<p>Russia has pulled out its Black Sea Fleet from the controlled Crimean region, several media reports claimed, indicating that it was the result of increased Ukraine missile and drone attacks.</p>

<p>Russia has moved three attack submarines and two frigates from Sevastopol to other ports in Russia and Crimea, the New York Times (NYT) newspaper claimed on Wednesday (Oct 5), citing Western officials and satellite images verified by naval experts.</p>

<p>The Telegraph newspaper also reported, citing British intelligence, that the Russian Black Sea Fleet is “struggling to deal with concurrent threats on the southern flank of the Ukraine war” and “fleet activities are likely relocating to Novorossiysk in the face of threats to Sevastopol”.</p>

<p>Russia is now “attempting to use naval air power to project force over the north-western Black Sea”, it reported.</p>

<p>If the reports are accurate, then this would be the biggest setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin who had occupied Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.</p>

<h2><strong>Crimea important naval base for Russia</strong></h2>

<p>Crimea has served as the key hub supporting&nbsp;Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Sevastopol, the main base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet since the 19th century, has had particular importance for navy operations since the start of the war.</p>

<p>Another reason is to use it as a logistics hub, shipping in munitions and materiel for the land battle to the north.</p>

<p>The decision to withdraw from Sevastopol comes in the wake of a series of attacks by Ukraine in recent weeks that have severely damaged Russian vessels and the fleet’s headquarters.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's counteroffensive ops yielding results&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Ukrainian strikes obliterated the naval headquarters and damaged docked warships last month, making the port city untenable as a naval base.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-fukushima-nuclear-plant-begins-release-of-second-batch-of-treated-radioactive-wastewater-642747">Fukushima nuclear plant releases treated radioactive wastewater's second batc</a></p>

<p>The recent assault has not only denied Russia access to parts of the Black Sea but has also allowed Ukraine to open a new corridor for it to dispatch vital grain shipments.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-led-to-kevin-mccarthys-exit-and-what-happens-next-642314">Explained | What led to Kevin McCarthy’s exit as US House speaker, and what happens next?</a></p>

<p>The Russian withdrawal would give a major boost to Ukraine’s counteroffensive operations as it slowly makes advances amidst heavy losses.</p>

<p>Military experts argue that it is essential for Ukraine to keep up its attacks on targets in Crimea to degrade Russian morale and weaken its military.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia has pulled out its Black Sea Fleet from the controlled Crimean region, several media reports claimed, indicating that it was the result of increased Ukraine missile and drone attacks.

Russia has pulled out its Black Sea Fleet from the controlled Crimean region, several media reports claimed, indicating that it was the result of increased Ukraine missile and drone attacks. Russia has moved three attack submarines and two frigates from Sevastopol to other ports in Russia and Crimea, the New York Times (NYT) newspaper claimed on Wednesday (Oct 5), citing Western officials and satellite images verified by naval experts. The Telegraph newspaper also reported, citing British intelligence, that the Russian Black Sea Fleet is “struggling to deal with concurrent threats on the southern flank of the Ukraine war” and “fleet activities are likely relocating to Novorossiysk in the face of threats to Sevastopol”. Russia is now “attempting to use naval air power to project force over the north-western Black Sea”, it reported. If the reports are accurate, then this would be the biggest setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin who had occupied Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Crimea important naval base for Russia Crimea has served as the key hub supporting Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Sevastopol, the main base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet since the 19th century, has had particular importance for navy operations since the start of the war. Another reason is to use it as a logistics hub, shipping in munitions and materiel for the land battle to the north. The decision to withdraw from Sevastopol comes in the wake of a series of attacks by Ukraine in recent weeks that have severely damaged Russian vessels and the fleet’s headquarters. Ukraine's counteroffensive ops yielding results The Ukrainian strikes obliterated the naval headquarters and damaged docked warships last month, making the port city untenable as a naval base. Also read | Fukushima nuclear plant releases treated radioactive wastewater's second batc The recent assault has not only denied Russia access to parts of the Black Sea but has also allowed Ukraine to open a new corridor for it to dispatch vital grain shipments. Also read | Explained | What led to Kevin McCarthy’s exit as US House speaker, and what happens next? The Russian withdrawal would give a major boost to Ukraine’s counteroffensive operations as it slowly makes advances amidst heavy losses. Military experts argue that it is essential for Ukraine to keep up its attacks on targets in Crimea to degrade Russian morale and weaken its military. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Setback for Vladimir Putin as Russia withdraws Black Sea Fleet from Crimea: Report

<p>Moscow claimed on Wednesday that Washington and London helped Ukraine orchestrate an unprecedented strike on the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in annexed Crimea last week.</p>

<p>"There is not the slightest doubt that the attack was planned in advance using Western intelligence assets, NATO satellite equipment, and reconnaissance aircraft," Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The missile strike was carried out "in close coordination with the American and British intelligence services," she added.</p>

<p>Ukraine claimed responsibility for a missile attack that on Friday struck the headquarters of Moscow's Black Sea Fleet in annexed Crimea, sparking a huge fire.</p>

<p>Moscow said that the attack left one Russian serviceman missing, while Kyiv claimed that the strike killed 34 officers, including the fleet commander, Viktor Sokolov.</p>

<p>Moscow has however denied the claim.</p>

<p>Undated footage broadcast Wednesday by the Russian defence ministry's Zvezda TV channel showed Sokolov saying that the Black Sea Fleet was "fulfilling the tasks the command has set."</p>

<p>Since sending troops to Ukraine in February 2022, the Kremlin has accused Western powers of de-facto fighting against Moscow by providing financial and military support to Kyiv.</p>

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Moscow claimed on Wednesday that Washington and London helped Ukraine orchestrate an unprecedented strike on the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in annexed Crimea last week.

Moscow claimed on Wednesday that Washington and London helped Ukraine orchestrate an unprecedented strike on the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in annexed Crimea last week. "There is not the slightest doubt that the attack was planned in advance using Western intelligence assets, NATO satellite equipment, and reconnaissance aircraft," Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said. The missile strike was carried out "in close coordination with the American and British intelligence services," she added. Ukraine claimed responsibility for a missile attack that on Friday struck the headquarters of Moscow's Black Sea Fleet in annexed Crimea, sparking a huge fire. Moscow said that the attack left one Russian serviceman missing, while Kyiv claimed that the strike killed 34 officers, including the fleet commander, Viktor Sokolov. Moscow has however denied the claim. Undated footage broadcast Wednesday by the Russian defence ministry's Zvezda TV channel showed Sokolov saying that the Black Sea Fleet was "fulfilling the tasks the command has set." Since sending troops to Ukraine in February 2022, the Kremlin has accused Western powers of de-facto fighting against Moscow by providing financial and military support to Kyiv. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow alleges US, UK aided Ukraine missile strike on Crimea naval headquarters

Ukraine's Special Forces has claimed that it killed the Commander, Viktor Sokolov, of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Crimea's Sevastopol, along with 33 other officers in last week's missile attack.

Ukraine: Russia Black Sea Commander Viktor Sokolov killed in Crimea's Sevastopol

According to military officials, Ukraine launched a missile attack against Russia's Black Sea Fleet headquarters, resulting in the main structure going up in flames and one serviceman going missing. Following the incident in the port city of Sevastopol, the Russian Ministry of Defense first announced one service member was killed on Friday but then stated in a statement that he was missing.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine launches another missile attack on Sevastopol

<p>A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by Ukrainian missile&nbsp;in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The headquarters of the fleet has been hit in an enemy missile attack," said Mikhail Razvozhayev, governor of Sevastopol - the largest city of the peninsula - in a statement on social media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇷🇺 Black Sea Fleet in 🇷🇺-occupied Crimea has been hit by Ukraine 🇺🇦.<br />
<br />
You know how bad it is?<br />
<br />
It is on fire and sinking:<br />
<br />
And it is on dry land.<br />
<br />
It’s a race to visit the Moskva. <a href="https://t.co/1r6qKLut5m">pic.twitter.com/1r6qKLut5m</a></p>
— Jason Jay Smart (@officejjsmart) <a href="https://twitter.com/officejjsmart/status/1705180126646763693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The governor of Sevastopol further warned that another Ukrainian aerial attack is likely to happen shortly. "Attention everyone! Another attack is possible. Please do not go to the city centre. Do not leave buildings. Everyone who is near the headquarters of the fleet -- at the sound of the siren, proceed to shelters," said Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media.</p>

<p>The Russian naval headquarters which was hit in the Ukrainian missile attack caught fire, confirmed the senior regional official.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-shot-19-ukrainian-drones-over-crimea-black-sea-638044">Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea</a></p>

<p>"Work continues to extinguish the fire at the fleet headquarters. Please remain calm. The situation is under control of the emergency services," said the region's governor Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media.</p>

<p>The governor of annexed peninsula Sergei Aksyonov further added that another cruise missile was downed by Russian air defence systems over the peninsula.</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry confirmed that at least one serviceman went missing after&nbsp;the headquarters of Moscow's Black Sea fleet was hit by a Ukrainian missile in annexed Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Earlier today the Kyiv regime launched a missile attack on the city of Sevastopol," said Moscow's defence ministry on Telegram. "One serviceman was not killed, but is missing," it said, updating its previous post on Telegram," it added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: At least 7 injured in Cherkasy after Russian attack</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Cyber attack on Crimea&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The peninsula further faced a cyber attack after its internet providers were attacked, said a proxy official from Crimea's Russian-backed administration on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unprecedented cyberattack on Crimean internet providers. We are fixing internet outages on the peninsula. All services are working to eliminate the threat," stated Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Moscow-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov.</p>

<h2><strong>Friction&nbsp;between Ukraine, Europe inevitable:&nbsp;Kremlin</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Friday stated that it was unavoidable to control the increasing tensions between Kyiv and its European allies as a dispute escalates between Poland and Ukraine which has been sparked by disagreements over grain exports.</p>

<p>"There are certain frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv. We predict that these frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv will increase. Friction between Kyiv and other European capitals will also grow over time. This is inevitable," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said while speaking to the reporters.</p>

<p><em><strong>More details to follow soon.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by Ukrainian missile in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv.

A Russian occupation official installed in annexed Crimea on Friday (September 22) said that the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet have been hit by Ukrainian missile in the latest assault on the peninsula by Kyiv. "The headquarters of the fleet has been hit in an enemy missile attack," said Mikhail Razvozhayev, governor of Sevastopol - the largest city of the peninsula - in a statement on social media. 🇷🇺 Black Sea Fleet in 🇷🇺-occupied Crimea has been hit by Ukraine 🇺🇦. You know how bad it is? It is on fire and sinking: And it is on dry land. It’s a race to visit the Moskva. pic.twitter.com/1r6qKLut5m — Jason Jay Smart (@officejjsmart) September 22, 2023 × The governor of Sevastopol further warned that another Ukrainian aerial attack is likely to happen shortly. "Attention everyone! Another attack is possible. Please do not go to the city centre. Do not leave buildings. Everyone who is near the headquarters of the fleet -- at the sound of the siren, proceed to shelters," said Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media. The Russian naval headquarters which was hit in the Ukrainian missile attack caught fire, confirmed the senior regional official. ALSO READ | Russia claims it shot down 19 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, Black Sea "Work continues to extinguish the fire at the fleet headquarters. Please remain calm. The situation is under control of the emergency services," said the region's governor Mikhail Razvozhayev on social media. The governor of annexed peninsula Sergei Aksyonov further added that another cruise missile was downed by Russian air defence systems over the peninsula. The Russian defence ministry confirmed that at least one serviceman went missing after the headquarters of Moscow's Black Sea fleet was hit by a Ukrainian missile in annexed Crimea. "Earlier today the Kyiv regime launched a missile attack on the city of Sevastopol," said Moscow's defence ministry on Telegram. "One serviceman was not killed, but is missing," it said, updating its previous post on Telegram," it added. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: At least 7 injured in Cherkasy after Russian attack Cyber attack on Crimea The peninsula further faced a cyber attack after its internet providers were attacked, said a proxy official from Crimea's Russian-backed administration on Friday. "Unprecedented cyberattack on Crimean internet providers. We are fixing internet outages on the peninsula. All services are working to eliminate the threat," stated Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Moscow-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov. Friction between Ukraine, Europe inevitable: Kremlin Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Friday stated that it was unavoidable to control the increasing tensions between Kyiv and its European allies as a dispute escalates between Poland and Ukraine which has been sparked by disagreements over grain exports. "There are certain frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv. We predict that these frictions between Warsaw and Kyiv will increase. Friction between Kyiv and other European capitals will also grow over time. This is inevitable," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said while speaking to the reporters. More details to follow soon. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia's Black Sea fleet headquarters in Crimea hit by Ukrainian missile, says Russian official

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

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

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

<p>Russia’s Ministry of Defence said Sunday that its forces shot down one Ukrainian drone over the outskirts of Moscow and at least six others over Crimea.</p>

<p>At around 1:45 am (04:15 am IST on Sunday) one drone was intercepted over Moscow's Istrinsky district, the defence ministry said in a Telegram post.</p>

<p>“According to preliminary data, there was no damage or casualties at the site where the debris fell," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin wrote in a separate Telegram post.</p>

<p>"Emergency services specialists are working at the scene,” he added.</p>

<p>Around the same time, six other drones were detected and destroyed over the Crimean peninsula, the ministry said.</p>

<h2><strong>Five killed in Donetsk</strong></h2>

<p>Russia-installed government in the Donetsk region on Saturday said at least five civilians lost their lives due to intense shelling by Ukrainian forces.</p>

<p>The five were killed in the Kirov and Kuibyshevskyi districts and a woman was injured in Svetlodarsk, Denis Pushilin, the Russian-appointed head of the region, wrote on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces on Saturday also said heavy fighting took place with Russian forces, as he claimed partial success in Kyiv’s campaign to reclaim land lost to Russia in the 19-month-long war.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia possibly stockpiling missiles</strong></h2>

<p>The UK’s defence ministry said on Saturday that Russia was most likely stockpiling air-launched cruise missiles ahead of winter onslaught to target Ukrainian infrastructure.</p>

<p>The ministry also quoted intelligence input to claim that Russia might deploy strategic bombers to fire these missiles at Ukraine from deep within Russian territory.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against Russia</strong></p>

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<p>In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky-Biden meet</strong></h2>

<p>The White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-likely-boosting-capacity-for-winter-onslaught-says-uk-636574"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK</strong></a></p>

<p>Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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Russia’s Ministry of Defence said Sunday that its forces shot down one Ukrainian drone over the outskirts of Moscow and at least six others over Crimea. At around 1:45 am (04:15 am IST on Sunday) one drone was intercepted over Moscow's Istrinsky district, the defence ministry said in a Telegram post.

Russia’s Ministry of Defence said Sunday that its forces shot down one Ukrainian drone over the outskirts of Moscow and at least six others over Crimea. At around 1:45 am (04:15 am IST on Sunday) one drone was intercepted over Moscow's Istrinsky district, the defence ministry said in a Telegram post. “According to preliminary data, there was no damage or casualties at the site where the debris fell," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin wrote in a separate Telegram post. "Emergency services specialists are working at the scene,” he added. Around the same time, six other drones were detected and destroyed over the Crimean peninsula, the ministry said. Five killed in Donetsk Russia-installed government in the Donetsk region on Saturday said at least five civilians lost their lives due to intense shelling by Ukrainian forces. The five were killed in the Kirov and Kuibyshevskyi districts and a woman was injured in Svetlodarsk, Denis Pushilin, the Russian-appointed head of the region, wrote on the Telegram messaging app. The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces on Saturday also said heavy fighting took place with Russian forces, as he claimed partial success in Kyiv’s campaign to reclaim land lost to Russia in the 19-month-long war. Russia possibly stockpiling missiles The UK’s defence ministry said on Saturday that Russia was most likely stockpiling air-launched cruise missiles ahead of winter onslaught to target Ukrainian infrastructure. The ministry also quoted intelligence input to claim that Russia might deploy strategic bombers to fire these missiles at Ukraine from deep within Russian territory. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against Russia × In a post shared on X, the defence ministry said: "Open source reports suggest that since April 2023, ALCM expenditure rates have reduced, while Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production." "Russia is therefore likely able to generate a significant stockpile of ALCMs. There is a realistic possibility Russia will again focus these weapons against Ukrainian infrastructure targets over the winter," it added. Zelensky-Biden meet The White House announced Friday (September 15) that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will pay his second wartime visit to Washington next week, in a bid to solidify the support of his country's crucial ally. The US has already shipped billions of dollars in aid to fight Russia. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow boosting its arsenal, capacity for winter onslaught, says UK Zelensky will travel to the White House on Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden and also hold meetings at the US Congress, where elements of the rival Republican Party are hesitant as Biden seeks to push through a major new package for Kyiv. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukrainian drone shot down near Moscow, six others over Crimea: Russia

<p>The Sevastopol&nbsp;Shipyard&nbsp;on the&nbsp;Crimean&nbsp;Peninsula was on&nbsp;fire&nbsp;early on Wednesday (September 13) and two&nbsp;ships&nbsp;were&nbsp;damaged&nbsp;after&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;launched 10&nbsp;missiles and three speedboat&nbsp;attacks on the port,&nbsp;Russia's defence ministry said.</p>

<p>Seven&nbsp;missiles were downed by&nbsp;Russia's air defence systems and all three boats were destroyed by a patrol ship, the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. "As a result of being hit by enemy cruise&nbsp;missiles, two&nbsp;ships&nbsp;under repair were&nbsp;damaged," the ministry said.</p>

<p>Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said on Telegram that at least 24 people were injured. "All emergency services are working on the site, there is no danger to civilian objects in the city," Razvozhayev said.</p>

<p>The strategic&nbsp;shipyard&nbsp;on the peninsula, which&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;annexed from&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;in 2014, builds and repairs&nbsp;ships&nbsp;and submarines of the&nbsp;Russian Black Sea Fleet. The fleet has launched numerous drone and&nbsp;missile&nbsp;attacks on&nbsp;Ukraine.</p>

<p>Razvozhayev posted a nighttime photo of flames engulfing what seemed to be port infrastructure.&nbsp;Russian Telegram channels posted videos and more photos of massive flames at a facility alongside the water.</p>

<p>Reuters could not independently verify the report. There was no immediate comment from Kyiv.</p>

<p>Ukraine&nbsp;almost never publicly claims responsibility for&nbsp;attacks inside&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;or on&nbsp;Russian-controlled territory in&nbsp;Ukraine, but has been saying in recent months that destroying&nbsp; Russia's military infrastructure helps Kyiv's counteroffensive.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

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The Sevastopol Shipyard on the Crimean Peninsula was on fire early on Wednesday (September 13) and two ships were damaged after Ukraine launched 10 missiles and three speedboat attacks on the port, Russia's defence ministry said.

The Sevastopol Shipyard on the Crimean Peninsula was on fire early on Wednesday (September 13) and two ships were damaged after Ukraine launched 10 missiles and three speedboat attacks on the port, Russia's defence ministry said. Seven missiles were downed by Russia's air defence systems and all three boats were destroyed by a patrol ship, the ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. "As a result of being hit by enemy cruise missiles, two ships under repair were damaged," the ministry said. Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said on Telegram that at least 24 people were injured. "All emergency services are working on the site, there is no danger to civilian objects in the city," Razvozhayev said. The strategic shipyard on the peninsula, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014, builds and repairs ships and submarines of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. The fleet has launched numerous drone and missile attacks on Ukraine. Razvozhayev posted a nighttime photo of flames engulfing what seemed to be port infrastructure. Russian Telegram channels posted videos and more photos of massive flames at a facility alongside the water. Reuters could not independently verify the report. There was no immediate comment from Kyiv. Ukraine almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, but has been saying in recent months that destroying Russia's military infrastructure helps Kyiv's counteroffensive. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine missile attack causes fire at Crimean shipyard, damages 2 ships, says Russia

<p>Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled <em>Elon Musk</em>.</p>

<p>Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation.</p>

<p>According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN.</p>

<p>“How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger.</p>

<p>“Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.”</p>

<h2><strong>Starlink may soon offer internet services in India</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.”</p>

<p>More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022.</p>

<p>Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-breaking-rain-batters-hong-kong-and-chinese-city-shenzhen-633526">Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen</a></p>

<p>Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-moves-out-troops-conducts-precautionary-repositioning-of-forces-in-niger-633488">US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger</a></p>

<p>It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving&nbsp;such a large bulk order.</p>

<h2><strong>Musk responds</strong></h2>

<p>After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded&nbsp;to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol.<br />
<br />
The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor.<br />
<br />
If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1699917639043404146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk.

Starlink CEO Elon Musk reportedly tried to shut down Ukrainian access to its satellite communications network when Kyiv's forces were attempting to attack the Russian fleet off the Crimea coast last year, according to an excerpt from a biography written by Walter Isaacson titled Elon Musk. Musk told the biographer that he was worried about being dragged into the war and ordered engineers to turn off the satellites as he feared that the attack would amount to “mini Pearl Harbor” and lead to a Russian nuclear retaliation. According to the book, which is set to be released next week, after Musk disconnected the satellites, Ukrainian drones “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly”, reported CNN. “How am I in this war?” Musk told the writer, who has previously published biographies of Steve Jobs and Henry Kissinger. “Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.” Starlink may soon offer internet services in India Despite Ukraine's request, Musk remained adamant The author further claimed in his book that Ukraine’s former deputy prime minister Mykhailo Fedorov “begged” Musk to restore access to the satellites. But the billionaire denied the request, saying that the drone attack was “going too far and inviting strategic defeat.” More than 20,000 Starlink terminals were donated by Musk to Ukraine after Russia destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure at the beginning of the war in February 2022. Last October, Musk wrote to the Pentagon to say that it could no longer afford to continue funding the service and asked the Biden administration to cover the cost, which he estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars, CNN revealed at the time. Also read | Record-breaking rain batters Hong Kong and Chinese city Shenzhen Earlier this year, the US and European governments negotiated a deal with Musk, paying for another 100,000 Starlink satellite dishes to be sent to Ukraine. Also read | US moves out troops, conducts 'precautionary' repositioning of forces in Niger It’s unknown whether the Tesla CEO has reconsidered his fears over nuclear war after receiving such a large bulk order. Musk responds After a user, Mario Nawfal — a self-described combination of entrepreneur, business influencer and “citizen journalist” — shared the excerpts from the book on social media platform X, Musk said that had he acceded to the Ukrainian government’s request, SpaceX would have faced retaliation. There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 7, 2023 × “There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to Sevastopol. The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” he said in response to the post on X. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Fearing a nuclear war, Elon Musk snipped Starlink services to thwart Ukrainian drone offensive on Russia

The Crimean peninsula's bridge connecting it to the Russian mainland was the target of an unmanned Ukrainian boat strike, according to the Russian Defense Ministry's early Saturday morning statement.

Russia: Ukrainian boat destroyed trying to attack Crimea bridge | Russia-Ukraine War

<p>Russia on Friday (August 25) said that Ukraine used 42 drones overnight to attack Russia-annexed Crimea, however, all its attempts were thwarted by Moscow's forces.<br />
<br />
"Nine UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were destroyed... over the territory of the Republic of Crimea. 33 UAVs were suppressed by electronic warfare and crashed without reaching the target," wrote Russia's defence ministry on Telegram.<br />
<br />
The ministry did not specify whether they suffered any damage or had any casualties.</p>

<h2><strong>Missile attack in Kaluga</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Russia claimed that a missile attack carried out by Ukraine in the Kaluga region, which is southwest of Moscow, was thwarted by its air defences and many drones were also destroyed near Crimea, as no damage or casualties were reported.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-independence-day-ukraine-claims-it-carried-out-special-operation-in-russia-occupied-crimea-628778">On independence day, Ukraine claims it carried out ‘special operation’ in Russian-occupied Crimea</a></p>

<p>A missile sent by Kyiv "was detected and destroyed by air defence systems over the territory of Kaluga region," said Moscow's defence ministry, in a statement.<br />
<br />
Kaluga is near Moscow which has been facing drone attacks almost on a daily basis, as per the Russian authorities.<br />
<br />
On Friday (August 25), the TASS news agency said that the authorities had closed the airspace above Moscow's Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports, citing aviation services and without specifically explaining why.<br />
<br />
"Several UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were destroyed over the sea in the area of Cape Khersones" in Crimea, wrote Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol on Telegram.<br />
<br />
The Cape is towards the southwest of the Crimea peninsula, close to Sevastopol, where the Black Sea fleet of Russia is present.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;BREAKING: Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin killed in plane crash, says report | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>Emergency services informed that the civilian infrastructure did not suffer any damage, said Razvozhayev, adding: "All forces and services are in a state of combat readiness."<br />
<br />
Russia was annexed by Crimea in 2014 and has been Ukraine's target throughout Moscow's offensive. However, in recent weeks, it has come under more increased, intense attacks. Kyiv has repeatedly&nbsp;stated that it plans on taking Crimea back.<br />
<br />
Ukraine on Thursday said that its forces had flown the flag of the country in Russian-annexed Crimea amid a "special operation" on the occasion of its second wartime Independence Day.<br />
<br />
Kyiv on Wednesday claimed that a powerful Russian S-400 anti-aircraft system was destroyed in the area, which it stated inflicted a "painful blow" on Moscow's air defences.</p>

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Russia on Friday (August 25) said that Ukraine used 42 drones overnight to attack Russia-annexed Crimea, however, all its attempts were thwarted by Moscow's forces.

Russia on Friday (August 25) said that Ukraine used 42 drones overnight to attack Russia-annexed Crimea, however, all its attempts were thwarted by Moscow's forces. "Nine UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were destroyed... over the territory of the Republic of Crimea. 33 UAVs were suppressed by electronic warfare and crashed without reaching the target," wrote Russia's defence ministry on Telegram. The ministry did not specify whether they suffered any damage or had any casualties. Missile attack in Kaluga Earlier, Russia claimed that a missile attack carried out by Ukraine in the Kaluga region, which is southwest of Moscow, was thwarted by its air defences and many drones were also destroyed near Crimea, as no damage or casualties were reported. ALSO READ | On independence day, Ukraine claims it carried out ‘special operation’ in Russian-occupied Crimea A missile sent by Kyiv "was detected and destroyed by air defence systems over the territory of Kaluga region," said Moscow's defence ministry, in a statement. Kaluga is near Moscow which has been facing drone attacks almost on a daily basis, as per the Russian authorities. On Friday (August 25), the TASS news agency said that the authorities had closed the airspace above Moscow's Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports, citing aviation services and without specifically explaining why. "Several UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were destroyed over the sea in the area of Cape Khersones" in Crimea, wrote Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol on Telegram. The Cape is towards the southwest of the Crimea peninsula, close to Sevastopol, where the Black Sea fleet of Russia is present. WATCH | BREAKING: Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin killed in plane crash, says report | World News | WION Emergency services informed that the civilian infrastructure did not suffer any damage, said Razvozhayev, adding: "All forces and services are in a state of combat readiness." Russia was annexed by Crimea in 2014 and has been Ukraine's target throughout Moscow's offensive. However, in recent weeks, it has come under more increased, intense attacks. Kyiv has repeatedly stated that it plans on taking Crimea back. Ukraine on Thursday said that its forces had flown the flag of the country in Russian-annexed Crimea amid a "special operation" on the occasion of its second wartime Independence Day. Kyiv on Wednesday claimed that a powerful Russian S-400 anti-aircraft system was destroyed in the area, which it stated inflicted a "painful blow" on Moscow's air defences. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia claims drone attack by Ukraine on Crimea thwarted, 42 drones destroyed

<p>Ukrainian military on Thursday (Aug 24) claimed that it launched a "special operation" in Russian-occupied Crimea overnight. The defence ministry's Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) said they carried out the operation in cooperation with the navy in which their personnel entered the peninsula territory to achieve a specific “goal”.</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">The announcement comes on the day when Ukraine was celebrating its independence day.</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Goal achieved&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">"The landing of personnel took place on the territory of the peninsula as part of the special operation,” Andrii Yusov, representative of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, told Ukrainian news outlets Hromadske and Suspilne in an interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">“The Main Directorate of Intelligence in cooperation with the Navy conducted a special operation, the goal was achieved, and there were no losses among the personnel. The special operation continues, we do not disclose all the details, there are losses among the enemy personnel, as well as among the forces and means. The information on the number of losses is being clarified," he added.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The HUR also shared a video of the&nbsp;operation to substantiate its claim. The clip shows a small motorboat moving through water at night near a coastline, reports Reuters news agency.</p>

<p dir="ltr">HUR said the landing point was on the western tip of Crimea, near the settlements of Olenivka and Mayak.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against Russia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-hints-at-vladimir-putins-involvement-in-wagner-chiefs-apparent-death-628598">Biden hints at Putin's involvement in Wagner chief's apparent death</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">"Special units on watercraft landed on the shore in the area of the Olenivka and Mayak settlements," HUR said in a statement.</p>

<p dir="ltr">It further claimed that “the state flag flew again in Ukrainian Crimea”, without saying where exactly or providing further details.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Russia is yet to respond to Ukraine’s claims of&nbsp;“special operation” in Crimea.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-begins-releasing-wastewater-from-fukushima-nuclear-plant-operator-628601">Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears</a></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Zelensky vows to free Crimea</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Earlier in the day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to free Crimea from the Russian occupation and all other areas that were captured by Moscow during the ongoing war.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"Crimea will be de-occupied like all other parts of Ukraine that are unfortunately still under the occupier," he told an international conference about Crimea which he said was being attended by more than 60 countries.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Crimea was seized and annexed by Russia in 2014 in a move not recognised by most other countries, and Russia seized other parts of Ukraine in the full-scale invasion it launched in February 2022.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Ukraine began a counteroffensive in early June to try to regain the territory occupied by Russia.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

<p dir="ltr">(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Ukrainian military on Thursday (Aug 24) claimed that it launched a "special operation" in Russian-occupied Crimea overnight. The defence ministry's Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) said they carried out the operation in cooperation with the navy in which their personnel entered the peninsula territory to achieve a specific “goal”.

Ukrainian military on Thursday (Aug 24) claimed that it launched a "special operation" in Russian-occupied Crimea overnight. The defence ministry's Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) said they carried out the operation in cooperation with the navy in which their personnel entered the peninsula territory to achieve a specific “goal”. The announcement comes on the day when Ukraine was celebrating its independence day. Goal achieved "The landing of personnel took place on the territory of the peninsula as part of the special operation,” Andrii Yusov, representative of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, told Ukrainian news outlets Hromadske and Suspilne in an interview. “The Main Directorate of Intelligence in cooperation with the Navy conducted a special operation, the goal was achieved, and there were no losses among the personnel. The special operation continues, we do not disclose all the details, there are losses among the enemy personnel, as well as among the forces and means. The information on the number of losses is being clarified," he added. The HUR also shared a video of the operation to substantiate its claim. The clip shows a small motorboat moving through water at night near a coastline, reports Reuters news agency. HUR said the landing point was on the western tip of Crimea, near the settlements of Olenivka and Mayak. Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine using custom made rocket launchers against Russia Also read | Biden hints at Putin's involvement in Wagner chief's apparent death "Special units on watercraft landed on the shore in the area of the Olenivka and Mayak settlements," HUR said in a statement. It further claimed that “the state flag flew again in Ukrainian Crimea”, without saying where exactly or providing further details. Russia is yet to respond to Ukraine’s claims of “special operation” in Crimea. Also read | Japan begins releasing wastewater from Fukushima nuclear plant amid fears Zelensky vows to free Crimea Earlier in the day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to free Crimea from the Russian occupation and all other areas that were captured by Moscow during the ongoing war. "Crimea will be de-occupied like all other parts of Ukraine that are unfortunately still under the occupier," he told an international conference about Crimea which he said was being attended by more than 60 countries. Crimea was seized and annexed by Russia in 2014 in a move not recognised by most other countries, and Russia seized other parts of Ukraine in the full-scale invasion it launched in February 2022. Ukraine began a counteroffensive in early June to try to regain the territory occupied by Russia. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

On independence day, Ukraine claims it carried out ‘special operation’ in Russian-occupied Crimea

Ukrainian forces struck a critical Road Bridge connecting the mainland to Crimea on Sunday.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukranian armed forces strike bridge linking mainland to Crimea

<p>Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker.<br />
<br />
Russia's sea rescue service, which is present in the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, stated that they had dispatched tugboats to assist the tanker, which suffered damages and was not able to operate on its own.<br />
<br />
"We can say that the tanker is damaged in the (Kerch) strait, only on the south side," the rescue centre was quoted as saying by Russia's Tass news agency. "They will deal with it now on whether to take it under tow or not. It is standing at anchor for the moment. The machine room suffered some damage, not too badly,” it added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-thwart-ukrainian-attacks-on-naval-base-in-black-sea-crimean-peninsula-622251">Russia claims it thwarted Ukrainian attacks on naval base in Black Sea, Crimean peninsula</a></p>

<p>A Russian warship suffered serious damage in Ukraine's overnight naval drone attack on Russia's navy base at Novorossiysk. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy tried to project its powers beyond the shores of the country.<br />
<br />
Russia-installed officials in Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, stated that the latest explosions were not related to the bridge, which has twice come under attack in the 17-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Ukraine, which rarely gives comments on attacks carried out on Russian targets, did not give any official statement on the incident. For some time, the officials halted the traffic on the bridge which was the third such stop imposed in the last 24 hours, but later resumed.<br />
<br />
"Once again, there was no direct attack on the Crimea bridge and there was no explosion in the immediate vicinity," said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, as quoted by Russian news agencies.</p>

<h2><strong>Shattered equipment and fixtures after explosions</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's UNIAN news agency stated that three explosions were reported in the area. Pro-Russian officials and Ukrainian news reports in occupied parts of Ukraine stated that a tanker vessel, which was operating under a Russian flag and in the Kerch Strait and was identified as the SIG, was attacked by Ukrainian drones.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding?</strong></p>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Russian-appointed official in Ukraine's southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia Vladimir Rogov shared an audio clip in which the vessel sent a request to tugboats for towing the tanker. Rogov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, shared pictures of what he said was shattered equipment and fixtures inside the vessels.<br />
<br />
He said that the ship was supplying oil to Russian troops in Syria. The bridge, which was completed by Russia in 2018, four years after the peninsula was annexed by Moscow from Ukraine, has been subjected to two major attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine, the most recent one occurred last month.
<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>
</div>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker.

Russian-appointed officials in Crimea said that explosions were heard near the bridge which links the Russian mainland to the annexed region early on Saturday (August 5), stating that the blasts were related to a Ukrainian drone attack carried out on a Russian tanker. Russia's sea rescue service, which is present in the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, stated that they had dispatched tugboats to assist the tanker, which suffered damages and was not able to operate on its own. "We can say that the tanker is damaged in the (Kerch) strait, only on the south side," the rescue centre was quoted as saying by Russia's Tass news agency. "They will deal with it now on whether to take it under tow or not. It is standing at anchor for the moment. The machine room suffered some damage, not too badly,” it added. ALSO READ | Russia claims it thwarted Ukrainian attacks on naval base in Black Sea, Crimean peninsula A Russian warship suffered serious damage in Ukraine's overnight naval drone attack on Russia's navy base at Novorossiysk. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy tried to project its powers beyond the shores of the country. Russia-installed officials in Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, stated that the latest explosions were not related to the bridge, which has twice come under attack in the 17-month-old Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine, which rarely gives comments on attacks carried out on Russian targets, did not give any official statement on the incident. For some time, the officials halted the traffic on the bridge which was the third such stop imposed in the last 24 hours, but later resumed. "Once again, there was no direct attack on the Crimea bridge and there was no explosion in the immediate vicinity," said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, as quoted by Russian news agencies. Shattered equipment and fixtures after explosions Meanwhile, Ukraine's UNIAN news agency stated that three explosions were reported in the area. Pro-Russian officials and Ukrainian news reports in occupied parts of Ukraine stated that a tanker vessel, which was operating under a Russian flag and in the Kerch Strait and was identified as the SIG, was attacked by Ukrainian drones. WATCH | Gravitas | Ukraine War: Poland rushes troops to its border with Belarus | Is the war expanding? Russian-appointed official in Ukraine's southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia Vladimir Rogov shared an audio clip in which the vessel sent a request to tugboats for towing the tanker. Rogov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, shared pictures of what he said was shattered equipment and fixtures inside the vessels. He said that the ship was supplying oil to Russian troops in Syria. The bridge, which was completed by Russia in 2018, four years after the peninsula was annexed by Moscow from Ukraine, has been subjected to two major attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine, the most recent one occurred last month. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explosions in Crimea, Russian tanker hit in Ukrainian drone attack, claim officials

<p>Russia on Sunday (July 30) said that its forces thwarted an attempt by Ukraine to attack Russia-annexed Crimea with 25 drones overnight.</p>

<p>"Sixteen Ukrainian UAVs were destroyed by air defence fire," said the Russian defence ministry, speaking about the unmanned aerial vehicles. "Another nine Ukrainian drones were suppressed by means of electronic warfare and, without reaching the target, crashed into the Black Sea," said the ministry, adding that no victims were reported in the attack.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-claims-russia-does-not-reject-peace-talks-amid-ukrainian-drone-attack-on-moscow-city-620699">Amid Ukrainian drone attack in Moscow, Putin claims Russia is not against peace talks</a></p>

<p>Russia had annexed Crimea in 2014 and it has remained on Kyiv's radar&nbsp;throughout Moscow's offensive against Ukraine. However, the region has come under more intense, increased attacks in the last&nbsp;few weeks.</p>

<p>Repeatedly, Kyiv has expressed its intention of taking back Crimea.</p>

<h2><strong>Three Ukrainian drones downed over Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry on Sunday (July 30) said that three Ukrainian drones were shot down over Moscow. In the attack, two office towers were damaged and an international airport was briefly shut.</p>

<p>Russian officials shot down one of the drones on the outskirts of the city and two others were "suppressed by electronic warfare", but they smashed into an office complex. No injuries were reported in the incident.</p>

<p>The defence ministry said it was an "attempted terrorist attack". "On the morning of July 30, the Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted," it stated on Telegram.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russian capital comes under drone attack allegedly from Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>"One Ukrainian UAV was destroyed in the air by air defence systems over the territory of the Odintsovo district of Moscow region. Two more drones were suppressed by electronic warfare and, having lost control, crashed on the territory of Moscow City's non-residential building complex,” the ministry added.</p>

<p>Moscow City Mayor Sergei Sobyanin posted on Telegram informing that the "facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged". He further stated that there were "no victims or injured".</p>

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Russia on Sunday (July 30) said that its forces thwarted an attempt by Ukraine to attack Russia-annexed Crimea with 25 drones overnight. "Sixteen Ukrainian UAVs were destroyed by air defence fire," said the Russian defence ministry, speaking about the unmanned aerial vehicles.

Russia on Sunday (July 30) said that its forces thwarted an attempt by Ukraine to attack Russia-annexed Crimea with 25 drones overnight. "Sixteen Ukrainian UAVs were destroyed by air defence fire," said the Russian defence ministry, speaking about the unmanned aerial vehicles. "Another nine Ukrainian drones were suppressed by means of electronic warfare and, without reaching the target, crashed into the Black Sea," said the ministry, adding that no victims were reported in the attack. ALSO READ | Amid Ukrainian drone attack in Moscow, Putin claims Russia is not against peace talks Russia had annexed Crimea in 2014 and it has remained on Kyiv's radar throughout Moscow's offensive against Ukraine. However, the region has come under more intense, increased attacks in the last few weeks. Repeatedly, Kyiv has expressed its intention of taking back Crimea. Three Ukrainian drones downed over Moscow Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry on Sunday (July 30) said that three Ukrainian drones were shot down over Moscow. In the attack, two office towers were damaged and an international airport was briefly shut. Russian officials shot down one of the drones on the outskirts of the city and two others were "suppressed by electronic warfare", but they smashed into an office complex. No injuries were reported in the incident. The defence ministry said it was an "attempted terrorist attack". "On the morning of July 30, the Kyiv regime's attempted terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the city of Moscow was thwarted," it stated on Telegram. WATCH | Russian capital comes under drone attack allegedly from Ukraine "One Ukrainian UAV was destroyed in the air by air defence systems over the territory of the Odintsovo district of Moscow region. Two more drones were suppressed by electronic warfare and, having lost control, crashed on the territory of Moscow City's non-residential building complex,” the ministry added. Moscow City Mayor Sergei Sobyanin posted on Telegram informing that the "facades of two city office towers were slightly damaged". He further stated that there were "no victims or injured". You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia says Ukrainian attack on Crimea with 25 drones 'thwarted'

Russian military airfields have been targeted in Ukraine. Thank you, and indeed, that is exactly what is occurring. Shivan us all the specifics, let's go on. Russia is waging a full-scale war against Ukraine, and this time they are also attacking the facilities of storage for Western munitions and launching an attack on the Kirsch bridge.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin's payback for Crimea bridge attack

<p>Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic.</p>

<p>"As a result of an enemy drone strike on the Krasnogvardeisky district, there was a detonation at an ammunition depot," said official Sergei Aksyonov on Telegram. "A decision was taken to evacuate people (living) within five kilometres" of the zone, he stated, adding that: "To minimise risks, it was also decided to halt rail traffic on Crimean railways."</p>

<p>He said that the drone attack was “attempted” by Ukraine on infrastructure in the centre of the Moscow-annexed region.<br />
<br />
The allegations were made five days after two people were killed in an attack on the bridge which links&nbsp;Crimea to the Russian mainland.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-collision-course-expands-as-zelensky-calls-crimea-bridge-legitimate-military-target-618302">Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target', says it feeds ammunition for war</a></p>

<p>"The enemy attempted a raid using drones on infrastructure facilities in the Krasnogvardeisky district of the Republic of Crimea," said Sergei Aksyonov, while speaking about an inland area of the Black Sea peninsula.</p>

<p>The governor did not state the exact location where it was hit but said that it was in the Krasnogvardeisky district which remains inland at the centre of the Black Sea peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities stated that the two trains going from Moscow to Crimea's main city of Simferopol and one coming from the opposite direction had been stopped.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin?</strong></p>

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<p>He stated that emergency workers were present on the scene to handle the "possible consequences". He appealed to all Crimeans to "remain calm".</p>

<p>The authorities also briefly halted the road traffic across the only bridge linking annexed Crimea to Russia. "Car traffic across the Crimea bridge is temporarily closed," the Moscow-backed Crimean government stated on Telegram, adding that it was resumed after&nbsp;10 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>No details were given by Aksyonov on exactly what Kyiv tried to hit and did not mention anything about casualties. Crimea has remained a target during Russia's 17-month Ukraine offensive, however, the attacks have intensified in recent weeks.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) had stated that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.</p>

<h2><strong>Cluster munitions used by Kyiv on Russian border village</strong></h2>

<p>Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on Saturday said that the Russian border village of Zhuravlevka, which is located in the western Belgorod region, was hit by Ukraine with cluster munitions on Friday (July 21).</p>

<p>"In the Belgorod region, 21 artillery shells and three cluster munitions from a multiple rocket launcher were fired (by the Ukrainian army) at the village of Zhuravlevka," Governor Gladkov stated on Telegram, referring to attacks which were carried out the previous day.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic.

Russian-appointed head of Crimea said that an ammunition depot was “detonated” on Saturday (July 22) by the Ukrainian drone attack and ordered the people living within the five kilometres of the attack to evacuate while halting the rail traffic. "As a result of an enemy drone strike on the Krasnogvardeisky district, there was a detonation at an ammunition depot," said official Sergei Aksyonov on Telegram. "A decision was taken to evacuate people (living) within five kilometres" of the zone, he stated, adding that: "To minimise risks, it was also decided to halt rail traffic on Crimean railways." He said that the drone attack was “attempted” by Ukraine on infrastructure in the centre of the Moscow-annexed region. The allegations were made five days after two people were killed in an attack on the bridge which links Crimea to the Russian mainland. ALSO READ | Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target', says it feeds ammunition for war "The enemy attempted a raid using drones on infrastructure facilities in the Krasnogvardeisky district of the Republic of Crimea," said Sergei Aksyonov, while speaking about an inland area of the Black Sea peninsula. The governor did not state the exact location where it was hit but said that it was in the Krasnogvardeisky district which remains inland at the centre of the Black Sea peninsula. Authorities stated that the two trains going from Moscow to Crimea's main city of Simferopol and one coming from the opposite direction had been stopped. WATCH | Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin? He stated that emergency workers were present on the scene to handle the "possible consequences". He appealed to all Crimeans to "remain calm". The authorities also briefly halted the road traffic across the only bridge linking annexed Crimea to Russia. "Car traffic across the Crimea bridge is temporarily closed," the Moscow-backed Crimean government stated on Telegram, adding that it was resumed after 10 minutes. No details were given by Aksyonov on exactly what Kyiv tried to hit and did not mention anything about casualties. Crimea has remained a target during Russia's 17-month Ukraine offensive, however, the attacks have intensified in recent weeks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) had stated that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. Cluster munitions used by Kyiv on Russian border village Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on Saturday said that the Russian border village of Zhuravlevka, which is located in the western Belgorod region, was hit by Ukraine with cluster munitions on Friday (July 21). "In the Belgorod region, 21 artillery shells and three cluster munitions from a multiple rocket launcher were fired (by the Ukrainian army) at the village of Zhuravlevka," Governor Gladkov stated on Telegram, referring to attacks which were carried out the previous day. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, a crucial bridge that connects southern Russia to Crimea has once more been broken, forcing the evacuation of more than 2,000 people, and Moscow is blaming Ukraine. The assault might be a component of Ukraine's on-going counteroffensive to retake land that has been captured.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine targets Russia's military base in Crimea

The Crimea Bridge was blown up. The bridge with strategic importance came to a standstill. Russia held Ukraine responsible for the alleged attack. Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to retaliate. But why is it soo important for Putin?

Why is the Crimea bridge important for Putin? Is it a testament to Putin's strategic vision?

<p>Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region. Authorities in the Russian-controlled region rushed in to help people reach safe zones. Traffic from a local highway was also diverted.</p>

<p>Videos circulating on social media showed a series of explosions sending mushroom clouds into the air.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">video of the continuing detonations at the Russian ammo dump in Crimea that Ukraine apparently hit early this morning. <a href="https://t.co/ZxvAoRiP77">pic.twitter.com/ZxvAoRiP77</a></p>
— Mike Eckel (@Mike_Eckel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Eckel/status/1681614141587374080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The explosions were so loud that they could be heard from at least 13 miles away from Stary Krym in Kirorvsky district, the explosion site.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian channel Crimean Wind reported casualties and injuries among civilians, but these claims were denied by Sergey Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed head of Crimea.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine says its operation successful</strong></h2>

<p>Kyiv said that it conducted a successful operation in “occupied Crimea” shortly after the explosions rocked the region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Kylylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence said in a statement: "A successful operation was conducted on occupied Crimea."</p>

<p>"The enemy conceals the extent of the damage and the number of losses in manpower," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Here's why Ukraine wasn't given a NATO membership</strong></p>

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<p>The Sun reported that some 2,250 people were evacuated from four settlements near the Starokrymsky military training ground.</p>

<p>Buses were deployed to move the people out of the area as fears loomed of more such strikes by Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>UK or French weapons used?</strong></h2>

<p>The Crimean Wind channel speculated that the attack might have been carried out by a UK-supplied Storm Shadow or the French SCALP missile, the one Paris had recently agreed to provide to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternatively, the Ukrainian Grom-2 missile might have also been used.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Might take days to put out the fire</strong></h2>

<p>Reports indicate explosions continued at the site even after six hours after the initial explosion. &nbsp;The head of Crimea’s parliament said it might take two days to fully put out the fire, Russian media reported.</p>

<p>The explosions came as southern regions of Ukraine, including Odessa, faced a relentless assault from Russia for a second consecutive night.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-suspends-participation-in-black-sea-grain-deal-616518"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal</strong></a></p>

<p>Missile and drone attacks targeted various infrastructures, including the port and military airfield in Odessa, leading to destruction and injuries among civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attacks on alleged drone-making facilities in Odessa were seen as a response to a previous incident on the Crimean Bridge, resulting in further escalation.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Air Force said: "The Kh-22 and Onyx missile launches were aimed at infrastructure in the Odessa region.<br />
<br />
"It was a hellish night,” said Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesman for the regional military administration.</p>

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Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region.

Massive explosions were reportedly heard in Crimea as a suspected Ukrainian missile attack hit an ammunition depot and forced thousands of people to evacuate from the region. Authorities in the Russian-controlled region rushed in to help people reach safe zones. Traffic from a local highway was also diverted. Videos circulating on social media showed a series of explosions sending mushroom clouds into the air. video of the continuing detonations at the Russian ammo dump in Crimea that Ukraine apparently hit early this morning. pic.twitter.com/ZxvAoRiP77 — Mike Eckel (@Mike_Eckel) July 19, 2023 × The explosions were so loud that they could be heard from at least 13 miles away from Stary Krym in Kirorvsky district, the explosion site. The Ukrainian channel Crimean Wind reported casualties and injuries among civilians, but these claims were denied by Sergey Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed head of Crimea. Ukraine says its operation successful Kyiv said that it conducted a successful operation in “occupied Crimea” shortly after the explosions rocked the region. Kylylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence said in a statement: "A successful operation was conducted on occupied Crimea." "The enemy conceals the extent of the damage and the number of losses in manpower," he added. Watch: Here's why Ukraine wasn't given a NATO membership × The Sun reported that some 2,250 people were evacuated from four settlements near the Starokrymsky military training ground. Buses were deployed to move the people out of the area as fears loomed of more such strikes by Ukraine. UK or French weapons used? The Crimean Wind channel speculated that the attack might have been carried out by a UK-supplied Storm Shadow or the French SCALP missile, the one Paris had recently agreed to provide to Ukraine. Alternatively, the Ukrainian Grom-2 missile might have also been used. Might take days to put out the fire Reports indicate explosions continued at the site even after six hours after the initial explosion. The head of Crimea’s parliament said it might take two days to fully put out the fire, Russian media reported. The explosions came as southern regions of Ukraine, including Odessa, faced a relentless assault from Russia for a second consecutive night. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow suspends participation in Black Sea grain deal Missile and drone attacks targeted various infrastructures, including the port and military airfield in Odessa, leading to destruction and injuries among civilians. The attacks on alleged drone-making facilities in Odessa were seen as a response to a previous incident on the Crimean Bridge, resulting in further escalation. Ukrainian Air Force said: "The Kh-22 and Onyx missile launches were aimed at infrastructure in the Odessa region. "It was a hellish night,” said Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesman for the regional military administration. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Suspected Ukrainian strike triggers explosions in Crimea ammo depot, thousands evacuated

Russia has suspended its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal, the Kremlin said on Monday. The deal, brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July, aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked by the Russia-Ukraine conflict to be exported safely.

Russia pulls out of landmark grain deal after Crimea attack | In-Depth Analysis

Two people were killed and their daughter was wounded in what Russia said was a Ukrainian attack on the Crimea Bridge. The Kerch Bridge serves as an artery for Russian troops in Ukraine and is a Prestige Russian project personally opened by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Quoting sources news agency AFP stated that the attack was carried out by the Ukrainian security service and the Navy.

Crimea Bridge attack carried out by Ukrainian Security Services & Navy

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>Russia on Sunday thwarted Ukraine’s aerial assault on the Crimean port of Sevastopol, reported Reuters citing a Russia-installed official. Russian air defence forces shot down nine Ukrainian drones near the Black Sea region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russia-appointed Governor of Sevastopol, wrote on Telegram that no object, either in the city or on the water, was damaged in the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Two aerial drones were shot down over the sea, five were intercepted by Russia's electronic warfare forces and two water surface drones were destroyed on the outer shore,” he was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<p>The attacks were over the harbour of Sevastopol and the city's Balaklava, Khersones districts, Razvozhayev said earlier.</p>

<p>The drone attack prompted the authorities to shut down the passenger ferry service along with all other modes of maritime transport in the area.</p>

<h2><strong>Conflict intensifies in the South</strong></h2>

<p>CNN reported heavy fighting from the southern front, where Kyiv is hoping to break Russia’s land bridge to Crimea. However, military analysts were unable to confirm whether or not Ukraine had an upper edge against invading&nbsp;Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Military analyst Rob Lee was quoted by CNN as saying, “Both sides are taking attrition right now … but it is not clear which side can sustain it better.”</p>

<p>“On the Russian side, if they take enough losses and Ukraine can isolate parts of the front, (then Ukrainian forces) may be able to achieve a breakthrough. On the flip side, if Ukraine keeps taking losses and more attrition, the offensive might culminate too soon,” he added.</p>

<p>Ukraine has so far failed to get a significant number of towns and villages liberated from Russian control in the South under its so-called counteroffensive operation.</p>

<h2><strong>Western partners not impatient: Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Kyiv has said its Western partners were not pressing its defence forces for immediate positive results. The Ukrainian counteroffensive began in June but has failed to yield the expected results.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare</strong></p>

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<p>Andriy Yermak, a key adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, told journalists Friday he accepted the counteroffensive is “not going that fast; it is slow.”</p>

<h2><strong>NATO promises more support to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>NATO nations last week in Lithuania agreed to further bolster Ukraine’s defences. The United States has provided cluster munitions to Ukrainian forces and is currently contemplating the dispatch of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMs), guided missiles capable of reaching distances up to 300 kilometres (approximately 186 miles).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-fighters-reached-belarus-confirm-ukraine-poland-616171"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Wagner fighters reached Belarus, confirm Ukraine, Poland&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Additionally, France and the United Kingdom have either already delivered or committed to supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles.</p>

<p>During a press conference on July 14, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also announced that Germany will offer Ukraine a total of $19 billion or 17 billion euros in arms shipments until 2027.</p>

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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 on Sunday thwarted Ukraine’s aerial assault on the Crimean port of Sevastopol, reported Reuters citing a Russia-installed official. Russian air defence forces shot down nine Ukrainian drones near the Black Sea region. Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russia-appointed Governor of Sevastopol, wrote on Telegram that no object, either in the city or on the water, was damaged in the attack. “Two aerial drones were shot down over the sea, five were intercepted by Russia's electronic warfare forces and two water surface drones were destroyed on the outer shore,” he was quoted as saying by Reuters. The attacks were over the harbour of Sevastopol and the city's Balaklava, Khersones districts, Razvozhayev said earlier. The drone attack prompted the authorities to shut down the passenger ferry service along with all other modes of maritime transport in the area. Conflict intensifies in the South CNN reported heavy fighting from the southern front, where Kyiv is hoping to break Russia’s land bridge to Crimea. However, military analysts were unable to confirm whether or not Ukraine had an upper edge against invading Russian forces. Military analyst Rob Lee was quoted by CNN as saying, “Both sides are taking attrition right now … but it is not clear which side can sustain it better.” “On the Russian side, if they take enough losses and Ukraine can isolate parts of the front, (then Ukrainian forces) may be able to achieve a breakthrough. On the flip side, if Ukraine keeps taking losses and more attrition, the offensive might culminate too soon,” he added. Ukraine has so far failed to get a significant number of towns and villages liberated from Russian control in the South under its so-called counteroffensive operation. Western partners not impatient: Kyiv Meanwhile, Kyiv has said its Western partners were not pressing its defence forces for immediate positive results. The Ukrainian counteroffensive began in June but has failed to yield the expected results. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare × Andriy Yermak, a key adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, told journalists Friday he accepted the counteroffensive is “not going that fast; it is slow.” NATO promises more support to Ukraine NATO nations last week in Lithuania agreed to further bolster Ukraine’s defences. The United States has provided cluster munitions to Ukrainian forces and is currently contemplating the dispatch of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMs), guided missiles capable of reaching distances up to 300 kilometres (approximately 186 miles). Also read: Wagner fighters reached Belarus, confirm Ukraine, Poland Additionally, France and the United Kingdom have either already delivered or committed to supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles. During a press conference on July 14, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also announced that Germany will offer Ukraine a total of $19 billion or 17 billion euros in arms shipments until 2027. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia reportedly thwarts Ukrainian drone strikes in Crimea, conflict intensifies in South

The Russian Navy adds a new missile cruiser for its black sea fleet based out of Crimea. The new missile ship 'Cyclone' is capable of launching eight cruise missiles at once. Russian holds launch ceremony in Crimea.

Russia adds new missile ship 'Cyclone' to its ranks

<p>A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year. Meanwhile, Russian officials claimed that their air defence systems shot down two missiles, one over the annexed Crimean peninsula and the other one over the southern Rostov region which borders Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This also comes amid the Polish president’s visit to Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Did Ukraine claim responsibility for Crimea bridge blast?</strong></h2>

<p>In what might be the first direct admission of Ukraine’s involvement in the blast which damaged Russia’s only land link to Crimea (annexed by Moscow in 2014), Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar in a Telegram post, said, “(It’s been) 273 days since (we) carried out the first strike on the Crimean bridge in order to disrupt the logistics for the Russians”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The post, on Saturday, also noted some other Ukrainian successes amid the ongoing conflict, including the sinking of the Moskva cruiser, which the Russian officials have refused to attribute to a Ukrainian attack, as well as the liberation of Snake Island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kerch Bridge blast took place in October 2022 and was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;in 2018&nbsp;and is seen as a vital transport link carrying military equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials in Moscow had determined that the blast took place after a vehicle had exploded and ignited a huge fire, setting ablaze seven oil tankers transported by train and collapsing two car lanes of the giant road and rail structure.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian defence official’s statement also caught the attention of Russian state media and officials. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in response, once again called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government a “terrorist regime” and condemned the attack, in an online statement.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia claims to have intercepted missiles over Crimea and Rostov region</strong></h2>

<p>Russia-installed Governor Sergei Aksyonov took to Telegram, on Sunday, and said that a cruise missile was shot down near the city of Kerch on the Crimean peninsula but did not inflict any damage or cause casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, local officials also reported some disruption in the traffic movement on the Crimean Bridge but said it was restored after an apparent suspension. However, they did not give any reason for the traffic halt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russian Governor Vasily Golubev also took to Telegram and said the air defence shot down a Ukrainian missile in the Rostov region which is close to the Ukrainian border. “There were no casualties. The debris partially damaged the roofs of several buildings,” said Golubev.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Polish president’s visit to Ukraine</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Polish President Andrzej Duda took to social media, on Sunday, and wrote, “We are stronger together,” while visiting the western city of Lutsk with his Ukrainian counterpart, on Sunday. The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12 where Kyiv is expecting a clear indication about being a part of the United States-led military alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Poland has been one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine within NATO since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago and asked for “security guarantees” from other members of the alliance for Kyiv.</p>

<h2><strong>Poland increases security along eastern border</strong></h2>

<p>The Polish president’s visit to Ukraine comes a day after the country’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Russia’s Wagner Group fighters in neighbouring Belarus.</p>

<p>“Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country,” said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak. He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move also comes nearly a week after Warsaw said it would send 500 police officers to its border with Belarus to secure its border amid an increase in the number of migrants trying to cross into the country from Minsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over 200 people tried to enter Poland illegally, on Friday,&nbsp;including citizens of Morocco, India and Ethiopia, according to&nbsp;the Border Guard.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year.

A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year. Meanwhile, Russian officials claimed that their air defence systems shot down two missiles, one over the annexed Crimean peninsula and the other one over the southern Rostov region which borders Ukraine. This also comes amid the Polish president’s visit to Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart. Did Ukraine claim responsibility for Crimea bridge blast? In what might be the first direct admission of Ukraine’s involvement in the blast which damaged Russia’s only land link to Crimea (annexed by Moscow in 2014), Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar in a Telegram post, said, “(It’s been) 273 days since (we) carried out the first strike on the Crimean bridge in order to disrupt the logistics for the Russians”. The post, on Saturday, also noted some other Ukrainian successes amid the ongoing conflict, including the sinking of the Moskva cruiser, which the Russian officials have refused to attribute to a Ukrainian attack, as well as the liberation of Snake Island. The Kerch Bridge blast took place in October 2022 and was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin in 2018 and is seen as a vital transport link carrying military equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine. Officials in Moscow had determined that the blast took place after a vehicle had exploded and ignited a huge fire, setting ablaze seven oil tankers transported by train and collapsing two car lanes of the giant road and rail structure. The Ukrainian defence official’s statement also caught the attention of Russian state media and officials. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in response, once again called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government a “terrorist regime” and condemned the attack, in an online statement. Russia claims to have intercepted missiles over Crimea and Rostov region Russia-installed Governor Sergei Aksyonov took to Telegram, on Sunday, and said that a cruise missile was shot down near the city of Kerch on the Crimean peninsula but did not inflict any damage or cause casualties. Additionally, local officials also reported some disruption in the traffic movement on the Crimean Bridge but said it was restored after an apparent suspension. However, they did not give any reason for the traffic halt. Meanwhile, Russian Governor Vasily Golubev also took to Telegram and said the air defence shot down a Ukrainian missile in the Rostov region which is close to the Ukrainian border. “There were no casualties. The debris partially damaged the roofs of several buildings,” said Golubev. Polish president’s visit to Ukraine Polish President Andrzej Duda took to social media, on Sunday, and wrote, “We are stronger together,” while visiting the western city of Lutsk with his Ukrainian counterpart, on Sunday. The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12 where Kyiv is expecting a clear indication about being a part of the United States-led military alliance. Notably, Poland has been one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine within NATO since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago and asked for “security guarantees” from other members of the alliance for Kyiv. Poland increases security along eastern border The Polish president’s visit to Ukraine comes a day after the country’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Russia’s Wagner Group fighters in neighbouring Belarus. “Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country,” said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak. He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.” The move also comes nearly a week after Warsaw said it would send 500 police officers to its border with Belarus to secure its border amid an increase in the number of migrants trying to cross into the country from Minsk. Over 200 people tried to enter Poland illegally, on Friday, including citizens of Morocco, India and Ethiopia, according to the Border Guard. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian official seemingly claims responsibility for Crimea bridge blast

Footage shows a near doubling' of dolphin pens guarding the Sevastopol harbor, British intelligence says. The Russian Navy is increasing the number of trained dolphins it uses to protect its main military base in the Black Sea, according to intelligence reports.

Russia boosts dolphin patrols to protect Crimea naval base

<p><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday (June 20) that Russia had information that Ukraine was planning to attack Russia-annexed Crimea. Shoigu warned that if Ukraine takes any such step, Russia would retaliate. Shoigu claimed that Ukraine was planning to attack Crimea with US and British long-range missiles.</p>

<p>Russia captured Crimea in 2014. But it considers the peninsula to be outside of the scope of its "special military operation" in Ukraine. The Russian attack this time is focused on eastern and southern Ukraine.</p>

<p>Ukraine says that it is fighting a war against a colonial conquest. It says it wants to reclaim all of its territory, including Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoigu attended a meeting of military officials in Moscow. He said in the meeting that Moscow had info about Ukraine planning to attack Crimea with US-supplied HIMARS long-range rocket systems and with British Storm Shadow cruise missiles.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia issues warning</strong></h2>

<p>"The use of these missiles outside the zone of our special military operation would mean that the United States and Britain would be fully dragged into the conflict and would entail immediate strikes on decision-making centres in Ukraine," said Shoigu.</p>

<p>Ukrainian generals and politicians have said many times they do not announce their military plans ahead of time.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons</strong></p>

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<p>Shoigu claimed that since June 4, Ukrainian armed forces had carried out 263 attacks on Russian troops.</p>

<p>"Thanks to the smart and selfless actions of our units all of them (the attacks) have been repelled, the enemy has not accomplished its goals," said Shoigu.</p>

<p>Ukraine says it has recaptured eight villages in the early stages of its counteroffensive and a defence official has promised that Kyiv's "biggest blow" lay ahead despite tough resistance from Moscow's troops.</p>

<p>Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After gains in the early months of the conflict, Russian forces had to withdraw from large swathes of land in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive.</p>

<p>After the Russian invasion, the United States pushed for military support for Ukraine and quickly forged an international coalition to support Kyiv and coordinated aid from dozens of countries.</p>

<p>Russia has accused the West of directly waging war against it by providing weapons to Ukraine.</p>

<p>In recent weeks drone attacks have struck cities in Russia and targets in Crimea, but Kyiv has not claimed responsibility for the incidents.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-air-strikes-hit-kyiv-other-regions-far-from-front-lines-606608">Ukraine war: Russian air strikes hit Kyiv, other regions far from front lines</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met African leaders just a few days ago and ruled out negotiations with Russia.</p>

<p>"I clearly said several times at our meeting that to allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky told reporters after meeting several leaders including South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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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. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday (June 20) that Russia had information that Ukraine was planning to attack Russia-annexed Crimea. Shoigu warned that if Ukraine takes any such step, Russia would retaliate. Shoigu claimed that Ukraine was planning to attack Crimea with US and British long-range missiles. Russia captured Crimea in 2014. But it considers the peninsula to be outside of the scope of its "special military operation" in Ukraine. The Russian attack this time is focused on eastern and southern Ukraine. Ukraine says that it is fighting a war against a colonial conquest. It says it wants to reclaim all of its territory, including Crimea. Shoigu attended a meeting of military officials in Moscow. He said in the meeting that Moscow had info about Ukraine planning to attack Crimea with US-supplied HIMARS long-range rocket systems and with British Storm Shadow cruise missiles. Russia issues warning "The use of these missiles outside the zone of our special military operation would mean that the United States and Britain would be fully dragged into the conflict and would entail immediate strikes on decision-making centres in Ukraine," said Shoigu. Ukrainian generals and politicians have said many times they do not announce their military plans ahead of time. Watch | Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons × Shoigu claimed that since June 4, Ukrainian armed forces had carried out 263 attacks on Russian troops. "Thanks to the smart and selfless actions of our units all of them (the attacks) have been repelled, the enemy has not accomplished its goals," said Shoigu. Ukraine says it has recaptured eight villages in the early stages of its counteroffensive and a defence official has promised that Kyiv's "biggest blow" lay ahead despite tough resistance from Moscow's troops. Russia attacked Ukraine in February last year. After gains in the early months of the conflict, Russian forces had to withdraw from large swathes of land in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. After the Russian invasion, the United States pushed for military support for Ukraine and quickly forged an international coalition to support Kyiv and coordinated aid from dozens of countries. Russia has accused the West of directly waging war against it by providing weapons to Ukraine. In recent weeks drone attacks have struck cities in Russia and targets in Crimea, but Kyiv has not claimed responsibility for the incidents. Also Read | Ukraine war: Russian air strikes hit Kyiv, other regions far from front lines Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met African leaders just a few days ago and ruled out negotiations with Russia. "I clearly said several times at our meeting that to allow any negotiations with Russia now that the occupier is on our land is to freeze the war, to freeze pain and suffering," Zelensky told reporters after meeting several leaders including South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine planning to launch missiles at Crimea, claims Russia

Ukrainian forces have carried out a missile strike on a bridge connecting Ukraine’s Kherson region and Crimea, Russia-appointed officials in both regions said on Friday. Vladimir Saldo, the Russia-appointed Kherson governor, said the bridge was likely to have been attacked by Storm Shadow missiles that damaged the road, but traffic has been diverted to a different route. No casualties have been reported.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine strikes key bridge between mainland and Crimea

<p>A Russian-installed official claimed on Sunday (June 4), that five&nbsp;drones were shot down in Dzhankoi in annexed Crimea and caused damage to some infrastructure. Meanwhile, at least 22&nbsp;people, including five children, were injured and a&nbsp;two-year-old girl was killed&nbsp;after an explosion near the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Saturday the regional governor said in an update on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>A drone attack in Crimea?</strong><br />
<br />
Russian-installed official&nbsp;Sergei Aksyonov&nbsp;took to Telegram and said five&nbsp;drones were shot down and four others were jammed but did not hit targets,&nbsp;in Crimea's Dzhankoi which is also reported to be near a Moscow military air base.<br />
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"There is damage to windows in several houses in a residential district," said Kryuchkov about the overnight incident, adding, "All services are working. Official information - in the morning." However, the Russian official said that an&nbsp;unexploded drone was found near&nbsp;a residential house which forced the evacuation of some 50 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, whose city Dzhankoi is said to be home to Moscow’s largest military base in the region, as per Ukrainian officials. This also comes a day after the regional official of Russia's Belgorod, Vyacheslav Gladkov, claimed that an unprecedented Ukrainian shelling killed two people in the border region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Since this morning, the district of Shebekino has been under shelling of the Ukrainian armed forces," said Gladkov, adding that an "elderly woman" was killed in the village of Novaya Tavolzhanka and another woman succumbed to her wounds in the village of Bezlyudovka. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What happened in Dnipro?</strong><br />
<br />
An explosion near the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro, on Saturday, in a two-storey residential building has injured at least 20 people, said Ukrainian regional governor, Serhiy Lysak. He also claimed that three of the children were in serious condition, while a total of 17 people were being treated at the hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident was reported in the Pidhorodnenska community where, as per local media reports four people were later pulled out of the rubble but Lysak said another child was likely still trapped in the debris. The strike which is said to be caused by a Russian missile, has also reportedly hit an emergency services building.</p>

<p>However, hours later, in an update of the incident, he said that a total of 22 people were injured and a&nbsp;two-year-old girl was killed. The regional governor also said that 10 homes,&nbsp;a shop and a gas pipeline were also hit during the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the incident, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to Telegram and wrote, "Unfortunately, there are people under the rubble. Once again, Russia proves it is a terrorist state. The Russians will bear responsibility for everything committed against our state and people."</p>

<p>The two-year-old girl's&nbsp;body was pulled from the wreckage after the missile strike on Saturday, said the Ukrainian official.&nbsp;"At night, a girl's body was retrieved from under the rubble of a house in the Pidhorodnenska community," said&nbsp;Lysak, on Telegram, adding that she had just turned two.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Russian air attack repelled: Ukraine</strong></p>

<p>Early Sunday, Ukrainian officials said that Russia launched a wave of air attacks on Kyiv and they were able to repel all missiles and drones on their approach to the capital city using air defence systems. Around this time, the entire country was under air raid alert for nearly three hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The head of the military administration took to Telegram, on Sunday and wrote, "According to preliminary information, not a single air target reached the capital."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Air defence destroyed everything that was heading towards the city already at their distant approaches." According to a report by Reuters, witnesses heard several blasts in the Kyiv region but not in the city. Additionally, the blasts were also said to be likely from the air defence systems hitting targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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A Russian-installed official claimed on Sunday (June 4), that five drones were shot down in Dzhankoi in annexed Crimea and caused damage to some infrastructure. Meanwhile, at least 22 people, including five children, were injured and a two-year-old girl was killed after an explosion near the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Saturday the regional governor said in an update on Sunday.

A Russian-installed official claimed on Sunday (June 4), that five drones were shot down in Dzhankoi in annexed Crimea and caused damage to some infrastructure. Meanwhile, at least 22 people, including five children, were injured and a two-year-old girl was killed after an explosion near the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Saturday the regional governor said in an update on Sunday. A drone attack in Crimea? Russian-installed official Sergei Aksyonov took to Telegram and said five drones were shot down and four others were jammed but did not hit targets, in Crimea's Dzhankoi which is also reported to be near a Moscow military air base. "There is damage to windows in several houses in a residential district," said Kryuchkov about the overnight incident, adding, "All services are working. Official information - in the morning." However, the Russian official said that an unexploded drone was found near a residential house which forced the evacuation of some 50 people. Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, whose city Dzhankoi is said to be home to Moscow’s largest military base in the region, as per Ukrainian officials. This also comes a day after the regional official of Russia's Belgorod, Vyacheslav Gladkov, claimed that an unprecedented Ukrainian shelling killed two people in the border region. "Since this morning, the district of Shebekino has been under shelling of the Ukrainian armed forces," said Gladkov, adding that an "elderly woman" was killed in the village of Novaya Tavolzhanka and another woman succumbed to her wounds in the village of Bezlyudovka. What happened in Dnipro? An explosion near the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro, on Saturday, in a two-storey residential building has injured at least 20 people, said Ukrainian regional governor, Serhiy Lysak. He also claimed that three of the children were in serious condition, while a total of 17 people were being treated at the hospital. The incident was reported in the Pidhorodnenska community where, as per local media reports four people were later pulled out of the rubble but Lysak said another child was likely still trapped in the debris. The strike which is said to be caused by a Russian missile, has also reportedly hit an emergency services building. However, hours later, in an update of the incident, he said that a total of 22 people were injured and a two-year-old girl was killed. The regional governor also said that 10 homes, a shop and a gas pipeline were also hit during the strike. After the incident, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to Telegram and wrote, "Unfortunately, there are people under the rubble. Once again, Russia proves it is a terrorist state. The Russians will bear responsibility for everything committed against our state and people." The two-year-old girl's body was pulled from the wreckage after the missile strike on Saturday, said the Ukrainian official. "At night, a girl's body was retrieved from under the rubble of a house in the Pidhorodnenska community," said Lysak, on Telegram, adding that she had just turned two. Russian air attack repelled: Ukraine Early Sunday, Ukrainian officials said that Russia launched a wave of air attacks on Kyiv and they were able to repel all missiles and drones on their approach to the capital city using air defence systems. Around this time, the entire country was under air raid alert for nearly three hours. The head of the military administration took to Telegram, on Sunday and wrote, "According to preliminary information, not a single air target reached the capital." He added, "Air defence destroyed everything that was heading towards the city already at their distant approaches." According to a report by Reuters, witnesses heard several blasts in the Kyiv region but not in the city. Additionally, the blasts were also said to be likely from the air defence systems hitting targets. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian official says 5 drones shot down in Crimea; two-year-old killed after blast in Ukraine’s Dnipro

<p>The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes.</p>

<p>"No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram.</p>

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<p>No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes.</p>

<p>The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war.</p>

<p>According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday.</p>

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<p>Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan?</strong></p>

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<p>The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive.</p>

<p>For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area.</p>

<p>Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group.</p>

<p>The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply.</p>

<p>Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.)</strong></em></p>

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The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters.

The situation in the Russia-Ukraine war continues to remain tense as a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday that Ukraine struck the Crimean Peninsula overnight with over 10 drones, reported Reuters. As per reports, three of these drones hit the port of Sevastopol. The official added that Sevastopol's air defence systems were able to successfully thwart all of the strikes. "No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," the Moscow-installed Sevastopol governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram. Also Read | Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon No damages from the attacks were reported from elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula. Crimea was seized by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Russian forces launched a major military offensive into Ukraine, which included significant advances into Ukrainian territory. The offensive was characterized by intense fighting, and many civilians were displaced from their homes. The war in Eastern Europe is entering a significant phase with Ukraine's spring offensive. With this, there are significant stakes for war. According to preliminary information, there were no injuries reported following Ukraine's drone strikes on Crimea. Telegram channel Baza, which has connections to Russian law enforcement, claimed the incident to be a series of strikes on Crimea earlier on Sunday. Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police Explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base. A few other places also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels. Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × The last two weeks have seen an increase in attacks against Russian-controlled locations, particularly in Crimea. Without denying any involvement in the strikes, Ukraine claims that destroying infrastructure is a prelude to its upcoming ground offensive. For months, the war's most severe combat has been taking place in the battle for Bakhmut. Russia views this as a crucial battlefield to advance to other cities in eastern Ukraine's Donbas area. Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost on both sides during this battle. Despite being driven back in recent weeks, Ukrainian forces were still able to maintain some degree of control over the region while dealing as much damage as they could to both regular Russian soldiers and soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group. The Wagner group, which has led the charge in the conflict to seize Bakhmut, has declared it will leave the area on 10th May. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner Group, stated in a statement on Friday that the retreat was because of a shortage of ammunition supply. Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut. Kadyrov is a former militia leader who fought against Russian forces during the First Chechen War in the 1990s. However, he later switched sides and became a loyal supporter of the Russian government when he abandoned Chechnya's separatist movement. (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.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine strikes Crimean peninsula with over 10 drones in overnight attack

<p>Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack&nbsp;on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.&nbsp;The disclosure&nbsp;raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas&nbsp;and annexed Crimea.</p>

<p>At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum,&nbsp;which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance&nbsp;that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders."</p>

<p>Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country.</p>

<p>“Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at&nbsp;92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added.</p>

<p>“I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said.</p>

<p>His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula.</p>

<p>Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014.</p>

<p>In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea.</p>

<p>With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President.

Russian president Vladimir Putin told Bill Clinton three years prior to his 2014 attack on Ukraine that he was not obligated by the Budapest Memorandum's guarantee of the nation's territorial integrity, according to the former US President. The disclosure raises concerns about whether the US and its European allies may have been better prepared for the attack in 2014 when Russia invaded the Donbas and annexed Crimea. At the 2011 World Economic Forum in Davos, Clinton claimed to have spoken with the Russian president. During the discussion, Putin brought up the 1994 Memorandum, which required Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to give up the nuclear arsenals they had received from the Soviet Union in exchange for assurance that their sovereignty would be respected "within existing borders." Boris Yeltsin signed it on behalf of Russia, Bill Clinton on behalf of the US, and John Major on behalf of the UK, which served as a third guaranteeing country. “Putin told me in 2011, three years before he took Crimea, that he did not agree with the agreement I made with Boris Yeltsin, that they would respect Ukraine’s territory if they gave up their nuclear weapons,” Clinton said on Thursday at a public discussion at 92nd Street Y, a Jewish cultural and community centre in New York, as reported by the Guardian. “Putin said to me: ‘… I know Boris agreed to go along with you and John Major and Nato, but he never got it through the Duma [Russian parliament]. We have our extreme nationalists too. I don’t agree with it and I do not support it and I’m not bound by it," he added. “I knew from that day forward, it was just a matter of time,” the former president added. The Maidan revolution and the change in government in Kyiv earlier that year meant that Ukraine had become a different state, according to Putin, who asserted that Russia was not bound by the Budapest Memorandum after seizing Crimea in 2014. “In respect to this state, we have not signed any obligatory documents,” he said. His meeting with Clinton, however, reveals that Putin had already made up his mind about severing the agreement years before the Maidan uprising. Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014 In February 2014, during the most catastrophic stages of the EuroMaidan Revolution that finally led to the ousting of Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian former president of Ukraine, Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula. Around 30,000 Russian troops entered Crimea while Yanukovych's pro-Russian regime massacred protesters in central Kiev, and they took control of the peninsula by early March 2014. In some ways, the event started Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Since then, the Russian military has kept control over Crimea. With the exception of a small number of nations who are associated with Russia, many nations have publicly denounced the unlawful takeover of Crimea and continue to recognise it as being a part of Ukraine, as reported by the Kyiv Independent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Just a matter of time’: Was Bill Clinton aware of Putin’s plan to invade Ukraine?

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