Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä, who is on a visit to India, has said that the European country can possibly become a NATO member by this summer.

The statement is significant since Russia last week warned of consequences if Finland and its neighbour Sweden tried to join the US-led military alliance.

The Russian military’s offensive in Ukraine has alarmed these Nordic countries who are now looking to shed their non-alignment policy.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, minister Lintilä said, "Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack...And, I have to say, the EU is stronger than ever in this case."

The economic minister is accompanied by a big business delegation and he is expected to meet many Indian ministers.

India’s trade with Finland crossed US$ 1 billion (Euros 870 million) mark, and is heavily in Finland’s favour.

Trade in services is growing and has crossed US$ 1.5 billion (Euros 1.3 billion) mark with many Indian IT companies positioned in Finland.

According to Indian government estimates, Finnish companies invested US$ 497 million between April 2000 and December 2019. Within the EU, Finland ranks 12th among countries investing in India.

More than 100 Finnish companies have operations in India, including through investments. Nokia, Kone, Wartsila, UPM, Fortum, Metso, Huhtamaki, Salcomp, Ahlstrom, etc. have set up their manufacturing facilities in India.

&nbsp;

WION: What is the focus of your visit to India?

Mika Lintilä: India is a very important and interesting partner. Finland is total export country, more than 40 per cent of our GDP is contributed by exports. In this situation, we need more and more companies to do export, bring investment in Finland and so on, and India is very important and has a lot of potential. We already have good relations between our countries. I want to have open doors for Indian companies. I have 13 companies in my delegation who are very interested in cooperating with Indian companies.

&nbsp;

WION: You are going to meet the policymakers, what are you going to tell them&nbsp;and what Finland can offer?

Mika Lintilä: For example, we can cooperate in the research sector, or can focus on our biggest challenge—climate change. Finland is one of the front runners in new technologies in the energy sector, like circular economy. We can offer (assistance) in the energy sector. This could be a sector in which we can have more cooperation.

&nbsp;

WION: Basically, you are mentioning clean energy

Mika Lintilä: Over 50 per cent of our energy needs come from renewable energy sources. We have different ways, like wind power, a little bit of solar power, not so much as India, biomass and so on. The one area where Finland has been a major player is the waste to energy. I am 100 per cent sure, we can offer you solutions where you can use waste to energy better.

&nbsp;

WION: What is Finland’s stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine?

Mika Lintilä: Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack. It is totally violent and against international law. Of course, war in Europe is very complicated, people are nervous. I have to say that the EU is stronger than ever in this case.

&nbsp;

WION: Europe is heavily reliant on Russian energy, what is your government doing to address that?

Mika Lintilä: Actually, our situation is quite good, because, for example, we import oil from other countries as well. Only 5 per cent of our energy needs are met with the Russian gas. But it could be a big challenge for Germany which uses a lot of Russian gas.

&nbsp;

WION: What can you do to help the European continent to reduce its dependency on Russian energy?

Mika Lintilä: We already have independent production in the energy sector, but as I said, there are a lot of European countries who are reliant on Russian gas. They have to find a new way to reduce their dependence and develop other sources of energy.

&nbsp;

WION: Will Finland join NATO? Because this is something that has been in news, and we saw the reaction from Moscow, which has sounded a warning

Mika Lintilä: The security situation is totally different as it was a few months ago. It could be possible that both countries or I can say that the Finish side could possibly join NATO this summer.

&nbsp;

WION: Indian PM will be visiting Denmark for the India-Nordic summit. We are going to have the Nordic leaders' summit as well, what will be the key focus?

Mika Lintilä: I don't know what will be discussed, but I can imagine that they are watching the big picture in the security situation globally and especially in Europe. Of course, they discussed how to continue relations with Russia. But they were talking before the invasion scenario. Now, it is difficult as these sanctions are tight.

&nbsp;

WION: Are European sanctions working on Russian leadership?

Mika Lintilä: I think sanctions working are better, but the main question is the energy sector, especially gas and oil. I am sure, the next sanctions will be on oil. In the financial sector, sanctions are tight and they work very well.

Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä, who is on a visit to India, has said that the European country can possibly become a NATO member by this summer.

Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä, who is on a visit to India, has said that the European country can possibly become a NATO member by this summer. The statement is significant since Russia last week warned of consequences if Finland and its neighbour Sweden tried to join the US-led military alliance. The Russian military’s offensive in Ukraine has alarmed these Nordic countries who are now looking to shed their non-alignment policy. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, minister Lintilä said, "Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack...And, I have to say, the EU is stronger than ever in this case." The economic minister is accompanied by a big business delegation and he is expected to meet many Indian ministers. India’s trade with Finland crossed US$ 1 billion (Euros 870 million) mark, and is heavily in Finland’s favour. Trade in services is growing and has crossed US$ 1.5 billion (Euros 1.3 billion) mark with many Indian IT companies positioned in Finland. According to Indian government estimates, Finnish companies invested US$ 497 million between April 2000 and December 2019. Within the EU, Finland ranks 12th among countries investing in India. More than 100 Finnish companies have operations in India, including through investments. Nokia, Kone, Wartsila, UPM, Fortum, Metso, Huhtamaki, Salcomp, Ahlstrom, etc. have set up their manufacturing facilities in India. WION: What is the focus of your visit to India? Mika Lintilä: India is a very important and interesting partner. Finland is total export country, more than 40 per cent of our GDP is contributed by exports. In this situation, we need more and more companies to do export, bring investment in Finland and so on, and India is very important and has a lot of potential. We already have good relations between our countries. I want to have open doors for Indian companies. I have 13 companies in my delegation who are very interested in cooperating with Indian companies. WION: You are going to meet the policymakers, what are you going to tell them and what Finland can offer? Mika Lintilä: For example, we can cooperate in the research sector, or can focus on our biggest challenge—climate change. Finland is one of the front runners in new technologies in the energy sector, like circular economy. We can offer (assistance) in the energy sector. This could be a sector in which we can have more cooperation. WION: Basically, you are mentioning clean energy Mika Lintilä: Over 50 per cent of our energy needs come from renewable energy sources. We have different ways, like wind power, a little bit of solar power, not so much as India, biomass and so on. The one area where Finland has been a major player is the waste to energy. I am 100 per cent sure, we can offer you solutions where you can use waste to energy better. WION: What is Finland’s stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine? Mika Lintilä: Finland strongly condemns the Russian attack. It is totally violent and against international law. Of course, war in Europe is very complicated, people are nervous. I have to say that the EU is stronger than ever in this case. WION: Europe is heavily reliant on Russian energy, what is your government doing to address that? Mika Lintilä: Actually, our situation is quite good, because, for example, we import oil from other countries as well. Only 5 per cent of our energy needs are met with the Russian gas. But it could be a big challenge for Germany which uses a lot of Russian gas. WION: What can you do to help the European continent to reduce its dependency on Russian energy? Mika Lintilä: We already have independent production in the energy sector, but as I said, there are a lot of European countries who are reliant on Russian gas. They have to find a new way to reduce their dependence and develop other sources of energy. WION: Will Finland join NATO? Because this is something that has been in news, and we saw the reaction from Moscow, which has sounded a warning Mika Lintilä: The security situation is totally different as it was a few months ago. It could be possible that both countries or I can say that the Finish side could possibly join NATO this summer. WION: Indian PM will be visiting Denmark for the India-Nordic summit. We are going to have the Nordic leaders' summit as well, what will be the key focus? Mika Lintilä: I don't know what will be discussed, but I can imagine that they are watching the big picture in the security situation globally and especially in Europe. Of course, they discussed how to continue relations with Russia. But they were talking before the invasion scenario. Now, it is difficult as these sanctions are tight. WION: Are European sanctions working on Russian leadership? Mika Lintilä: I think sanctions working are better, but the main question is the energy sector, especially gas and oil. I am sure, the next sanctions will be on oil. In the financial sector, sanctions are tight and they work very well.

Finland can possibly join NATO this summer: Minister Lintilä to WION

Reports say Joe Biden's Press Secretary Jen Psaki is leaving the White House for a job at MSNBC. Does this count as a conflict of interest? Why do American journalists consistently dabble in politics? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you.

Gravitas: Jen Psaki to leave White House for MSNBC gig

Israeli security forces on Thursday raided a&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;town after&nbsp;three&nbsp;deadly attacks rocked the Jewish state in a week, with two Palestinians shot&nbsp;dead&nbsp;and a third killed after he launched a knife attack on a bus.

The&nbsp;violence&nbsp;comes after a Palestinian armed with an M-16 assault rifle killed five Israeli civilians in the streets of Bnei Brak, an Orthodox Jewish city near Tel Aviv, on Tuesday night.

That shooting took to 11 the number of people killed in the week of&nbsp;violence&nbsp;carried out by Israeli Arabs and Palestinians, days before the holy Muslim month of Ramadan begins.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-police-on-high-alert-after-5-killed-in-tel-aviv-shooting-466855">Israel Police on high alert after 5 killed in Tel Aviv shooting</a>

The latest bloodshed erupted on Thursday morning when the Israeli army said its soldiers returned fire after being shot at during an operation to arrest suspects in the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;city of Jenin.

"During the activity, Palestinian gunmen opened fire at the troops. IDF troops responded with fire," the army said in a statement, adding that one soldier was hospitalised.

The Palestinian health ministry said "the Israeli occupation forces" killed two Palestinians, both males aged 17 and 23, in Jenin and another 15 were wounded.

Later on Thursday morning, a Palestinian stabbed an Israeli civilian on a bus south of the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;city of Bethlehem, the army said, before "a civilian on the bus shot the terrorist&nbsp;dead."

Shaare Zedek hospital in Jerusalem said they treated a man aged about 30 for stab wounds to his torso.

The Palestinian health ministry identified the alleged assailant as Nidal Jumaa Jafara, 30.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-naftali-bennett-delays-india-trip-after-covid-infection-466580">Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett delays India trip after Covid infection</a>

Islamic Jihad warning&nbsp;

The Gaza Strip-based secretary general of the Islamic Jihad, Ziad Al-Nakhala, announced in a statement that the group's armed wing would step up activities "in light of the storming of Jenin camp by the Zionist enemy army".

The&nbsp;violence&nbsp;has cast a pall ahead of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which begins this weekend.

Last year, clashes in the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem escalated into 11 days of bloody conflict between Israel and the Hamas Islamic group that controls the Gaza Strip.

Early Thursday, far-right Israeli lawmaker Itamar Ben Gvir taunted Hamas as he walked the Al-Aqsa compound, which Jews revere as the site of two ancient temples.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-thinks-of-buying-israeli-anti-missile-system-466033"> Germany thinks of buying Israeli anti-missile system Iron Dome</a>

"All night Hamas threatened me and said that I was in the line of fire and told me not to come here, I say to the Hamas spokesman shut up," he said.

Israel captured the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank, Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem in the Six-Day War of 1967. Palestinians seek to end Israel's rule of those territories and build an independent state on the land.

Peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians have been frozen for years.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is opposed to a Palestinian state, and instead has pursued a policy of economic easements for Palestinians.

Bennett is also a former settler leader and construction of Israeli settlements in the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;has continued unabated, despite his diverse coalition that ranges from nationalists to Israeli doves to an Arab Muslim party.

Nearly half a million Israelis live settlements across the&nbsp;West&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;that are considered illegal under international law.

Watch |&nbsp;The rise in gun attacks in Israel: PM Bennett to convene security cabinet today

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-rise-in-gun-attacks-in-israel-pm-bennett-to-convene-security-cabinet-today-466847/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Israeli security forces on Thursday raided a West Bank town after three deadly attacks rocked the Jewish state in a week, with two Palestinians shot dead and a third killed after he launched a knife attack on a bus.

Israeli security forces on Thursday raided a West Bank town after three deadly attacks rocked the Jewish state in a week, with two Palestinians shot dead and a third killed after he launched a knife attack on a bus. The violence comes after a Palestinian armed with an M-16 assault rifle killed five Israeli civilians in the streets of Bnei Brak, an Orthodox Jewish city near Tel Aviv, on Tuesday night. That shooting took to 11 the number of people killed in the week of violence carried out by Israeli Arabs and Palestinians, days before the holy Muslim month of Ramadan begins. Also read | Israel Police on high alert after 5 killed in Tel Aviv shooting The latest bloodshed erupted on Thursday morning when the Israeli army said its soldiers returned fire after being shot at during an operation to arrest suspects in the West Bank city of Jenin. "During the activity, Palestinian gunmen opened fire at the troops. IDF troops responded with fire," the army said in a statement, adding that one soldier was hospitalised. The Palestinian health ministry said "the Israeli occupation forces" killed two Palestinians, both males aged 17 and 23, in Jenin and another 15 were wounded. Later on Thursday morning, a Palestinian stabbed an Israeli civilian on a bus south of the West Bank city of Bethlehem, the army said, before "a civilian on the bus shot the terrorist dead." Shaare Zedek hospital in Jerusalem said they treated a man aged about 30 for stab wounds to his torso. The Palestinian health ministry identified the alleged assailant as Nidal Jumaa Jafara, 30. Also read | Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett delays India trip after Covid infection Islamic Jihad warning The Gaza Strip-based secretary general of the Islamic Jihad, Ziad Al-Nakhala, announced in a statement that the group's armed wing would step up activities "in light of the storming of Jenin camp by the Zionist enemy army". The violence has cast a pall ahead of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which begins this weekend. Last year, clashes in the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem escalated into 11 days of bloody conflict between Israel and the Hamas Islamic group that controls the Gaza Strip. Early Thursday, far-right Israeli lawmaker Itamar Ben Gvir taunted Hamas as he walked the Al-Aqsa compound, which Jews revere as the site of two ancient temples. Also read | Germany thinks of buying Israeli anti-missile system Iron Dome "All night Hamas threatened me and said that I was in the line of fire and told me not to come here, I say to the Hamas spokesman shut up," he said. Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem in the Six-Day War of 1967. Palestinians seek to end Israel's rule of those territories and build an independent state on the land. Peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians have been frozen for years. Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is opposed to a Palestinian state, and instead has pursued a policy of economic easements for Palestinians. Bennett is also a former settler leader and construction of Israeli settlements in the West Bank has continued unabated, despite his diverse coalition that ranges from nationalists to Israeli doves to an Arab Muslim party. Nearly half a million Israelis live settlements across the West Bank that are considered illegal under international law. Watch | The rise in gun attacks in Israel: PM Bennett to convene security cabinet today

Three dead as West Bank violence escalates

As Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies, mourners seem to be defying missile threats for attending military funerals in Lviv, a Reuters report said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

For last few days, Lviv's skyline has been witnessing clouds of black smoke every now and then due to the relentless missile strikes carried out by the Russian forces. &nbsp;

On Sunday, mourners began gathering to bury Ukrainian soldiers killed in the ongoing war with Russia in Lviv. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-trying-to-split-ukraine-in-two-like-koreas-says-intelligence-chief-466187">Russia trying to split Ukraine in two, like Koreas, says intelligence chief&nbsp;</a>

The firefighters in the city have put out fire at an oil depot, which was struck by rockets the day before. &nbsp;

A crowd gathered at Saints Peter and Paul Garrison Church in Ukraine’s western capital, which is just 60 km from the border with Poland. &nbsp;

“I knew that the churches would be very crowded today. I was so worried about today,” said 70-year-old retiree Liubov Odnorih told Reuters. &nbsp;

Watch | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Why Zurich insurance drops 'Z' from its logo?

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She was one of many people, who crammed into the Ukrainian Greek Catholic church to attend the funeral of two soldiers, who were killed in other parts of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russia is looking to divide Ukraine into two separate nations, like North and South Korea, Ukraine's military intelligence chief said on Sunday. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic in Ukraine, a local leader on Sunday said the region may soon organise a vote on joining Russia. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement released by the Defense Ministry, Kyrylo Budanov, head, Ukrainian military intelligence, said the vote is "an attempt to create North and South Korea in Ukraine". &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

As Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies, mourners seem to be defying missile threats for attending military funerals in Lviv, a Reuters report said. For last few days, Lviv's skyline has been witnessing clouds of black smoke every now and then due to the relentless missile strikes carried out by the Russian forces.

As Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies, mourners seem to be defying missile threats for attending military funerals in Lviv, a Reuters report said. For last few days, Lviv's skyline has been witnessing clouds of black smoke every now and then due to the relentless missile strikes carried out by the Russian forces. On Sunday, mourners began gathering to bury Ukrainian soldiers killed in the ongoing war with Russia in Lviv. Also Read: Russia trying to split Ukraine in two, like Koreas, says intelligence chief The firefighters in the city have put out fire at an oil depot, which was struck by rockets the day before. A crowd gathered at Saints Peter and Paul Garrison Church in Ukraine’s western capital, which is just 60 km from the border with Poland. “I knew that the churches would be very crowded today. I was so worried about today,” said 70-year-old retiree Liubov Odnorih told Reuters. Watch | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Why Zurich insurance drops 'Z' from its logo? × She was one of many people, who crammed into the Ukrainian Greek Catholic church to attend the funeral of two soldiers, who were killed in other parts of the country. Meanwhile, Russia is looking to divide Ukraine into two separate nations, like North and South Korea, Ukraine's military intelligence chief said on Sunday. In the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic in Ukraine, a local leader on Sunday said the region may soon organise a vote on joining Russia. In a statement released by the Defense Ministry, Kyrylo Budanov, head, Ukrainian military intelligence, said the vote is "an attempt to create North and South Korea in Ukraine". (With inputs from agencies)

As conflict with Russia intensifies, mourners defy missile threats to attend Ukrainian military funerals

The Saudi-led&nbsp;coalition&nbsp;launched&nbsp;air&nbsp;strikes&nbsp;Sunday on&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;hours after Huthi rebels announced a three-day&nbsp;truce, with the UN chief condemning a surge in violence as the war enters its eighth year.

The raids targeted Sanaa, the&nbsp;rebel-held capital, according to Saudi Arabia's Al Ekhbariya TV, which tweeted "the start of&nbsp;air&nbsp;strikes&nbsp;on Huthi camps and strongholds in Sanaa" around midnight.

The attacks began shortly after the Iran-backed Huthis announced a three-day&nbsp;truce&nbsp;and offered peace talks on condition that the Saudis stop their&nbsp;air&nbsp;strikes&nbsp;and blockade of&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;and remove "foreign forces".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-rebels-claim-oil-plant-attack-as-huge-fire-erupts-in-jeddah-465548">Yemen's Houthi rebels claim responsibility for oil plant attack as huge fire erupts in Jeddah</a>

Just a day earlier, the rebels had fired drones and missiles at 16 targets in Saudi Arabia, turning an oil plant near Jeddah's Formula One track into a raging inferno as aghast drivers looked on.

The flurry of attacks and diplomacy came as&nbsp;Yemen, the Arab world's poorest country, on Saturday marked seven years since the Saudi-led intervention against the Huthis, who seized Sanaa in 2014.

The conflict has killed hundreds of thousands of people directly or indirectly and displaced millions, creating what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday condemned the sudden rise in hostilities.

He said that eight civilians, including five children and two women, were reportedly killed in retaliatory&nbsp;strikes&nbsp;on Sanaa following Friday's&nbsp;rebel&nbsp;attacks.

The UN staff compound in the city was also damaged, his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-iran-aligned-houthi-group-claim-responsibility-for-drone-attack-on-saudi-arabia-464007">Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group claims responsibility for drone attack on Saudi Arabia</a>

"The Secretary-General strongly condemns the recent escalation of the conflict in&nbsp;Yemen," the statement said, adding that Guterres is "deeply concerned" about reports of&nbsp;coalition&nbsp;attacks on the lifeline port of Hodeida.

He urged the warring parties to "immediately de-escalate" and reach a "negotiated settlement" with the help of Hans Grundberg, the UN's special envoy to&nbsp;Yemen.

Thousands of people demonstrated in Sanaa on Saturday, holding placards and chanting, to denounce the Saudi-led intervention which included nine countries when it was launched on March 26, 2015.

Today, it is largely just Saudi Arabia and, to a lesser extent, the United Arab Emirates, which says it has withdrawn troops from&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;but remains an active player, training militias on the ground.

The&nbsp;coalition's intervention has stopped the Huthis' advances in the south and east of the country but has been unable to push them out of the north, including Sanaa.

"Militarily, the war is now at stalemate," Elisabeth Kendall, a researcher at Oxford University, told AFP this week.

Saudi Arabia "may at this point be keen to extract itself" from&nbsp;Yemen, she said.

Watch |&nbsp;Yemen's Houthis claims attack Aramco refinery in Saudi Arabia's Jeddah

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The Saudi-led coalition launched air strikes Sunday on Yemen hours after Huthi rebels announced a three-day truce, with the UN chief condemning a surge in violence as the war enters its eighth year.

The Saudi-led coalition launched air strikes Sunday on Yemen hours after Huthi rebels announced a three-day truce, with the UN chief condemning a surge in violence as the war enters its eighth year. The raids targeted Sanaa, the rebel-held capital, according to Saudi Arabia's Al Ekhbariya TV, which tweeted "the start of air strikes on Huthi camps and strongholds in Sanaa" around midnight. The attacks began shortly after the Iran-backed Huthis announced a three-day truce and offered peace talks on condition that the Saudis stop their air strikes and blockade of Yemen and remove "foreign forces". Also read | Yemen's Houthi rebels claim responsibility for oil plant attack as huge fire erupts in Jeddah Just a day earlier, the rebels had fired drones and missiles at 16 targets in Saudi Arabia, turning an oil plant near Jeddah's Formula One track into a raging inferno as aghast drivers looked on. The flurry of attacks and diplomacy came as Yemen, the Arab world's poorest country, on Saturday marked seven years since the Saudi-led intervention against the Huthis, who seized Sanaa in 2014. The conflict has killed hundreds of thousands of people directly or indirectly and displaced millions, creating what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday condemned the sudden rise in hostilities. He said that eight civilians, including five children and two women, were reportedly killed in retaliatory strikes on Sanaa following Friday's rebel attacks. The UN staff compound in the city was also damaged, his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement. Also read | Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group claims responsibility for drone attack on Saudi Arabia "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the recent escalation of the conflict in Yemen," the statement said, adding that Guterres is "deeply concerned" about reports of coalition attacks on the lifeline port of Hodeida. He urged the warring parties to "immediately de-escalate" and reach a "negotiated settlement" with the help of Hans Grundberg, the UN's special envoy to Yemen. Thousands of people demonstrated in Sanaa on Saturday, holding placards and chanting, to denounce the Saudi-led intervention which included nine countries when it was launched on March 26, 2015. Today, it is largely just Saudi Arabia and, to a lesser extent, the United Arab Emirates, which says it has withdrawn troops from Yemen but remains an active player, training militias on the ground. The coalition's intervention has stopped the Huthis' advances in the south and east of the country but has been unable to push them out of the north, including Sanaa. "Militarily, the war is now at stalemate," Elisabeth Kendall, a researcher at Oxford University, told AFP this week. Saudi Arabia "may at this point be keen to extract itself" from Yemen, she said. Watch | Yemen's Houthis claims attack Aramco refinery in Saudi Arabia's Jeddah

Coalition air strikes pummel Yemen despite rebel truce

Tigrayan&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;agreed to a "cessation&nbsp;of&nbsp;hostilities" on Friday, a new turning point in the nearly 17-month war in northern&nbsp;Ethiopia&nbsp;following the government's announcement of an indefinite humanitarian truce a day earlier.

The&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;said in a&nbsp;statement&nbsp;sent to AFP early Friday that they were "committed to implementing a&nbsp;cessation&nbsp;of&nbsp;hostilities&nbsp;effective immediately," and urged Ethiopian authorities to hasten delivery of emergency aid into&nbsp;Tigray, where hundreds of thousands face starvation.

Since war broke out in November 2020, thousands have died, and many more have been forced to flee their homes as the conflict has expanded from&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;to the neighbouring regions of Amhara and Afar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-vows-probe-into-gruesome-video-of-man-on-fire-461681">Ethiopia vows probe into gruesome video of man on fire</a>

On Thursday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government declared a surprise truce, saying it hoped the move would ease humanitarian access to&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;and "pave the way for the resolution of the conflict" in northern&nbsp;Ethiopia.

It called on the&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;People's Liberation Front (TPLF) to "desist from all acts of further aggression and withdraw from areas they have occupied in neighbouring regions."

The&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;in turn urged "the Ethiopian authorities to go beyond empty promises and take concrete steps to facilitate unfettered humanitarian access to&nbsp;Tigray."

The conflict erupted when Abiy sent troops into&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;to topple the TPLF, the region's former ruling party, saying the move came in response to rebel attacks on army camps.&nbsp;

Fighting has dragged on for over a year, triggering a humanitarian crisis, as accounts have emerged of mass rapes and massacres, with both sides accused of human rights violations.

More than 400,000 people have been displaced in&nbsp;Tigray, according to the UN.

The region has also been subject to what the UN says is a de facto blockade.&nbsp;

The United States has accused Abiy's government of preventing aid from reaching those in need, while the authorities in turn have blamed the&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;for the obstruction.

Nearly 40 percent of the people in&nbsp;Tigray, a region of six million people, face "an extreme lack of food", the UN said in January, with fuel shortages forcing aid workers to deliver medicines and other crucial supplies by foot.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-turns-on-the-turbines-at-giant-nile-hydropower-plant-454780">Ethiopia turns on the turbines at giant Nile hydropower plant</a>

Ceasefire efforts

Western nations have been urging both sides to&nbsp;agree&nbsp;to a ceasefire, with the US, the European Union, the UK and Canada hailing the truce declaration.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States "urges all parties to build on this announcement to advance a negotiated and sustainable ceasefire, including necessary security arrangements."

"The #EU welcomes the declaration of a humanitarian truce by the Gov of #Ethiopia&nbsp;and the&nbsp;statement&nbsp;on&nbsp;cessation&nbsp;of&nbsp;hostilities&nbsp;by the Tigrayan Authorities", the EU delegation to&nbsp;Ethiopia&nbsp;said on Twitter.

Washington angered&nbsp;Ethiopia's government by removing trading privileges for the country over rights concerns during the war, but has stopped short of imposing sanctions in hopes of encouraging a ceasefire.

The new US special envoy for the Horn of Africa, David Satterfield, visited&nbsp;Ethiopia&nbsp;this week to meet the African Union's envoy to the region Olusegun Obasanjo, government and UN officials, as well as representatives of humanitarian groups.&nbsp;

Diplomats led by Obasanjo have been trying for months to broker peace talks, with little evident progress so far.

Analysts said the truce was an important step but urged the government to follow up the announcement with action and ease humanitarian access to&nbsp;Tigray, where hundreds of thousands are living in famine-like conditions, according to the UN.

"The unconditional and unrestricted delivery of aid could also help create enough trust to pave the way for ceasefire talks and, eventually, dialogue," said William Davison, the International Crisis Group's senior analyst for&nbsp;Ethiopia.

Aid shortages

More than nine million people need food aid across Afar, Amhara and&nbsp;Tigray, according to the UN's World Food Programme.

But humanitarian organisations have been forced to increasingly curtail activities because of fuel and supply shortages.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-airlines-to-fly-737-max-with-passengers-for-first-time-since-deadly-crash-449675">Ethiopian Airlines to fly 737 MAX with passengers for first time since deadly crash</a>

"WFP operations in the&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;region have ground to a halt, with only emergency fuel stocks and less than one percent of the required food stocks remaining," the agency said this week.&nbsp;

The government previously declared a "unilateral ceasefire" in&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;in June last year, after the TPLF mounted a shock comeback and retook the region from federal forces before expanding into Amhara and Afar.&nbsp;

But fighting intensified in the second half of 2021, with the&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;at one point claiming to be within 200 kilometres (125 miles) of the capital Addis Ababa, before reaching a stalemate.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Ethiopia's government declares 'Humanitarian truce' in Tigray with rebels

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Tigrayan rebels agreed to a "cessation of hostilities" on Friday, a new turning point in the nearly 17-month war in northern Ethiopia following the government's announcement of an indefinite humanitarian truce a day earlier.

Tigrayan rebels agreed to a "cessation of hostilities" on Friday, a new turning point in the nearly 17-month war in northern Ethiopia following the government's announcement of an indefinite humanitarian truce a day earlier. The rebels said in a statement sent to AFP early Friday that they were "committed to implementing a cessation of hostilities effective immediately," and urged Ethiopian authorities to hasten delivery of emergency aid into Tigray, where hundreds of thousands face starvation. Since war broke out in November 2020, thousands have died, and many more have been forced to flee their homes as the conflict has expanded from Tigray to the neighbouring regions of Amhara and Afar. Also read | Ethiopia vows probe into gruesome video of man on fire On Thursday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government declared a surprise truce, saying it hoped the move would ease humanitarian access to Tigray and "pave the way for the resolution of the conflict" in northern Ethiopia. It called on the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) to "desist from all acts of further aggression and withdraw from areas they have occupied in neighbouring regions." The rebels in turn urged "the Ethiopian authorities to go beyond empty promises and take concrete steps to facilitate unfettered humanitarian access to Tigray." The conflict erupted when Abiy sent troops into Tigray to topple the TPLF, the region's former ruling party, saying the move came in response to rebel attacks on army camps. Fighting has dragged on for over a year, triggering a humanitarian crisis, as accounts have emerged of mass rapes and massacres, with both sides accused of human rights violations. More than 400,000 people have been displaced in Tigray, according to the UN. The region has also been subject to what the UN says is a de facto blockade. The United States has accused Abiy's government of preventing aid from reaching those in need, while the authorities in turn have blamed the rebels for the obstruction. Nearly 40 percent of the people in Tigray, a region of six million people, face "an extreme lack of food", the UN said in January, with fuel shortages forcing aid workers to deliver medicines and other crucial supplies by foot. Also read | Ethiopia turns on the turbines at giant Nile hydropower plant Ceasefire efforts Western nations have been urging both sides to agree to a ceasefire, with the US, the European Union, the UK and Canada hailing the truce declaration. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States "urges all parties to build on this announcement to advance a negotiated and sustainable ceasefire, including necessary security arrangements." "The #EU welcomes the declaration of a humanitarian truce by the Gov of #Ethiopia and the statement on cessation of hostilities by the Tigrayan Authorities", the EU delegation to Ethiopia said on Twitter. Washington angered Ethiopia's government by removing trading privileges for the country over rights concerns during the war, but has stopped short of imposing sanctions in hopes of encouraging a ceasefire. The new US special envoy for the Horn of Africa, David Satterfield, visited Ethiopia this week to meet the African Union's envoy to the region Olusegun Obasanjo, government and UN officials, as well as representatives of humanitarian groups. Diplomats led by Obasanjo have been trying for months to broker peace talks, with little evident progress so far. Analysts said the truce was an important step but urged the government to follow up the announcement with action and ease humanitarian access to Tigray, where hundreds of thousands are living in famine-like conditions, according to the UN. "The unconditional and unrestricted delivery of aid could also help create enough trust to pave the way for ceasefire talks and, eventually, dialogue," said William Davison, the International Crisis Group's senior analyst for Ethiopia. Aid shortages More than nine million people need food aid across Afar, Amhara and Tigray, according to the UN's World Food Programme. But humanitarian organisations have been forced to increasingly curtail activities because of fuel and supply shortages. Also read | Ethiopian Airlines to fly 737 MAX with passengers for first time since deadly crash "WFP operations in the Tigray region have ground to a halt, with only emergency fuel stocks and less than one percent of the required food stocks remaining," the agency said this week. The government previously declared a "unilateral ceasefire" in Tigray in June last year, after the TPLF mounted a shock comeback and retook the region from federal forces before expanding into Amhara and Afar. But fighting intensified in the second half of 2021, with the rebels at one point claiming to be within 200 kilometres (125 miles) of the capital Addis Ababa, before reaching a stalemate. Watch | Ethiopia's government declares 'Humanitarian truce' in Tigray with rebels

Tigray rebels agree to 'cessation of hostilities'

As the Russian-Ukraine war&nbsp;rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause.

Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation&nbsp;services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web.

The darknet is a part of the internet that is invisible to search engines and can only be accessed through anonymous browsers.

Several prominent organisations like BBC and Twitter have been using the dark web to bring regular updates to Russia as their services have been restricted in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

However, in the midst of all these, several scammers have been running fake donation camps to collect money with&nbsp;‘Help Ukraine’ advertisements.

“CPR has always taken a close look at the Darknet. Last year, we found advertisements for fake coronavirus services. Now, we’re seeing donation scams appear on the Darknet, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies," says Oded Vanunu, head of product vulnerabilities research at Check Point Software.

One such ad featured a mother and her children, who were in bad shape and needed money to escape the war-torn country. However, the image was unrelated and was taken out of context from a German newspaper, Vanunu said.

It said that sites such as Defend Ukraine, and an accompanying Twitter account has been found to be reliable.

The website contains a list of organisations and NGOs in Ukraine in need of assistance and solicits donations in both bitcoin and ethereum. It has received over $9m in funding since being registered in February 2022.

As the Russian-Ukraine war rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause. Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web.

As the Russian-Ukraine war rages on, several donation pages have emerged in the dark web asking for funds in cryptocurrencies for the Ukrainian cause. Check Point Research, the threat intelligence arm of the cybersecurity solutions provider, has reported that while some are running genuine donation services, many fake ads have flooded the dark web. The darknet is a part of the internet that is invisible to search engines and can only be accessed through anonymous browsers. Several prominent organisations like BBC and Twitter have been using the dark web to bring regular updates to Russia as their services have been restricted in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, in the midst of all these, several scammers have been running fake donation camps to collect money with ‘Help Ukraine’ advertisements. “CPR has always taken a close look at the Darknet. Last year, we found advertisements for fake coronavirus services. Now, we’re seeing donation scams appear on the Darknet, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensifies," says Oded Vanunu, head of product vulnerabilities research at Check Point Software. One such ad featured a mother and her children, who were in bad shape and needed money to escape the war-torn country. However, the image was unrelated and was taken out of context from a German newspaper, Vanunu said. It said that sites such as Defend Ukraine, and an accompanying Twitter account has been found to be reliable. The website contains a list of organisations and NGOs in Ukraine in need of assistance and solicits donations in both bitcoin and ethereum. It has received over $9m in funding since being registered in February 2022.

Cashing in on Ukrainian war: Scammers running crypto scam on dark web, says report

Will the G20 soon become the G19? Will Russia be excluded from the major economies as a punishment for the ongoing crisis in Ukraine?

Ukraine conflict: After G8, G20 exclusion for Russia?

As the conflict intensifies, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for comprehensive peace talks with Russia on Saturday. &nbsp; &nbsp;

He said Russia would otherwise need generations to recover from losses suffered during the invasion. &nbsp;

Ukraine had always offered solutions for peace and wanted meaningful and honest negotiations on peace and security, without any delay, Zelensky said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-firm-sells-zelensky-motolov-cocktails-legos-raises-160000-for-ukraine-463447" hreflang="en">US firm sells Zelensky, Motolov cocktails’ Legos, raises $160,000 for Ukraine</a>

In a video address, which was released in the early hours of Saturday, he said, "I want everyone to hear me now, especially in Moscow. The time has come for a meeting, it is time to talk. The time has come to restore territorial integrity and justice for Ukraine. Otherwise, Russia's losses will be such that it will take you several generations to recover." &nbsp;

Although the two sides have been conducting talks for weeks, there have been no signs of breakthrough. &nbsp;

Russian forces have been deliberately blocking the humanitarian supplies to cities under attack, Zelensky said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-ukraine-conflict-intensifies-russian-president-vladimir-putin-issues-warning-to-traitors-463306" hreflang="en">As Ukraine conflict intensifies, Russian President Vladimir Putin issues warning to 'traitors'</a>

"This is a deliberate tactic ... This is a war crime and they will answer for it, 100%," the president said. &nbsp;

There was no information about how many people have been killed after a theatre in Mariupol was struck on Wednesday, Zelensky said. Hundreds of people had taken shelter at the theatre. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the conflict intensifies, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for comprehensive peace talks with Russia on Saturday. He said Russia would otherwise need generations to recover from losses suffered during the invasion.

As the conflict intensifies, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for comprehensive peace talks with Russia on Saturday. He said Russia would otherwise need generations to recover from losses suffered during the invasion. Ukraine had always offered solutions for peace and wanted meaningful and honest negotiations on peace and security, without any delay, Zelensky said. Also Read: US firm sells Zelensky, Motolov cocktails’ Legos, raises $160,000 for Ukraine In a video address, which was released in the early hours of Saturday, he said, "I want everyone to hear me now, especially in Moscow. The time has come for a meeting, it is time to talk. The time has come to restore territorial integrity and justice for Ukraine. Otherwise, Russia's losses will be such that it will take you several generations to recover." Although the two sides have been conducting talks for weeks, there have been no signs of breakthrough. Russian forces have been deliberately blocking the humanitarian supplies to cities under attack, Zelensky said. Also Read: As Ukraine conflict intensifies, Russian President Vladimir Putin issues warning to 'traitors' "This is a deliberate tactic ... This is a war crime and they will answer for it, 100%," the president said. There was no information about how many people have been killed after a theatre in Mariupol was struck on Wednesday, Zelensky said. Hundreds of people had taken shelter at the theatre. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Time for meaningful talks, says President Volodymyr Zelensky

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.

Russia is gathering reinforcements from across the country as it is facing “personnel losses” in the Ukrainian war, UK defence ministry’s latest public intelligence assessment report said.

The report, released on Tuesday, stated that Vladimir Putin is “increasingly seeking to generate additional troops to bolster and replace its personnel losses in Ukraine.”

&nbsp;The UK ministry said Russia was redeploying forces from as far away as "its Eastern Military District, Pacific Fleet and Armenia" and was increasingly tapping other sources of fighters such as "private military companies, Syrians, and other mercenaries."

“Russia is increasingly seeking to generate additional troops to bolster and replace its personnel losses. It is likely that Russia is struggling to conduct offensive operations in the face of sustained Ukrainian resistance,” the assessment said.

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Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 15 March 2022 
 
Find out more about the UK government's response: <a href="https://t.co/sdQNbNojkk">https://t.co/sdQNbNojkk</a> 
 
🇺🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithUkraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithUkraine</a> 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/dt3peYkO7y">pic.twitter.com/dt3peYkO7y</a>
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1503851779175370760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/courage-of-true-friends-of-ukraine-european-leaders-defiant-visit-to-kyiv-amid-growing-tension-with-russia-462717">European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia</a>

“Russia will likely attempt to use these forces to hold captured territory and free up its combat power to renew stalled offensive operations,” it added.&nbsp;

Earlier, the prime ministers of Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovenia travelled to the embattled Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky, despite Russian bombardment of the city.

The three leaders made a long, hazardous journey by rail from Poland to Kyiv in a show of support despite worries within the European Union about the security risks of travelling within a war zone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-refugee-crisis-raises-other-concerns-feeling-women-minors-may-be-targetted-for-trafficking-462747" hreflang="en">Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women &amp; minors may be targetted for trafficking</a>

“It is here, in war-torn Kyiv, that history is being made. It is here, that freedom fights against the world of tyranny. It is here that the future of us all hangs in the balance,” tweeted Poland’s Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki.

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

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. Russia is gathering reinforcements from across the country as it is facing “personnel losses” in the Ukrainian war, UK defence ministry’s latest public intelligence assessment report said. The report, released on Tuesday, stated that Vladimir Putin is “increasingly seeking to generate additional troops to bolster and replace its personnel losses in Ukraine.” The UK ministry said Russia was redeploying forces from as far away as "its Eastern Military District, Pacific Fleet and Armenia" and was increasingly tapping other sources of fighters such as "private military companies, Syrians, and other mercenaries." “Russia is increasingly seeking to generate additional troops to bolster and replace its personnel losses. It is likely that Russia is struggling to conduct offensive operations in the face of sustained Ukrainian resistance,” the assessment said. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 15 March 2022 Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/sdQNbNojkk 🇺🇦 #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/dt3peYkO7y — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) March 15, 2022 × Also read | European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia “Russia will likely attempt to use these forces to hold captured territory and free up its combat power to renew stalled offensive operations,” it added. Earlier, the prime ministers of Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovenia travelled to the embattled Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky, despite Russian bombardment of the city. The three leaders made a long, hazardous journey by rail from Poland to Kyiv in a show of support despite worries within the European Union about the security risks of travelling within a war zone. Also read | Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking “It is here, in war-torn Kyiv, that history is being made. It is here, that freedom fights against the world of tyranny. It is here that the future of us all hangs in the balance,” tweeted Poland’s Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements from across country into Ukraine: UK intel

In Russian invasion of Ukraine, fighting is raging on the outskirts of Kyiv. Artillery barrages forced residents to look for shelter in multiple areas around the capital city. &nbsp;

On Saturday, Zelenskyy said that Russia would need to carpet-bomb Kyiv and kill its residents to take the city. “They will come here only if they kill us all. If that is their goal, let them come,” he said.&nbsp;

The bombardment is still ongoing in other cities throughout the country like port city of Mariupol. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The invading forces are pounding the downtown of Mariupol with heavy shelling. Residents are hiding in an iconic mosque and elsewhere. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-weapons-worth-200-million-to-help-ukraine-fight-off-russia-461767" hreflang="en">US to send weapons worth $200 million to help Ukraine fight off Russia</a>

Mariupol is witnessing several issues in bringing food, water and medicine and evacuation of trapped civilians. During the siege, more than 1,500 people have died in Mariupol, as per the mayor's office. The continuous shelling has been even interrupting efforts to bury the dead in mass graves. &nbsp;

During a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said, “They are bombing it (Mariupol) 24 hours a day, launching missiles. It is hatred. They kill children." &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Saturday, the talks aimed at reaching a ceasefire have failed again. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211">LIVE: Ukraine says Russians shot 7 evacuees, including 1 child, near Kyiv</a>

Zelenskyy has also accused Russia of employing 'a new stage of terror' with the alleged detention of a mayor of a different city. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In Irpin, bodies lay out in the open on streets and in a park on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We do not have the right to let up our defense, no matter how difficult it may be," Zelenskyy said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In Russian invasion of Ukraine, fighting is raging on the outskirts of Kyiv. Artillery barrages forced residents to look for shelter in multiple areas around the capital city.

In Russian invasion of Ukraine, fighting is raging on the outskirts of Kyiv. Artillery barrages forced residents to look for shelter in multiple areas around the capital city. On Saturday, Zelenskyy said that Russia would need to carpet-bomb Kyiv and kill its residents to take the city. “They will come here only if they kill us all. If that is their goal, let them come,” he said. The bombardment is still ongoing in other cities throughout the country like port city of Mariupol. The invading forces are pounding the downtown of Mariupol with heavy shelling. Residents are hiding in an iconic mosque and elsewhere. Also Read: US to send weapons worth $200 million to help Ukraine fight off Russia Mariupol is witnessing several issues in bringing food, water and medicine and evacuation of trapped civilians. During the siege, more than 1,500 people have died in Mariupol, as per the mayor's office. The continuous shelling has been even interrupting efforts to bury the dead in mass graves. During a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said, “They are bombing it (Mariupol) 24 hours a day, launching missiles. It is hatred. They kill children." On Saturday, the talks aimed at reaching a ceasefire have failed again. Also Read | LIVE: Ukraine says Russians shot 7 evacuees, including 1 child, near Kyiv Zelenskyy has also accused Russia of employing 'a new stage of terror' with the alleged detention of a mayor of a different city. In Irpin, bodies lay out in the open on streets and in a park on Saturday. "We do not have the right to let up our defense, no matter how difficult it may be," Zelenskyy said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Fighting rages on near Kyiv as Mariupol gets pounded heavily

Ethiopia&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday vowed to investigate and take action against uniformed soldiers and others seen in a&nbsp;gruesome&nbsp;video&nbsp;burning a&nbsp;man&nbsp;alive in the country's northwest.

The widely shared&nbsp;video, which and sparked outrage&nbsp;on&nbsp;social media late Friday, shows an unarmed&nbsp;man&nbsp;being set&nbsp;on&nbsp;fire&nbsp;as a group of people, including some wearing Ethiopian army uniforms, taunt him in Amharic.

Ethiopia's government communications service said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday that the incident appeared to have occurred in the northwestern region of Benishangul Gumuz, which borders Sudan and South Sudan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-turns-on-the-turbines-at-giant-nile-hydropower-plant-454780">Ethiopia turns on the turbines at giant Nile hydropower plant</a>

"The&nbsp;video&nbsp;of the extremely savage act being circulated&nbsp;on&nbsp;social media outlets shows innocents being burned alive," it said in a statement, vowing to "investigate and take legal measures&nbsp;on&nbsp;those...who committed this inhumane, and savage act."

The&nbsp;video&nbsp;could not be independently verified by AFP and it was not immediately clear if the atrocity was connected to the ongoing 16-month war in northern&nbsp;Ethiopia.

The conflict in Africa's second most populous country between government forces and Tigrayan rebels has killed thousands of people, with widespread reports of atrocities including mass killings and sexual violence.

According to the UN, the fighting has also displaced more than two million people, driven hundreds of thousands to the brink of starvation and left more than nine million in need of assistance.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-40-of-tigrayans-face-extreme-lack-of-food-world-food-programme-448980">&nbsp;Nearly 40% of Tigrayans face 'extreme lack of food': World Food Programme</a>

At least 750 civilians were killed or executed in the northern regions of Amhara and Afar after they became caught up in the war last year, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said Friday.

The state-affiliated independent rights body also catalogued a litany of abuses, including torture and gang rape and enforced disappearances, saying some may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.&nbsp;

The report said that Tigrayan rebels sexually assaulted girls and elderly women. It also accused federal and local security forces in Amhara and Afar of widespread arbitrary detentions.

Watch |&nbsp;Ethiopia: UN report on horrific accounts of rape and torture in Tigray region

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ethiopia-un-report-on-horrific-accounts-of-rape-and-torture-in-tigray-region-452638/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A joint investigation by the UN and the EHRC published last November detailed a vast array of rights abuses, mostly blamed&nbsp;on&nbsp;Ethiopian forces and Eritrean troops, who provided military support to Addis Ababa.

Last week, the UN Human Rights Council announced that Fatou Bensouda, a former chief prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC), would head a UN investigation&nbsp;into&nbsp;a wide range of alleged violations committed by all sides in the war.

Ethiopia on Saturday vowed to investigate and take action against uniformed soldiers and others seen in a gruesome video burning a man alive in the country's northwest.

Ethiopia on Saturday vowed to investigate and take action against uniformed soldiers and others seen in a gruesome video burning a man alive in the country's northwest. The widely shared video, which and sparked outrage on social media late Friday, shows an unarmed man being set on fire as a group of people, including some wearing Ethiopian army uniforms, taunt him in Amharic. Ethiopia's government communications service said on Saturday that the incident appeared to have occurred in the northwestern region of Benishangul Gumuz, which borders Sudan and South Sudan. Also read | Ethiopia turns on the turbines at giant Nile hydropower plant "The video of the extremely savage act being circulated on social media outlets shows innocents being burned alive," it said in a statement, vowing to "investigate and take legal measures on those...who committed this inhumane, and savage act." The video could not be independently verified by AFP and it was not immediately clear if the atrocity was connected to the ongoing 16-month war in northern Ethiopia. The conflict in Africa's second most populous country between government forces and Tigrayan rebels has killed thousands of people, with widespread reports of atrocities including mass killings and sexual violence. According to the UN, the fighting has also displaced more than two million people, driven hundreds of thousands to the brink of starvation and left more than nine million in need of assistance. Also read | Nearly 40% of Tigrayans face 'extreme lack of food': World Food Programme At least 750 civilians were killed or executed in the northern regions of Amhara and Afar after they became caught up in the war last year, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said Friday. The state-affiliated independent rights body also catalogued a litany of abuses, including torture and gang rape and enforced disappearances, saying some may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. The report said that Tigrayan rebels sexually assaulted girls and elderly women. It also accused federal and local security forces in Amhara and Afar of widespread arbitrary detentions. Watch | Ethiopia: UN report on horrific accounts of rape and torture in Tigray region A joint investigation by the UN and the EHRC published last November detailed a vast array of rights abuses, mostly blamed on Ethiopian forces and Eritrean troops, who provided military support to Addis Ababa. Last week, the UN Human Rights Council announced that Fatou Bensouda, a former chief prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC), would head a UN investigation into a wide range of alleged violations committed by all sides in the war.

Ethiopia vows probe into gruesome video of man on fire

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.&nbsp;

A third top Russian general seems to have been killed by Ukrainian defenders, the Armed Forces of Ukraine claimed on Friday. &nbsp;

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been intensifying with every hour. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a tweet, Ukraine's military said that they killed Russian Maj Gen Andrey Kolesnikov, who is believed to be the commander of the 29th Combined Arms Army. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-faces-flak-for-laughing-on-question-over-ukrainian-refugees-fate-461512">Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate</a>

While announcing the general's purported death, Ukraine's armed forces on Twitter, said, "The Russian invaders continue to lose their officers in the war against Ukraine." &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Російські окупанти продовжують втрачати у війні проти України своїх офіцерів. ЗСУ вдалося ліквідувати генерал-майора Андрія Колеснікова, командувача Східного військового округу. <a href="https://t.co/CEBDneqslz">pic.twitter.com/CEBDneqslz</a>
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On Friday, several journalists also reported that anonymous Western officials have confirmed that a third Russian major general has been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;

Earlier, a Ukrainian sniper had reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals, said media reports. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-conflict-russia-violates-nuclear-safety-principles-in-ukraine-says-us-461477" hreflang="en">In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US</a>

In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. &nbsp;

One more Russian general was allegedly killed earlier by Ukrainian forces. The invasion began on February 24.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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. A third top Russian general seems to have been killed by Ukrainian defenders, the Armed Forces of Ukraine claimed on Friday. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been intensifying with every hour. In a tweet, Ukraine's military said that they killed Russian Maj Gen Andrey Kolesnikov, who is believed to be the commander of the 29th Combined Arms Army. Also Read: Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate While announcing the general's purported death, Ukraine's armed forces on Twitter, said, "The Russian invaders continue to lose their officers in the war against Ukraine." Російські окупанти продовжують втрачати у війні проти України своїх офіцерів. ЗСУ вдалося ліквідувати генерал-майора Андрія Колеснікова, командувача Східного військового округу. pic.twitter.com/CEBDneqslz — 🇺🇦Armed Forces (@ArmedForcesUkr) March 11, 2022 × On Friday, several journalists also reported that anonymous Western officials have confirmed that a third Russian major general has been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Earlier, a Ukrainian sniper had reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals, said media reports. Also Read: In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. One more Russian general was allegedly killed earlier by Ukrainian forces. The invasion began on February 24. (With inputs from agencies)

As conflict intensifies, Ukrainian defenders claim to kill Russia’s third general

Russian forces have destroyed at least $100 billion worth infrastructure, buildings and other assets in the conflict till now, said Ukraine's top government economic adviser Oleg Ustenko on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

At an online event, which was hosted by the Peterson Institute for International Economics, Ustenko, chief economic adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, said the invasion has caused 50% Ukrainian businesses to shut down completely. The rest are operating at below capacity. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-security-council-to-discuss-russian-claim-of-us-backed-biowarfare-labs-in-ukraine-461110">UNSC to discuss Russian claim of US-backed biowarfare labs in Ukraine</a>

The damage estimate is "very approximate" and just includes bridges, hospitals, roads, equipment and other assets, he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

For financing the reconstruction effort in the country, Ustenko said some part of it can come from Russian assets frozen around the world. It can include Russian central bank assets held outside the country and immobilised by Western sanctions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The assets of wealthy Russian oligarchs, which have been seized, could also be transferred to a reconstruction fund, he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-ukraine-needs-surface-to-air-missiles-not-fighter-jets-to-fight-formidable-russian-air-force-461103">Ukraine needs surface-to-air missiles, not fighter jets: US</a>

Ukraine's fiscal reserves are currently at about $27.5 billion, which is down from about $30 billion before the invasion, Ustenko said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked about the resilience of Ukraine's financial system and bank payment operations, Ustenko said, "Look, we are doing, I would say, OK under the current circumstances. Even in those cities surrounded by now by the Russian army...(residents) are able use their cards.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian forces have destroyed at least $100 billion worth infrastructure, buildings and other assets in the conflict till now, said Ukraine's top government economic adviser Oleg Ustenko on Thursday.

Russian forces have destroyed at least $100 billion worth infrastructure, buildings and other assets in the conflict till now, said Ukraine's top government economic adviser Oleg Ustenko on Thursday. At an online event, which was hosted by the Peterson Institute for International Economics, Ustenko, chief economic adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, said the invasion has caused 50% Ukrainian businesses to shut down completely. The rest are operating at below capacity. Also Read: UNSC to discuss Russian claim of US-backed biowarfare labs in Ukraine The damage estimate is "very approximate" and just includes bridges, hospitals, roads, equipment and other assets, he said. For financing the reconstruction effort in the country, Ustenko said some part of it can come from Russian assets frozen around the world. It can include Russian central bank assets held outside the country and immobilised by Western sanctions. The assets of wealthy Russian oligarchs, which have been seized, could also be transferred to a reconstruction fund, he added. Also Read | Ukraine needs surface-to-air missiles, not fighter jets: US Ukraine's fiscal reserves are currently at about $27.5 billion, which is down from about $30 billion before the invasion, Ustenko said. When asked about the resilience of Ukraine's financial system and bank payment operations, Ustenko said, "Look, we are doing, I would say, OK under the current circumstances. Even in those cities surrounded by now by the Russian army...(residents) are able use their cards.” (With inputs from agencies)

In conflict, Russian forces destroyed $100 billion worth infrastructure till now, says Ukraine's official

Since the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, several civilian and military establishments in the eastern European nation have been hit badly. &nbsp;

But the phone lines and internet are still working. Is it intentional or has Russia failed to tear it down? &nbsp;

Cybersecurity experts feel that Moscow has three good reasons to not disable phone and data networks. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-allow-civilians-to-leave-russia-proposes-humanitarian-corridors-in-five-ukrainian-cities-say-reports-460072">Russia proposes humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities, say reports</a>

The first is that the Russian intelligence services can eavesdrop on phone calls and emails. It can also gather geolocation and other metadata, which can prove useful in the invasion. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Russian army is also using Ukrainian commercial networks to communicate can be the second reason. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The invading army doesn’t want to destroy infrastructure that they will need if they conquer Ukraine is surely the third one. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-belarusian-hackers-target-ukraine-european-allies-through-phishing-campaigns-says-google-460083">Russian, Belarusian hackers target Ukraine, European allies, says Google</a>

The continuance of phone lines and internet seems to have not worked in Russia’s favour till now as the details of the invasion have fuelled the world with anger and led to protests and sanctions. &nbsp;

“If [Russian forces] can do localised shutdowns of telecommunications, they’ll do it. But in general, they’ll want to keep the phones working in Kyiv because they can listen in,” said James Lewis, senior vice president and director of the strategic technologies programme at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“If you want to own the house, you’re not going to burn it down,” Lewis added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Since the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, several civilian and military establishments in the eastern European nation have been hit badly. But the phone lines and internet are still working.

Since the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, several civilian and military establishments in the eastern European nation have been hit badly. But the phone lines and internet are still working. Is it intentional or has Russia failed to tear it down? Cybersecurity experts feel that Moscow has three good reasons to not disable phone and data networks. Also Read: Russia proposes humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities, say reports The first is that the Russian intelligence services can eavesdrop on phone calls and emails. It can also gather geolocation and other metadata, which can prove useful in the invasion. The Russian army is also using Ukrainian commercial networks to communicate can be the second reason. The invading army doesn’t want to destroy infrastructure that they will need if they conquer Ukraine is surely the third one. Also Read: Russian, Belarusian hackers target Ukraine, European allies, says Google The continuance of phone lines and internet seems to have not worked in Russia’s favour till now as the details of the invasion have fuelled the world with anger and led to protests and sanctions. “If [Russian forces] can do localised shutdowns of telecommunications, they’ll do it. But in general, they’ll want to keep the phones working in Kyiv because they can listen in,” said James Lewis, senior vice president and director of the strategic technologies programme at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “If you want to own the house, you’re not going to burn it down,” Lewis added. (With inputs from agencies)

In Russia-Ukraine conflict, phone lines, internet remain untouched. But why?

Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the anger towards President Vladimir Putin has been growing at a fast pace. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The rage against Putin for attacking Ukraine has led to an unlikely casualty. It’s a French-Canadian delicacy, which is called Poutine. It is made up of potato fries, cheese curds and gravy. &nbsp;

Poutine is a famous dish and shares its name in French with the Russian president. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-girl-sings-let-it-go-moves-hearts-from-kyivs-bomb-shelter-459765" hreflang="en">Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter</a>

The restaurants, which serve&nbsp;the dish, have also become the target of protest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With restaurants in both Paris and Toulouse, Maison de la Poutine said that it has received insults and threats after the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began. &nbsp;

On Twitter, the company said, “Our dish was born in Quebec in the 1950s. And the stories to tell its origin are numerous. But one thing is certain: poutine was created by passionate cooks, who wanted to bring joy and comfort to their customers.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-allies-plan-ways-to-help-establish-support-a-ukrainian-government-in-exile-459791" hreflang="en">US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile</a>

“The House of Poutine has worked since its first day to perpetuate these values and today brings its most sincere support to the Ukrainian people, who are courageously fighting for their freedom against the tyrannical Russian regime,” it added. &nbsp;

The controversy has also forced a Quebec-based diner to pull the name from the menu. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Le Roy Jucep said it was distancing itself from the name. It is now describing the dish as “the inventor of the fries-cheese-gravy”. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the anger towards President Vladimir Putin has been growing at a fast pace. The rage against Putin for attacking Ukraine has led to an unlikely casualty.

Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the anger towards President Vladimir Putin has been growing at a fast pace. The rage against Putin for attacking Ukraine has led to an unlikely casualty. It’s a French-Canadian delicacy, which is called Poutine. It is made up of potato fries, cheese curds and gravy. Poutine is a famous dish and shares its name in French with the Russian president. Also Read | Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter The restaurants, which serve the dish, have also become the target of protest. With restaurants in both Paris and Toulouse, Maison de la Poutine said that it has received insults and threats after the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began. On Twitter, the company said, “Our dish was born in Quebec in the 1950s. And the stories to tell its origin are numerous. But one thing is certain: poutine was created by passionate cooks, who wanted to bring joy and comfort to their customers.” Also Read: US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile “The House of Poutine has worked since its first day to perpetuate these values and today brings its most sincere support to the Ukrainian people, who are courageously fighting for their freedom against the tyrannical Russian regime,” it added. The controversy has also forced a Quebec-based diner to pull the name from the menu. Le Roy Jucep said it was distancing itself from the name. It is now describing the dish as “the inventor of the fries-cheese-gravy”. (With inputs from agencies)

It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu

US has sent additional troops to Europe. UK is planning to seize the property of Russian Oligarchs. NATO Foreign Ministers are holding an emergency meeting in Brussels. Palki Sharma decodes Thursday's biggest developments with WION's correspondents.

Gravitas: Ukraine Conflict: Decoding Thursday's biggest developments

Is Russia trying to drag India into the Ukraine conflict? Moscow claimed that Indian students were taken "hostage" and used as "human shields". India has refuted Russia's claims. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Indians students used as human shields?

One million people have fled Ukraine in less than a week since Russia's invasion, the UN refugee agency said on Thursday. &nbsp;

It is one of the biggest refugee crises in 100 years, said UN.

The UN High Commissioner’s tally for refugees is more than 2% of Ukraine's population, which was 44 million at the end of 2020 as per World Bank. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In an email, UNHCR spokeswoman Joung-ah Ghedini-Williams wrote, "Our data indicates we passed the 1M mark" as of midnight in central Europe. It is based on counts collected by the national authorities. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-unravel-truth-iccs-prosecutor-starts-investigation-into-possible-war-crimes-in-ukraine-458350" hreflang="en">ICC's prosecutor starts investigation into possible war crimes in Ukraine</a>

On Twitter, UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi wrote, "In just seven days, we have witnessed the exodus of one million refugees from Ukraine to neighbouring countries." &nbsp;

Grandi also appealed for the "guns to fall silent" in Ukraine so humanitarian aid could reach millions of people still inside Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The UN officials and others have also praised the response of Ukraine's neighbours, who have opened gymnasiums, homes and other facilities to take in the refugees. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-billionaires-600-million-luxury-yacht-seized-by-german-authorities-says-report-458362" hreflang="en">Russian billionaire’s $600 million luxury yacht seized by German authorities, says report</a>

UNHCR spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo said on Wednesday that "at this rate, the outflows from Ukraine could make it the source of the biggest refugee crisis in this century." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Over 505,000 refugees from Ukraine have gone to Poland and more than 116,000 travelled to Hungary. Moldova has taken in over 79,000 and 71,200 had entered Slovakia, as per the latest figures on UNHCR's online data portal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

One million people have fled Ukraine in less than a week since Russia's invasion, the UN refugee agency said on Thursday. It is one of the biggest refugee crises in 100 years, said UN.

One million people have fled Ukraine in less than a week since Russia's invasion, the UN refugee agency said on Thursday. It is one of the biggest refugee crises in 100 years, said UN. The UN High Commissioner’s tally for refugees is more than 2% of Ukraine's population, which was 44 million at the end of 2020 as per World Bank. In an email, UNHCR spokeswoman Joung-ah Ghedini-Williams wrote, "Our data indicates we passed the 1M mark" as of midnight in central Europe. It is based on counts collected by the national authorities. Also Read: ICC's prosecutor starts investigation into possible war crimes in Ukraine On Twitter, UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi wrote, "In just seven days, we have witnessed the exodus of one million refugees from Ukraine to neighbouring countries." Grandi also appealed for the "guns to fall silent" in Ukraine so humanitarian aid could reach millions of people still inside Ukraine. The UN officials and others have also praised the response of Ukraine's neighbours, who have opened gymnasiums, homes and other facilities to take in the refugees. Also Read: Russian billionaire’s $600 million luxury yacht seized by German authorities, says report UNHCR spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo said on Wednesday that "at this rate, the outflows from Ukraine could make it the source of the biggest refugee crisis in this century." Over 505,000 refugees from Ukraine have gone to Poland and more than 116,000 travelled to Hungary. Moldova has taken in over 79,000 and 71,200 had entered Slovakia, as per the latest figures on UNHCR's online data portal. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: In a week, one million flee fighting in biggest refugee crisis in 100 years, says UN

For the eighth day now, Ukraine has witnessed a full-scale Russian invasion. With the Russian military assault came the Russian president's rhetoric which has left experts questioning his rationale and endgame!

Russia re-strategizes its Kyiv plan, what is Putin's endgame?

Is Russia pushing for a swift end to the Ukraine invasion? Fighting has intensified in 4 cities. Moscow is claiming control of Kherson. A report claims Russia wants to reinstate Former Ukraine President Viktor Yanukovych. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Russia wants a swift end to the conflict

Ratings agencies&nbsp;Fitch&nbsp;and Moody's slashed Russia's sovereign debt on Thursday to "junk" status, or the category of countries at risk of not being able to repay their debt, a week after Moscow began its assault on Ukraine.

Moody's downgraded the rating on Russian long-term debt from Baa3 to B3 subject to a further review over the West's sanctions against Russia, while&nbsp;Fitch&nbsp;lowered its rating from BBB to B, also with a negative outlook.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-civilians-block-russian-troops-attempt-to-take-over-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-458475">Ukrainian civilians block Russian troops’ attempt to take over Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</a>

"The multi-notch downgrade of Russia's ratings and maintaining the review for further downgrade were triggered by the severe sanctions that Western countries have imposed on Russia", including on its central bank and some large financial institutions, Moody's said in a statement.

The agency also noted a "heightened risk of disruption" to sovereign debt repayment in the face of "severe and coordinated sanctions".

It said there were "significant concerns" over Russia's willingness to service its debt.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-last-independent-news-networks-scribes-flee-russia-to-get-to-safety-458433">Ukraine crisis: Last independent news network’s scribes flee Russia to get to safety</a>

On Wednesday, the European Union cut seven Russian banks from the global SWIFT interbank messaging network, which allows for quick and secure transactions.

The World Bank also announced it was halting all of its ongoing projects in Russia and Belarus in response to the invasion of Ukraine.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The human cost of Ukraine conflict

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-human-cost-of-ukraine-conflict-457956/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Fitch, for its part, said in a statement that it expected a "further ratcheting up of sanctions on Russian banks".

It added that, in the event of a protracted conflict and weaker economic growth, it saw the potential for "greater domestic political uncertainty and instability".

Ratings agencies Fitch and Moody's slashed Russia's sovereign debt on Thursday to "junk" status, or the category of countries at risk of not being able to repay their debt, a week after Moscow began its assault on Ukraine.

Ratings agencies Fitch and Moody's slashed Russia's sovereign debt on Thursday to "junk" status, or the category of countries at risk of not being able to repay their debt, a week after Moscow began its assault on Ukraine. Moody's downgraded the rating on Russian long-term debt from Baa3 to B3 subject to a further review over the West's sanctions against Russia, while Fitch lowered its rating from BBB to B, also with a negative outlook. Also read | Ukrainian civilians block Russian troops’ attempt to take over Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant "The multi-notch downgrade of Russia's ratings and maintaining the review for further downgrade were triggered by the severe sanctions that Western countries have imposed on Russia", including on its central bank and some large financial institutions, Moody's said in a statement. The agency also noted a "heightened risk of disruption" to sovereign debt repayment in the face of "severe and coordinated sanctions". It said there were "significant concerns" over Russia's willingness to service its debt. Also read | Ukraine crisis: Last independent news network’s scribes flee Russia to get to safety On Wednesday, the European Union cut seven Russian banks from the global SWIFT interbank messaging network, which allows for quick and secure transactions. The World Bank also announced it was halting all of its ongoing projects in Russia and Belarus in response to the invasion of Ukraine. Watch | Gravitas: The human cost of Ukraine conflict Fitch, for its part, said in a statement that it expected a "further ratcheting up of sanctions on Russian banks". It added that, in the event of a protracted conflict and weaker economic growth, it saw the potential for "greater domestic political uncertainty and instability".

Fitch, Moody's slash Russia's sovereign debt to junk

70% of Ukrainians believe the Russian invasion will fail. Many of them are willing to fight for that outcome. Palki Sharma tells you how people of Ukraine are fighting back.

Gravitas: Russia's Ukraine invasion: How Ukrainians are fighting back

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia seems to have spilled elsewhere too. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A Ukrainian sailor made a failed attempt to sink a luxury yacht owned by his Russian boss Alexander Mijeev, who is the CEO of Rosoboronexport. The 55-year-old sailor was arrested on Saturday. &nbsp;

To sink the 156-foot vessel by flooding, Taras Ostapchuk, a ship engineer, reportedly opened valves in the engine room. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The yacht is estimated to be worth a whopping $7.7 million, as per The New York Post. &nbsp;

The incident happened when the yacht, Lady Anastasia, was docked at Mallorca in Spain, reported BBC. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-war-outbreaks-fear-grows-what-are-nuke-capabilities-of-russia-457686">Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? &nbsp;</a>

The Spain's Civil Guard arrested him on Saturday. When he appeared in court on Sunday, he told the judge that he did not regret his actions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As per the Majorca Daily Bulletin, the Ukrainian, who worked on the vessel for 10 years, said, "I don't regret anything I've done and I would do it again." He said that his boss is "a criminal who sells weapons that kill the Ukrainian people."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mijeev’s company exports Russian defence products, such as ships, weapons, tanks and fighting vehicles. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In court, Ostapchuk said that he acted after watching coverage of the invasion on television. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-using-brutal-cluster-explosives-vacuum-bombs-in-ukraine-say-rights-groups-ukraines-envoy-to-us-457658">'Russia using ‘brutal’ cluster explosives, vacuum bombs in Ukraine'</a>

"I watched the news about the war. There was a video of a helicopter attack on a building in Kyiv. The armaments used are produced by the yacht owner's company. They were attacking innocents," Ostapchuk told the judge. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia seems to have spilled elsewhere too. A Ukrainian sailor made a failed attempt to sink a luxury yacht owned by his Russian boss Alexander Mijeev, who is the CEO of Rosoboronexport.

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia seems to have spilled elsewhere too. A Ukrainian sailor made a failed attempt to sink a luxury yacht owned by his Russian boss Alexander Mijeev, who is the CEO of Rosoboronexport. The 55-year-old sailor was arrested on Saturday. To sink the 156-foot vessel by flooding, Taras Ostapchuk, a ship engineer, reportedly opened valves in the engine room. The yacht is estimated to be worth a whopping $7.7 million, as per The New York Post. The incident happened when the yacht, Lady Anastasia, was docked at Mallorca in Spain, reported BBC. Also Read: Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? The Spain's Civil Guard arrested him on Saturday. When he appeared in court on Sunday, he told the judge that he did not regret his actions. As per the Majorca Daily Bulletin, the Ukrainian, who worked on the vessel for 10 years, said, "I don't regret anything I've done and I would do it again." He said that his boss is "a criminal who sells weapons that kill the Ukrainian people." Mijeev’s company exports Russian defence products, such as ships, weapons, tanks and fighting vehicles. In court, Ostapchuk said that he acted after watching coverage of the invasion on television. Also Read: 'Russia using ‘brutal’ cluster explosives, vacuum bombs in Ukraine' "I watched the news about the war. There was a video of a helicopter attack on a building in Kyiv. The armaments used are produced by the yacht owner's company. They were attacking innocents," Ostapchuk told the judge. (With inputs from agencies)

Enraged over conflict, Ukrainian sailor attempts to sink Russian boss’s luxury yacht, held

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