# Ukraine – Russia

• Russia has recognised the pro-russian rebel held reasons in Eastern Ukraine as independent countries.
• During an UNSC meeting, India’s permanent representative at the UN TS Tirumurti called for restraint and diplomatic dialogue.
• Russia faces the prospect of harsh new Western sanctions on Tuesday after President Vladimir Putin recognised two break away regions in Eastern Ukraine.
• Britain slapped sanctions on five Russian banks and three Russian billionaires.

# Khalistani network

• The ministry of Information and broadcasting on Tuesday said it had blocked apps, websites and social media accounts of Punjab politics TV.
• The ministry said the channel had close links with banned terrorist outfit Sikhs for Justice and it attempted to use the online media to disturb public order during the ongoing Punjab assembly.
• The Sikhs for justice was proscribed by the government under the unlawful activities prevention act in 2019.
• Members of the outfit are accused of trying to revive terrorism in Punjab.

# Afghanistan

• Foreign secretary Harsh vardhan Shringla flagged off a convoy of 50 trucks carrying 2500 tonnes of wheat as humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.
• The wheat is expected to be sent across Afghanistan to help people deal with the crisis caused by food shortages and an economic collapse after the Taliban takeover of Kabul.
• The wheat assistance will be delivered in multiple consignments and will be handed over to the United Nations world Food programme in Jalalabad.

# Crude oil

• International oil prices surged close to a $100 per barrel on Tuesday.
• After Vladmir Putin ordered sending troops into Ukraine.
• Russia makes up about 10℅ of global crude oil production.