Russia’s accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine.
Go on.
Over a month since their invasion, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s troops have retreated from Kyiv and neighboring areas — leaving behind a trail of destruction. And what Ukrainian officials say is evidence of war crimes.
What evidence?
Bucha. Images from the town — located northwest of the capital — are chilling. Think: 300 residents killed. Bodies lying on the streets — some of them with their hands tied behind their back. Dozens of others buried in mass gravesites. And Human Rights Watch has documented cases of rape among other crimes.
How are people reacting?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy calls it a “genocide.” Western leaders are condemning the atrocities, with French President Emmanuel Macron saying Russia will have to “answer for these crimes.” But Moscow denies the allegations and says it’s “another staged performance” by the Ukrainians.
Will there be repercussions?
Most likely. The Biden admin is reportedly weighing more sanctions. The EU is promising more sanctions and support. And it could prompt some European countries, like Germany, to stop buying gas from the Kremlin. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials are calling on the International Criminal Court to visit and gather evidence of possible Russian war crimes.
theSkimm
The atrocities are putting more pressure on the US and European allies to do more to hold Russia accountable. It all comes as Russia says peace talks with Ukraine aren’t progressing enough for a meeting between the two leaders.
And Also...This
What has us saying 'another one, thank you'...
The Grammys. Yesterday, Jon Batiste took home the big award of the night for his album, “We Are.” Silk Sonic left the door open to wins. Trevor Noah left names out of mouths. We got standout performances from Jon Batiste, Billie Eilish, and HER. We got a tribute to Stephen Sondheim and a speech from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. And then there were the lighter moments: Doja had her fastest pee. Lady Gaga had SZA’s back. And Olivia Rodrigo had her moment.
…Oh and one thing that didn’t get applause: Louis CK’s Grammy win for best comedy album.
Where there were big votes...
Amazon. On Friday, warehouse workers in Staten Island voted to unionize. Led by a fired employee, they’re the first US union in the tech giant’s 27-year history. Pro-union workers say they want higher wages, longer breaks, and better working conditions. Amazon said it’s disappointed with the outcome and signaled it could challenge the election.
The House. On Friday, lawmakers voted to federally decriminalize marijuana. The legislation would expunge marijuana convictions, and impose a tax on cannabis products. Democrats say this bill would help communities of color. One report found that Black Americans are more than three times more likely than white Americans to be arrested for marijuana possession, despite using it at similar rates. Now, the legislation heads to the Senate which will likely puff, puff, and not pass the bill.
Skimm More: Want to dive deeper on these topics? We've got more on labor unions here, and the efforts to legalize marijuana in the US here.
Who’s dusting off their shelf…
The South Carolina Gamecocks. Last night, the women's college basketball team took home their second championship win after beating UConn. But the game's not over for the men. The Tar Heels beat Duke on Saturday — and ended Coach K’s 42-year career — they’re facing off against Kansas tonight.
Skimm More: This year's women's tournament was historic. Here's why.
Skimm More: Here's your refresher on how the Supreme Court confirmation process works.
Thing to Know
Together with
84%
That’s the percentage of people who said at least one workplace factor negatively impacts their mental health in a recent study. Some of the factors they called out? Stress, work-life balance, poor communication practices, and minimal support from colleagues.
Sooo that’s not great. But there are orgs out there (like, say, Eden Health) that can help employers take better care of their employees. Plus help workers understand — and actually use — their benefits. Learn more about Eden Health’s services and their approach for combining primary and mental health care here.
What’s Getting Shady In Your News Feed?
Raise your hand if you’ve been duped once or twice (or more) on the internet. Misinformation and disinformation can come in different forms. And can be about anything. So, theSkimm’s Breaking Down the Buzz on how to spot it. And talking to experts about why even when all the evidence points in one direction, people go the opposite. Check it out here. (It'll come in handy during election season.)
Psst...Mark your calendars. The midterm elections are coming up. Check our website for the buzz on topics affecting your vote.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. An outfit that’ll take you from sleeping to stylish in seconds. Because getting ready is hard some days. These sustainably made jumpsuits are comfy, cute, and made to last. So you can restyle, rewear, and repeat. Plus, Skimm’rs get 20% off.*
2. A new way to treat your vagina right. Put your sexual health first with this telehealth company. They’ll help you get same-day prescription treatment for UTIs, yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, herpes, and more — all without leaving your couch. Psst…use code SKIMM14 for a special discount.*
3. A shopping event you won’t wanna miss. Stop, drop, and alert the group chat because Hammitt’s Retiring Styles Event is here. Think: 40% off their signature, buttery soft leather bags. Plus a lil’ something extra for anyone who spends over $600.*
*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.
Sky high…Halley M (UT). She’s an officially certified instrument-rated pilot. Just plane awesome.
(Some) Birthdays…theSkimm's Sam Levine (NY), theSkimm's Kamaron McNair (NY), Meredith O'Sullivan Wasson (CA), Roxanna Genova-Lasecki (MI), Rachel Zembraski (TX), Sarah Harmon (KY), Chelsea Connor (TX), Bert Einloth (SC), Meg Nolan (NY), Lily Clarkson (OH), Megan Kongaika (MT), Hope McHale (TX), Libby John (TX), Michelle Fore (NC), Spree Richman (CT)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
While experimenting in the kitchen, you might use a little of this and a pinch of that. And that’s how Dawn Davis, editor-in-chief of “Bon Appétit,” approached her career path. Listen to “9 to 5ish” as we talk to Davis about pivoting industries, how she gives feedback, and more.
And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time…
Listentoour news podcast "Skimm This" for clarity on the biggest stories of the week.
Psst…have you heard? We launched our new Loyalty Program and you’re invited to join. Engage with our content, earn points, and use those points to unlock rewards. Think: swag, exclusive content, sweepstakes, and more. Start earning and get in on it here.
Skimm’d by Rashaan Ayesh, Melanie De Lima, Kate Gilhool, Julie Shain, and Mariza Smajlaj
