April 13, 2022

*) Biden accuses Putin's forces of 'genocide' in Ukraine US President Joe Biden has for the first time accused Vladimir Putin's forces of committing “genocide” in Ukraine. Biden has also said that Putin "is just trying to wipe out the idea of even being able to be a Ukrainian". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy — who has repeatedly accused Moscow of attempted "genocide" — welcomed Biden's remark. Biden had previously described Russian President Putin as a "war criminal", but stopped short of using the term "genocide". Moscow has repeatedly denied targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. *) Putin vows offensive will continue as Russian troops move east Russia has vowed to continue its offensive as the Ukraine conflict nears its seventh week. President Vladimir Putin has insisted that the campaign is going as planned despite a major withdrawal and significant losses. He has said that Moscow's military operation aims to protect people in parts of eastern Ukraine and “ensure Russia’s own security”. Thwarted in their push toward the capital, Kiev, Russian troops have focused on the eastern region of Donbass, where they are feared to be readying a massive onslaught. *) Manhunt after 10 shot in Brooklyn subway attack A massive manhunt is under way in New York for a man who shot 10 people on a packed subway train. Police say the suspect donned a gas mask before setting off two smoke bombs and opening fire on terrified commuters. Thirteen others were injured as they tried to get out of the station or suffered smoke inhalation. None of the injuries are considered life-threatening. Police say the incident in Brooklyn is not being investigated as an act of terrorism at this stage. *) UK's Johnson fined over lockdown-busting party UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered a "full apology" after being fined for breaching Covid-19 lockdown laws in the so-called "Partygate" scandal. Johnson has said in televised remarks that he has paid the fine. Johnson's office has said his fine was for attendin