Ukraine forces make gains as Russia struggles to hold territory.

Russia plans to hold elections in occupied parts of Ukraine in three months, despite a Ukrainian counteroffensive that has pushed its forces back in some areas. Ukrainian troops have made significant advances, capturing at least seven settlements and 100 square km of territory in the south. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged the Swiss parliament to allow other states to re-export Swiss-made weapons to Ukraine. African leaders are set to mediate in the conflict, proposing "confidence building measures." Russia's announcement of a plan for elections in occupied territory was the latest effort by Moscow to convey that the situation was stable.