Ukraine’s president visits troops

Ukraine is known as one of Europe's biggest grain producers. But it also possesses highly valuable natural resources such as iron ore and coal — which Russia is keen to exploit.

The confession of a resistance fighter who witnessed a mass execution of German soldiers during World War II has reawakened dark memories in rural France.

Their impact is comparatively small, but Ukrainian drones are increasingly attacking targets in Moscow. Experts say Kyiv is pursuing several goals simultaneously, and expect the campaign to escalate.

Military officers in oil-producing Gabon said they had seized power on Wednesday, placing President Ali Bongo under house arrest and naming a new leader after the Central African state's election body announced Bongo had won a third term.

The vote for the largely ceremonial role is widely viewed as a test of support for the ruling People's Action Party.

The regional bloc CCAS, and the country's opposition coalition, have urged international partners to push for a rapid return to civilian rule. Also in this edition: In Democratic Republic of Congo, at least 48 protesters are reported to have been killed in the eastern city of Goma. And finally: In South Africa, the death toll rises to 76 after the devastating Johannesburg fire at an abandoned apartment block that housed dozens of homeless people and squatters.

Pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili is facing possible impeachment after she visited leaders in the bloc. The current government is seen by the opposition as taking the country away from Europe and toward Russia.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is urging Russia to return to a deal allowing Ukraine to export grain, easing a global food crisis. However, Moscow is seeking concessions that only the West can offer.

When Russia invaded Ukraine, the Netherlands granted refugee status to everyone fleeing — regardless of nationality. But that policy is now being argued in court, leaving thousands unsure about their futures.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrives New Delhi ahead of the G-20 Summit in India. He is received by Senior Government officials of the India and Nigerian Governments.

After corruption allegations in the defense ministry, Ukraine's President Zelenskyy is bringing in a new leader. Rustem Umerov has strong links to Crimea — and to Turkey.

For weeks, Ukraine's long-awaited counteroffensive at the southern front seemed stuck. Now, troops have managed to break through Russia's first line of defense. Experts believe this is a dangerous time for Russia.