March 24, 2023

*) Ukraine prepares counteroffensive as Russia's assault on Bakhmut flags Ukraine's top ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi has said his forces would soon begin a counter offensive after withstanding Russia's brutal winter campaign. He said Russia's Wagner mercenaries, who have been at the front line of Moscow's assault on eastern and southern Ukraine, "are losing considerable strength and are running out of steam". However, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that without a faster supply of arms from Europe, the war could last years. *) North Korea tests new underwater 'nuclear attack drone' North Korea has tested a new nuclear underwater attack drone this week, according to state news agency KCNA, as a US amphibious assault ship arrived in South Korea for joint drills. The drone system designed to unleash a "radioactive tsunami" is intended to make sneak attacks in enemy waters and destroy naval striker groups and major operational ports, KCNA said. The state news agency also confirmed the firing of cruise missiles during the weapons test and firing drill that took place from Tuesday to Thursday. *) Burundi army contingent takes over areas vacated by M23 rebels in DRC Troops from the Burundi National Defense Forces deployed under the East African Community Regional Force have taken over three villages that had been occupied by M23 rebels. The withdrawal of the rebels is in compliance with a communique of the East Africa Community Heads of State, marking a significant milestone towards restoring peace and stability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The M23 rebel group, which was formed in 2012 by disgruntled Congolese militants who wanted to be enlisted in the national army, has often attacked areas in eastern DRC. In June last year, they attacked areas in eastern DRC and occupied them until recently. *) 'Discussion under way' between Saudi Arabia, Syria over consular services Saudi Arabia and Syria are in talks on resuming consular services, Saudi state media have said, more than a d