Russian missiles struck a city in central Ukraine. The strike killed 21 people and wounded about 90 more. Ukrainian president Zelensky called it 'an act of terrorism'.

Russian rockets hit central Ukraine, Zelensky call it 'an act of terrorism'

Ukrainian war continues to rage on for the fifth month. Fighting has been intensifying in the eastern Ukraine. Donetsk experienced the heaviest barrage that killed 6 people and wounded 21.

Ukraine War: Residents of Donetsk region flee due to continuous shelling

In a latest update on Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russia has claimed that it has taken control of Ukraine's eastern Luhansk region. However, Ukraine did not confirm Russia's control over Luhansk.

Russia claims 'full control' over Luhansk region

As per the reports, at least 3 people were killed and dozens of buildings damaged in the Russian city of Belgorod. Russia claimed that Ukraine has targeted citizens in Belgorod.

Ukraine hits Russian base in South, blasts kill 3 in Russian city of Belgorod

It has been several months since the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on. Scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Now, Ukraine said Moscow is attacking civilians in Kharkiv.

Russia-Ukraine war: 'Moscow attacking civilians in Kharkiv,' says Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine war has divided the world and NATO chief said that full-scale war can be super destructive. Meanwhile, Belarusian president asked Russia to be ready to use nukes. Is world heading to another cold war?

'Russia should be ready to use nukes,' says Belarusian President Lukashenko

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Nuke tensions have heightened after Belarusian president asked Russia to be ready to use nukes. Is world heading to another cold war?

Fallout of the Russia-Ukraine war: Possible threat of a cold war looming large?

A shepherd is staying in Ukrainian city Sloviansk despite shelling. Valentyna Gakova has refused to abandon her goats. Meanwhile, military base in Ukrainian wheat field has destroyed crops.

Shepherd remains in Ukrainian city Sloviansk despite shelling

It has been more than 100 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. At least 6 people were wounded and 1 died after the strikes.

Russian strikes hit Kyiv, Moscow steps up air strikes on Ukraine

It has been more than 100 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Recently, Russian forces have attacked two biggest cities of Ukraine.

Battle for Eastern Ukraine: Russia attacks Ukraine's two biggest cities

Mayor of Severodonetsk, Oleksandr Stryuk said, the Russians have fully occupied Severodonetsk, our military has retreated to more prepared positions.

Russia takes control of Severodonetsk | Ukraine vows to continue fighting

Oleksandr Stryuk, mayor of Severodonetsk said, the Russians have fully occupied Severodonetsk, our military has retreated to more prepared positions.

Russia takes control of Severodonetsk, Ukraine vows to continue fighting

Russian president Vladimir Putin has now offered his Belarusian counterpart 'missile systems' that are capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The Kremlin has offered Iskander-M missile systems which can use ballistic or cruise missile.

Ukraine war: Moscow to send Iskander-M missile systems to Belarus

It has been more than 100 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on. Scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Fight for Severodonetsk in Eastern Ukraine has intensified.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Fight for Severodonetsk in Eastern Ukraine intensifies

Russian media outlets broadcast images and videos of what they said were two US citizens captured while fighting for Ukraine. Video shows US nationals saying 'I am against War'.

Russian media releases videos of two US nationals captured by Russian forces

Due to Russian invasion of Ukraine, 1000 companies left Russia as per reports. However, some companies continue to remain despite sanctions.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Report: 1000 companies have quit Russia

Russia, supported by Belarus, Central African Republic, Kyrgyzstan and Mali, has torpedoed a Western-backed proposal to discuss whether its diamonds are funding war ahead of an international conflict diamond meeting in Botswana, letters seen by Reuters show.

The rift in the Kimberley Process (KP), which certifies rough diamond exports, risks paralyzing the body which makes decisions by consensus.

The letters, which have not been previously reported, show a dispute over a proposal by Ukraine, the European Union, Australia, Britain, Canada, and the United States to discuss&nbsp;Russia's invasion of Ukraine and whether to broaden the KP's definition of conflict diamonds to include state actors at its June 20 - 24 meeting in Botswana.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-howitzers-among-other-nato-weapons-destroyed-in-western-ukraine-488535">Russia: Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny moved to 'strict-regime' penal colony</a>

The United States and Britain have already placed sanctions on&nbsp;Russia's Alrosa, the world's largest producer of rough diamonds, which accounted for around 30% of global output last year, and is partly state-owned.

A draft agenda dated May 20 included an hour-long slot to discuss the issue, but the item was removed after objections from&nbsp;Russia, Belarus, Central African Republic (CAR), Kyrgyzstan, and Mali. "We find ourselves at an impasse," Botswana's KP chair Jacob Thamage told participants, who include 85 nations, industry representatives, and civil society organisations in a June 9 letter urging them to find common ground.

The KP defines conflict diamonds as gems used to fund rebel movements seeking to undermine legitimate governments.

Officially labelling&nbsp;Russian diamonds "conflict diamonds" would require widening the definition. The KP Civil Society Coalition has been calling&nbsp;for such a change for years, along with some KP member countries.

The certification scheme, designed to eliminate the trade in so-called "blood diamonds", was set up in 2003 in the wake of devastating civil wars in Angola, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, which were largely financed by the illicit diamond trade.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia conflict: EU leaders take night train to Kyiv

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Russia's KP delegate said in a May 20 letter that the situation in Ukraine has "no implications" for the Kimberley Process and is "absolutely beyond the scope" of its certification scheme. Belarus, CAR, Kyrgyzstan and Mali all similarly argued that the proposal was "political" or outside the scope of the KP, and that its inclusion on the agenda was inappropriate.

All four countries have backed&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in recent United Nations General Assembly votes. War-torn CAR is the only country in the world currently under a partial KP embargo for rough diamond exports.&nbsp;Russia, with which it has close trade and security ties, has worked to lift those restrictions.

Mali also has close ties with&nbsp;Russia. Hundreds of&nbsp;Russian military contractors have deployed there since the beginning of this year to help the government fight insurgents.

"If the Kimberley Process is to be a credible guarantor that diamonds exported with a KP certificate are actually conflict-free, it cannot refuse to consider the valid questions that have been raised about whether rough diamonds exported by&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;are financing its invasion of Ukraine," Canada's Ioanna Sahas Martin wrote to the KP chair earlier this month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-howitzers-among-other-nato-weapons-destroyed-in-western-ukraine-488535">Russia says howitzers among other NATO weapons destroyed in western Ukraine</a>

In a letter to the chair on Monday, Ukraine KP representative Andrii Tkalenko proposed two amendments to the certification scheme: To widen the definition to include government actors, and to allow KP countries, by a majority vote, to expel a country that infringes on another KP member's sovereignty.

Britain, the European Union and the United States also said&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;should step down from the KP committees it currently chairs.

&nbsp;"Inaction would undermine the credibility and integrity of the Kimberley Process not only as a conflict prevention mechanism but also as a trade regulation mechanism," the European Commission's Marika Lautso-Mousnier said in a letter

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Russia, supported by Belarus, Central African Republic, Kyrgyzstan and Mali, has torpedoed a Western-backed proposal to discuss whether its diamonds are funding war ahead of an international conflict diamond meeting in Botswana, letters seen by Reuters show.

Russia, supported by Belarus, Central African Republic, Kyrgyzstan and Mali, has torpedoed a Western-backed proposal to discuss whether its diamonds are funding war ahead of an international conflict diamond meeting in Botswana, letters seen by Reuters show. The rift in the Kimberley Process (KP), which certifies rough diamond exports, risks paralyzing the body which makes decisions by consensus. The letters, which have not been previously reported, show a dispute over a proposal by Ukraine, the European Union, Australia, Britain, Canada, and the United States to discuss Russia's invasion of Ukraine and whether to broaden the KP's definition of conflict diamonds to include state actors at its June 20 - 24 meeting in Botswana. Also read | Russia: Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny moved to 'strict-regime' penal colony The United States and Britain have already placed sanctions on Russia's Alrosa, the world's largest producer of rough diamonds, which accounted for around 30% of global output last year, and is partly state-owned. A draft agenda dated May 20 included an hour-long slot to discuss the issue, but the item was removed after objections from Russia, Belarus, Central African Republic (CAR), Kyrgyzstan, and Mali. "We find ourselves at an impasse," Botswana's KP chair Jacob Thamage told participants, who include 85 nations, industry representatives, and civil society organisations in a June 9 letter urging them to find common ground. The KP defines conflict diamonds as gems used to fund rebel movements seeking to undermine legitimate governments. Officially labelling Russian diamonds "conflict diamonds" would require widening the definition. The KP Civil Society Coalition has been calling for such a change for years, along with some KP member countries. The certification scheme, designed to eliminate the trade in so-called "blood diamonds", was set up in 2003 in the wake of devastating civil wars in Angola, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, which were largely financed by the illicit diamond trade. Watch | Ukraine-Russia conflict: EU leaders take night train to Kyiv Russia's KP delegate said in a May 20 letter that the situation in Ukraine has "no implications" for the Kimberley Process and is "absolutely beyond the scope" of its certification scheme. Belarus, CAR, Kyrgyzstan and Mali all similarly argued that the proposal was "political" or outside the scope of the KP, and that its inclusion on the agenda was inappropriate. All four countries have backed Russia in recent United Nations General Assembly votes. War-torn CAR is the only country in the world currently under a partial KP embargo for rough diamond exports. Russia, with which it has close trade and security ties, has worked to lift those restrictions. Mali also has close ties with Russia. Hundreds of Russian military contractors have deployed there since the beginning of this year to help the government fight insurgents. "If the Kimberley Process is to be a credible guarantor that diamonds exported with a KP certificate are actually conflict-free, it cannot refuse to consider the valid questions that have been raised about whether rough diamonds exported by Russia are financing its invasion of Ukraine," Canada's Ioanna Sahas Martin wrote to the KP chair earlier this month. Also read | Russia says howitzers among other NATO weapons destroyed in western Ukraine In a letter to the chair on Monday, Ukraine KP representative Andrii Tkalenko proposed two amendments to the certification scheme: To widen the definition to include government actors, and to allow KP countries, by a majority vote, to expel a country that infringes on another KP member's sovereignty. Britain, the European Union and the United States also said Russia should step down from the KP committees it currently chairs. "Inaction would undermine the credibility and integrity of the Kimberley Process not only as a conflict prevention mechanism but also as a trade regulation mechanism," the European Commission's Marika Lautso-Mousnier said in a letter 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.

Top producer Russia thwarts move to redefine 'conflict diamonds'

Ukrainian troops are locked in fierce street battles with Russian forces in the key city of Severodonetsk, the region's governor says Ukrainian troops might have to pull back to stronger positions.

Battle for Severodonetsk: Russia intensifies fight for Eastern Ukraine

Egyptian ambassador to India Wael Hamed has dismissed reports of Indian wheat being infected with pests even as the country receives its first consignments.

Speaking to WION, ambassador Hamed said, "These are miscommunicated reports... Egypt, as a big wheat importer, stands by its deals, provided they observe the requirements and have undergone the inspection procedures agreed with India as the exporting country."

In April, Egypt gave a go-ahead to import wheat from India. That month, officials from Egypt’s Agriculture Quarantine and Pest Risk Analysis department visited various processing units, port facilities and farms in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab.

It is pertinent to mention that the north African country is one of the largest importers of wheat in the world and has a major say in global wheat prices with its import capacity.

The envoy explained that the "consignments not intended for Egypt are simply that... not intended for Egypt. On the other hand, consignments intended for Egypt cannot possibly have pests since the inspections take place before loading the cargo ships.”

Egypt has been traditionally importing wheat from Russia and Ukraine. But this has been impacted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, chocking the supplies.

New markets, especially India, are being looked into internationally. India is one of the largest producers of wheat globally and has got requests from over 20 countries as the prices of the food commodity increase.

Last financial year, India exported 7 million tonnes of wheat. Amid the heatwave and inflation, New Delhi put a ban on the export of wheat. But it has allowed government-to-government transactions.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said, "We are not going to give speculators an open access to the Indian market so that Indian customers and the least developed nations of the world are at the short end.”

He highlighted that India’s aim is to prevent a "diversion to high-income countries because what we saw happening to vaccines, we don't want to see happen with wheat—wherein which rich people were vaccinated, and the poor left out."

India has exported wheat to 23 countries this year.

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Egyptian ambassador to India Wael Hamed has dismissed reports of Indian wheat being infected with pests even as the country receives its first consignments. Speaking to WION, ambassador Hamed said, "These are miscommunicated reports.

Egyptian ambassador to India Wael Hamed has dismissed reports of Indian wheat being infected with pests even as the country receives its first consignments. Speaking to WION, ambassador Hamed said, "These are miscommunicated reports... Egypt, as a big wheat importer, stands by its deals, provided they observe the requirements and have undergone the inspection procedures agreed with India as the exporting country." In April, Egypt gave a go-ahead to import wheat from India. That month, officials from Egypt’s Agriculture Quarantine and Pest Risk Analysis department visited various processing units, port facilities and farms in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab. It is pertinent to mention that the north African country is one of the largest importers of wheat in the world and has a major say in global wheat prices with its import capacity. The envoy explained that the "consignments not intended for Egypt are simply that... not intended for Egypt. On the other hand, consignments intended for Egypt cannot possibly have pests since the inspections take place before loading the cargo ships.” Egypt has been traditionally importing wheat from Russia and Ukraine. But this has been impacted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, chocking the supplies. New markets, especially India, are being looked into internationally. India is one of the largest producers of wheat globally and has got requests from over 20 countries as the prices of the food commodity increase. Last financial year, India exported 7 million tonnes of wheat. Amid the heatwave and inflation, New Delhi put a ban on the export of wheat. But it has allowed government-to-government transactions. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said, "We are not going to give speculators an open access to the Indian market so that Indian customers and the least developed nations of the world are at the short end.” He highlighted that India’s aim is to prevent a "diversion to high-income countries because what we saw happening to vaccines, we don't want to see happen with wheat—wherein which rich people were vaccinated, and the poor left out." India has exported wheat to 23 countries this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Egypt envoy Hamed dismisses reports of Indian wheat being infected with pests

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday blamed recent protests in Iran on foreign “enemies” seeking to overthrow the government in the Islamic Republic.

Also, he said, enemies were waging a “psychological war” against Iran by accusing it of piracy for seizing two Greek ships after the United States confiscated Iranian oil from a tanker.

"Today, the enemies’ most important hope for striking a blow at the country is based on popular protests,” Khamenei said, referring to week-long protests over the collapse of a building in southwestern Iran last month that killed 37 people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-foreign-minister-hossein-amir-abdollahian-to-visit-india-next-week-484825">Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian to visit India next week</a>

"But the enemies’ calculation is as wrong as many earlier ones," he said in a televised speech on the 33rd anniversary of the death of the leader of Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Authorities have blamed the collapse of the 10-storey residential and commercial building in Abadan on local corruption and lax safety and say 13 people, including mayors and other officials, have so far been arrested for construction violations.

Watch |&nbsp;Iran unveils underground drone base after recent strike

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Protesters, however, say the disaster stemmed from government negligence and entrenched graft and have chanted slogans against officials, including Khamenei.

Iran residents have reported disrupted internet services, an apparent attempt to stop the use of social media to organise rallies and disseminate videos. Authorities have warned people to follow just official media and eschew "rumours" from social media.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-back-iaea-resolution-in-spite-of-iranian-resistance-484566">US to back IAEA resolution in spite of Iranian resistance</a>

The United States, which has imposed tough sanctions on Iran, confiscated the Iranian oil cargo on the Iranian-flagged Pegas that Greece impounded off its coast in April. Tehran retaliated by seizing two Greek ships on May 27.

But, Khamenei said, world media accuse Iran of piracy. “Who is the pirate here? You stole our oil. We took it back from you. Taking back a stolen good is no theft."

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Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday blamed recent protests in Iran on foreign “enemies” seeking to overthrow the government in the Islamic Republic.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday blamed recent protests in Iran on foreign “enemies” seeking to overthrow the government in the Islamic Republic. Also, he said, enemies were waging a “psychological war” against Iran by accusing it of piracy for seizing two Greek ships after the United States confiscated Iranian oil from a tanker. "Today, the enemies’ most important hope for striking a blow at the country is based on popular protests,” Khamenei said, referring to week-long protests over the collapse of a building in southwestern Iran last month that killed 37 people. Also read | Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian to visit India next week "But the enemies’ calculation is as wrong as many earlier ones," he said in a televised speech on the 33rd anniversary of the death of the leader of Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Authorities have blamed the collapse of the 10-storey residential and commercial building in Abadan on local corruption and lax safety and say 13 people, including mayors and other officials, have so far been arrested for construction violations. Watch | Iran unveils underground drone base after recent strike Protesters, however, say the disaster stemmed from government negligence and entrenched graft and have chanted slogans against officials, including Khamenei. Iran residents have reported disrupted internet services, an apparent attempt to stop the use of social media to organise rallies and disseminate videos. Authorities have warned people to follow just official media and eschew "rumours" from social media. Also read | US to back IAEA resolution in spite of Iranian resistance The United States, which has imposed tough sanctions on Iran, confiscated the Iranian oil cargo on the Iranian-flagged Pegas that Greece impounded off its coast in April. Tehran retaliated by seizing two Greek ships on May 27. But, Khamenei said, world media accuse Iran of piracy. “Who is the pirate here? You stole our oil. We took it back from you. Taking back a stolen good is no theft." 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.

'Enemies' triggering unrest in Iran to overthrow Islamic Republic: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

The Russia-Ukraine war entered 100 days on June 3, 2022. Russian troops entered Ukrainian territory on February 24 this year. Troops from both sides have been engaged in fighting since. People have died, buildings destroyed and the war has had an economic impact. How has the war affected Russia and Ukraine?

100 days of Ukraine-Russia war: Cost of conflict, what is affected?

Yemen's&nbsp;warring&nbsp;parties&nbsp;have agreed to&nbsp;renew&nbsp;a&nbsp;two-month&nbsp;truce, the United Nations said Thursday, in an 11th-hour move on the day it was set to expire.&nbsp;"I would like to announce that the&nbsp;parties&nbsp;to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to&nbsp;renew&nbsp;the current truce in Yemen&nbsp;for two additional months," the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;special envoy on&nbsp;Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in a statement.&nbsp;"The extension of the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;comes into effect when the current&nbsp;truce&nbsp;period expires, today 2 June 2022 at 19:00&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;time (1600 GMT)."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-president-steps-aside-amid-efforts-to-end-war-469131">Yemen's president steps aside amid efforts to end war</a>

Yemen&nbsp;has been gripped by conflict since the Iran-backed Huthi rebels took control of the capital Sanaa in 2014, triggering a Saudi-led military intervention in support of the beleaguered government the following year.

Grundberg added the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;was extended under the same terms as the previous one.

Aid groups in&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;have touted the benefits of the&nbsp;truce, which went into effect in April.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post: Is the Yemen war coming to an end?

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Beyond opening Sanaa airport to some commercial flights –- a lifeline to Yemenis needing medical care abroad –- the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;has allowed oil tankers to dock in the rebel-held port of Hodeida, potentially easing fuel shortages in Sanaa and elsewhere.&nbsp;

But a provision for the rebels to ease their siege of&nbsp;Yemen's third-largest city Taez has yet to be implemented, to the anger of the government which is demanding roads to the city be opened.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the rebels have called on the government to pay the salaries of public sector employees working in areas under their control.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-agree-two-month-truce-in-major-breakthrough-467528">Yemen's warring parties agree two-month truce in major breakthrough</a>

"In order for the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;to fully deliver on its potential, additional steps will need to be taken, particularly on the matters of road openings and commercial flight operations," Grundberg said.

"I will continue engaging with the&nbsp;parties&nbsp;to implement and consolidate all elements of the&nbsp;truce&nbsp;in full, and move towards a sustainable political settlement to the conflict that meets the legitimate aspirations and demands of Yemeni women and men."

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Yemen's warring parties have agreed to renew a two-month truce, the United Nations said Thursday, in an 11th-hour move on the day it was set to expire. "I would like to announce that the parties to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to renew the current truce in Yemen for two additional months," the UN special envoy on Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in a statement.

Yemen's warring parties have agreed to renew a two-month truce, the United Nations said Thursday, in an 11th-hour move on the day it was set to expire. "I would like to announce that the parties to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to renew the current truce in Yemen for two additional months," the UN special envoy on Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in a statement. "The extension of the truce comes into effect when the current truce period expires, today 2 June 2022 at 19:00 Yemen time (1600 GMT)." Also read | Yemen's president steps aside amid efforts to end war Yemen has been gripped by conflict since the Iran-backed Huthi rebels took control of the capital Sanaa in 2014, triggering a Saudi-led military intervention in support of the beleaguered government the following year. Grundberg added the truce was extended under the same terms as the previous one. Aid groups in Yemen have touted the benefits of the truce, which went into effect in April. Watch | The West Asia Post: Is the Yemen war coming to an end? Beyond opening Sanaa airport to some commercial flights –- a lifeline to Yemenis needing medical care abroad –- the truce has allowed oil tankers to dock in the rebel-held port of Hodeida, potentially easing fuel shortages in Sanaa and elsewhere. But a provision for the rebels to ease their siege of Yemen's third-largest city Taez has yet to be implemented, to the anger of the government which is demanding roads to the city be opened. Meanwhile, the rebels have called on the government to pay the salaries of public sector employees working in areas under their control. Also read | Yemen's warring parties agree two-month truce in major breakthrough "In order for the truce to fully deliver on its potential, additional steps will need to be taken, particularly on the matters of road openings and commercial flight operations," Grundberg said. "I will continue engaging with the parties to implement and consolidate all elements of the truce in full, and move towards a sustainable political settlement to the conflict that meets the legitimate aspirations and demands of Yemeni women and men." 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.

Yemen's warring parties renew two-month truce: UN

Slamming the US for its decision to send rocket systems and other sophisticated weapons to Ukraine, Russia has warned that it could widen the conflict and increase the risk of direct confrontation with Washington.

On Wednesday, the US unveiled a new $700 million package of arms and ammunition for Ukraine in a bid to prevent Russia from seizing the final swaths of land in the Donbas region. Among the arms that have been promised to send to Kyiv is High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), a multiple rocket launcher system.

The US officials had said that the systems being sent to Ukraine will allow them to launch rockets about 49 miles—far less than the systems’ maximum range but greater than anything Kyiv has been sent to date, reports CNN.

According to Reuters, Reacting sharply to the move, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, “We believe that the United States is purposefully and diligently adding fuel to the fire.”

Asked later if the US move increased the chances of a third country becoming involved in the conflict, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said, "Such risks certainly exist."

He told a news conference in Saudi Arabia, "It is a direct provocation (by Ukraine), aimed at involving the West in military action."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-expects-many-months-of-russia-ukraine-conflict-484243" hreflang="en">Antony Blinken expects 'many months' of Russia-Ukraine war</a>

However, US claimed that they were given assurances by Ukraine that the weapons systems provided by Washington won’t be used “against targets on Russian territory.”

Appearing at a joint press conference with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, “There is a strong trust bond between Ukraine and the United States, as well as with our allies and partners."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-advances-on-severodonetsk-forces-fight-on-streets-484280" hreflang="en">Russia advances on Severodonetsk, troops fight in streets</a>

But Russian Deputy Prime Minister Peskov said Moscow did not trust such assurances. He said it was assessing the risk of rockets being fired into Russian territory and was taking appropriate measures, but that it viewed Washington's step "extremely negatively."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Slamming the US for its decision to send rocket systems and other sophisticated weapons to Ukraine, Russia has warned that it could widen the conflict and increase the risk of direct confrontation with Washington.

Slamming the US for its decision to send rocket systems and other sophisticated weapons to Ukraine, Russia has warned that it could widen the conflict and increase the risk of direct confrontation with Washington. On Wednesday, the US unveiled a new $700 million package of arms and ammunition for Ukraine in a bid to prevent Russia from seizing the final swaths of land in the Donbas region. Among the arms that have been promised to send to Kyiv is High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), a multiple rocket launcher system. The US officials had said that the systems being sent to Ukraine will allow them to launch rockets about 49 miles—far less than the systems’ maximum range but greater than anything Kyiv has been sent to date, reports CNN. According to Reuters, Reacting sharply to the move, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, “We believe that the United States is purposefully and diligently adding fuel to the fire.” Asked later if the US move increased the chances of a third country becoming involved in the conflict, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said, "Such risks certainly exist." He told a news conference in Saudi Arabia, "It is a direct provocation (by Ukraine), aimed at involving the West in military action." Also read | Antony Blinken expects 'many months' of Russia-Ukraine war However, US claimed that they were given assurances by Ukraine that the weapons systems provided by Washington won’t be used “against targets on Russian territory.” Appearing at a joint press conference with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, “There is a strong trust bond between Ukraine and the United States, as well as with our allies and partners." Also read | Russia advances on Severodonetsk, troops fight in streets But Russian Deputy Prime Minister Peskov said Moscow did not trust such assurances. He said it was assessing the risk of rockets being fired into Russian territory and was taking appropriate measures, but that it viewed Washington's step "extremely negatively." (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 says US sending rocket systems to Ukraine will increase risk of direct confrontation

THE U.S. WILL HELP UKRAINE BE IN THE STRONGEST POSSIBLE POSITION AT THE NEGOTIATING TABLE. WE DO NOT WANT TO PROLONG THE WAR JUST TO INFLICT PAIN ON RUSSIA.

The invasion Vladimir Putin thought would last days is now in its fourth month. The Ukrainian people surprised Russia and inspired the world with their sacrifice, grit and battlefield success. The free world and many other nations, led by the United States, rallied to Ukraine’s side with unprecedented military, humanitarian and financial support.

As the war goes on, I want to be clear about the aims of the United States in these efforts.

America’s goal is straightforward: We want to see a democratic, independent, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine with the means to deter and defend itself against further aggression.

As President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has said, ultimately this war “will only definitively end through diplomacy.” Every negotiation reflects the facts on the ground. We have moved quickly to send Ukraine a significant amount of weaponry and ammunition so it can fight on the battlefield and be in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table.

That’s why I’ve decided that we will provide the Ukrainians with more advanced rocket systems and munitions that will enable them to more precisely strike key targets on the battlefield in Ukraine.

We will continue cooperating with our allies and partners on Russian sanctions, the toughest ever imposed on a major economy. We will continue providing Ukraine with advanced weaponry, including Javelin anti-tank missiles, Stinger antiaircraft missiles, powerful artillery and precision rocket systems, radars, unmanned aerial vehicles, Mi-17 helicopters and ammunition. We will also send&nbsp;billions more in financial assistance, as authorized by Congress. We will work with our allies and partners to address the global food crisis that Russia’s aggression is worsening. And we will help our European allies and others reduce their dependence on Russian fossil fuels, and speed our transition to a clean energy future.

We will also continue reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank with forces and capabilities from the United States and other allies. And just recently, I welcomed Finland’s and Sweden’s applications to join NATO, a move that will strengthen overall U.S. and trans-Atlantic security by adding two democratic and highly capable military partners.

We do not seek a war between NATO and Russia. As much as I disagree with Mr. Putin, and find his actions an outrage, the United States will not try to bring about his ouster in Moscow. So long as the United States or our allies are not attacked, we will not be directly engaged in this conflict, either by sending American troops to fight in Ukraine or by attacking Russian forces. We are not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders. We do not want to prolong the war just to inflict pain on Russia.

My principle throughout this crisis has been “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” I will not pressure the Ukrainian government — in private or public — to make any territorial concessions. It would be wrong and contrary to well-settled principles to do so.

Ukraine’s talks with Russia are not stalled because Ukraine has turned its back on diplomacy. They are stalled because Russia continues to wage a war to take control of as much of Ukraine as it can. The United States will continue to work to strengthen Ukraine and support its efforts to achieve a negotiated end to the conflict.

Unprovoked aggression, the bombing of maternity hospitals and centers of culture, and the forced displacement of millions of people makes the war in Ukraine a profound moral issue. I met with Ukrainian refugees in Poland — women and children who were unsure what their lives would be, and whether the loved ones who stayed behind in Ukraine would be OK. No person of conscience could be unmoved by the devastation of these horrors.

Standing by Ukraine in its hour of need is not just the right thing to do. It is in our vital national interests to ensure a peaceful and stable Europe and to make it clear that might does not make right. If Russia does not pay a heavy price for its actions, it will send a message to other would-be aggressors that they too can seize territory and subjugate other countries. It will put the survival of other peaceful democracies at risk. And it could mark the end of the rules-based international order and open the door to aggression elsewhere, with catastrophic consequences the world over.

I know many people around the world are concerned about the use of nuclear weapons. We currently see no indication that Russia has intent to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, though Russia’s occasional rhetoric to rattle the nuclear saber is itself dangerous and extremely irresponsible. Let me be clear: Any use of nuclear weapons in this conflict on any scale would be completely unacceptable to us as well as the rest of the world and would entail severe consequences.

Americans will stay the course with the Ukrainian people because we understand that freedom is not free. That’s what we have always done whenever the enemies of freedom seek to bully and oppress innocent people, and it is what we are doing now. Vladimir Putin did not expect this degree of unity or the strength of our response. He was mistaken. If he expects that we will waver or fracture in the months to come, he is equally mistaken.

THE U.S. WILL HELP UKRAINE BE IN THE STRONGEST POSSIBLE POSITION AT THE NEGOTIATING TABLE. WE DO NOT WANT TO PROLONG THE WAR JUST TO INFLICT PAIN ON RUSSIA. The invasion Vladimir Putin thought would last days is now in its fourth month.

THE U.S. WILL HELP UKRAINE BE IN THE STRONGEST POSSIBLE POSITION AT THE NEGOTIATING TABLE. WE DO NOT WANT TO PROLONG THE WAR JUST TO INFLICT PAIN ON RUSSIA. The invasion Vladimir Putin thought would last days is now in its fourth month. The Ukrainian people surprised Russia and inspired the world with their sacrifice, grit and battlefield success. The free world and many other nations, led by the United States, rallied to Ukraine’s side with unprecedented military, humanitarian and financial support. As the war goes on, I want to be clear about the aims of the United States in these efforts. America’s goal is straightforward: We want to see a democratic, independent, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine with the means to deter and defend itself against further aggression. As President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has said, ultimately this war “will only definitively end through diplomacy.” Every negotiation reflects the facts on the ground. We have moved quickly to send Ukraine a significant amount of weaponry and ammunition so it can fight on the battlefield and be in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table. That’s why I’ve decided that we will provide the Ukrainians with more advanced rocket systems and munitions that will enable them to more precisely strike key targets on the battlefield in Ukraine. We will continue cooperating with our allies and partners on Russian sanctions, the toughest ever imposed on a major economy. We will continue providing Ukraine with advanced weaponry, including Javelin anti-tank missiles, Stinger antiaircraft missiles, powerful artillery and precision rocket systems, radars, unmanned aerial vehicles, Mi-17 helicopters and ammunition. We will also send billions more in financial assistance, as authorized by Congress. We will work with our allies and partners to address the global food crisis that Russia’s aggression is worsening. And we will help our European allies and others reduce their dependence on Russian fossil fuels, and speed our transition to a clean energy future. We will also continue reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank with forces and capabilities from the United States and other allies. And just recently, I welcomed Finland’s and Sweden’s applications to join NATO, a move that will strengthen overall U.S. and trans-Atlantic security by adding two democratic and highly capable military partners. We do not seek a war between NATO and Russia. As much as I disagree with Mr. Putin, and find his actions an outrage, the United States will not try to bring about his ouster in Moscow. So long as the United States or our allies are not attacked, we will not be directly engaged in this conflict, either by sending American troops to fight in Ukraine or by attacking Russian forces. We are not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders. We do not want to prolong the war just to inflict pain on Russia. My principle throughout this crisis has been “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” I will not pressure the Ukrainian government — in private or public — to make any territorial concessions. It would be wrong and contrary to well-settled principles to do so. Ukraine’s talks with Russia are not stalled because Ukraine has turned its back on diplomacy. They are stalled because Russia continues to wage a war to take control of as much of Ukraine as it can. The United States will continue to work to strengthen Ukraine and support its efforts to achieve a negotiated end to the conflict. Unprovoked aggression, the bombing of maternity hospitals and centers of culture, and the forced displacement of millions of people makes the war in Ukraine a profound moral issue. I met with Ukrainian refugees in Poland — women and children who were unsure what their lives would be, and whether the loved ones who stayed behind in Ukraine would be OK. No person of conscience could be unmoved by the devastation of these horrors. Standing by Ukraine in its hour of need is not just the right thing to do. It is in our vital national interests to ensure a peaceful and stable Europe and to make it clear that might does not make right. If Russia does not pay a heavy price for its actions, it will send a message to other would-be aggressors that they too can seize territory and subjugate other countries. It will put the survival of other peaceful democracies at risk. And it could mark the end of the rules-based international order and open the door to aggression elsewhere, with catastrophic consequences the world over. I know many people around the world are concerned about the use of nuclear weapons. We currently see no indication that Russia has intent to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, though Russia’s occasional rhetoric to rattle the nuclear saber is itself dangerous and extremely irresponsible. Let me be clear: Any use of nuclear weapons in this conflict on any scale would be completely unacceptable to us as well as the rest of the world and would entail severe consequences. Americans will stay the course with the Ukrainian people because we understand that freedom is not free. That’s what we have always done whenever the enemies of freedom seek to bully and oppress innocent people, and it is what we are doing now. Vladimir Putin did not expect this degree of unity or the strength of our response. He was mistaken. If he expects that we will waver or fracture in the months to come, he is equally mistaken.

President Biden: What America will and will not do in Ukraine

Quebec adopted Bill 96, a new law on Tuesday, which promotes the usage of the French language in the province. This has led to turmoil between the government and the indigenous people.&nbsp;

Francois Legault, the Quebec premier, has&nbsp;said that they have taken this to protect the French language in the country. As more than half of the population of North America is speaking English, he wants the province to be encouraged to practice French, reports Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storms-kill-at-least-8-in-canada-leave-half-a-million-without-power-481427">Storms kill at least 8 in Canada, leave half a million without power</a>

But, this has become a problem for the indigenous people, as they are trying to protect their culture. It has become difficult for students who already have to study English and Kanien'kéha and then learn French to join colleges in Quebec. It will likely create problems for the immigrants, as the new law states that they need to start learning French within 6 months and report to a government official.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Canada man seen with rifle shot dead by cops, days after Texas shooting incident

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"We'll take whatever means are necessary to be sure our voice is heard,"&nbsp;Mike Delisle told Reuters. He also added that no specific decision has been taken yet.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-canada-top-court-ends-life-sentences-without-parole-for-mass-murderers-482781">In Canada,&nbsp;top court ends&nbsp;life sentences without&nbsp;parole&nbsp;for mass murderers</a>

Back in the 1970s, a separatist party was formed in the province for protecting the French language in the province. Quebec has seen raging debates about the kind of languages to be practised.&nbsp;

A supporter of the indigenous people's&nbsp;rights, Kenneth Dheer, has dubbed the measure as "re-colonisation" as he himself was forced to learn English.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Quebec adopted Bill 96, a new law on Tuesday, which promotes the usage of the French language in the province. This has led to turmoil between the government and the indigenous people.

Quebec adopted Bill 96, a new law on Tuesday, which promotes the usage of the French language in the province. This has led to turmoil between the government and the indigenous people. Francois Legault, the Quebec premier, has said that they have taken this to protect the French language in the country. As more than half of the population of North America is speaking English, he wants the province to be encouraged to practice French, reports Reuters. Also read | Storms kill at least 8 in Canada, leave half a million without power But, this has become a problem for the indigenous people, as they are trying to protect their culture. It has become difficult for students who already have to study English and Kanien'kéha and then learn French to join colleges in Quebec. It will likely create problems for the immigrants, as the new law states that they need to start learning French within 6 months and report to a government official. Watch | Canada man seen with rifle shot dead by cops, days after Texas shooting incident "We'll take whatever means are necessary to be sure our voice is heard," Mike Delisle told Reuters. He also added that no specific decision has been taken yet. Also read | In Canada, top court ends life sentences without parole for mass murderers Back in the 1970s, a separatist party was formed in the province for protecting the French language in the province. Quebec has seen raging debates about the kind of languages to be practised. A supporter of the indigenous people's rights, Kenneth Dheer, has dubbed the measure as "re-colonisation" as he himself was forced to learn English. (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.

Quebec adopts Bill 96 for promotion of French in province, faces backlash from indigenous people

Flag-waving Jewish nationalists are set to&nbsp;march&nbsp;through the heart of the Muslim quarter of&nbsp;Jerusalem's Old City on Sunday in a parade that could re-ignite violence between&nbsp;Israelis and Palestinians.

The annual&nbsp;Jerusalem&nbsp;procession celebrates Israel's capture of the Old City in the 1967 Middle East war and draws thousands of cheering, chanting participants to its narrow, stone streets.

But for Palestinians, the&nbsp;march&nbsp;is a blatant provocation and a violation of one of the few places in the city, increasingly hemmed in by Jewish development and settlement, which retains a strong Arab flavour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-for-status-quo-at-west-banks-masafer-yatta-482951">India calls for status quo at West Bank's Masafer Yatta</a>

Hamas, the Islamist group that rules the Gaza Strip, fired rockets into Israel at the start of last year's procession, triggering an 11-day war that left hundreds dead.

On Saturday, the group issued a statement calling for Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank and&nbsp;Jerusalem, along with Israel's Arab minority - who are Palestinian by heritage and&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;by citizenship - "to rise up on Sunday to defend&nbsp;Jerusalem&nbsp;and the Al-Aqsa mosque".

Watch |&nbsp;The Jerusalem Day Flag March: Israel to follow usual march route despite tensions

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Signs of turmoil were seen early in the day, as&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;police deployed near the mosque and Muslim worshippers finished morning prayers.

A police spokesperson said a small group of people had barricaded themselves inside the mosque and were throwing large rocks towards the police officers stationed outside. There were no reports of injuries.

But despite calls for a rethink of the&nbsp;march&nbsp;from some of his own coalition allies, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has refused to countenance any changes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jerusalem-bishop-condemns-police-invasion-at-journalists-funeral-479578">Jerusalem bishop condemns 'police invasion' at journalist's funeral</a>

"The&nbsp;flag&nbsp;parade will be held as usual according to the planned route, as it has been for decades," his office said on Friday, adding that it would review the situation regularly through the coming hours.

Jerusalem&nbsp;and its holy sites, revered by Muslims, Jews and Christians alike, lie at the heart of decades of&nbsp;Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Israel sees all of&nbsp;Jerusalem&nbsp;as its eternal and indivisible capital, while Palestinians want the eastern section as capital of their future state. Hamas, deemed a terrorist organisation by Western governments, sees all of modern-day Israel as occupied.

Tensions have been rising in the city for weeks.

Repeated clashes took place between Palestinians and&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;police in the Al-Aqsa compound in April, during the holy month of Ramadan, with Muslims angered by rising numbers of Jewish visitors to the mosque esplanade.

Al-Aqsa is the third holiest site in Islam. It is also revered by Jews as the Temple Mount - a vestige of their faith's two ancient temples.

Sunday's&nbsp;march&nbsp;is due to culminate at the Western Wall, a Jewish prayer site that sits below the Al-Aqsa mosques

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Flag-waving Jewish nationalists are set to march through the heart of the Muslim quarter of Jerusalem's Old City on Sunday in a parade that could re-ignite violence between Israelis and Palestinians.

Flag-waving Jewish nationalists are set to march through the heart of the Muslim quarter of Jerusalem's Old City on Sunday in a parade that could re-ignite violence between Israelis and Palestinians. The annual Jerusalem procession celebrates Israel's capture of the Old City in the 1967 Middle East war and draws thousands of cheering, chanting participants to its narrow, stone streets. But for Palestinians, the march is a blatant provocation and a violation of one of the few places in the city, increasingly hemmed in by Jewish development and settlement, which retains a strong Arab flavour. Also read | India calls for status quo at West Bank's Masafer Yatta Hamas, the Islamist group that rules the Gaza Strip, fired rockets into Israel at the start of last year's procession, triggering an 11-day war that left hundreds dead. On Saturday, the group issued a statement calling for Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem, along with Israel's Arab minority - who are Palestinian by heritage and Israeli by citizenship - "to rise up on Sunday to defend Jerusalem and the Al-Aqsa mosque". Watch | The Jerusalem Day Flag March: Israel to follow usual march route despite tensions Signs of turmoil were seen early in the day, as Israeli police deployed near the mosque and Muslim worshippers finished morning prayers. A police spokesperson said a small group of people had barricaded themselves inside the mosque and were throwing large rocks towards the police officers stationed outside. There were no reports of injuries. But despite calls for a rethink of the march from some of his own coalition allies, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has refused to countenance any changes. Also read | Jerusalem bishop condemns 'police invasion' at journalist's funeral "The flag parade will be held as usual according to the planned route, as it has been for decades," his office said on Friday, adding that it would review the situation regularly through the coming hours. Jerusalem and its holy sites, revered by Muslims, Jews and Christians alike, lie at the heart of decades of Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel sees all of Jerusalem as its eternal and indivisible capital, while Palestinians want the eastern section as capital of their future state. Hamas, deemed a terrorist organisation by Western governments, sees all of modern-day Israel as occupied. Tensions have been rising in the city for weeks. Repeated clashes took place between Palestinians and Israeli police in the Al-Aqsa compound in April, during the holy month of Ramadan, with Muslims angered by rising numbers of Jewish visitors to the mosque esplanade. Al-Aqsa is the third holiest site in Islam. It is also revered by Jews as the Temple Mount - a vestige of their faith's two ancient temples. Sunday's march is due to culminate at the Western Wall, a Jewish prayer site that sits below the Al-Aqsa mosques 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.

Jerusalem on edge before contentious Israeli flag march

Ukraine&nbsp;has started receiving Harpoon anti-ship&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;from Denmark and self-propelled&nbsp;howitzers&nbsp;from the United States,&nbsp;arms&nbsp;that will bolster forces fighting Russia's invasion, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Saturday.

"The coastal defence of our country will not only be strengthened by Harpoon&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;– they will be used by trained Ukrainian teams," Reznikov wrote on his Facebook page.

He said Harpoon shore-to-ship&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;would be operated alongside Ukrainian Neptune&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;to defend the coast, including the southern port of Odesa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-troops-may-retreat-from-luhansk-says-regions-governor-482802">Ukrainian troops may retreat from Luhansk, says region's governor</a>

Serhiy Bratchuk, a spokesman for the Odesa regional military administration in southern&nbsp;Ukraine, said in an online post that "so many Harpoons have been handed over to us that we can sink the entire Russian Black Sea Fleet. Why not?"

Last month the Moskva, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet, sank after what&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;said was an anti-ship missile attack. Moscow says a fire sparked an ammunition blast.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian invasion of Ukraine: Macron, Scholz hold talks with Putin, calls for peace talks

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After launching its invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;on Feb. 24, Russia imposed a naval blockade on Ukrainian ports, hampering vital grain exports. It has also used its Black Sea fleet to launch missile attacks.

Reznikov said&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;had also received a range of heavy artillery pieces, including modified U.\S-made M109 self-propelled&nbsp;howitzers&nbsp;that will allow the Ukrainian military to strike targets from longer distances.

Ukraine&nbsp;says it wants to secure deliveries of US-made long-range M270 multiple-rocket launchers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-zelensky-says-situation-indescribably-difficult-in-donbas-and-kharkiv-483058">Ukraine crisis: Zelensky says situation 'indescribably difficult' in Donbas and Kharkiv</a>

President Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;said&nbsp;Ukraine, working to boost weapons supplies, was approaching the point where it would outnumber the Russians technologically and in terms of its ability to strike.

"Of course, a lot depends on our partners and their readiness to provide&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;with everything necessary to protect freedom. And I expect&nbsp;good&nbsp;news&nbsp;on this next week," he said in a late-night video, without giving details.

Zelenskiy&nbsp;adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said late on Saturday that "the weapons we so desperately need will most likely be delivered soon."

Key will be a NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels in mid-June, attended by Reznikov, Arestovych said on social media television. "If the allies in the West do not delay ... then around June 20 the situation on the front will change greatly in our favour."

Russia says its forces are on a "special operation" to demilitarise&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and rid it of radical anti-Russian nationalists.&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and its allies call that a false pretext to for a war of aggression.

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Ukraine has started receiving Harpoon anti-ship missiles from Denmark and self-propelled howitzers from the United States, arms that will bolster forces fighting Russia's invasion, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Saturday.

Ukraine has started receiving Harpoon anti-ship missiles from Denmark and self-propelled howitzers from the United States, arms that will bolster forces fighting Russia's invasion, Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Saturday. "The coastal defence of our country will not only be strengthened by Harpoon missiles – they will be used by trained Ukrainian teams," Reznikov wrote on his Facebook page. He said Harpoon shore-to-ship missiles would be operated alongside Ukrainian Neptune missiles to defend the coast, including the southern port of Odesa. Also read | Ukrainian troops may retreat from Luhansk, says region's governor Serhiy Bratchuk, a spokesman for the Odesa regional military administration in southern Ukraine, said in an online post that "so many Harpoons have been handed over to us that we can sink the entire Russian Black Sea Fleet. Why not?" Last month the Moskva, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet, sank after what Ukraine said was an anti-ship missile attack. Moscow says a fire sparked an ammunition blast. Watch | Russian invasion of Ukraine: Macron, Scholz hold talks with Putin, calls for peace talks After launching its invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, Russia imposed a naval blockade on Ukrainian ports, hampering vital grain exports. It has also used its Black Sea fleet to launch missile attacks. Reznikov said Ukraine had also received a range of heavy artillery pieces, including modified U.\S-made M109 self-propelled howitzers that will allow the Ukrainian military to strike targets from longer distances. Ukraine says it wants to secure deliveries of US-made long-range M270 multiple-rocket launchers. Also read | Ukraine crisis: Zelensky says situation 'indescribably difficult' in Donbas and Kharkiv President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine, working to boost weapons supplies, was approaching the point where it would outnumber the Russians technologically and in terms of its ability to strike. "Of course, a lot depends on our partners and their readiness to provide Ukraine with everything necessary to protect freedom. And I expect good news on this next week," he said in a late-night video, without giving details. Zelenskiy adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said late on Saturday that "the weapons we so desperately need will most likely be delivered soon." Key will be a NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels in mid-June, attended by Reznikov, Arestovych said on social media television. "If the allies in the West do not delay ... then around June 20 the situation on the front will change greatly in our favour." Russia says its forces are on a "special operation" to demilitarise Ukraine and rid it of radical anti-Russian nationalists. Ukraine and its allies call that a false pretext to for a war of aggression. 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.

Ukraine get missiles, howitzers as Zelensky expects good news on arms

It has been several weeks since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Now, Russia said that Lyman is under complete control.

Ukraine under attack: Russia claims control over Lyman town

Hundreds of&nbsp;Lithuanians&nbsp;are&nbsp;clubbing&nbsp;together&nbsp;to&nbsp;buy&nbsp;an advanced military&nbsp;drone&nbsp;for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;in its war against Russia, in a show of solidarity with a fellow country formerly under Moscow's rule.

Some 3 million euros ($3.2 million) have been raised in just three days - out of the 5 million euros needed - largely in small amounts, according to Laisves TV, a Lithuanian internet broadcaster that launched the drive.

"Before this war started, none of us thought that we would be&nbsp;buying guns. But it's a normal thing now. Something must be done for the world to get better," said Agne Belickaite, 32, who sent 100 euros as soon as the fundraising launched on Wednesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-troops-may-retreat-from-luhansk-says-regions-governor-482802">Ukrainian troops may retreat from Luhansk, says region's governor</a>

"I've been donating to&nbsp;buy&nbsp;guns for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;for a while now. And will do so until the victory," she told Reuters, adding she was motivated in part by fears Russia could attack Lithuania.

The&nbsp;drone&nbsp;has proven effective in recent years against Russian forces and their allies in conflicts in Syria and Libya, and its purchase is being orchestrated by Lithuania's Ministry of Defence, which told Reuters it planned to sign a letter of intent to&nbsp;buy&nbsp;the craft from Turkey next week.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Crisis: 9 killed, dozens injured in fresh shelling in Kharkiv

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Ukraine&nbsp;has bought more than 20 Bayraktar TB2 armed&nbsp;drones from Turkish company Baykar in recent years and ordered a further 16 on Jan. 27. That batch was delivered in early March.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-pro-russian-forces-claim-to-have-captured-strategic-town-lyman-482653">Ukrainian officials say Russia-backed forces captured strategic town Lyman</a>

"This is the first case in history when ordinary people raise money to&nbsp;buy&nbsp;something like a Bayraktar. It is unprecedented, it is unbelievable," Beshta Petro,&nbsp;Ukraine's ambassador to Lithuania, told Laisves TV.

Most of the heavy weapons that NATO countries have sent to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;so far are Soviet-built arms still in the inventories of eastern European NATO member states, but some have recently started to supply Western howitzers.

"While governments of the&nbsp;world's largest countries are endlessly deliberating ... Lithuanian society simply comes&nbsp;together&nbsp;and, you know, is about to fundraise 5 million euros and&nbsp;buy&nbsp;the&nbsp;drone&nbsp;- which is an impressive message to the world," said Belickaite.

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Hundreds of Lithuanians are clubbing together to buy an advanced military drone for Ukraine in its war against Russia, in a show of solidarity with a fellow country formerly under Moscow's rule.

Hundreds of Lithuanians are clubbing together to buy an advanced military drone for Ukraine in its war against Russia, in a show of solidarity with a fellow country formerly under Moscow's rule. Some 3 million euros ($3.2 million) have been raised in just three days - out of the 5 million euros needed - largely in small amounts, according to Laisves TV, a Lithuanian internet broadcaster that launched the drive. "Before this war started, none of us thought that we would be buying guns. But it's a normal thing now. Something must be done for the world to get better," said Agne Belickaite, 32, who sent 100 euros as soon as the fundraising launched on Wednesday. Also read | Ukrainian troops may retreat from Luhansk, says region's governor "I've been donating to buy guns for Ukraine for a while now. And will do so until the victory," she told Reuters, adding she was motivated in part by fears Russia could attack Lithuania. The drone has proven effective in recent years against Russian forces and their allies in conflicts in Syria and Libya, and its purchase is being orchestrated by Lithuania's Ministry of Defence, which told Reuters it planned to sign a letter of intent to buy the craft from Turkey next week. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: 9 killed, dozens injured in fresh shelling in Kharkiv Ukraine has bought more than 20 Bayraktar TB2 armed drones from Turkish company Baykar in recent years and ordered a further 16 on Jan. 27. That batch was delivered in early March. Also read | Ukrainian officials say Russia-backed forces captured strategic town Lyman "This is the first case in history when ordinary people raise money to buy something like a Bayraktar. It is unprecedented, it is unbelievable," Beshta Petro, Ukraine's ambassador to Lithuania, told Laisves TV. Most of the heavy weapons that NATO countries have sent to Ukraine so far are Soviet-built arms still in the inventories of eastern European NATO member states, but some have recently started to supply Western howitzers. "While governments of the world's largest countries are endlessly deliberating ... Lithuanian society simply comes together and, you know, is about to fundraise 5 million euros and buy the drone - which is an impressive message to the world," said Belickaite. 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.

'Message to the world' - Lithuanians club together to buy drone for Ukraine

US President Joe Biden has declared that America will intervene militarily to defend Taiwan if China invades it. Beijing says Washington is playing with fire. Experts fear Biden is precipitating the Taiwan conflict. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Biden precipitating the Taiwan conflict?

Russia on Saturday stopped providing natural gas to neighbouring Finland, which has angered Moscow by applying for NATO membership, after the Nordic country refused to pay supplier Gazprom in rubles.

Following Russia's February 24 invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has asked clients from "unfriendly countries" -- including EU member states -- to pay for gas in rubles, a way to sidestep Western financial sanctions against its central bank.

Gazprom said in a statement Saturday that it had "completely stopped gas deliveries" as it had not received ruble payments from Finland's state-owned energy company Gasum "by the end of the working day on May 20".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sincerely-sorry-russian-soldier-in-war-crimes-trial-says-he-did-not-want-to-kill-will-accept-punishment-480865">'Truly sorry': Russian soldier in war crimes trial in Ukraine says didn't want to kill, will accept punishment</a>

Gazprom said it had supplied 1.49 billion cubic metres of natural gas to Finland in 2021, equal to about two thirds of the country's gas consumption.&nbsp;

However, natural gas accounts for around eight percent of Finland's energy.

Gasum said it would make up for the shortfall from other sources through the Balticconnector pipeline, which links Finland to Estonia, and assured that filling stations would run normally.

"Natural gas supplies to Finland under Gasum's supply contract have been cut off," the company said in a statement.

In April, Gazprom Export demanded that future payments in the supply contract be made in rubles instead of euros.

Gasum rejected the demand and announced on Tuesday it was taking the issue to arbitration.

Gazprom Export said it would defend its interests in court by any "means available".

Gasum said it would be able to secure gas from other sources and that gas filling stations in the network area would continue "normal operation".

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Turkey blocks NATO's expansion

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Rift over NATO bid

n efforts to mitigate the risks of relying on Russian energy exports, the Finnish government on Friday also announced it had signed a 10-year lease agreement for an LNG (liquefied natural gas) terminal ship with US-based Excelerate Energy.

On Sunday, Russia suspended electricity supplies to Finland overnight after its energy firm RAO Nordic claimed payment arrears, although the shortfall was quickly replaced.&nbsp;

Finland, along with neighbouring Sweden, this week broke its historical military non-alignment and applied for NATO membership, after public and political support for the western alliance soared following the invasion of Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-formal-deal-with-allies-to-secure-russian-compensation-for-ukraines-invasion-480862">Zelensky proposes formal deal with allies to secure Russian compensation for Ukraine's invasion</a>

Moscow has warned Finland that any NATO membership application would be "a grave mistake with far-reaching consequences".

Both Finland and Sweden are seemingly on the fast track to joining the military alliance, with US President Joe Biden offering "full, total, complete backing" to their bids.

But all 30 existing NATO members must agree on any new entrants, and Turkey has condemned the Nordic neighbours' alleged toleration of Kurdish militants and has so far voiced opposition to letting them in.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has said the Kremlin would respond to any NATO expansion by creating more military bases in western Russia.

Saturday's halt to gas shipments follows Moscow cutting off Poland and Bulgaria last month in a move the European Union described as "blackmail".

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Russia on Saturday stopped providing natural gas to neighbouring Finland, which has angered Moscow by applying for NATO membership, after the Nordic country refused to pay supplier Gazprom in rubles.

Russia on Saturday stopped providing natural gas to neighbouring Finland, which has angered Moscow by applying for NATO membership, after the Nordic country refused to pay supplier Gazprom in rubles. Following Russia's February 24 invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has asked clients from "unfriendly countries" -- including EU member states -- to pay for gas in rubles, a way to sidestep Western financial sanctions against its central bank. Gazprom said in a statement Saturday that it had "completely stopped gas deliveries" as it had not received ruble payments from Finland's state-owned energy company Gasum "by the end of the working day on May 20". Also read | 'Truly sorry': Russian soldier in war crimes trial in Ukraine says didn't want to kill, will accept punishment Gazprom said it had supplied 1.49 billion cubic metres of natural gas to Finland in 2021, equal to about two thirds of the country's gas consumption. However, natural gas accounts for around eight percent of Finland's energy. Gasum said it would make up for the shortfall from other sources through the Balticconnector pipeline, which links Finland to Estonia, and assured that filling stations would run normally. "Natural gas supplies to Finland under Gasum's supply contract have been cut off," the company said in a statement. In April, Gazprom Export demanded that future payments in the supply contract be made in rubles instead of euros. Gasum rejected the demand and announced on Tuesday it was taking the issue to arbitration. Gazprom Export said it would defend its interests in court by any "means available". Gasum said it would be able to secure gas from other sources and that gas filling stations in the network area would continue "normal operation". Watch | Gravitas: Turkey blocks NATO's expansion Rift over NATO bid n efforts to mitigate the risks of relying on Russian energy exports, the Finnish government on Friday also announced it had signed a 10-year lease agreement for an LNG (liquefied natural gas) terminal ship with US-based Excelerate Energy. On Sunday, Russia suspended electricity supplies to Finland overnight after its energy firm RAO Nordic claimed payment arrears, although the shortfall was quickly replaced. Finland, along with neighbouring Sweden, this week broke its historical military non-alignment and applied for NATO membership, after public and political support for the western alliance soared following the invasion of Ukraine. Also read | Zelensky proposes formal deal with allies to secure Russian compensation for Ukraine's invasion Moscow has warned Finland that any NATO membership application would be "a grave mistake with far-reaching consequences". Both Finland and Sweden are seemingly on the fast track to joining the military alliance, with US President Joe Biden offering "full, total, complete backing" to their bids. But all 30 existing NATO members must agree on any new entrants, and Turkey has condemned the Nordic neighbours' alleged toleration of Kurdish militants and has so far voiced opposition to letting them in. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has said the Kremlin would respond to any NATO expansion by creating more military bases in western Russia. Saturday's halt to gas shipments follows Moscow cutting off Poland and Bulgaria last month in a move the European Union described as "blackmail". 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 halts gas supplies to Finland

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