional air defense systems amid escalated Russian air attacks. After Russia's intensified missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, Defense Minister Umerov urgently requested additional air defense systems from NATO allies during an extraordinary meeting. Estonia military chief: Double defense spend for inflicting "decisive defeat" if Russia invades. Estonia's top military chief advocates doubling defense spending in the next two years to ensure the ability not just to defend against a potential Russian invasion but to decisively defeat any aggression.

Humanitarian and Social Impact

537 children killed in Ukraine due to Russian aggression. Besides, over 1,269 of children sustained injuries due to Russian attacks. British Defense Ministry: Russia extends 'Russification' in occupied Ukraine through education, personnel training. Moscow is launching a master's program to train personnel for government roles in the occupied Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson & Zaporizhzhia oblasts, likely aimed at creating a new administrative 'elite.'

Political and Legal Developments

Politico: EU retains €5 billion Russian frozen asset profits, blocks transfer to Ukraine. The EU decides to keep €5 billion in profits from frozen Russian assets in 2022-2023 instead of transferring it to Ukraine, as a buffer allowing payment for ongoing and potential Russian lawsuits, per Politico. ISW: Russia ties West to "terrorism" to rally support for war in Ukraine. Russian authorities are preparing to ramp up accusations that the United States and its Western allies are sponsoring "terrorist" attacks against Russia, a rhetorical ploy likely aimed at shoring up domestic support for the war in Ukraine. Russia knew of Crocus City Hall terror plot by 15 Feb – Budanov. The Ukrainian intelligence chief cited two potential reasons the Kremlin allowed the attack despite early warning. German prosecutors charge Siemens staff over Crimea turbine deal. Siemens employees accused of bypassing sanctions to sell gas turbines to Russian-annexed Crimea. Europe's industrial giant embroiled in controversy over alleged embargo breach involving energy equipment sales to occupied territory. Read daily review here.