Ukraine prepares for counteroffensive against Russia in ongoing conflict.

Ukraine is preparing for a counteroffensive against Russian occupying forces, with preliminary operations underway. The commander of Ukraine’s armed forces has declared that “the time has come to take back what’s ours.” Explosions shook the Ukrainian capital in early hours on Sunday, with at least one person killed and more injured. Russia has temporarily eased its attacks on the besieged eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut to regroup and strengthen their capabilities. Ukraine has been striking oil pipeline installations deep inside Russia with drone attacks. Russia has accused Japan of “cynical, unscrupulous speculation” over Tokyo’s comments around the nuclear threat Moscow poses.