President Biden's foot is on the gas, hoping he can drive to a democratic victory.

The lead starts right now.

The White House announces a new release of oil from the nation's stockpile isn't enough

to make a dent in gas prices, and perhaps as importantly for the president, put the

brakes on predicted Republican gains in the mid-Jerks.

Then, Marshall Law, Vladimir Putin with that frightening and desperate declaration today

and Ukrainian territory that Russia illegally annexed people in those regions being forced

to evacuate while Putin is making the move now.

And then, prices up, taxes down?

Possibly the one good thing about inflation, the changes you could see in your paycheck

and on your tax returns.

Hello and welcome to the lead.

I'm John Burman, in Project Apper, and we begin today in our world lead in just a few

minutes.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's declaration of Marshall Law goes into effect in four areas

of Ukraine illegally annexed by Russia.

This, despite the fact that Putin's army does not even have full control over these areas.

And as Russia's campaign to plunge Ukraine into darkness continues, Ukrainian energy officials

say they had no choice but to introduce blackouts.

After losing at least 40% of the country's power generating capacity, following days of

devastating Russian cruise missile and drone strikes, Russian missiles hit at least three

power stations just today, that is according to Ukraine.

...