VLADIMIR PUTIN, president of Russia. (Shutterstock).

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday declared martial law in the four areas of Ukraine “annexed” by his nation and also placed restrictions in his own country.

According to the Associated Press, military authority has replaced civilian government in the crucial southern city of Kherson, the largest Ukrainian city held by the invaders.

Russians are moving thousands of civilians into Russian territory “to ensure Russia’s security and safe future,” claims Moscow. A major Ukrainian’s counteroffensive is reclaiming land previous seized by Russian forces.

New restrictions in Russia could mean suspension of activities of political parties, public organizations and religious groups.

Obama hits the campaign trail

FORMER PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA.

Former President Barack Obama will be acting as a surrogate for President Joe Biden by appearing at major Democratic rallies in Atlanta, Detroit, Milwaukee and Las Vegas.

The New York Times reports that it’s part of a strategy to have Biden focus on specific tasks and issues as chief executive while the charismatic Obama seeks to drive enthusiasm and voter turnout in key states for the mid-term elections less than three weeks away.

The Republicans are favored to take control of the House of Representatives, while the Democrats are narrow favorites to retain control of the Senate.

Sports: Padres, Astros win

The San Diego Padres stayed alive in the National League Championship Series with a 8-5 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday. The series is tied at one game each.

In the American League Championship Series, the Houston Astros defeated the New York Yankees 4-2 in the opening game. 

Weather: Warm, but cooling off

After Wednesday’s unseasonably warm weather in the West Orange County area – it hit 96 – Thursday may seem somewhat chilly. The National Weather Service forecast is for a daytime high of 88 under mostly sunny skies.

Friday should cool all the way to 77 (61) with partly foggy conditions in the morning giving way to sun.