As tensions between Russia and the West reach a bit of a fever pitch the Black Sea has become a focal point of geopolitical brinkmanship with NATO's increased presence in these Waters and also Russia's aggressive postering countries are now on the edge of a potential conflict that can have catastrophic consequences. Watch in for more details!

Russia-NATO Tensions: Russian TV airs missile strike threats on European capitals

Moscow dares NATO over black sea

Despite heavily undermanned and undergunned due to a critical shortage of ammunition Ukrainian forces are rewriting the rules of the asymmetric Naval Warfare with deployment of uncrewed systems against Russian naval targets. Ukraine is using Naval drones to significantly hamper Russian operations in the Black Sea. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine Navy stymies Moscow's' attempt to landblock Black Sea ports

Ukraine Russia drone Warfare shows signs of escalation with the US that's supplying arms to Ukraine now firmly in the picture. The latest is Russian media reports of a direct Russia-US Clash. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Did a Russian jet down a US drone?

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine demonstrates naval prowess in Black Sea with drones

Several Russian warships have passed the Bab al-Mandab Strait into the Red Sea, the Russian Navy's Pacific Fleet said on Thursday, amid attacks by Yemen's Houthis on merchant shipping.

Russian warships enter the Red Sea

Russia continues to dominate the front lines in the ongoing war with Ukraine. A new study now suggests that it's become the biggest importer of European arms and according to data that was released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute Europe doubled its arms import between 2019 and 2023.

Russia-Ukraine war | European nations double arms imports to Ukraine in 2014-2019: Study

How did Ukraine sink 25% of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in the Naval War? Haiti erupts in violence as criminal gangs take over the streets of Port-au-prince Over 250 students abducted by Bandits in Nigeria Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in #worldatwar

How did Ukraine sink 25% of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in the Naval War?

NATO countries are increasingly raising the alarm about the direct threats they are facing from Moscow's forces.

France says Russian forces threatened to shoot down aircraft patrolling Black Sea

France says Russia threatened to shoot down jets over Black Sea

Russian forces threaten to shoot down French Pilots patrolling international airspace over the Black Sea. The French defense minister said the incident signals increasingly aggressive behaviour from Moscow.

France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow

Ukraine claims it has now disabled a third of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet after its military intelligence said it sank another Russian warship in a sea drone attack off the coast of Crimea. Kremlin has so far refused to make comments.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian fleet reportedly left Crimean peninsula

There seems to be no end to the Russia-Ukraine war that is now nearing its 2-year anniversary. Ukraine has been making strides in the black sea while Russia has been continuously pounding the nation.

Russia-Ukraine war nears two-year anniversary

<p>Russia said on Saturday it had repelled an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on Russian "civilian transport ships" on Friday evening in the southwestern part of the Black Sea, a key artery for grain and oil exports from both countries.</p>

<p>Civilian vessels on the Black Sea have not generally been targeted since Moscow ordered its troops into Ukraine in February 2022, but last July both sides said they would start treating ships headed to the other's ports as potential carriers of military cargo.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-needs-to-come-up-with-new-strategies-to-battle-says-new-army-chief-688970">Ukraine needs to come up with new strategies to battle, says new Army Chief</a></p>

<p>In a statement posted on the Telegram messaging app, Russia's Defence Ministry said Ukraine had attempted what it called "a terrorist attack on Russian civilian transport ships using semi-submersible naval drones".</p>

<p>It said Russian patrol boats and warplanes had averted the attack, destroying one Ukrainian naval drone by artillery fire and disabling the rest by electronic warfare. No Russian civilian or military vessels were damaged, it said.</p>

<p>Reuters could not verify the Russian account. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Last July, Russia refused to renew a Turkish-brokered deal providing for safe grain exports through the region and said all ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be treated as potential carriers of military cargo.</p>

<p>A day later, Ukraine said it would adopt the same stance on ships bound for Russian and Russian-controlled Ukrainian ports.</p>

<p>It was not clear precisely where the attack took place. The southwestern part of the Black Sea adjoins Turkey's Bosphorus Strait through which cargoes leaving the sea travel.</p>

<p>Ukraine has in recent months mounted a series of drone and missile attacks on Russian military targets in the Black Sea, sinking at least one naval vessel and damaging others.</p>


Russia said on Saturday it had repelled an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on Russian "civilian transport ships" on Friday evening in the southwestern part of the Black Sea, a key artery for grain and oil exports from both countries.

Russia said on Saturday it had repelled an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on Russian "civilian transport ships" on Friday evening in the southwestern part of the Black Sea, a key artery for grain and oil exports from both countries. Civilian vessels on the Black Sea have not generally been targeted since Moscow ordered its troops into Ukraine in February 2022, but last July both sides said they would start treating ships headed to the other's ports as potential carriers of military cargo. Also Read: Ukraine needs to come up with new strategies to battle, says new Army Chief In a statement posted on the Telegram messaging app, Russia's Defence Ministry said Ukraine had attempted what it called "a terrorist attack on Russian civilian transport ships using semi-submersible naval drones". It said Russian patrol boats and warplanes had averted the attack, destroying one Ukrainian naval drone by artillery fire and disabling the rest by electronic warfare. No Russian civilian or military vessels were damaged, it said. Reuters could not verify the Russian account. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine. Last July, Russia refused to renew a Turkish-brokered deal providing for safe grain exports through the region and said all ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be treated as potential carriers of military cargo. A day later, Ukraine said it would adopt the same stance on ships bound for Russian and Russian-controlled Ukrainian ports. It was not clear precisely where the attack took place. The southwestern part of the Black Sea adjoins Turkey's Bosphorus Strait through which cargoes leaving the sea travel. Ukraine has in recent months mounted a series of drone and missile attacks on Russian military targets in the Black Sea, sinking at least one naval vessel and damaging others.

Russia says it foiled Ukrainian drone attack on civilian cargo ships in Black Sea

<p>Ukrainian forces claimed that they blasted a Russian missile boat, which was a part of the Black Sea Fleet, in a targeted operation which took place close to the Russian-occupied Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military intelligence claimed that the small warship, Ivanovets, received "direct hits to the hull" overnight, after which the ship sank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video footage of the attack was released by the Ukrainian forces which purportedly captures the moment of the impact which was followed by a massive explosion, as per media reports. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-feud-between-zelensky-and-ukraine-army-chief-he-wants-to-sack-685971">Explained | The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine army chief he wants to sack</a></p>

<p>No comment has been made by the Russian authorities on the incident.</p>

<h2><strong>Boat eliminated by members of Ukraine's special unit</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, taking to Telegram, a Russian military blogger "Voenkor Kotenok" wrote that the boat sank after it was struck three times by naval drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Ukrainian video, several identifiable features on the vessel were displayed that align with those of the Tarantul, which was also known as Project 12411-a missile boat that was class utilised by Russian and other navies. &nbsp;</p>

<p>These features of the vessel include the arrangement of the mast and sensors above the primary superstructure, along with a sizable radar dome which is located on the bridge.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ship wreck of the day!<br />
<br />
Warriors of the special unit "Group 13" of the <a href="https://twitter.com/DI_Ukraine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DI_Ukraine</a> destroyed the missile corvette "Ivanovets" of the russian Black Sea Fleet.<br />
<br />
As a result of a number of direct hits to the hull, the corvette was damaged, rolled to the stern, and sank. The value of… <a href="https://t.co/JZwh8aggn0">pic.twitter.com/JZwh8aggn0</a></p>
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1753013182702944594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate, the boat was struck by members of its special unit, called "Group 13," in Lake Donuzlav.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The saltwater bay is located on the Crimean peninsula's western side and houses a naval base.</p>

<p>"As a result of a series of direct hits to the hull, the Russian ship suffered damage incompatible with further movement - the Ivanovets listed to the stern and sank," the intelligence directorate said on its Telegram channel.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky suggested Army General to quit, write resignation note: Report</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-suggested-army-general-to-quit-write-resignation-note-report-686010/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>According to a report published by BBC, a Russian search and rescue operation was unsuccessful in the area. It stated that the ship was worth $60-70 million.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Foreign ministry calls attack 'impressive'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine's foreign ministry official Olexander Scherba called the attack "impressive".</p>

<p>"At 03:45 [01:45 GMT] there was the first hit and at 04:00 the whole crew was evacuated already. So there was no chance at all that this vessel would be saved," he said while speaking to the BBC.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Ukrainian forces claimed that they blasted a Russian missile boat, which was a part of the Black Sea Fleet, in a targeted operation which took place close to the Russian-occupied Crimea.

Ukrainian forces claimed that they blasted a Russian missile boat, which was a part of the Black Sea Fleet, in a targeted operation which took place close to the Russian-occupied Crimea. The military intelligence claimed that the small warship, Ivanovets, received "direct hits to the hull" overnight, after which the ship sank. The video footage of the attack was released by the Ukrainian forces which purportedly captures the moment of the impact which was followed by a massive explosion, as per media reports. Also read: Explained | The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine army chief he wants to sack No comment has been made by the Russian authorities on the incident. Boat eliminated by members of Ukraine's special unit Meanwhile, taking to Telegram, a Russian military blogger "Voenkor Kotenok" wrote that the boat sank after it was struck three times by naval drones. In the Ukrainian video, several identifiable features on the vessel were displayed that align with those of the Tarantul, which was also known as Project 12411-a missile boat that was class utilised by Russian and other navies. These features of the vessel include the arrangement of the mast and sensors above the primary superstructure, along with a sizable radar dome which is located on the bridge. Ship wreck of the day! Warriors of the special unit "Group 13" of the @DI_Ukraine destroyed the missile corvette "Ivanovets" of the russian Black Sea Fleet. As a result of a number of direct hits to the hull, the corvette was damaged, rolled to the stern, and sank. The value of… pic.twitter.com/JZwh8aggn0 — Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) February 1, 2024 × As per Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate, the boat was struck by members of its special unit, called "Group 13," in Lake Donuzlav. The saltwater bay is located on the Crimean peninsula's western side and houses a naval base. "As a result of a series of direct hits to the hull, the Russian ship suffered damage incompatible with further movement - the Ivanovets listed to the stern and sank," the intelligence directorate said on its Telegram channel. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky suggested Army General to quit, write resignation note: Report According to a report published by BBC, a Russian search and rescue operation was unsuccessful in the area. It stated that the ship was worth $60-70 million. Foreign ministry calls attack 'impressive' Ukraine's foreign ministry official Olexander Scherba called the attack "impressive". "At 03:45 [01:45 GMT] there was the first hit and at 04:00 the whole crew was evacuated already. So there was no chance at all that this vessel would be saved," he said while speaking to the BBC. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Ukraine releases video of moment of impact when its forces hit Russian missile boat

Latest Houthi attack, targeting a US-owned and operated container ship, comes just hours after the latest US strikes in Yemen.

Houthis: Targeted US vessels with missiles

Turkiye has announced that it would not allow two Minehunter ships donated to Ukraine by britain to transit its waters en route the Black Sea. Turkiye says that it will violate an international pact concerning wartime passage of the straits.

Turkey to block UK's Minehunter Ships, says 'it will violate int'l pact concerning wartime passage'

Turkey has announced that it would not allow two Minehunter ships donated to Ukraine by Britain to transit its waters en route the Black Sea. Turkey says that it will violate an international pact concerning wartime passage of the straits.

Turkey to block UK's minehunter ships from entering Black Sea

<p>Russia has officially acknowledged the damage inflicted on one of its warships during a Ukrainian airstrike on a Black Sea port.</p>

<p>The attack occurred in Feodosiya, located in Russian-occupied Crimea, in the early hours of Tuesday (Dec 26). The Ministry of Defence in Russia confirmed that Ukrainian aircraft equipped with guided missiles targeted the Novocherkassk, a landing warship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sadly, one person was killed and two others were wounded in an enemy attack on Feodosia," Russia-installed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksionov, said on Telegram.</p>

<p>The strike targeted the port town of Feodosia. According to Mykola Oleshchuk, commander of Ukraine's air force, the attack destroyed the Russian Navy’s Novocherkask ship.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION&nbsp;cannot independently&nbsp;verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Russia confirms 'damage' to warship in Black Sea"🤔<br />
"DAMAGE"👇🤦🙃 <a href="https://t.co/ENZsPss2ke">https://t.co/ENZsPss2ke</a></p>
— Putin is the Virus!🇮🇪 (@Ordinar23421152) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ordinar23421152/status/1739596174871433442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>WION was not able to verify these claims independently.</p>

<p>Taking to the Telegram messaging app, Oleshchuk said, “And the fleet in Russia is getting smaller and smaller!”</p>

<p>"Thanks to the Air Force pilots and everyone involved for the filigree work," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Reaction from Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Governor Aksyonov&nbsp;confirmed the attack and reported a fire incident in the town’s port area.</p>

<p>However, he didn’t mention about the loss to any military asset.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-claims-to-have-seized-town-in-eastern-ukraine-673462"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims to have seized town in eastern Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p>Several Russian media outlets also reported the fire incident, showing powerful explosions.</p>

<p>"All relevant emergency services are on site," Aksyonov said on the Telegram, adding, "Residents of several houses will be evacuated."</p>

<p>He also claimed that fires were put out immediately.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine conflict</strong></h2>

<p>Both Russia and Ukraine have made exaggerated claims about the losses to the other side during the 22-month conflict, while&nbsp;downplaying own losses and causalities.</p>

<p>Crimea is a highly significant, strategically located territory captured by Russia in 2014 by force. Ukraine has made clear it won’t strike any peace deal until Russia recedes its control over the Crimean region.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russian strikes kill at least 4 in Kherson</strong></p>

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<p>Over the past two years, Ukraine has sporadically launched attacks on Crimea. In April last year, Ukraine attacked and sank the cruiser Moskva, the Soviet-era flagship of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.</p>

<p>Moscow had said “a detonation of ammunition” triggered a fire and forced the crew to evacuate, and the ship sank as it was being towed to port.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia has officially acknowledged the damage inflicted on one of its warships during a Ukrainian airstrike on a Black Sea port. The attack occurred in Feodosiya, located in Russian-occupied Crimea, in the early hours of Tuesday (Dec 26).

Russia has officially acknowledged the damage inflicted on one of its warships during a Ukrainian airstrike on a Black Sea port. The attack occurred in Feodosiya, located in Russian-occupied Crimea, in the early hours of Tuesday (Dec 26). The Ministry of Defence in Russia confirmed that Ukrainian aircraft equipped with guided missiles targeted the Novocherkassk, a landing warship. "Sadly, one person was killed and two others were wounded in an enemy attack on Feodosia," Russia-installed governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksionov, said on Telegram. The strike targeted the port town of Feodosia. According to Mykola Oleshchuk, commander of Ukraine's air force, the attack destroyed the Russian Navy’s Novocherkask ship. Watch the video here: Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos shared on social media. "Russia confirms 'damage' to warship in Black Sea"🤔 "DAMAGE"👇🤦🙃 https://t.co/ENZsPss2ke — Putin is the Virus!🇮🇪 (@Ordinar23421152) December 26, 2023 × WION was not able to verify these claims independently. Taking to the Telegram messaging app, Oleshchuk said, “And the fleet in Russia is getting smaller and smaller!” "Thanks to the Air Force pilots and everyone involved for the filigree work," he added. Reaction from Russia Governor Aksyonov confirmed the attack and reported a fire incident in the town’s port area. However, he didn’t mention about the loss to any military asset. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims to have seized town in eastern Ukraine Several Russian media outlets also reported the fire incident, showing powerful explosions. "All relevant emergency services are on site," Aksyonov said on the Telegram, adding, "Residents of several houses will be evacuated." He also claimed that fires were put out immediately. Russia-Ukraine conflict Both Russia and Ukraine have made exaggerated claims about the losses to the other side during the 22-month conflict, while downplaying own losses and causalities. Crimea is a highly significant, strategically located territory captured by Russia in 2014 by force. Ukraine has made clear it won’t strike any peace deal until Russia recedes its control over the Crimean region. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Russian strikes kill at least 4 in Kherson × Over the past two years, Ukraine has sporadically launched attacks on Crimea. In April last year, Ukraine attacked and sank the cruiser Moskva, the Soviet-era flagship of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. Moscow had said “a detonation of ammunition” triggered a fire and forced the crew to evacuate, and the ship sank as it was being towed to port. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia acknowledges damage to warship in Black Sea by Ukraine

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that the country's armed forces have destroyed the Askold, which is a major Russian ship at the Kerch shipyard in annexed Crimea.</p>

<p>"I thank everyone who ensured the successful destruction of the Russian ship at the Kerch shipyard," he said in his evening address, speaking two days after Kyiv said it had "successfully" carried out strikes in that area.</p>

<p>In light of developments in Israel, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine appeared to have vanished from the global headlines but this development can singlehandedly bring the focus back to&nbsp;it.</p>

<h2><strong>Time not right for elections, says Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking during his daily address, Zelesnky also said that the time was not right to hold elections in the country when it is battling Russian forces. There is a debate among Ukrainian leaders about whether holding elections will be possible next year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: 124-year-old art gallery struck on eve of its anniversary in Odesa</strong></p>

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<p>Right now, martial law is in effect in Ukraine. This means that presidential elections and other elections technically stand cancelled.</p>

<p>"We must decide that now is the time of defence, the time of battle, on which the fate of the state and people depends," Zelensky said during the address.</p>

<p>"I believe that now is not the (right) time for elections," he said as he underlined that it was the time for the country to be united not divided.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-brigade-says-19-killed-in-russian-missile-strike-last-week-655827">Ukrainian brigade says 19 killed in Russian missile strike last week</a></strong></p>

<p>Just last week, Ukraine's foreign minister said&nbsp;Zelensky was "weighing" options to decide whether holding elections next year would be possible.&nbsp;The minister said that even if it is decided that polls were to be held, it would be a difficult exercise in light of the war.</p>

<p>Parliamentary elections were to take place in Ukraine last month. But they were also cancelled due to the war.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-to-run-for-march-presidential-election-to-remain-in-power-until-at-least-2030-report-655768">Vladimir Putin to run for March presidential election, seeks to remain in power until at least 2030: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Zelensky was elected president in the year 2019. In September this year, he said he was "ready" to conduct polls if it was necessary. He was also in favour of the presence of international observers during the vote.</p>

<p>Oleksiy Arestovych, a former aide to President Zelensky, has said that he would challenge Zelensky if elections are held. Arestovych has expressed displeasure over the slow pace of Ukraine's counteroffensive.</p>

<p>Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After initial battlefield gains, Russian troops had to retreat from large swathes of land. Western countries, led by the US, have poured in billions of dollars in humanitarian and military aid and have also provided weapons to Ukraine. It was widely anticipated that a Ukrainian counteroffensive would lead to a swift Russian retreat given all the help Ukraine has received. But the conflict has turned into a stalemate.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that the country's armed forces have destroyed the Askold, which is a major Russian ship at the Kerch shipyard in annexed Crimea.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that the country's armed forces have destroyed the Askold, which is a major Russian ship at the Kerch shipyard in annexed Crimea. "I thank everyone who ensured the successful destruction of the Russian ship at the Kerch shipyard," he said in his evening address, speaking two days after Kyiv said it had "successfully" carried out strikes in that area. In light of developments in Israel, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine appeared to have vanished from the global headlines but this development can singlehandedly bring the focus back to it. Time not right for elections, says Zelensky Speaking during his daily address, Zelesnky also said that the time was not right to hold elections in the country when it is battling Russian forces. There is a debate among Ukrainian leaders about whether holding elections will be possible next year. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: 124-year-old art gallery struck on eve of its anniversary in Odesa × Right now, martial law is in effect in Ukraine. This means that presidential elections and other elections technically stand cancelled. "We must decide that now is the time of defence, the time of battle, on which the fate of the state and people depends," Zelensky said during the address. "I believe that now is not the (right) time for elections," he said as he underlined that it was the time for the country to be united not divided. Also Read | Ukrainian brigade says 19 killed in Russian missile strike last week Just last week, Ukraine's foreign minister said Zelensky was "weighing" options to decide whether holding elections next year would be possible. The minister said that even if it is decided that polls were to be held, it would be a difficult exercise in light of the war. Parliamentary elections were to take place in Ukraine last month. But they were also cancelled due to the war. Also Read | Vladimir Putin to run for March presidential election, seeks to remain in power until at least 2030: Report Zelensky was elected president in the year 2019. In September this year, he said he was "ready" to conduct polls if it was necessary. He was also in favour of the presence of international observers during the vote. Oleksiy Arestovych, a former aide to President Zelensky, has said that he would challenge Zelensky if elections are held. Arestovych has expressed displeasure over the slow pace of Ukraine's counteroffensive. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After initial battlefield gains, Russian troops had to retreat from large swathes of land. Western countries, led by the US, have poured in billions of dollars in humanitarian and military aid and have also provided weapons to Ukraine. It was widely anticipated that a Ukrainian counteroffensive would lead to a swift Russian retreat given all the help Ukraine has received. But the conflict has turned into a stalemate. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine says it destroyed major Russian ship in Black Sea

<p>Russia claims to have shot down two Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea in the southern resort city of Sochi, near the coast of the Krasnodar region, on Saturday (Oct 14). Meanwhile, the commander of the Ukrainian ground forces in an update on Saturday said that fighting along the northern part of the eastern front has “significantly worsened” in recent days.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia shoots drones over Black Sea</strong></h2>

<p>“Today at about 7:10 am in Sochi…two drones were shot down over the sea,” said the governor of the southern Krasnodar region Alexei Kopaygorodskiy on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There were no casualties or damage in the city,” said the Russian official, adding that the airport was working “normally” and that “the situation was under control.”</p>

<p>However, Russia’s Interfax news agency citing the airport’s press service said there were temporary restrictions at the airport for safety reasons.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Russian military said that it thwarted a “terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime” and “destroyed two drones” over the Black Sea near the coast of the Russian region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, while Ukraine has launched multiple drone attacks against several Russian cities since the beginning of its counteroffensive, earlier this year, Sochi has been largely spared from attacks.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukrainian general about the fighting in northeast</strong></h2>

<p>Oleksandr Syrskyi, who was visiting Ukrainian troops in the country’s northeastern region, in an update said that the Russian forces had regrouped after suffering losses and were attacking around the village of Makiivka and towards the city of Kupiansk.</p>

<p>“The main objective of the enemy is the defeat of a grouping of our troops, the encirclement of Kupiansk and to reach the Oskil River,” said the Ukrainian commander, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that Russian forces were carrying out “dozens” of assaults each day, but that Ukrainian troops had been ready and were holding their ground.</p>

<p>This comes a day after Ukrainian officials said that Russian forces pounded the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka in the Donbas region for the fourth day in a row. “The fighting has been going on for four consecutive days,” Vitaliy Barabash, head of the city’s military administration told Ukrainian national television.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “They have substantial reserves of personnel and equipment. Avdiivka is completely ablaze. They shoot, using everything they have. The hospital is again under fire, as are administrative buildings and our volunteer centre.”</p>

<p>On Friday (Oct 13), at least one person was killed and 24 were injured after a Russian missile strike in the city of Pokrovsk. Separately, a drone attack in Beryslav a 34-year-old woman and seriously injured her 36-year-old husband.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia’s new campaign?</strong></h2>

<p>It has been reported that Russia has increased attacks along the 1,000-kilometre eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which was seemingly confirmed by the Russian representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia who said that their intensified battles in the east signified a new stage in its campaign.</p>

<p>“Russian troops have, for several days now, switched over to active combat action practically throughout the entire front line,” Nebenzia told a session of the UN Security Council. He added, “The so-called Ukrainian counteroffensive can therefore be considered finished.”&nbsp;<br />
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Russia claims to have shot down two Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea in the southern resort city of Sochi, near the coast of the Krasnodar region, on Saturday (Oct 14).

Russia claims to have shot down two Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea in the southern resort city of Sochi, near the coast of the Krasnodar region, on Saturday (Oct 14). Meanwhile, the commander of the Ukrainian ground forces in an update on Saturday said that fighting along the northern part of the eastern front has “significantly worsened” in recent days. Russia shoots drones over Black Sea “Today at about 7:10 am in Sochi…two drones were shot down over the sea,” said the governor of the southern Krasnodar region Alexei Kopaygorodskiy on social media. “There were no casualties or damage in the city,” said the Russian official, adding that the airport was working “normally” and that “the situation was under control.” However, Russia’s Interfax news agency citing the airport’s press service said there were temporary restrictions at the airport for safety reasons. Meanwhile, the Russian military said that it thwarted a “terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime” and “destroyed two drones” over the Black Sea near the coast of the Russian region. Notably, while Ukraine has launched multiple drone attacks against several Russian cities since the beginning of its counteroffensive, earlier this year, Sochi has been largely spared from attacks. Ukrainian general about the fighting in northeast Oleksandr Syrskyi, who was visiting Ukrainian troops in the country’s northeastern region, in an update said that the Russian forces had regrouped after suffering losses and were attacking around the village of Makiivka and towards the city of Kupiansk. “The main objective of the enemy is the defeat of a grouping of our troops, the encirclement of Kupiansk and to reach the Oskil River,” said the Ukrainian commander, as per Reuters. He added that Russian forces were carrying out “dozens” of assaults each day, but that Ukrainian troops had been ready and were holding their ground. This comes a day after Ukrainian officials said that Russian forces pounded the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka in the Donbas region for the fourth day in a row. “The fighting has been going on for four consecutive days,” Vitaliy Barabash, head of the city’s military administration told Ukrainian national television. He added, “They have substantial reserves of personnel and equipment. Avdiivka is completely ablaze. They shoot, using everything they have. The hospital is again under fire, as are administrative buildings and our volunteer centre.” On Friday (Oct 13), at least one person was killed and 24 were injured after a Russian missile strike in the city of Pokrovsk. Separately, a drone attack in Beryslav a 34-year-old woman and seriously injured her 36-year-old husband. Russia’s new campaign? It has been reported that Russia has increased attacks along the 1,000-kilometre eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which was seemingly confirmed by the Russian representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia who said that their intensified battles in the east signified a new stage in its campaign. “Russian troops have, for several days now, switched over to active combat action practically throughout the entire front line,” Nebenzia told a session of the UN Security Council. He added, “The so-called Ukrainian counteroffensive can therefore be considered finished.” Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia claims it downed Ukrainian drones over Black Sea; Moscow attacks in east intensify, says Ukraine

<p>Russia has signed a deal with the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia to set up a naval base on the Black Sea coast, its leader announced Thursday (Oct 5). The move comes as Moscow pulls out its Black Sea fleet from Crimea, likely because of increased missile and drone attacks from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Aslan Bzhania, the leader of the separatist region, said that an agreement had been signed for a permanent naval base in the Ochamchira region. "We have signed an agreement, and in the near future there will be a permanent base of the Russian Navy in the Ochamchira district," Bzhania was quoted as saying by Izvestiya newspaper.</p>

<p>"This is all aimed at increasing the level of defence capability of both Russia and Abkhazia, and this kind of interaction will continue," he said, adding, "There are also things I can't talk about."</p>

<h2><strong>Russia’s Black Sea fleet facing challenges in Crimea</strong></h2>

<p>Western media, including the New York Times and the Telegraph, has widely reported challenges and threats faced by Russia’s Black Sea fleet on the Crimean peninsula.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia planning to test nuclear missile?</strong></p>

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<p>Telegraph newspaper reported, citing British intelligence, that the Russian Black Sea Fleet is “struggling to deal with concurrent threats on the southern flank of the Ukraine war” and “fleet activities are likely relocating to Novorossiysk in the face of threats to Sevastopol”.</p>

<p>Russia has moved three attack submarines and two frigates from Sevastopol to other ports in Russia and Crimea, WION earlier reported citing a report by the New York Times.</p>

<h2><strong>Latest from Russia-Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>While Russia struggles to defend its Black Sea fleet from Ukrainian attacks and contemplates relocating it to other bases, it launched another massive drone attack early Thursday as President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;travelled to Spain to rally support from Western allies at a summit of some 50 European leaders.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-no-plans-for-additional-mobilisation-to-fight-in-ukraine-335000-signed-up-so-far-this-year-642293"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia says no plans for additional mobilisation to fight in Ukraine, 335,000 signed up so far this year</strong></a></p>

<p>Ukraine claimed the country’s forces downed 24 out of 29 Iranian-made drones that Russia launched at the southern Odesa, Mykolaiv and Kirovohrad regions.</p>

<p>“The key for us, especially before winter, is to strengthen air defense, and there is already a basis for new agreements with partners,” Zelensky posted on his telegram channel ahead of the meeting with EU leaders.</p>

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Russia has signed a deal with the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia to set up a naval base on the Black Sea coast, its leader announced Thursday (Oct 5). The move comes as Moscow pulls out its Black Sea fleet from Crimea, likely because of increased missile and drone attacks from Ukraine.

Russia has signed a deal with the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia to set up a naval base on the Black Sea coast, its leader announced Thursday (Oct 5). The move comes as Moscow pulls out its Black Sea fleet from Crimea, likely because of increased missile and drone attacks from Ukraine. Aslan Bzhania, the leader of the separatist region, said that an agreement had been signed for a permanent naval base in the Ochamchira region. "We have signed an agreement, and in the near future there will be a permanent base of the Russian Navy in the Ochamchira district," Bzhania was quoted as saying by Izvestiya newspaper. "This is all aimed at increasing the level of defence capability of both Russia and Abkhazia, and this kind of interaction will continue," he said, adding, "There are also things I can't talk about." Russia’s Black Sea fleet facing challenges in Crimea Western media, including the New York Times and the Telegraph, has widely reported challenges and threats faced by Russia’s Black Sea fleet on the Crimean peninsula. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Russia planning to test nuclear missile? × Telegraph newspaper reported, citing British intelligence, that the Russian Black Sea Fleet is “struggling to deal with concurrent threats on the southern flank of the Ukraine war” and “fleet activities are likely relocating to Novorossiysk in the face of threats to Sevastopol”. Russia has moved three attack submarines and two frigates from Sevastopol to other ports in Russia and Crimea, WION earlier reported citing a report by the New York Times. Latest from Russia-Ukraine war While Russia struggles to defend its Black Sea fleet from Ukrainian attacks and contemplates relocating it to other bases, it launched another massive drone attack early Thursday as President Volodymyr Zelensky travelled to Spain to rally support from Western allies at a summit of some 50 European leaders. Also read: Russia says no plans for additional mobilisation to fight in Ukraine, 335,000 signed up so far this year Ukraine claimed the country’s forces downed 24 out of 29 Iranian-made drones that Russia launched at the southern Odesa, Mykolaiv and Kirovohrad regions. “The key for us, especially before winter, is to strengthen air defense, and there is already a basis for new agreements with partners,” Zelensky posted on his telegram channel ahead of the meeting with EU leaders. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia to set up naval base in breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia

Russia has reportedly withdrawn the bulk of its Black Sea Fleet from its main naval base in Crimea. Well according to a Wall Street Journal report three attacked submarines and two frigates have been withdrawn to other ports in Russia and Crimea.

Bulk of Black Sea fleet withdrawn from main Crimea port

Russian air strikes and shelling caused significant damage to infrastructure at the black sea port of Odesa, including grain storage facilities. Ukrainian strikes inside Russia continue, and Moscow's air defence units repelled several drone attacks over Belgorod and Kursk, destroying at least 11 drones. Meanwhile, Ukraine's special forces stated they killed Russia's top admiral in Crimea, along with 33 other officers, in last week's missile attack.

Russian supersonic missiles destroy nearly 1,000 tons of grain in strikes on Black Sea port of Odesa

<p>Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, on Saturday (September 23), said at a press conference that the peace deal proposed by Ukraine and the latest UN proposals to restore the Black Sea grain initiative were both "not realistic."</p>

<p>"It is completely not feasible," Lavrov said of a 10-point peace blueprint promoted by Kyiv. "It is not possible to implement this. It's not realistic and everybody understands this, but at the same time, they say this is the only basis for negotiations."</p>

<p>He then said that the dispute would be resolved on the battlefield if Ukraine and its Western allies stood by that stance.</p>

<p>Lavrov further elucidating Moscow's reasons behind leaving the Black Sea grain initiative, said that promises made to Russia, which included removing sanctions on a Russian bank and reconnecting it to the global SWIFT system, were not met.</p>

<p>He said the latest U.N. proposals to revive that export corridor for Ukrainian agricultural products were "simply not realistic".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-army-breaks-through-russian-lines-in-south-says-general-638953">Ukrainian army breaks through Russian lines in south, claims general</a></p>

<h2><strong>Lavrov accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Lavrov also accused Western countries of direct fighting with Russia through their support to Ukraine.</p>

<p>He said that the Western powers had effectively entered direct war against Moscow by backing Ukraine.</p>

<p>"You can call it anything you want, but they are fighting with us, they are straight-up fighting with us. We call it a hybrid war, but that doesn't change things," Lavrov told a news conference at the United Nations. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky urges member nations to strip Russia of veto power in UNSC; Lavrov responds</strong></h2>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 20) denounced the Russian invasion, calling it 'criminal' and urged other member nations to strip Moscow of its veto power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We should recognize that the U.N. finds itself in a deadlock on the matter of aggression. Humankind no longer pins its hopes on the U.N. when it comes to the defence of the sovereign border of nations,” he said.</p>

<p>"Veto power in the hands of the aggressor is what has pushed the UN into a deadlock. It is impossible to stop the war because all efforts are vetoed by the aggressor or those who condone the aggressor," Zelensky continued.</p>

<p>After Zelensky's speech, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov defended his country's veto power in the UNSC as a "legitimate tool" of international relations.</p>

<p>"The use of veto is an absolutely legitimate tool laid out in the (UN) Charter," said Lavrov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian leader also accused the US and its allies of “egregiously and openly” interfering in the domestic affairs of Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, on Saturday (September 23), said at a press conference that the peace deal proposed by Ukraine and the latest UN proposals to restore the Black Sea grain initiative were both "not realistic.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, on Saturday (September 23), said at a press conference that the peace deal proposed by Ukraine and the latest UN proposals to restore the Black Sea grain initiative were both "not realistic." "It is completely not feasible," Lavrov said of a 10-point peace blueprint promoted by Kyiv. "It is not possible to implement this. It's not realistic and everybody understands this, but at the same time, they say this is the only basis for negotiations." He then said that the dispute would be resolved on the battlefield if Ukraine and its Western allies stood by that stance. Lavrov further elucidating Moscow's reasons behind leaving the Black Sea grain initiative, said that promises made to Russia, which included removing sanctions on a Russian bank and reconnecting it to the global SWIFT system, were not met. He said the latest U.N. proposals to revive that export corridor for Ukrainian agricultural products were "simply not realistic". Also read: Ukrainian army breaks through Russian lines in south, claims general Lavrov accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine Lavrov also accused Western countries of direct fighting with Russia through their support to Ukraine. He said that the Western powers had effectively entered direct war against Moscow by backing Ukraine. "You can call it anything you want, but they are fighting with us, they are straight-up fighting with us. We call it a hybrid war, but that doesn't change things," Lavrov told a news conference at the United Nations. Zelensky urges member nations to strip Russia of veto power in UNSC; Lavrov responds Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 20) denounced the Russian invasion, calling it 'criminal' and urged other member nations to strip Moscow of its veto power. “We should recognize that the U.N. finds itself in a deadlock on the matter of aggression. Humankind no longer pins its hopes on the U.N. when it comes to the defence of the sovereign border of nations,” he said. "Veto power in the hands of the aggressor is what has pushed the UN into a deadlock. It is impossible to stop the war because all efforts are vetoed by the aggressor or those who condone the aggressor," Zelensky continued. After Zelensky's speech, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov defended his country's veto power in the UNSC as a "legitimate tool" of international relations. "The use of veto is an absolutely legitimate tool laid out in the (UN) Charter," said Lavrov. The Russian leader also accused the US and its allies of “egregiously and openly” interfering in the domestic affairs of Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian FM says bid to revive Black Sea grain deal 'not realistic', accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine

<p>Ukraine's Special Operations Forces (SOF) have announced that a strike targeted Russia's Black Sea Fleet headquarters in Sevastopol and has left many dead and injured, including top leadership of the Russian fleet.&nbsp;“The data was transmitted to the Air Force for strike. The details of the attack will be revealed once it is possible. The result is dozens of dead and wounded occupiers, including the senior leadership of the fleet,” the SOF statement read.</p>

<p>The attack, codenamed "Crab Trap," was meticulously planned to coincide with a meeting of senior Russian Navy officials, resulting in numerous casualties, including high-ranking members of the fleet, as per the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by a Ukrainian missile in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-tensions-record-number-of-graduates-returning-to-china-from-abroad-638882">US-China tensions: Record number of graduates returning to China from abroad</a></p>

<p>The SOF through a Telegram statement said, “We are moving further!”&nbsp;While the SOF hinted at the audacious nature of the operation, specific details regarding the attack have not been disclosed at this time.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's response&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia's Ministry of Defence has acknowledged that a Russian soldier is missing following the missile attack, but they have not provided any further details or confirmed casualties among the Black Sea Fleet.</p>

<p>In response to the attack, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the governor of Sevastopol, a city on the peninsula, confirmed the strike on the Black Sea Fleet headquarters and cautioned the public about the possibility of additional Ukrainian aerial attacks.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bob-menendez-temporarily-steps-down-as-us-senate-foreign-relations-chairman-over-bribery-charges-638872">Bob Menendez resigns as US Senate foreign relations head over charges of pocketing bribes in gold bars, cash</a></p>

<p>He urged residents to remain cautious, stay indoors, and seek shelter in the event of a siren indicating an imminent threat near the fleet headquarters.</p>

<p>"Attention everyone! Another attack is possible. Please do not go to the city centre. Do not leave buildings. Everyone who is near the headquarters of the fleet -- at the sound of the siren, proceed to shelters," said Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media.</p>

<h2><strong>Cyber attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The peninsula further faced a cyber attack after its internet providers were attacked, said a proxy official from Crimea's Russian-backed administration on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dossier-nijjar-was-associated-with-banned-terrorist-organisations-638883">Dossier: Nijjar was associated with banned terrorist organisations</a></h2>

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<p>"Unprecedented cyberattack on Crimean internet providers. We are fixing internet outages on the peninsula. All services are working to eliminate the threat," stated Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Moscow-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos)</strong></em></p>

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Ukraine's Special Operations Forces (SOF) have announced that a strike targeted Russia's Black Sea Fleet headquarters in Sevastopol and has left many dead and injured, including top leadership of the Russian fleet.

Ukraine's Special Operations Forces (SOF) have announced that a strike targeted Russia's Black Sea Fleet headquarters in Sevastopol and has left many dead and injured, including top leadership of the Russian fleet. “The data was transmitted to the Air Force for strike. The details of the attack will be revealed once it is possible. The result is dozens of dead and wounded occupiers, including the senior leadership of the fleet,” the SOF statement read. The attack, codenamed "Crab Trap," was meticulously planned to coincide with a meeting of senior Russian Navy officials, resulting in numerous casualties, including high-ranking members of the fleet, as per the statement. A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by a Ukrainian missile in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv. Also Read | US-China tensions: Record number of graduates returning to China from abroad The SOF through a Telegram statement said, “We are moving further!” While the SOF hinted at the audacious nature of the operation, specific details regarding the attack have not been disclosed at this time. Russia's response Russia's Ministry of Defence has acknowledged that a Russian soldier is missing following the missile attack, but they have not provided any further details or confirmed casualties among the Black Sea Fleet. In response to the attack, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the governor of Sevastopol, a city on the peninsula, confirmed the strike on the Black Sea Fleet headquarters and cautioned the public about the possibility of additional Ukrainian aerial attacks. Also Read | Bob Menendez resigns as US Senate foreign relations head over charges of pocketing bribes in gold bars, cash He urged residents to remain cautious, stay indoors, and seek shelter in the event of a siren indicating an imminent threat near the fleet headquarters. "Attention everyone! Another attack is possible. Please do not go to the city centre. Do not leave buildings. Everyone who is near the headquarters of the fleet -- at the sound of the siren, proceed to shelters," said Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media. Cyber attacks The peninsula further faced a cyber attack after its internet providers were attacked, said a proxy official from Crimea's Russian-backed administration on Friday. Watch | Dossier: Nijjar was associated with banned terrorist organisations × "Unprecedented cyberattack on Crimean internet providers. We are fixing internet outages on the peninsula. All services are working to eliminate the threat," stated Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Moscow-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov. (Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Russian senior leadership among dead, injured in Black Sea fleet headquarters strike: Ukraine

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<p>Russia on Thursday&nbsp;(September 21) morning claimed it had destroyed 19 Ukrainian drones overnight above the Crimean peninsula and the surrounding Black Sea, plus three others elsewhere.</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry released a statement on Telegram saying the anti-aircraft units sprung into action upon observing the drones and shot them instantly.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the night from 20th to 21st September, an attempt by the Kyiv regime to commit a terrorist attack with lethal drones on sites in the Russian Federation was intercepted," the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Air defence systems destroyed 19 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over the Black Sea and the territory of the Republic of Crimea, and one each over the territories of Kursk, Belgorod and Oryol regions," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry, however, did not specify whether there&nbsp;was any damage or any civilian casualties. Kyiv rarely takes responsibility for the drone attacks and it had not commented on the Russian claims till the last update.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-budget-drones-in-ukraine-are-redefining-warfare-616102"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Drone warfare&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While both sides have engaged in numerous drone attacks since the war first broke out in February last year, the intensity has increased in recent months.</p>

<p>Experts say the cancellation of the Black Sea grain deal by Moscow may have added more bitterness to both sides. Since the cancellation, Moscow has been hitting Ukrainian port cities while Kyiv targets Moscow, Crimean peninsula and border areas using drones.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-thwarts-ukrainian-drone-attacks-near-moscow-two-airports-affected-627472"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russia thwarts Ukrainian drone attacks near Moscow, two airports affected</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, Crimea, the site of one of the drone attacks on Thursday, was annexed by Russia in 2014 and has been Ukraine's target throughout Moscow's offensive. However, in recent weeks, it has come under more increased, intense attacks. Kyiv has repeatedly stated that it plans on taking Crimea back.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

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Russia on Thursday (September 21) morning claimed it had destroyed 19 Ukrainian drones overnight above the Crimean peninsula and the surrounding Black Sea, plus three others elsewhere.

Russia on Thursday (September 21) morning claimed it had destroyed 19 Ukrainian drones overnight above the Crimean peninsula and the surrounding Black Sea, plus three others elsewhere. The Russian defence ministry released a statement on Telegram saying the anti-aircraft units sprung into action upon observing the drones and shot them instantly. "In the night from 20th to 21st September, an attempt by the Kyiv regime to commit a terrorist attack with lethal drones on sites in the Russian Federation was intercepted," the ministry said. "Air defence systems destroyed 19 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over the Black Sea and the territory of the Republic of Crimea, and one each over the territories of Kursk, Belgorod and Oryol regions," it added. The ministry, however, did not specify whether there was any damage or any civilian casualties. Kyiv rarely takes responsibility for the drone attacks and it had not commented on the Russian claims till the last update. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare × Drone warfare While both sides have engaged in numerous drone attacks since the war first broke out in February last year, the intensity has increased in recent months. Experts say the cancellation of the Black Sea grain deal by Moscow may have added more bitterness to both sides. Since the cancellation, Moscow has been hitting Ukrainian port cities while Kyiv targets Moscow, Crimean peninsula and border areas using drones. Also read | Russia thwarts Ukrainian drone attacks near Moscow, two airports affected Notably, Crimea, the site of one of the drone attacks on Thursday, was annexed by Russia in 2014 and has been Ukraine's target throughout Moscow's offensive. However, in recent weeks, it has come under more increased, intense attacks. Kyiv has repeatedly stated that it plans on taking Crimea back. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea

<p>Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.'</p>

<p>"The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.</p>

<p>He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt.</p>

<p>Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine.</p>

<p>Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine: A major producer of grain</strong></h2>

<p>However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports.</p>

<p>Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports&nbsp;wheat, corn, and barley.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-sacks-six-deputy-defence-ministers-after-new-ministers-appointment-637378">Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment</a></p>

<p>Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/freed-american-calls-on-biden-to-end-irans-vile-path-of-keeping-foreigners-imprisoned-637533">Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned</a></p>

<p>According to statistics&nbsp;by the US Department of Agriculture,&nbsp;Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine drowns Russian drones</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage.</p>

<p>"A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media.</p>

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Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media.

Ukraine flagged off a vessel carrying grains from the Black Sea port, defying Russian threats of treating civilian vessels as 'potential military targets.' "The vessel Resilient Africa with 3,000 tonnes of wheat has left the port of Chornomorsk and is heading towards the Bosphorus," Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kurakov said on social media. He said that the ship had also entered the Ukrainian port several weeks earlier through the newly-established corridor, alongside one other vessel that would soon depart for Egypt. Russia had warned of action after it unilaterally pulled out of an agreement in July that had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to allow maritime exports from Ukraine. Since then, Kyiv created a naval corridor that several cargo ships have used. It mainly transports vessels through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe. Ukraine: A major producer of grain However, due to this, the transport costs have shot up, with some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports. Ukraine is one of the world's major grain producers and mainly grows and exports wheat, corn, and barley. Also read | Ukraine sacks six deputy defence ministers after new minister’s appointment Ukraine accounts for 10 per cent of the world wheat market, 15 per cent of the corn market, and 13 per cent of the barley market. With more than 50 % per cent of world trade, it is also the main player in the sunflower oil market, according to the European Commission. Also read | Freed American calls on Biden to end Iran’s ‘vile path’ of keeping foreigners imprisoned According to statistics by the US Department of Agriculture, Ukraine was the world's seventh-largest producer of wheat in 2021/22 with 33 million tonnes. Ukraine drowns Russian drones Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday said that its air defence systems downed 27 Shahed drones launched overnight in Russia's latest aerial barrage. "A total of 30 attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were launched... As a result of combat work, 27 Shaheds were shot down by air defence units," the Ukrainian air force said on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine defies Russian threat, sets off grain vessel from Black Sea port

Two cargo ships are en-route Ukraine through a 'humanitarian corridor'. These are the first ships to do so since the Black Sea deal collapsed in July this year.

'Humanitarian corridor' in Black Sea: First Cargo ships sail to Ukraine after Grain Deal collapse

<p>During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the European Union reprimanded Russia, on Saturday (September 9) for pulling out of the Black Sea grain deal, which provided a safe passage for Ukraine to export its grain and called its offer of a million tonnes of grain to African countries a “parody of generosity”. Separately, Russia said it was sticking to its conditions to return to the grain deal which it quit back in July.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Parody of generosity’</strong></h2>

<p>During the talks in New Delhi, the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, said that the United Nations-Turkey brokered deal, which allowed the delivery of Ukrainian grain to vulnerable countries was 30 times more in volume than what Russia has offered to Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And what cynicism...you did not accept this,” Michel said in comments directed to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov who is representing Moscow at the summit.</p>

<p>“Not only have you decided to pull out of this agreement on the Black Sea, but at the same time you are attacking the port infrastructure,” said the European Council president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraine-war-g20-leaders-call-for-upholding-territorial-integrity-sovereignty-634125">Ukraine war: G20 leaders call for upholding territorial integrity, sovereignty of nations&nbsp;&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>“To add insult to injury, Russia is offering 1 million tons of grain to African countries in a parody of generosity,” said Michel, adding, “What cynicism and contempt for African countries.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, G20 leaders in the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration called for the “full, timely and effective implementation to ensure the immediate and unimpeded deliveries of grain, foodstuffs, and fertilisers/inputs from the Russian Federation and Ukraine.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adding that it is “necessary to meet the demand in developing and least developed countries, particularly those in Africa.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia rejects UN bank proposal</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Saturday, said that Russia is sticking to its demands to rejoin the grain deal and rejected the UN’s proposal that a Luxembourg-based subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank could immediately apply to SWIFT to “effectively enable access” for the bank within 30 days.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637">Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now?</a></strong></p>

<p>“All our conditions are perfectly well known. They do not need interpretation, they are absolutely concrete and all this is absolutely achievable,” said Peskov. “Therefore Russia maintains its responsible, clear and consistent position, which has been repeatedly voiced by the president,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement comes months after Russia backed out of the Black Sea grain deal saying Western sanctions are hindering its grain and fertiliser exports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the exports are not directly sanctioned by the West, it is sanctions against port access, insurance, logistics and payments, including the removal of agricultural bank Rosselkhozbank from SWIFT, which Moscow says is affecting its export.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The agreements say that SWIFT should be open to Rosselkhozbank, and not to its subsidiary. That is, we are talking about the need to return to the basics, to the agreements that were in place originally and which we were promised would be fulfilled,” said Peskov.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the European Union reprimanded Russia, on Saturday (September 9) for pulling out of the Black Sea grain deal, which provided a safe passage for Ukraine to export its grain and called its offer of a million tonnes of grain to African countries a “parody of generosity”.

During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the European Union reprimanded Russia, on Saturday (September 9) for pulling out of the Black Sea grain deal, which provided a safe passage for Ukraine to export its grain and called its offer of a million tonnes of grain to African countries a “parody of generosity”. Separately, Russia said it was sticking to its conditions to return to the grain deal which it quit back in July. ‘Parody of generosity’ During the talks in New Delhi, the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, said that the United Nations-Turkey brokered deal, which allowed the delivery of Ukrainian grain to vulnerable countries was 30 times more in volume than what Russia has offered to Africa. “And what cynicism...you did not accept this,” Michel said in comments directed to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov who is representing Moscow at the summit. “Not only have you decided to pull out of this agreement on the Black Sea, but at the same time you are attacking the port infrastructure,” said the European Council president. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: G20 leaders call for upholding territorial integrity, sovereignty of nations “To add insult to injury, Russia is offering 1 million tons of grain to African countries in a parody of generosity,” said Michel, adding, “What cynicism and contempt for African countries.” Meanwhile, G20 leaders in the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration called for the “full, timely and effective implementation to ensure the immediate and unimpeded deliveries of grain, foodstuffs, and fertilisers/inputs from the Russian Federation and Ukraine.” Adding that it is “necessary to meet the demand in developing and least developed countries, particularly those in Africa.” Russia rejects UN bank proposal Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, on Saturday, said that Russia is sticking to its demands to rejoin the grain deal and rejected the UN’s proposal that a Luxembourg-based subsidiary of Rosselkhozbank could immediately apply to SWIFT to “effectively enable access” for the bank within 30 days. ALSO READ | Explained | Russia formally backs out of Black Sea grain deal. What happens now? “All our conditions are perfectly well known. They do not need interpretation, they are absolutely concrete and all this is absolutely achievable,” said Peskov. “Therefore Russia maintains its responsible, clear and consistent position, which has been repeatedly voiced by the president,” he added. The statement comes months after Russia backed out of the Black Sea grain deal saying Western sanctions are hindering its grain and fertiliser exports. While the exports are not directly sanctioned by the West, it is sanctions against port access, insurance, logistics and payments, including the removal of agricultural bank Rosselkhozbank from SWIFT, which Moscow says is affecting its export. “The agreements say that SWIFT should be open to Rosselkhozbank, and not to its subsidiary. That is, we are talking about the need to return to the basics, to the agreements that were in place originally and which we were promised would be fulfilled,” said Peskov. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Parody of generosity’: At G20 Summit, EU criticises Russia for pulling out of Black Sea grain deal

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said on social media: "Ukraine has just made an important step toward restoring the freedom of navigation in the Black Sea."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The first civilian vessel has passed through Ukraine's new humanitarian corridor, departing from the port of Odesa," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Russia suspended a Turkey and UN-brokered grain deal. It reiterated that it would return to the agreement "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to Russia" contained within it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-says-russian-terrorist-attacks-on-ukraine-a-threat-to-global-food-security-626222">Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Now food security has again become a central issue of global concern as the grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said that the Hong Kong-flagged Joseph Schulte left Wednesday morning from the port of Odesa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The first vessel is moving along the temporary corridors established for civilian vessels to and from Black Sea ports," he said.</p>

<p>Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-ukrainian-captives-claim-they-were-brutally-tortured-by-russia-626049">Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russian strike on Ukrainian ports</strong></h2>

<p>After Russia exited from the accord in July, it stepped up attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea port infrastructure and facilities Kyiv uses to export grain through the Danube River.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised address, Zelensky said there have now been seven "massive Russian attacks" after Moscow launched another strike, hitting Ukrainian ports overnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households. No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US working to identify alternatives</strong></h2>

<p>The United States on Wednesday said it was working with partners to identify alternative options to ensure Ukrainian grain exports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (August 16) hailed the departure of the first cargo ship to Ukraine's southern port of Odesa, which happened despite Russian warnings that its navy could target ships utilising the Black Sea export hubs. Zelensky said on social media: "Ukraine has just made an important step toward restoring the freedom of navigation in the Black Sea." "The first civilian vessel has passed through Ukraine's new humanitarian corridor, departing from the port of Odesa," he added. Last month, Russia suspended a Turkey and UN-brokered grain deal. It reiterated that it would return to the agreement "as soon as the West actually fulfils all the obligations to Russia" contained within it. Also read: Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian 'terrorist' attacks on Ukraine a threat to 'global food security' Now food security has again become a central issue of global concern as the grain deal allowed Ukraine to export food through the Black Sea in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year on February 24. Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said that the Hong Kong-flagged Joseph Schulte left Wednesday morning from the port of Odesa. "The first vessel is moving along the temporary corridors established for civilian vessels to and from Black Sea ports," he said. Ukraine is known as the "breadbasket" to many countries as it is one of the world's biggest suppliers of sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat. However, the suspension of the grain deal caused severe effects on international food markets, with wheat prices rising sharply. Also read: Former Ukrainian captives claim they were brutally tortured by Russia × Russian strike on Ukrainian ports After Russia exited from the accord in July, it stepped up attacks on Ukraine's Black Sea port infrastructure and facilities Kyiv uses to export grain through the Danube River. In a televised address, Zelensky said there have now been seven "massive Russian attacks" after Moscow launched another strike, hitting Ukrainian ports overnight. He said, "Basic things that provide a normal life to every society – it is food on the tables in households. No other terrorist in the world, apart from Russia, has ever so openly and intentionally targeted the security of so many nations at once." US working to identify alternatives The United States on Wednesday said it was working with partners to identify alternative options to ensure Ukrainian grain exports. "The United States ... calls for Russia to immediately return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative," State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a briefing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky hails first cargo ship in Black Sea since end of grain deal

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