The knock-on effects of sanctions aimed at Russia after its invasion of Ukraine are still taking a toll, lifting local currencies in Georgia and Armenia and hurting exports

Politics were played down when Russia brought former Soviet states into a trading bloc to counter the EU. But suspicions over deeper motives were there from the start. Sanctions are a major test.

Kyiv has been asking for air power since it secured Western tanks. Even if they arrive, integrating F-16s into its military will be challenging and may not be a game-changer.

As Kyiv fights back, it is making some progress against Russian lines, but at a price. This phase of the conflict will be exhausting for both sides and could produce another stalemate.

Experts warn that Russian forces may soon either take over or encircle the small city

Al Majalla talks to people in city near Kyiv who recall painful memories of last year's Russian invasion