Russian tanker hit by Ukraine in attack in Crimea

the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, often referred to as the Russo-Ukrainian War, had been ongoing for several years. The roots of the conflict can be traced back to historical, political, and cultural tensions between the two countries.

The contemporary phase of the conflict began in 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea, a region that had been part of Ukraine since 1954. Following the annexation, pro-Russian separatist movements emerged in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in Ukraine. These separatists, backed by Russia, declared self-proclaimed republics and sought to break away from Ukraine.

The situation escalated into a full-fledged armed conflict, with both sides engaging in military operations. The Ukrainian government launched efforts to retake control of the separatist-held areas, resulting in a protracted and bloody conflict with thousands of lives lost, including civilian casualties.

Russia's involvement in the conflict has been a subject of international concern and condemnation. Many countries, including the United States and European Union members, accused Russia of directly supporting the separatists with weapons, supplies, and military personnel. These accusations led to sanctions against Russia, which further strained international relations.

Numerous attempts at peace negotiations and ceasefires have been made over the years, but achieving a lasting resolution has proven challenging. The Minsk agreements, brokered by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), have been central to the diplomatic efforts, but their implementation has been inconsistent.

The conflict has had significant humanitarian consequences, with a large number of people displaced from their homes, infrastructure damage, and economic hardships in the affected regions.

The international community continues to closely monitor the situation, with efforts to find a diplomatic solution and bring an end to the hostilities. However, the situation remains fluid, and developments beyond September 2021 are not covered in this response.

It is essential to stay updated on current events and consult reliable news sources to understand the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.