Russia intensifies fighting in Ukraine, accused of using banned weapons.

Ukraine's top general in charge of the defence of Bakhmut said that Russia has intensified shelling of the city, hoping to take it by May 9, and is using more advanced equipment and regrouping troops. The battle for the city has symbolic importance for both sides, with Moscow seeing it as a stepping stone to attacking other Ukrainian cities. The increased fighting shows that the enemy is not going to change their plans and is doing everything possible to take Bakhmut under control and continue offensive actions.