Ukrainian Troops Make Major Advance, Threatening Russia's Flanks

Russia has lifted the ban on direct flights to Georgia and abolished visas for Georgian nationals, except for those coming to work in Russia for more than 90 days. The move has received mixed reactions in Georgia, with some welcoming it while others denouncing it. Georgia has been a top destination for Russians fleeing the worsening crackdown in Russia, but it has also voted in favor of all international resolutions condemning Russia's aggression in Ukraine. The European Union, United States, Canada, and other states have banned Russian airlines from entering their airspace since Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.