July 5, 2022

*) Putin declares victory in eastern Ukraine region of Luhansk Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared victory in the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk. Putin said that the military units “that took part in active hostilities and achieved victory” in Luhansk, “should rest, increase their combat capabilities.” The declaration came as Russian forces tried to press their offensive deeper into eastern Ukraine after Kiev confirmed that its forces had withdrawn from Lysychansk. *) Ukraine reconstruction estimated to cost $750B Allies of Ukraine meeting in Switzerland have been set to adopt a declaration spelling out the principles and priorities of rebuilding the war-shattered country. Kiev said the recovery "is already estimated at $750 billion", insisting that seized Russian assets should be used to pay for the recovery. It also proposed that allied countries "adopt" specific regions of Ukraine, and lead the recovery there to render it more efficient. *) July 4 mass shooting Police have arrested a suspect after a mass shooting left six dead at a US Independence Day parade in a wealthy Chicago suburb. Emergency officials said around two dozen people, including children, were treated for gunshot injuries, with some in critical condition. In another July 4 shooting, two police officers were wounded when they came under fire during a fireworks display in Philadelphia. The shootings are part of a wave of gun violence plaguing the US, where approximately 40,000 deaths a year are caused by firearms. *) Italy declares state of emergency in drought-hit regions Italy has declared a state of emergency in five northern regions over a worsening drought that has plagued the region in recent weeks. The government said the state of emergency will last until December 31, announcing a 38 million dollar fund to help those affected. Italy is facing an unusually early heatwave and a lack of rainfall, and has been hit by its worst drought in 70 years. *) Joey Chestnut wins July 4 hot dog contest Joey Chestnut h