Biden praises Sweden, Finland NATO bid; Senate approves $40 billion in Ukraine aid

Here’s what else to know

• The first Russian soldier to be tried for war crimes committed during Moscow’s invasion asked for forgiveness in an emotional court session Thursday, one day after pleading guilty to killing a civilian.
• The International Committee of the Red Cross is gathering information on Ukrainian prisoners of war who surrendered at the Mariupol steel plant this week. Their fate remains uncertain.
• The Russian military has fired or replaced some field commanders in Ukraine in recent weeks, including one who was suspended after his unit failed to capture the northeastern city of Kharkiv, according to the British Defense Ministry.
• Heavy Russian shelling on Thursday hit Severodonetsk, the easternmost city still under Ukrainian control, leaving at least 12 people dead and another 40 wounded, local officials said. The attack could be a precursor to a larger drawn-out battle.
• The Washington Post has lifted its paywall for readers in Russia and Ukraine. Telegram users can subscribe to our channel.