Despite discussions to the contrary, U.S. authorities at the Pentagon have ruled out sending fighter jets to Ukraine, fearing Russian escalation of the conflict.

Governments and companies continue to put the financial squeeze on Russia as it continues to try and push deeper into Ukraine. President Joe Biden announced a ban on Russian oil imports this week. McDonald's announced it would close all 850 of its locations in the country.

Meanwhile, Russian and Ukrainian authorities sent to negotiate with one another failed to agree on the terms of a ceasefire. Russian troops have ramped up shelling against Ukrainian civilians, targeting their evacuation routes.

WNBA star Brittney Griner was arrested in Russia on charges of drug smuggling. U.S. authorities have been quick to condemn her detention and Russian authorities are providing few details on her whereabouts.

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