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 />
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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 />
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"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 />
<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 />
<br />
"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 />
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<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>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-kishida-heads-to-seoul-for-landmark-summit-with-yoon-589868">Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon</a></p>

<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>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-at-least-nine-shot-at-mall-in-texas-shooter-killed-by-police-589857">At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police</a></p>

<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?

<p>Hours after a series of&nbsp;explosions shook the capital, the Ukrainian Air Force said it downed its own drone as it lost control over Kyiv on Thursday, reported AFP.<br />
<br />
"At about 8:00 pm (1700 GMT) a Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial device lost control during a scheduled flight in the Kyiv region...the target was destroyed!" said the air force, as quoted by AFP.</p>

<p>It cited "likely" technical malfunction as the cause of the drone losing control.</p>

<p><strong>Another drone shot down near Crimea</strong><br />
<br />
Meanwhile, in a further escalation to the drone war between Russia and Ukraine, another aerial device was shot down near the Russian airbase in Moscow-annexed Crimea, said the Russia-installed authorities on Thursday.</p>

<p>This is the latest drone attack in a series of similar incidents in recent days. "Another attack on Sevastopol. At about 7:00 pm (1600 GMT), air defence forces destroyed an unmanned aerial device in the area of the Belbek airfield," said Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol Mikhail Razvozhayev on Telegram.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, as per media reports, May 9 Victory Day celebrations have been cancelled&nbsp;in at least 21 Russian cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-must-be-sentenced-for-war-crimes-enraged-zelensky-tells-icc-588869">Ukraine will not join NATO during war, Zelensky says after meeting European leaders</a></p>

<h2><strong>Explosions and air raid alerts in Kyiv</strong></h2>

<p>According to AFP, several explosions were heard in Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine&nbsp;on Thursday after it witnessed a series of attacks overnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>An AFP journalist reported seeing a drone that the air defence attempted to shoot down, as the Kyiv city military administration stated that "air defence is at work."</p>

<p>The explosions ended after around 15 to 20 minutes. AFP journalists reported that they saw a cloud of black smoke rising in the air just after an announcement was made by the Kyiv city military administration stating that the air raid alert was over. &nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Reuters, one witness saw a drone falling in an area near the bank of the Dnipro River and Dynamo soccer stadium, outside the city centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An alert was issued by the local authorities for both Kyiv and the surrounding area and anti-aircraft units went into operation.</p>

<p>"The enemy drone was shot down," presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko reported "explosions and fire in the Solomyansky district of the capital" and further gave warning of potential drone debris.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin?</strong></p>

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<p>The alerts were issued after Kyiv witnessed another wave of attacks in the night falling between Wednesday and Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv military administration's head Sergiy Popko on Thursday morning said, "Our city has not experienced such intensity of strikes since the beginning of this year."</p>

<p>Then, Popko said that it was Russia's third day of strikes on the capital city in May. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The explosions took place a day after two drones were shot down by Kremlin over the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, which they alleged was an assassination attempt carried out by Ukraine on the directions of the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The allegations were refuted by both Ukraine and the US, as they claimed that they had no involvement in the said attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Hours after a series of explosions shook the capital, the Ukrainian Air Force said it downed its own drone as it lost control over Kyiv on Thursday, reported AFP.

Hours after a series of explosions shook the capital, the Ukrainian Air Force said it downed its own drone as it lost control over Kyiv on Thursday, reported AFP. "At about 8:00 pm (1700 GMT) a Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial device lost control during a scheduled flight in the Kyiv region...the target was destroyed!" said the air force, as quoted by AFP. It cited "likely" technical malfunction as the cause of the drone losing control. Another drone shot down near Crimea Meanwhile, in a further escalation to the drone war between Russia and Ukraine, another aerial device was shot down near the Russian airbase in Moscow-annexed Crimea, said the Russia-installed authorities on Thursday. This is the latest drone attack in a series of similar incidents in recent days. "Another attack on Sevastopol. At about 7:00 pm (1600 GMT), air defence forces destroyed an unmanned aerial device in the area of the Belbek airfield," said Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol Mikhail Razvozhayev on Telegram. Meanwhile, as per media reports, May 9 Victory Day celebrations have been cancelled in at least 21 Russian cities. ALSO READ | Ukraine will not join NATO during war, Zelensky says after meeting European leaders Explosions and air raid alerts in Kyiv According to AFP, several explosions were heard in Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine on Thursday after it witnessed a series of attacks overnight. An AFP journalist reported seeing a drone that the air defence attempted to shoot down, as the Kyiv city military administration stated that "air defence is at work." The explosions ended after around 15 to 20 minutes. AFP journalists reported that they saw a cloud of black smoke rising in the air just after an announcement was made by the Kyiv city military administration stating that the air raid alert was over. As per Reuters, one witness saw a drone falling in an area near the bank of the Dnipro River and Dynamo soccer stadium, outside the city centre. An alert was issued by the local authorities for both Kyiv and the surrounding area and anti-aircraft units went into operation. "The enemy drone was shot down," presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak said. Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko reported "explosions and fire in the Solomyansky district of the capital" and further gave warning of potential drone debris. WATCH | Did Ukraine try to assassinate Russian President Putin? The alerts were issued after Kyiv witnessed another wave of attacks in the night falling between Wednesday and Thursday. Kyiv military administration's head Sergiy Popko on Thursday morning said, "Our city has not experienced such intensity of strikes since the beginning of this year." Then, Popko said that it was Russia's third day of strikes on the capital city in May. The explosions took place a day after two drones were shot down by Kremlin over the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, which they alleged was an assassination attempt carried out by Ukraine on the directions of the United States. The allegations were refuted by both Ukraine and the US, as they claimed that they had no involvement in the said attack. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) 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 shoots down its own drone that 'lost control' over Kyiv

Fire broke out at a fuel depot in the Crimean port of Sevastopol after Ukraine reportedly launched a drone strike in the region. The area was hit by a series of drone attack, following the Kremlin's Ukraine offensive which was launched last year.

Huge fire breaks out at Crimea fuel depot, tank in Sevastopol catches fire | World news | WION

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<p>A huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Russia-annexed Crimea's port city of Sevastopol on Saturday (April 29), with authorities saying it was the result of a drone strike. The Russian-installed governor of the peninsula, Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram, "A fuel reserve is on fire in the Kazachya Bay district of Crimea's port city Sevastopol. According to preliminary information, it was caused by a drone strike."</p>

<p>No one was hurt in the fire, Razvozhayev said. "The situation is under the control of our firefighters and all operative services. Since the volume of fuel is large, it will take time to localise the fire," the governor further said and urged residents to remain calm.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-missile-strikes-kill-26-including-five-children-zelensky-vows-response-587174">Ukraine war: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children; Zelensky vows response</a></strong></p>

<p>Sevastopol, on the Crimean peninsula that Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014, has come under repeated air attacks since Russia&nbsp;sent its troops to its neighbour in February last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saturday's drone strike comes after Russia said on Monday that it repelled a drone attack on Sevastopol. "An attempted attack on Sevastopol was repelled from 3:30 am," Razvozhayev wrote on Telegram, adding that one unmanned surface vehicle, or drone ship, was destroyed while a second exploded. There was no damage or casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ongoing war in Ukraine has intensified further after Russian missile strikes battered Ukrainian cities on Friday, killing 26 people, including five children. These were the first large-scale air strikes in nearly two months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Friday's missile attacks included a strike on a residential block in Uman where 23 people, including four children, were killed. The central city of Dnipro was also targeted, killing a 31-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter in their sleep. And in Kherson, Russian forces shelled the village of Bilozerka, killing a 57-year-old woman and wounding three others.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes and vowed a response. Only absolute evil can unleash such terror against Ukraine," he said in his evening address on Friday.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian government has said that its preparations to push back against entrenched Russian positions were almost complete. "Equipment has been promised, prepared and partially delivered. In a global sense, we're ready. Preparations are coming to an end," Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Friday.&nbsp;<br />
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A huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Russia-annexed Crimea's port city of Sevastopol on Saturday (April 29), with authorities saying it was the result of a drone strike.

A huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Russia-annexed Crimea's port city of Sevastopol on Saturday (April 29), with authorities saying it was the result of a drone strike. The Russian-installed governor of the peninsula, Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram, "A fuel reserve is on fire in the Kazachya Bay district of Crimea's port city Sevastopol. According to preliminary information, it was caused by a drone strike." No one was hurt in the fire, Razvozhayev said. "The situation is under the control of our firefighters and all operative services. Since the volume of fuel is large, it will take time to localise the fire," the governor further said and urged residents to remain calm. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children; Zelensky vows response Sevastopol, on the Crimean peninsula that Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014, has come under repeated air attacks since Russia sent its troops to its neighbour in February last year. Saturday's drone strike comes after Russia said on Monday that it repelled a drone attack on Sevastopol. "An attempted attack on Sevastopol was repelled from 3:30 am," Razvozhayev wrote on Telegram, adding that one unmanned surface vehicle, or drone ship, was destroyed while a second exploded. There was no damage or casualties. The ongoing war in Ukraine has intensified further after Russian missile strikes battered Ukrainian cities on Friday, killing 26 people, including five children. These were the first large-scale air strikes in nearly two months. Friday's missile attacks included a strike on a residential block in Uman where 23 people, including four children, were killed. The central city of Dnipro was also targeted, killing a 31-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter in their sleep. And in Kherson, Russian forces shelled the village of Bilozerka, killing a 57-year-old woman and wounding three others. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes and vowed a response. Only absolute evil can unleash such terror against Ukraine," he said in his evening address on Friday. The Ukrainian government has said that its preparations to push back against entrenched Russian positions were almost complete. "Equipment has been promised, prepared and partially delivered. In a global sense, we're ready. Preparations are coming to an end," Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said on Friday. 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.

Huge fire breaks out at fuel depot in Russian-occupied Crimea after drone strike: Official

China has been forced onto the backfoot over its envoy's comments questioning the legal status of post USSR countries. The country, now see it respects the sovereignty of all ex-soviet states.

China says it respects sovereign status of ex-Soviet states after Chinese envoy's remarks

China has been forced onto the backfoot over its envoy's comments questioning the legal status of post USSR countries. The country now see it respects the sovereignty of all ex-soviet states.

China issues clarification on Chinese envoy to France's remarks, says 'Crimea was Russia's at start'

<p>China’s ambassador to France has sparked anger and dismay among eastern European countries after questioning the sovereignty of former Soviet countries including Ukraine. The Chinese ambassador Lu Shaye, in an interview on Friday (April 22) seemingly suggested that countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union are not really sovereign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What did the Chinese envoy say?</strong></p>

<p>Speaking with France’s LCI news channel, Shaye said, “These ex-USSR countries don’t have actual status in international law because there is no international agreement to materialize their sovereign status.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-raises-concerns-over-taiwan-amid-talks-with-china-585129">Philippines raises concerns over 'escalating tensions' Taiwan Strait amid talks with China</a></strong></p>

<p>The remarks were made after he was asked whether he believes Crimea is part of Ukraine or not. Crimea was annexed by Russia back in 2014. The Chinese ambassador, in this context, also said, “it depends on how you look at the problem. There's history. Crimea was Russian at the start.”</p>

<p>These comments have not only cast doubt not just on Ukraine which is in the midst of an invasion by Russia but on most eastern European countries which emerged as independent nations after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, many of which are also members of the European Union.</p>

<p><strong>How have the countries reacted?</strong></p>

<p>After the interview, France and eastern European countries released statements in response to the Chinese envoy’s comments. Paris, late Saturday, stated its “full solidarity” with all the allied countries affected, which it said had acquired their independence “after decades of oppression”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-lula-doesnt-want-to-please-anyone-over-ukraine-stance-faces-protests-amid-visit-in-lisbon-585175">Brazil’s Lula doesn’t want to ‘please anyone’ over Ukraine stance, faces protests amid visit in Lisbon</a></strong></p>

<p>The French foreign ministry also said that it had “learned with consternation about the statements from the ambassador.” It added, “It remains up to China to say whether these statements reflect its position which we hope not to be the case.”</p>

<p>Following the interview,&nbsp;Ukraine condemned what it called “absurd” comments from the Chinese ambassador. On Sunday, the&nbsp;Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak said the status of post-Soviet countries was “enshrined in international law”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "It is strange to hear an absurd version of the ‘history of Crimea’ from a representative of a country&nbsp;that is scrupulous about its 1,000-year history.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-fencing-along-russian-border-amid-security-concerns-after-joining-nato-585059">Finland fencing along Russian border amid security concerns after joining NATO</a></strong><br />
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Meanwhile, Latvia’s foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics took to Twitter and wrote, “Remarks by the Chinese Ambassador in France concerning international law and sovereignty of nations are completely unacceptable. We expect (an) explanation from the Chinese side and complete retraction of this statement.”</p>

<p>Additionally, his Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis said, “If anyone is still wondering why the Baltic States don't trust China to 'broker peace in Ukraine', here's a Chinese ambassador arguing that Crimea is Russian and our countries' borders have no legal basis,” reported AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Estonian foreign minister,&nbsp;Margus Tsahkna, also called Shaye's comments&nbsp;“false and a misinterpretation of history.” The three&nbsp;Baltic countries have reportedly said that they would&nbsp;each summon China’s ambassador or representative for an explanation of the envoy’s comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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China’s ambassador to France has sparked anger and dismay among eastern European countries after questioning the sovereignty of former Soviet countries including Ukraine.

China’s ambassador to France has sparked anger and dismay among eastern European countries after questioning the sovereignty of former Soviet countries including Ukraine. The Chinese ambassador Lu Shaye, in an interview on Friday (April 22) seemingly suggested that countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union are not really sovereign. What did the Chinese envoy say? Speaking with France’s LCI news channel, Shaye said, “These ex-USSR countries don’t have actual status in international law because there is no international agreement to materialize their sovereign status.” ALSO READ | Philippines raises concerns over 'escalating tensions' Taiwan Strait amid talks with China The remarks were made after he was asked whether he believes Crimea is part of Ukraine or not. Crimea was annexed by Russia back in 2014. The Chinese ambassador, in this context, also said, “it depends on how you look at the problem. There's history. Crimea was Russian at the start.” These comments have not only cast doubt not just on Ukraine which is in the midst of an invasion by Russia but on most eastern European countries which emerged as independent nations after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, many of which are also members of the European Union. How have the countries reacted? After the interview, France and eastern European countries released statements in response to the Chinese envoy’s comments. Paris, late Saturday, stated its “full solidarity” with all the allied countries affected, which it said had acquired their independence “after decades of oppression”. ALSO READ | Brazil’s Lula doesn’t want to ‘please anyone’ over Ukraine stance, faces protests amid visit in Lisbon The French foreign ministry also said that it had “learned with consternation about the statements from the ambassador.” It added, “It remains up to China to say whether these statements reflect its position which we hope not to be the case.” Following the interview, Ukraine condemned what it called “absurd” comments from the Chinese ambassador. On Sunday, the Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak said the status of post-Soviet countries was “enshrined in international law”. He added, "It is strange to hear an absurd version of the ‘history of Crimea’ from a representative of a country that is scrupulous about its 1,000-year history.” ALSO READ | Finland fencing along Russian border amid security concerns after joining NATO Meanwhile, Latvia’s foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics took to Twitter and wrote, “Remarks by the Chinese Ambassador in France concerning international law and sovereignty of nations are completely unacceptable. We expect (an) explanation from the Chinese side and complete retraction of this statement.” Additionally, his Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis said, “If anyone is still wondering why the Baltic States don't trust China to 'broker peace in Ukraine', here's a Chinese ambassador arguing that Crimea is Russian and our countries' borders have no legal basis,” reported AFP. The Estonian foreign minister, Margus Tsahkna, also called Shaye's comments “false and a misinterpretation of history.” The three Baltic countries have reportedly said that they would each summon China’s ambassador or representative for an explanation of the envoy’s comments. (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.

Chinese ambassador questions sovereignty of former Soviet countries; France, Ukraine, Baltic nations dismayed

<p>Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014, but it always remained a matter of contention between Moscow and the West. The region and its fate were discussed multiple times during the course of Ukraine's invasion by Russia as experts and analysts see uncanny similarities between the two series of incidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, news outlet Al Jazeera did an analysis of satellite images of Crimea which revealed that the Russian forces are fortifying the Crimean peninsula. It suggests that Russia is preparing for a possible Ukrainian attack aimed at recapturing it. The news report mentioned that such military movements indicate that any attempt will be difficult and deadly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also mentioned that an investigation by its Sanad news verification and monitoring unit discovered that a fortified barrier was seen at the Crimean border and the surrounding areas between February and March.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intel-leak-includes-ukraine-war-mossad-spy-agency-and-more-is-america-spying-on-allies-580835">US intel leak includes Ukraine war, Mossad details: Is America spying on allies?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Al Jazeera report also noted that the images provided to Sanad by SkySat and Planet.com further revealed that the construction and expansion of several significant military bases took place during the same period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images that were taken on April 1 also show that authorities in Crimea have set up a sea barrier at a dock of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in the Sevastopol port, in addition to several new buildings and infrastructure developments within the port area.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian forces have been digging defensive fortifications and trenches in Crimea that experts say would be difficult and costly for Ukrainian forces to overcome <a href="https://t.co/giTkBXroUx">https://t.co/giTkBXroUx</a> <a href="https://t.co/ssSEiDVxb9">pic.twitter.com/ssSEiDVxb9</a></p>
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/AJEnglish/status/1645324704431984640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch this video of the analysis of the satellite images</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russia fortified Crimea peninsula between February and March this year, anticipating a counteroffensive by Ukraine, according to an analysis of satellite images by Al Jazeera<a href="https://twitter.com/KatiePilbeamTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KatiePilbeamTV</a> tells you more<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a><br />
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For more videos, visit: <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J">https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mka8GGGabg">pic.twitter.com/Mka8GGGabg</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1645382674301992960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>While talking about ads for workers needed for the construction of fortifications, analysts weighed in on the shortage of manpower. According to the experts, such a shortage of workforce amid the ongoing war can be a reason behind partially ineffective trenches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the report, who is a senior intelligence analyst at security company Global Guardian, analysed the photographs and told Al Jazeera: "None of the trenches in any of the photos is 100 per cent complete. All indicate ongoing work, as the trench networks are not connected and lack complete communications trenches."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Faintuch also said that the images showing trenches in northern Crimea indicate that Russia is maybe working on deterring Ukraine from mounting a ground assault from the north.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the report, Faintuch further noted: "The new Russian defensive lines leverage the topography and existing villages to create choke points along these highways. In essence, if the Russians find themselves on the defensive in Crimea, they plan on giving Ukraine a taste of its own medicine."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-leak-says-russia-almost-shot-down-uk-spy-plane-kyivs-air-defenses-on-verge-of-depletion-580827">Pentagon leak says Russia almost shot down UK spy plane, Kyiv's air defences on verge of depletion</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What did Lula say about Crimea?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva hopes to act as a mediator to end the Ukraine war and also issued a vague proposal. He has proposed creating a group of countries to mediate in the war in Ukraine and the Brazilian leader said he was "confident" that this group "would be created" after his China trip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lula had even suggested that Kyiv should give up Crimea to end the war with Russia. But in response, Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said that "there is no legal, political or moral reason that would justify us having to yield even a centimetre of Ukrainian land".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikolenko also said that "any mediation efforts to restore peace in Ukraine should be based on respect for the sovereignty and the full restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lula suggested Ukraine could give up Crimea to begin peace discussions and noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "could not get everything".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A couple of days ago, Zelensky said in a tweet that "the world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/RlpCjiZZgB">pic.twitter.com/RlpCjiZZgB</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1644435907699699719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On April 2, the last occupier fled from the Kyiv region. The day will come when we'll say: the last occupier fled or was killed in the Donetsk region, Luhansk region, Kherson region and our entire south. Crimea will be free and safe again. Ukraine will return all its territories. <a href="https://t.co/DeFbkVg81q">pic.twitter.com/DeFbkVg81q</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1642585088511680512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Russia on Crimea</strong></h2>

<p>Russia occupied Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in 2014, long before it launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year on February 2022. It has a huge concentration of forces on the Black Sea territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moscow has repeatedly said that peace negotiations were not on the table at this stage and vowed to continue its offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the fag end of March, Russia reported strikes in Melitopol, which is one of Ukraine's main southern cities currently held by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts and analysts have claimed that a successful breakthrough in the area would allow Ukraine to cut the land corridor that links mainland Russia to Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good night, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crimea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crimea</a>🇷🇺!<br />
➡️<a href="https://t.co/ZuJSEpOANh">https://t.co/ZuJSEpOANh</a><br />
➡️<a href="https://t.co/8JMRkWWZzV">https://t.co/8JMRkWWZzV</a> <a href="https://t.co/jlFVwXYNLX">pic.twitter.com/jlFVwXYNLX</a></p>
— Russia's MFA in Crimea🇷🇺 (@PMSimferopol) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMSimferopol/status/1645147428763385862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Ukraine on Crimea talks</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine has already promised to recapture all lost land, which does include Crimea. A recent report mentioned that Ukraine even plans to launch a counter-offensive in the coming weeks or months. However, there's no concrete evidence to confirm such a report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But there have been conflicting points of view as Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a presidential adviser, recently said told the Financial Times that the basis for real negotiations with Moscow is the "complete withdrawal" of Russian armed groups beyond the internationally recognised borders of Ukraine in 1991 including Crimea. He said that there is no question of any "territorial concessions" of sovereign rights.&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.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014, but it always remained a matter of contention between Moscow and the West. The region and its fate were discussed multiple times during the course of Ukraine's invasion by Russia as experts and analysts see uncanny similarities between the two series of incidents.

Russia annexed the Crimea peninsula from Ukraine in 2014, but it always remained a matter of contention between Moscow and the West. The region and its fate were discussed multiple times during the course of Ukraine's invasion by Russia as experts and analysts see uncanny similarities between the two series of incidents. Recently, news outlet Al Jazeera did an analysis of satellite images of Crimea which revealed that the Russian forces are fortifying the Crimean peninsula. It suggests that Russia is preparing for a possible Ukrainian attack aimed at recapturing it. The news report mentioned that such military movements indicate that any attempt will be difficult and deadly. The report also mentioned that an investigation by its Sanad news verification and monitoring unit discovered that a fortified barrier was seen at the Crimean border and the surrounding areas between February and March. ALSO READ | US intel leak includes Ukraine war, Mossad details: Is America spying on allies? The Al Jazeera report also noted that the images provided to Sanad by SkySat and Planet.com further revealed that the construction and expansion of several significant military bases took place during the same period. Images that were taken on April 1 also show that authorities in Crimea have set up a sea barrier at a dock of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in the Sevastopol port, in addition to several new buildings and infrastructure developments within the port area. Russian forces have been digging defensive fortifications and trenches in Crimea that experts say would be difficult and costly for Ukrainian forces to overcome https://t.co/giTkBXroUx pic.twitter.com/ssSEiDVxb9 — Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) April 10, 2023 × Watch this video of the analysis of the satellite images Russia fortified Crimea peninsula between February and March this year, anticipating a counteroffensive by Ukraine, according to an analysis of satellite images by Al Jazeera@KatiePilbeamTV tells you more#RussiaUkraineWar For more videos, visit: https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J pic.twitter.com/Mka8GGGabg — WION (@WIONews) April 10, 2023 × While talking about ads for workers needed for the construction of fortifications, analysts weighed in on the shortage of manpower. According to the experts, such a shortage of workforce amid the ongoing war can be a reason behind partially ineffective trenches. As quoted by the report, who is a senior intelligence analyst at security company Global Guardian, analysed the photographs and told Al Jazeera: "None of the trenches in any of the photos is 100 per cent complete. All indicate ongoing work, as the trench networks are not connected and lack complete communications trenches." Faintuch also said that the images showing trenches in northern Crimea indicate that Russia is maybe working on deterring Ukraine from mounting a ground assault from the north. As quoted by the report, Faintuch further noted: "The new Russian defensive lines leverage the topography and existing villages to create choke points along these highways. In essence, if the Russians find themselves on the defensive in Crimea, they plan on giving Ukraine a taste of its own medicine." ALSO READ | Pentagon leak says Russia almost shot down UK spy plane, Kyiv's air defences on verge of depletion What did Lula say about Crimea? Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva hopes to act as a mediator to end the Ukraine war and also issued a vague proposal. He has proposed creating a group of countries to mediate in the war in Ukraine and the Brazilian leader said he was "confident" that this group "would be created" after his China trip. Lula had even suggested that Kyiv should give up Crimea to end the war with Russia. But in response, Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said that "there is no legal, political or moral reason that would justify us having to yield even a centimetre of Ukrainian land". Nikolenko also said that "any mediation efforts to restore peace in Ukraine should be based on respect for the sovereignty and the full restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity". Lula suggested Ukraine could give up Crimea to begin peace discussions and noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "could not get everything". A couple of days ago, Zelensky said in a tweet that "the world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine". The world should know: respect and order will return to international relations only when the Ukrainian flag returns to Crimea, when there is freedom there – just like everywhere else in Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/RlpCjiZZgB — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 7, 2023 × On April 2, the last occupier fled from the Kyiv region. The day will come when we'll say: the last occupier fled or was killed in the Donetsk region, Luhansk region, Kherson region and our entire south. Crimea will be free and safe again. Ukraine will return all its territories. pic.twitter.com/DeFbkVg81q — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 2, 2023 × Russia on Crimea Russia occupied Ukraine's Crimean peninsula in 2014, long before it launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year on February 2022. It has a huge concentration of forces on the Black Sea territory. Moscow has repeatedly said that peace negotiations were not on the table at this stage and vowed to continue its offensive. In the fag end of March, Russia reported strikes in Melitopol, which is one of Ukraine's main southern cities currently held by Russia. Experts and analysts have claimed that a successful breakthrough in the area would allow Ukraine to cut the land corridor that links mainland Russia to Crimea. Good night, #Crimea🇷🇺! ➡️https://t.co/ZuJSEpOANh ➡️https://t.co/8JMRkWWZzV pic.twitter.com/jlFVwXYNLX — Russia's MFA in Crimea🇷🇺 (@PMSimferopol) April 9, 2023 × Ukraine on Crimea talks Ukraine has already promised to recapture all lost land, which does include Crimea. A recent report mentioned that Ukraine even plans to launch a counter-offensive in the coming weeks or months. However, there's no concrete evidence to confirm such a report. But there have been conflicting points of view as Mykhailo Podolyak, who is a presidential adviser, recently said told the Financial Times that the basis for real negotiations with Moscow is the "complete withdrawal" of Russian armed groups beyond the internationally recognised borders of Ukraine in 1991 including Crimea. He said that there is no question of any "territorial concessions" of sovereign rights. 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.

Explained: Are tensions simmering in Crimea, again? Satellite images foretell deadly fight

Al Jazeera has revealed that Russian forces are fortifying the Crimean peninsula in anticipation of a Ukrainian attempt to recapture it. According to experts, those barriers would probably make any such effort bloody and tough.

Report: Images reveal Russia is fortifying Crimea Peninsula

According to Al Jazeera's analysis of satellite pictures, Russian military are reinforcing the Crimean peninsula in preparation for a Ukrainian assault to retake it. According to experts, those barriers would probably make any such effort bloody and tough.

Ukraine might attack Crimea to recapture it : Reports

Russian forces are entrenching their defences in Crimea or the latest satellite images show extended buildup of complex fortifications. These reinforcements extend to the Black Sea coastline. The obstacles have been placed along key roles that connect Crimea to mainland Ukraine.

Russia Ukraine War | Crimea's future: Fraught & unpredictable

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