Russian President Putin says Ukraine is intensifying attacks on Russian civilian targets, with the latest example being an attack on the Tuapse

Putin's remarks about Ukraine intensifying attacks on Russian civilian targets indicate a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict. This could heighten geopolitical tensions, which often negatively impacts risk sentiment and pushes investors towards safe-haven assets like gold and the USD. Additionally, disruptions in Ukraine may have implications for energy prices, particularly crude oil and natural gas, affecting wider market sentiment.