Religious Freedom & State Oversight: Pochaiv Lavra was granted an extra 60 days to comply with Ukraine’s order to sever ties with the ROC, after DESS said the Lavra must withdraw from the Kyiv Metropolia and its abbot from the Russian Orthodox Bishops’ Council. Civic Life in Wartime: Kyiv will pause traffic for 60 seconds at 9:00 a.m. during the nationwide minute of silence. Hostage Returns: Five Ukrainians, including minors, were returned from occupied territories via the “Bring Kids Back UA” initiative. Diplomacy Watch: Zelensky said US envoys are expected to visit Kyiv and Moscow soon, while Putin signaled a “chance” for talks but kept accusing Ukraine of “state terrorism.” Sanctions & US Politics: Ukraine’s sanctions commissioner said Kyiv is optimistic about a major US Russia sanctions bill, even as the House calendar tightens. Air Defense & Civilian Safety: The Cabinet adjusted Kyiv’s curfew and introduced “yellow” and “red” alert levels as Russia shifts tactics. Drone War & Economy: Russia hit a Coca-Cola plant in Kyiv region; Ukraine framed it as a message to the US. Energy & International Pressure: Norway seized a Russian ship in the Arctic to enforce Naftogaz’s $4.22B Crimea compensation claim, drawing Moscow’s fury. Education Under Fire: Ukraine says 100+ underground schools are now operating, with more under construction. Sochi Strike: Ukraine reported naval drone and vessel attacks in Sochi, with reports of an oil depot fire. International Support: Zelensky met India’s Jaishankar, thanking India for pushing dialogue and Black Sea security. Defense Industry: UK and France discussed SCALP production lines in Ukraine, and Germany is moving toward more drone/air-defense cooperation.