Ukraine launches most massive strike at Russia, Hamas accepts ceasefire agreement - Tuesday brief

Ukraine launches most massive strike at Russia: Bases, factories, air defense systems hit

Targets in the Bryansk, Saratov, and Tula regions and the Republic of Tatarstan were hit:

• the Kristal Oil Products Storage Facility in Engels, Saratov Region, was attacked. Only yesterday, a fire was extinguished there that had been burning for 5 days after the previous attack
• the Bryansk Chemical Plant in the town of Seltso was hit. This is a strategic facility of the Russian military-industrial complex. It produces ammunition for cannon artillery, multiple-launch rocket systems, aviation, engineering ammunition, and components of Kh-59 cruise missiles. Secondary detonation was observed on the territory of the plant, which lasted several hours. In addition, the attack destroyed two enemy anti-aircraft missile systems - Tor and Buk
• the Saratov Oil Refinery and the Kazanorgsintez plant. A fire broke out at both facilities.

Hamas accepts draft agreement on ceasefire in Gaza Strip, media reports

Hamas backs draft agreement on ceasefire in Gaza and release of dozens of hostages. According to officials involved in the negotiations, progress has been made on the agreement, but details are currently being finalized.

Associated Press, in turn, reports that it has seen a copy of the draft agreement, and officials from Egypt and Hamas confirm its authenticity.

Blinken and Austin: Peace through strength's crucial for Ukraine and US security

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin believe that conducting a policy of peace through strength is vital for Ukraine's survival. It will also impact the security of the United States, The New York Times reports.

"Pursuing a policy of peace through strength is vital to Ukraine’s survival and America’s security. The United States and its allies and partners must continue to stand by Ukraine and strengthen its hand for the negotiations that will someday bring Mr. Putin’s war of aggression to an end," said the US officials.

Germany to deploy Patriot near Ukrainian border this month

This month, Germany will deploy Patriot air defense systems in Rzeszow, Poland. This is not far from the border with Ukraine.

According to German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, Ukraine's partners understand how important Rzeszow is as a logistics hub when it comes to helping Ukraine.

Ukraine agrees on joint control of borders with the EU - Prime Minister

Ukraine plans to introduce joint customs and border control with EU countries. Poland may become the first country to sign the agreement,

"We continue negotiations on joint customs and border control at the EU border. We expect the first results this year," Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said.