Kakhovka Dam Disaster
In the early morning hours of June 6, 2023, a massive explosion destroyed the Nova Kakhovka dam in Kherson Oblast, triggering a humanitarian, environmental and economic catastrophe.
War Spillover into Russian Border Region
Two pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups, the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion – both comprised of ethnic Russians – entered Russia’s Belgorod Oblast by force and seized control of several border settlements.
Attacks on NGO Warehouses
Russian missile strikes have destroyed NGO warehouses in Odesa Oblast as well as in Ternopil city. These attacks increase risks for international and local NGOs that use storage facilities in industrial zones and nearby rail infrastructures.
Elections in the autonomous region of Gagauzia
Following a contested election – including accusations by the central government of voter fraud – pro-Russian politician Yevgenia Guțul became governor of the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia. As governor, Guțul is also a member of Moldova’s cabinet. Tensions between the Moldovan government and Gagauzian regional authorities have resulted in protests in Gagauzia and could weaken Moldova’s institutions, social cohesion and national security. This, in turn, may have implications for Western-funded international organizations operating in Moldova.
Monthly Context Report - April 2023
This monthly report covers crucial events in Ukraine as well as two of its neighbors, Poland and Moldova. Topics include: security and access, the political landscape, legal issues, economics and development.
Fraud Targeting Vulnerable Ukrainians On The Rise
Under the guise of international humanitarian assistance, various fraud schemes are targeting Ukraine’s most vulnerable populations.
EU Countries Ban Ukrainian Agricultural Imports
In the lead-up to the winter crops harvest, bans on Ukrainian agricultural imports by neighboring EU countries have hit small and medium-sized producers.
Update on Moldova: Political Turbulence
Just hours after Russian missiles crossed into Moldovan airspace, the Moldovan government announced a reshuffle, likely motivated by the need to increase focus on security measures due to the war in Ukraine.
Monthly Context Report - March 2023
This monthly report covers crucial events in Ukraine as well as two of its neighbors, Poland and Moldova. Topics include: security and access, the political landscape, legal issues, economics and development.
Russia to deploy tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus
Although it remains a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty, Russia has announced its intention to deploy tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus.