Breaking news, just coming in from Ukraine, the country's defense minister said a short time ago that forces have recaptured a key suburb of Kiev-Maricap, giving Ukraine control of an important highway that could help prevent Russian troops from surrounding the capital from the northwest.

However, the battle intensifies for the

strategic city of Maripole, refusing to back down Ukraine again, rejected Russia's ultimatum to

surrender. We're going to break down why that seaside port is so important. And with Russia having failed to secure a quick victory, President

Biden says Vladimir Putin is now considering chemical or biological weapons in Ukraine and

cyber attacks against the United States. The UN says the number of refugees who have fled the violence now stands at more than three and a half million people. We're going to break down all that is at stake as President Biden prepares to travel to Eastern Europe this week to meet with NATO allies. Good morning. And welcome to morning, Joe. It is Tuesday, March 22nd. Good to have

you back, Willie. We'll dive right in. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky remains defiant in the

face of Russia's demand for Ukraine to surrender the besieged city of Maripal. In a new televised

address yesterday, he said surrender was never an

option and that Russia would, quote, first have to destroy us to get their ultimatum fulfilled.

Russian forces have said they will only allow civilians to evacuate if Ukrainian forces lay down

their weapons. The seizure of Maripole would give the Russians control of much of Ukraine's southern coast

along the Key Sea of Azov.

Willey?

Meanwhile, Mika, new escalation yesterday as Russian forces reportedly opened fire

on peaceful protesters in the city of Kursan.

Domey!

Domey!

Domey!

Domewark! So Russian forces previously had fired in the air warning shots to disperse the crowd.

But the video you saw there then shows Russian forces attacking civilians directly yesterday.

Kersan was the first major Ukrainian city to fall to Russia earlier this month since has been

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