Ukraine on Monday accused Russia of seeking to illegally seize control of the strategically important Sea of Azov and Kerch Strait, as hearings opened in a high-stakes arbitration case between Kyiv and Moscow.

Ukraine accused Russia at an international court on Monday of flouting sea law by trying to keep the Kerch Strait between mainland Russia and annexed Crimea under its sole control.

Russia is deliberately restricting international shipping in the Sea of Azov to take control of it and the Kerch Strait. Russia illegally constructed the Kerch Bridge, which has become a constant barrier for shipping,

Finland’s president and NATO’s departing secretary general are urging Mr. Biden to allow Ukraine to use weapons to hit bases deeper inside Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky toured a Pennsylvania ammunition plant on Sunday as he began a key visit to the United States in which he is expected to present his blueprint to defeat Russia to President Joe Biden and other allies.

Vance, who has criticised US aid packages to Ukraine and pushed for negotiations with Russia, suggested earlier this month that Trump’s plan to end the war could include the establishment of a special demilitarized zone between Ukraine and Russia.