More than 1.5 million refugees have left the country — many of them women, children, and the elderly. But not everybody’s been able to escape. The port city Mariupol is suffering from lack of access to food, power, and other basics. In many cities, Ukrainians are facing attacks in residential areas. And efforts to evacuate people are failing.
How is this possible?
Last week, Russia agreed to allow “humanitarian corridors” out of cities. That hasn’t happened.Instead, Russia's been accused of killing civilians, including those attempting to flee. In a speech last night, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy again called on allies to do more, telling Russia, “God will not forgive.” And today, Russian officialsproposed six newevacuation routes, but some of them lead to Russia and its ally Belarus.
What happens next?
Zelenskyy has been asking for days for help establishing a no-fly zone over the country. But many in the US are concerned that it could escalate quickly into a direct US-Russia confrontation. Today, Ukraine confronted Russia at the International Court of Justice, but Russia snubbed the hearing. And the two are also meeting for another round of talks in the morning. Meanwhile, Russian forces are reportedly planning to storm Kyiv despite strong resistance from Ukraine.
theSkimm
In any war, it’s civilians who suffer the most. Families are torn apart, homes are destroyed, and people have to bury their loved ones. And Russia’s attack could be setting up the largest humanitarian crisis to hit Europe since World War II.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine not only threatens civilians but food insecurity across the globe. Here’s a closer look at:
Farming and food: On its own, Russia produces about 15% of the globe’s fertilizer. Ukraine reportedly produces 15% of the world’s corn. Together, the two countries account for about 80% of the world’s sunflower oil supply — which is used for cooking. They’re also key wheat producers, making up about 30% of the global market. It’s why many are...
Bracing for impact: The Middle East, Africa, and Europe rely heavily on Ukraine for wheat and corn, with Lebanon and Egypt especially reliant on the region. Prices of wheat have already skyrocketed. And the conflict could lead to severe malnutrition and starvation around the world.
And Also...This
What doesn’t have people pumped…
Gas. Over the weekend, the national average price for a gallon of gas topped $4. The cost is even higher in California, where the average is over $5 a gallon. It’s giving Americans harsh reminders of the 2008 recession prices. The cause: Russia’s invasion and inflation. Russia is the world’s third-largest oil producer. So sanctions are making it harder for Russia to export and are pushing up the price. This jump comes without a US ban on Russian oil…something 80% of Americans favor. But even if you don’t drive — or drive an EV — you’re not out of the woods yet. Gas is connected to nearly everything and the price increase also means higher prices for groceries and tech products. It’s tough news for Americans already struggling with rising inflation. And potentially for President Biden. Gas prices may have a complicated relationship with presidential approval ratings. And what president wants to field questions about rising prices with midterms coming up?
There’s an app for that: Apps like GasBuddy and Gas Guru help you find the best gas prices nearby. Car maintenance could also help improve your mileage.
What's not going with the (traffic) flow...
The “People’s Convoy.” Since yesterday, hundreds of truckers and others have been protesting near DC, slowing down traffic. If the name sounds familiar it's because it is — inspired by a similar group in Canada, they are calling for an end to COVID-19 restrictions. But with 700 National Guard troops on standby in the city, the truckers have been steering clear, instead aiming to slow down traffic on the nearby highway to bring attention to their cause. Honk if you have an opinion.
Who didn’t follow the rules…
Sens. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Steve Daines (R-MT). On Saturday, more than 160 US lawmakers met via ZoomwithUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss more military aid. Ukrainian officials said 'no pics please' in order to help protect the president — who has now reportedly survived at least three assassination attempts. But Rubio (who's the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee) andDainesmust’ve thought that didn’t apply to them. They tweeted photos during the meeting. Democrats have called the move "appalling and reckless." Spokespeople for Rubio and Daines say 'this is all overblown' and that there's no identifying information on the photo.
...Oh and, former President Trump is also facing backlash. In his case, for alleged comments suggesting that the US might consider putting Chinese flags on US planes and use them to bomb Russia.
A vitamin A derivative that’s reached celeb status in the skincare world. Thanks to its anti-aging, plumping, and pore-clearing talents. In short, retinol can smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, make pores look smaller, help prevent blemishes, fight dullness, even skin tone…
We could go on, but we figured it’s time to tell you where you can get some. Hint: Sephora. You probably know it as the store with all the makeup you ever wanted. But you may not know the brand is helping set the standard for what clean means in the beauty industry. So when you buy something with the “Clean at Sephora” label, you can be confident it’s really clean. Get to it.
Skimm Well
The US Dept of Health and Human Services suggests that adults spend 150 minutes doing moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity every week. And that they work their muscles harder than usual at least two days a week.
Exhausted just thinking about it? Big same. But a fitness coach can help you stay accountable. With Future, you’ll get unlimited one-on-one access to your very own personal trainer. Who will map out a custom fitness plan and build workouts juuust for you. So you can get closer to the results you want. No wonder the app has over 3,000 five-star reviews. Psst…get 50% off your first three months here. *Flexed bicep emoji.*
Download theSkimm App
Get’cha head in the game…for March Madness. The NCAA basketball tournament tips off next week. But before we find out who's punching their ticket to the Big Dance, we’ve got three pointers to get the most out of it: Download theSkimm app, sync your phone with our calendar, and never miss a game. No blood, sweat or tears necessary — It’s that simple.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. An expert investment team that’ll do the work for you. And explain everything along the way…if you’re into that kinda thing. Titan is on a mission to help everyone invest like the wealthy. And it only takes two minutes to get started. Learn more.*
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3. Wholesome meals that require less planning and prep. This meal kit service makes it easy to eat better. With Carb Smart and Calorie Smart options like One-Pan Sweet Chili Turkey Lettuce Wraps and Southwest Stuffed Poblanos. The tastiest part? Skimm’rs get 16 free meals.*
4. Leggings that are practically perfect in every way. Think: soft, smoothing, and packed with pockets. That’s right. These comfy, high-rise leggings have not one, not two, but three of ‘em. Bonus: Skimm’rs can get 20% off their first purchase.*
5. Clean, all-natural, superfood-powered bowls. No, we aren’t talking about your fave lunch spot’s newest meal. We’re talking about your dog’s new favorite food. This branduses real ingredients. ‘Cause it’s what your pup deserves. Shop their filler-free, premium protein-filled dog food here.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
On your side…Jessica K (NY). She and her best friend relied on each other to get through their divorces. Now, they’re helping other people dealing with divorce, through their new platform. Check it out here.
(Some) Birthdays…Kenny Lane (NY), George Alba (MA), Juliette Daley (NY), Rosey Lawrence (PA), Caihlan Snyder (ME), Chris Webb (CA), Emma Alford (FL), Heidi Becker (MN), Adriane Borden (OH), Sarah Bordson (IL), Sarah Romano (IL), Red Deluse (OH), Lucy Hazebrook (AL), Tom Prosser (CA), Jack Engelmann (CO)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
We texted with Joseph Gordon-Levitt about his thoughts on Kyle Chandler, some favorite lines from his past movies, and his new show "Super Pumped" about the rise and fall of Uber. We could give you 10 things we love about JGL. Just ask.
And if you’re looking for other smart ways to spend your time...
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