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March 30, 2025

Good morning, all. Are you overwhelmed by the news on Ukraine — and the potential nuclear threat by Putin? I know the feeling. That’s why I reached out to a former U.S. ambassador to learn more about the Russian leader’s mindset, and how we can stop things from escalating even further. Also, we've got heartbreaking evidence of the tragedy from one of my heroes: award-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario. And if you need a little cheering up, we’ve got a list of the happiest U.S. cities, and gear that’ll help you feel strong and healthy enough to face any challenge. Let’s get started!

In the News

 Russia's ruble was worth less than 1 cent on Monday. (Getty Images)

Billionaires Beware

As international backlash intensifies, Russian oligarchs with ties to the Kremlin are feeling the heat. On Monday, the European Union added 26 wealthy Russians to its sanctions list, and more sanctions are likely coming. Here’s the latest on these now-panicked elites:

Setting the scene: Russia’s reeling from debilitating economic turmoil after President Vladimir Putin ordered an invasion of Ukraine last week. The U.S. and its allies have responded by implementing a series of sanctions, including some that target some of Russia’s richest. 

By the numbers: 22 of Russia’s wealthiest oligarchs lost a total of $39 billion in the span of 24 hours, and one Russian businessman even lost $4.2 billion in a single day. In response to threats of having their assets seized, some have even gone so far as to move their “superyachts” out of the country. 

How it’s impacting everyday Russians: On Monday, the ruble was worth less than 1 cent. Long lines have formed at ATMs throughout the country as citizens rush to withdraw cash, and some were even unable to buy bus or metro tickets, due to disruptions to popular apps like Apple Pay. 

We have the latest on why this economic upheaval isn’t going away anytime soon.

More Stories

President Biden denounced President Putin's "menace" during his State of the Union address on Tuesday night. (Getty Images)

• Fighting intensifies: President Biden condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine during his State of the Union address last night while Russian rockets continued to bombard civilian targets, including a Holocaust memorial site. A Ukrainian boxing champion has returned home to take up arms, vowing to defend his "wife and children" as a huge Russian column draws ever closer to Kyiv. More updates here (graphic content warning).
• In the fray: Photojournalist Lynsey Addario is embedded right now in Kyiv, witnessing a terrifying "historical moment." Here's what she's learned from her time behind the lens in Ukraine. If you're feeling a little helpless watching all this from home, we've got some ways to help Ukrainians here.
• Texas primaries: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, boosted by former President Trump's support, fended off challengers and will face Democrat Beto O'Rourke this fall in his bid for a third term. Ken Paxton and George P. Bush meanwhile advance to a May runoff to determine the GOP nominee for state attorney general.
• No deal: Major League Baseball is delaying the season's start after the league and the players’ union failed to reach a new collective bargaining agreement. The union described events Tuesday as the "culmination of a decades-long attempt by owners to break our player fraternity."

Daily Special

Getty Images

Millions are watching Putin send troops into Ukraine with bated breath, but to Michael McFaul, it all feels eerily familiar. The former U.S. Ambassador to Russia gave Katie his thoughts on how President Putin is reacting to Ukrainian President Zelensky's heroics and explains how the Russian leader seems "increasingly unhinged" — and why we should all be paying attention. 

Love Where You Live

Getty Images

We've all heard the adage that "wherever you go, there you are." But what if moving to the right place could actually boost your quality of life and your personal happiness? A new study has revealed the happiest cities in America — see if yours made the grade, or whether it may be time to start packing those moving boxes.

The Lighter Side

• Healthy body, healthy mind: Even if you get your recommended eight hours of sleep and 64 oz. of water a day, you might still be missing out on essential nutrients. Here are the ones every woman over 50 should be taking, says an anti-aging expert.

• Turn the page: It's Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, which means it's a perfect time to pick up a copy of Ed Tracy's memoir, Gorilla in the Room, a moving account of his battle with the deadly disease.
  

• The building blocks of style: These key wardrobe pieces are the ones I reach for over and over again, and I just know you'll love them, too. 
• Little gems: Don't have time to read a whole book? Try a quick tale or two from one of Zibby Owens' favorite short story collections (think of them as literary tapas). 

Are your loved ones missing out on all the fun we're having? Share Wake-Up Call and spread the love! 💗

Get Pumped

Giovanna Pineda/KCM

So many of us have turned our gym routines into home gym routines during the pandemic. Luckily, the right equipment can turn a ho-hum workout into a full-on strength-building party. Here's some of our absolute fitness essentials, including ultra-pretty yoga blocks, a compact barbell, and even a folding under-desk treadmill, for those of us who like to get our steps in while sending a few emails. 

And by the Way...

If you prefer to work up a sweat by pressing "Add to cart," Dermstore is having a 20% off sale until March 10 (with the code GLOWUP), while Avocado has dropped its prices on its deeply cozy pillows and bedding (use code PILLOW before March 21). This gorgeous robe is, in our humble opinion, the perfect outfit to wear while browsing. 

See you tomorrow!

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