As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores.

Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea.

A Ukrainian official claims that progress has been achieved in the counteroffensive that the government is waging in the south.

Russian troops are leaving certain locations where Ukraine has begun a counteroffensive, according to a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command on Monday.

The military command declared on Monday that the counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces to recover the Russian-occupied area of Kherson had started.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-may-visit-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-in-ukraine-509593" hreflang="en">IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine</a>

According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian forces will be able to drive occupying Russian forces back to pre-2014 lines.

The focus of attention was on any harm Ukraine might have caused to Russian forces around the port city of Kherson, a significant economic centre near the Black Sea that has been a valued possession of Moscow since it began the invasion just over half a year ago.

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<h5>“The occupiers must know: we will chase them to the border. To our border, which line has not been changed.If they want to survive - it’s time for the Russian military to run away ... If they do not hear me - they will have to deal with our defenders, who will not stop until they free everything that belongs to Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address Monday.</h5>
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In the Kherson region, "strong explosions persisted throughout the day and night," according to a dispatch from the Ukrainian presidential office on Tuesday. Practically the entire strategic area is still rife with fierce fights. According to the report, Ukrainian forces have destroyed numerous ammunition storage facilities in the area as well as all substantial bridges over the Dnieper that are necessary for supplying the Russian soldiers.

The Russian state news agency Tass noted five explosions near Kherson on Tuesday morning; these explosions were likely caused by air defence systems.

Operation Command South of the Ukrainian military said that artillery fire was used to attack a dozen command posts in various areas of the Kherson region as well as a pontoon that Russian soldiers were erecting across the Dnieper.

Over the past few months, the war has come to a standstill, with casualties rising and the local population suffering disproportionately as a result of the constant shelling in the east and in the wider region surrounding the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has also been the focal point of fighting in Ukraine.

Amid fears the plant could be damaged, leading to a radioactive leak, a U.N. nuclear watchdog team has arrived in Kyiv and is further preparing a mission to safeguard the Russian-occupied plant from nuclear catastrophe.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for the International Atomic Energy Agency experts, who will visit the plant in a country where the 1986 Chernobyl disaster spewed radiation throughout the region, shocking the world and intensifying a global push away from nuclear energy.

The Crimean peninsula was acquired by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, sparking a crisis that was dormant until the February 24 invasion. The Kherson area lies just north of that peninsula.

A substantial portion of the annexed peninsula's fresh water supplies come from the North Crimea Canal, which has its beginnings just to the east of the city.

The city effectively acts as a link between the rest of Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula, which Russia has controlled since 2014.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores. Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea.

As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores. Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea. A Ukrainian official claims that progress has been achieved in the counteroffensive that the government is waging in the south. Russian troops are leaving certain locations where Ukraine has begun a counteroffensive, according to a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command on Monday. The military command declared on Monday that the counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces to recover the Russian-occupied area of Kherson had started. Also read | IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian forces will be able to drive occupying Russian forces back to pre-2014 lines. The focus of attention was on any harm Ukraine might have caused to Russian forces around the port city of Kherson, a significant economic centre near the Black Sea that has been a valued possession of Moscow since it began the invasion just over half a year ago. “The occupiers must know: we will chase them to the border. To our border, which line has not been changed.If they want to survive - it’s time for the Russian military to run away ... If they do not hear me - they will have to deal with our defenders, who will not stop until they free everything that belongs to Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address Monday. × In the Kherson region, "strong explosions persisted throughout the day and night," according to a dispatch from the Ukrainian presidential office on Tuesday. Practically the entire strategic area is still rife with fierce fights. According to the report, Ukrainian forces have destroyed numerous ammunition storage facilities in the area as well as all substantial bridges over the Dnieper that are necessary for supplying the Russian soldiers. The Russian state news agency Tass noted five explosions near Kherson on Tuesday morning; these explosions were likely caused by air defence systems. Operation Command South of the Ukrainian military said that artillery fire was used to attack a dozen command posts in various areas of the Kherson region as well as a pontoon that Russian soldiers were erecting across the Dnieper. Over the past few months, the war has come to a standstill, with casualties rising and the local population suffering disproportionately as a result of the constant shelling in the east and in the wider region surrounding the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has also been the focal point of fighting in Ukraine. Amid fears the plant could be damaged, leading to a radioactive leak, a U.N. nuclear watchdog team has arrived in Kyiv and is further preparing a mission to safeguard the Russian-occupied plant from nuclear catastrophe. The stakes couldn’t be higher for the International Atomic Energy Agency experts, who will visit the plant in a country where the 1986 Chernobyl disaster spewed radiation throughout the region, shocking the world and intensifying a global push away from nuclear energy. The Crimean peninsula was acquired by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, sparking a crisis that was dormant until the February 24 invasion. The Kherson area lies just north of that peninsula. A substantial portion of the annexed peninsula's fresh water supplies come from the North Crimea Canal, which has its beginnings just to the east of the city. The city effectively acts as a link between the rest of Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula, which Russia has controlled since 2014. (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.

'We will chase them to the border,’ says Zelensky, as Ukraine battles to retake Kherson 

Amidst a raging fight with Russia, Ukraine has vowed to take back Crimea, a territory annexed by Moscow in 2014. Ukrainian President Zelensky on Tuesday said taking Crimea back would help re-establish world law and order.

Kyiv hosts forum on Crimea liberation, West warns Russia on new annexation plan

Amidst a raging war with Russia, Ukraine has vowed to take back Crimea, a territory annexed by Moscow in 2014. Ukrainian President Zelensky on Tuesday said taking Crimea back would help re-establish world law and order.

Crimea summit aims at restoring Ukraine's territorial integrity

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action.

The Ukrainian president made these comments at the second iteration of the Crimea Platform on Tuesday—an online gathering of 60 nations and international organisations hosted by Kyiv focused on the peninsula.

"We will take back Crimea- it is our territory. We will do this in any way which we decide. We will decide this by ourselves, without consultation with any other country in the world," he told reporters.

"Ukraine is strong enough and powerful enough to see a perspective for Ukrainian Crimea. We will bring freedom to Ukrainian citizens in Crimea, and we will restore justice to all those who suffered from the repressions and abuses of the Russian occupiers," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Newsweek.

"I know that Crimea is with Ukraine, is waiting for us to return. I want all of you to know that we will return. We need to win the fight against Russian aggression. Therefore, we need to free Crimea from&nbsp;occupation.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-is-on-high-alert-as-i-day-approaches-top-ukrainian-official-tells-wion-509536" hreflang="en">Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukraine official tells WION</a>

Speaking of Ukraine's war with Russia, Zelensky said, “It began with Crimea, it will end with Crimea."

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 following the pro-Western Maidan Revolution. The peninsula served as a launchpad for Russia’s full-scale invasion in February this year, seizing chunks of Ukraine's southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-may-visit-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-in-ukraine-509593" hreflang="en">IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine</a>

In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased its attacks in Crimea, with long-range&nbsp;weapons and drones&nbsp;targeting air bases, transport hubs, logistics depots, and command centres, triggering panic among Russians in Crimea, according to reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action. The Ukrainian president made these comments at the second iteration of the Crimea Platform on Tuesday—an online gathering of 60 nations and international organisations hosted by Kyiv focused on the peninsula. "We will take back Crimea- it is our territory. We will do this in any way which we decide. We will decide this by ourselves, without consultation with any other country in the world," he told reporters. "Ukraine is strong enough and powerful enough to see a perspective for Ukrainian Crimea. We will bring freedom to Ukrainian citizens in Crimea, and we will restore justice to all those who suffered from the repressions and abuses of the Russian occupiers," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Newsweek. "I know that Crimea is with Ukraine, is waiting for us to return. I want all of you to know that we will return. We need to win the fight against Russian aggression. Therefore, we need to free Crimea from occupation.” Also read | Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukraine official tells WION Speaking of Ukraine's war with Russia, Zelensky said, “It began with Crimea, it will end with Crimea." Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 following the pro-Western Maidan Revolution. The peninsula served as a launchpad for Russia’s full-scale invasion in February this year, seizing chunks of Ukraine's southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. Also read | IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased its attacks in Crimea, with long-range weapons and drones targeting air bases, transport hubs, logistics depots, and command centres, triggering panic among Russians in Crimea, according to reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia

World at War | Episode 16: Ukraine's mystery explosions destroy Russian fighter jets in Crimea United States tests its nuclear capable Minuteman III missile China's 'String of Pearls' for dominance of the Indian Ocean region & is it time for the U.S. to put behind its policy of strategic ambiguity over Taiwan? Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the World's biggest warzones of the week in World At War

World at War | Episode 16: Ukraine's mystery explosions destroy Russian fighter jets in Crimea

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. A Ukrainian government official told US-based NBC News that pro-Ukraine saboteurs were involved in the series of explosions that rocked Russian military sites in Crimea in recent days. Military depots and airbases in the annexed peninsula were hit by a series of blasts over the past week. This also showed how Ukraine's striking capability has changed and now Kyiv can strike deep behind enemy lines. This new development might change the dynamics of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The government official spoke to the media outlet on the condition of anonymity. The NBC report mentioned that the official is not authorised to disclose information about the Crimea strikes to journalists. ALSO READ | Ukraine launches fresh drone strike on Russia-annexed Crimea, far from war front The report also noted that given the nature of the blasts, experts have speculated that guerrilla fighters, known as "partisans" might have played a role. The report mentioned that the official declined to say whether the Ukrainian military or special forces were also involved in the attacks. As quoted by NBC News, the official said, "Only thanks to the people who oppose Putin in the occupied territories and in Russia today, resistance is possible." ALSO READ | 'Ridiculous and ironic': China's social media ablaze as officials conduct virus test on animals On Tuesday, explosions ripped through a military base and ammunition depot in Crimea. Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on August 16 that various reasons could be behind explosions in Russia-annexed Crimea and warned people in occupied territories to stay away from Russian military sites. Zelensky had said, "The destruction of the occupiers' logistics, their ammunition, military, and other equipment, and commander's posts save the lives of our people." Drone shot down at Russia's Black Sea fleet headquarters A local official said that a drone was shot down over the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet in annexed Crimea on Saturday (August 20). "The drone was shot down just above the fleet headquarters" in the city of Sevastopol, city governor Mikhail Razvojaev wrote on Telegram, Razvojaev blamed the attempt on Ukrainian forces and said that "it fell on the roof and caught fire." He said that there was no major damage. 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.

Pro-Ukraine saboteurs played a role in blasts at Russian military sites: Report

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky called for the destruction of a bridge linking Russia to Crimea. Russian bases and Crimea have been attacked in recent weeks.

Ukraine says Kerch bridge is an 'illegal', must go 'voluntary or not'

Russia alleged sabotage after two separate explosions were reported in the key areas of Crimea, forcing evacuations. Kyiv has hinted at special military unit's involvement.

Russia-Ukraine war: Explosions at Crimea depot prompt thousands to evacuate

Russia alleged sabotage after two separate explosions were reported in the occupied peninsula of Crimea. Is this part of Ukraine's southern counter-offensive? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: More explosions reported in Crimea, Russia alleges sabotage

The Russian Defense Ministry rapidly downplayed the damage after explosions tore through a Russian air base in Crimea on Tuesday, claiming that an ammunition blast had left no victims and that no equipment had been destroyed. However, now satellite images by US-based Planet Labs point to the contrary. Pictures of Saky air base near Novofedorivka on the west coast of the peninsula display significant areas of burned ground left over from fires that had erupted after the explosions. The main runways of the base appear to be undamaged, according to a BBC report, but at least eight aircraft appear to have been damaged or destroyed, with multiple craters being clearly visible.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Blast rips through Russian base in Crimea

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It points out that the majority of damaged aircraft are located in a specific location of the base where several aircraft were left without the protection of hangars and parked in the open.

As per the New York Times, videos taken at the scene and a report by local officials, who subsequently issued a state of emergency, painted a different picture. At least one fatality, more than a dozen injuries were reported, and hundreds of others have apparently been moved to shelters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-detonation-of-ammunition-caused-blast-at-crimea-military-airbase-505265">Russia says 'detonation of ammunition' caused blast at Crimea military airbase</a>

Officials reported that 20 stores, other buildings, and more than 60 apartment buildings had been damaged.&nbsp;However, it is still unclear how or by what the base was damaged.

Russia insists that the fire safety regulations were disregarded, which led to ammunition exploding in a store and causing the explosions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirteen-civilians-killed-in-russian-strikes-near-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-says-ukraine-505586" hreflang="en">Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine</a>

Ukraine has not claimed responsibility. In a statement, the Ukrainian defence ministry said it "once again draws attention to fire safety rules". As Reuters points out, Ukraine used&nbsp;language that was highly suggestive and reminiscent of its response to mysterious blasts on Russian soil. "I think that Russian military guys in this airbase ruined their very simply known rule: don't smoke in dangerous places," said Ukrainian Defense minister, Oleksiy Reznikov. "That's it."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian Defense Ministry rapidly downplayed the damage after explosions tore through a Russian air base in Crimea on Tuesday, claiming that an ammunition blast had left no victims and that no equipment had been destroyed.

The Russian Defense Ministry rapidly downplayed the damage after explosions tore through a Russian air base in Crimea on Tuesday, claiming that an ammunition blast had left no victims and that no equipment had been destroyed. However, now satellite images by US-based Planet Labs point to the contrary. Pictures of Saky air base near Novofedorivka on the west coast of the peninsula display significant areas of burned ground left over from fires that had erupted after the explosions. The main runways of the base appear to be undamaged, according to a BBC report, but at least eight aircraft appear to have been damaged or destroyed, with multiple craters being clearly visible. Watch | Gravitas: Blast rips through Russian base in Crimea It points out that the majority of damaged aircraft are located in a specific location of the base where several aircraft were left without the protection of hangars and parked in the open. As per the New York Times, videos taken at the scene and a report by local officials, who subsequently issued a state of emergency, painted a different picture. At least one fatality, more than a dozen injuries were reported, and hundreds of others have apparently been moved to shelters. Also read | Russia says 'detonation of ammunition' caused blast at Crimea military airbase Officials reported that 20 stores, other buildings, and more than 60 apartment buildings had been damaged. However, it is still unclear how or by what the base was damaged. Russia insists that the fire safety regulations were disregarded, which led to ammunition exploding in a store and causing the explosions. Also read | Thirteen killed in Russian strikes near Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says Ukraine Ukraine has not claimed responsibility. In a statement, the Ukrainian defence ministry said it "once again draws attention to fire safety rules". As Reuters points out, Ukraine used language that was highly suggestive and reminiscent of its response to mysterious blasts on Russian soil. "I think that Russian military guys in this airbase ruined their very simply known rule: don't smoke in dangerous places," said Ukrainian Defense minister, Oleksiy Reznikov. "That's it." (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.

Even as Russia continues to deny an attack, before & after images of Crimea air base show significant damage

An explosion at a Russian military base in Crimea killed 1 and injured 13 others. Ukraine has denied carrying out the attack while Russia claims it was a munitions detonation. What is the truth behind this mysterious blast? Is it the start of Ukraine's counter-attack? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Blast rips through Russian base in Crimea

US-based firm releases satellite images that appear to show extensive damage and several destroyed Russian warplanes at a Crimea airbase following explosions earlier this week.

Russia's Crimea base explosion, satellite images show extensive damage

Russia-Ukraine crisis | Aircraft damaged, patches of earth scorched: Satellite images of Crimea airbase

Smoke blankets Russian air base at Crimea after a series of explosions that killed at least one civilian on Tuesday, Russia ruled out the possibility of attacks claimed that the blast came from detonations of stored ammunition.

Explosions rock Russian airfield in Crimea, cause for blast not known

The Russian defence ministry said on Tuesday that a “detonation of aviation ammunition” was the reason behind the explosion at an airbase in Crimea which was reported by a number of eyewitnesses in the area. According to the RIA Novosti news agency, the authorities said that contrary to certain reports, it was not an attack and there were no damages or casualties.

Earlier, Reuters reported that there were loud explosions heard from the Russian military airbase situated at Novofedorivka in Crimea. The area was part of the annexed peninsula held by the Russian forces and this was one of the several army bases which were established by the Russian army.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-offering-100000-troops-to-help-russia-win-ukrainian-war-state-media-505028" hreflang="en">North Korea offering 100,000 troops to help Russia win Ukrainian war: State media</a>

According to eyewitness accounts, black smoke was seen coming out of the military base and a number of videos shot from the nearby beaches were already circulated on social media.

According to Reuters, the eyewitnesses heard 12 explosions within a minute. Half an hour later, there were three other blasts and sirens were heard in the nearby town on Saky.

Sergei Aksyonov – the Kremlin-appointed governor of Crimea – posted on Telegram that he visited the military airbase after the explosions and the "circumstances are being clarified".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-lagnya-the-fresh-zoonotic-virus-outbreak-that-infected-35-people-in-china-505187">What is Langya, fresh zoonotic virus that infected 35 people in China?</a>

The TASS new agency also reported that emergency services were deployed in the area.

Earlier, North Korea offered 100,000 "volunteer" troops to help Russia’s chances in the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. “There are reports that 100,000 North Korean volunteers are prepared to come and take part in the conflict,” Russian defence analyst Igor Korotchenko told Russian Channel One.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian defence ministry said on Tuesday that a “detonation of aviation ammunition” was the reason behind the explosion at an airbase in Crimea which was reported by a number of eyewitnesses in the area.

The Russian defence ministry said on Tuesday that a “detonation of aviation ammunition” was the reason behind the explosion at an airbase in Crimea which was reported by a number of eyewitnesses in the area. According to the RIA Novosti news agency, the authorities said that contrary to certain reports, it was not an attack and there were no damages or casualties. Earlier, Reuters reported that there were loud explosions heard from the Russian military airbase situated at Novofedorivka in Crimea. The area was part of the annexed peninsula held by the Russian forces and this was one of the several army bases which were established by the Russian army. Also read | North Korea offering 100,000 troops to help Russia win Ukrainian war: State media According to eyewitness accounts, black smoke was seen coming out of the military base and a number of videos shot from the nearby beaches were already circulated on social media. According to Reuters, the eyewitnesses heard 12 explosions within a minute. Half an hour later, there were three other blasts and sirens were heard in the nearby town on Saky. Sergei Aksyonov – the Kremlin-appointed governor of Crimea – posted on Telegram that he visited the military airbase after the explosions and the "circumstances are being clarified". Also read | What is Langya, fresh zoonotic virus that infected 35 people in China? The TASS new agency also reported that emergency services were deployed in the area. Earlier, North Korea offered 100,000 "volunteer" troops to help Russia’s chances in the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. “There are reports that 100,000 North Korean volunteers are prepared to come and take part in the conflict,” Russian defence analyst Igor Korotchenko told Russian Channel One. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Russia says 'detonation of ammunition' caused blast at Crimea military airbase

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is going to enter its sixth month. In the latest the White House has now said that Russia is forming plans to annex more parts of Ukraine repeating a similar playbook it used in 2014 annexation of Crimea.

US warns of Russian annexation plans

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, some farmers in Crimea are marking their fields with 'Z' and 'V', news agency Reuters reported. The alphabets are basically their way to show their support to Russia and its invasion of Ukraine, what Moscow calls a "special military operation".&nbsp;

The report mentioned that at the start of harvesting, they marked the letters 'Z' and 'V' onto the wheat field. Each letter measure 100 by 100 metres.&nbsp;

'Z', 'V' and 'O' commonly decorate Russian armour and trucks taking part in the operation. These were seen often painted on military vehicles of the Russian Armed Forces involved in the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Reports mentioned that the Z helps task forces to distinguish themselves from other forces.&nbsp;

As quoted by Reuters, combine harvester driver Alexey Matis said he volunteered to mark the letters on the field because the idea appealed to him.&nbsp;

Farmer Nikolai Pyanykh, said that grain is currently a major world issue. He even said that the wheat from his field, which is marked, would be "even tastier". Pyanykh said as if the letters "absorbed the sweat of farm workers, combine drivers and truckers."&nbsp;

This year on February 24, Russia launched its "special military operation" in neighbouring Ukraine. Moscow claimed that its armed forces are "demilitarisation", "denazification" and "liberation of Donbas in the country's east.&nbsp;

Hundred are dead and millions are displaced in the aftermath of the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

When we talk about Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014 after the Revolution of Dignity, also known as Maidan. It had forced Ukraine's now-former pro-Russian President Victor Yanukovich in exile.

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Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, some farmers in Crimea are marking their fields with 'Z' and 'V', news agency Reuters reported. The alphabets are basically their way to show their support to Russia and its invasion of Ukraine, what Moscow calls a "special military operation".

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, some farmers in Crimea are marking their fields with 'Z' and 'V', news agency Reuters reported. The alphabets are basically their way to show their support to Russia and its invasion of Ukraine, what Moscow calls a "special military operation". The report mentioned that at the start of harvesting, they marked the letters 'Z' and 'V' onto the wheat field. Each letter measure 100 by 100 metres. 'Z', 'V' and 'O' commonly decorate Russian armour and trucks taking part in the operation. These were seen often painted on military vehicles of the Russian Armed Forces involved in the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Reports mentioned that the Z helps task forces to distinguish themselves from other forces. As quoted by Reuters, combine harvester driver Alexey Matis said he volunteered to mark the letters on the field because the idea appealed to him. Farmer Nikolai Pyanykh, said that grain is currently a major world issue. He even said that the wheat from his field, which is marked, would be "even tastier". Pyanykh said as if the letters "absorbed the sweat of farm workers, combine drivers and truckers." This year on February 24, Russia launched its "special military operation" in neighbouring Ukraine. Moscow claimed that its armed forces are "demilitarisation", "denazification" and "liberation of Donbas in the country's east. Hundred are dead and millions are displaced in the aftermath of the Ukraine war. When we talk about Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014 after the Revolution of Dignity, also known as Maidan. It had forced Ukraine's now-former pro-Russian President Victor Yanukovich in exile. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Here's why Crimean farmers mark field with 'Z' and 'V'

Pro-Russian authorities have started bus service between Russia-annexed Crimea and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine. Some of these buses were seen arriving at a bus station in Crimea. These authorities had declared a few days ago that bus and train services will be started between Crimea and Russian-held territories from July 1.

"Starting from July 1, regular bus and train services between Crimea and the regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia will be launched for the first time in eight years," Sergei Aksyonov, the pro-Moscow head of Crimea, said on messaging app Telegram on June 29.

Members of Russia's National Guard will ensure the safety of travel, he added.

The pro-Moscow administration of the Kherson region also announced the opening on Wednesday of a branch of Russian Pension Fund responsible for paying state pensions.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-iron-curtain-descending-between-russia-and-west-says-defence-minister-493684">New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister</a>

These self proclaimed authorities have also announced establishment of a Russian office to register births, deaths and marriages. Officials in some regions have also begun issuing Russian passports early last month.

The southern Ukrainian regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia have been largely under Russia's control since the first weeks of Moscow's military intervention, and are now being forcefully integrated into Russia's economy.&nbsp;

Russia annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

A growing chorus of Russian and pro-Moscow officials have indicated Moscow intends to remain in the Kherson region and large parts of Zaporizhzhia it controls.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pro-Russian authorities have started bus service between Russia-annexed Crimea and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine. Some of these buses were seen arriving at a bus station in Crimea.

Pro-Russian authorities have started bus service between Russia-annexed Crimea and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine. Some of these buses were seen arriving at a bus station in Crimea. These authorities had declared a few days ago that bus and train services will be started between Crimea and Russian-held territories from July 1. "Starting from July 1, regular bus and train services between Crimea and the regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia will be launched for the first time in eight years," Sergei Aksyonov, the pro-Moscow head of Crimea, said on messaging app Telegram on June 29. Members of Russia's National Guard will ensure the safety of travel, he added. The pro-Moscow administration of the Kherson region also announced the opening on Wednesday of a branch of Russian Pension Fund responsible for paying state pensions. Also Read | New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister These self proclaimed authorities have also announced establishment of a Russian office to register births, deaths and marriages. Officials in some regions have also begun issuing Russian passports early last month. The southern Ukrainian regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia have been largely under Russia's control since the first weeks of Moscow's military intervention, and are now being forcefully integrated into Russia's economy. Russia annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. A growing chorus of Russian and pro-Moscow officials have indicated Moscow intends to remain in the Kherson region and large parts of Zaporizhzhia it controls. (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 ×

First bus service between Crimea and Russian-held Ukraine territory starts

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine entered its 100th day on Thursday and there seems to be no solution in sight right now. The Russian forces have been attacking Ukrainian cities on multiple fronts but an impressive resistance from the local army and citizens have seen the aggressors face massive setbacks during the invasion. However, Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that the Russian military forces currently control around 20 per cent of Ukraine’s territory but added that “Ukrainian defence forces have liberated 1,017 localities till now”.

“Russian troops invaded 3,620 populated localities of Ukraine. 1,017 of them have already been liberated, another 2,603 need to be liberated. As of today, about 20 per cent of our territory is controlled by the occupiers, almost 125,000 square km. It is much more than the area of all Benelux countries combined,” Zelensky said in his address to politicians and the people of Luxembourg according to AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suicide-by-firearms-among-youth-in-the-united-states-highest-in-20-years-report-484444">Suicide by firearms among youth&nbsp;in the US highest in 20 years: Report</a>

During the address, Zelensky also said that the invasion started eight years ago when Russia started attacking parts of Ukraine and between 2014 and 2022, they ended up controlling around 43,000 square km of Ukraine’s territory.

The captured Ukrainian areas included Crimea and a major chunk of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-sarmat-missiles-can-destroy-us-coast-claims-russian-lawmaker-484411">Two Sarmat missiles can destroy US coast, claims Russian lawmaker</a>

The AFP report also stated that Zelensky pointed out during the speech that around 300,000 square km of Ukraine’s territory were filled with mines since the invasion started – something that can contaminate the soil of the country for years to come.

&nbsp;“Moreover, 12 million Ukrainians have become internally displaced persons and more than 5 million, mostly women and children, have left the country,” he added.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine entered its 100th day on Thursday and there seems to be no solution in sight right now. The Russian forces have been attacking Ukrainian cities on multiple fronts but an impressive resistance from the local army and citizens have seen the aggressors face massive setbacks during the invasion.

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine entered its 100th day on Thursday and there seems to be no solution in sight right now. The Russian forces have been attacking Ukrainian cities on multiple fronts but an impressive resistance from the local army and citizens have seen the aggressors face massive setbacks during the invasion. However, Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that the Russian military forces currently control around 20 per cent of Ukraine’s territory but added that “Ukrainian defence forces have liberated 1,017 localities till now”. “Russian troops invaded 3,620 populated localities of Ukraine. 1,017 of them have already been liberated, another 2,603 need to be liberated. As of today, about 20 per cent of our territory is controlled by the occupiers, almost 125,000 square km. It is much more than the area of all Benelux countries combined,” Zelensky said in his address to politicians and the people of Luxembourg according to AFP. Also read | Suicide by firearms among youth in the US highest in 20 years: Report During the address, Zelensky also said that the invasion started eight years ago when Russia started attacking parts of Ukraine and between 2014 and 2022, they ended up controlling around 43,000 square km of Ukraine’s territory. The captured Ukrainian areas included Crimea and a major chunk of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Also read | Two Sarmat missiles can destroy US coast, claims Russian lawmaker The AFP report also stated that Zelensky pointed out during the speech that around 300,000 square km of Ukraine’s territory were filled with mines since the invasion started – something that can contaminate the soil of the country for years to come. “Moreover, 12 million Ukrainians have become internally displaced persons and more than 5 million, mostly women and children, have left the country,” he added. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia controls 'about 20 per cent' of Ukraine, says president Volodymyr Zelensky

Russia has resumed its attack on last Ukrainian defenders in the port city Mariupol, according to Ukrainian official quoted by Reuters. These Ukrainian soldiers are holed up in a giant steel factory. The resumption of Russian attack has come days after Moscow's declaration of victory in Mariupol. As the time of declaring victory, Russia had said that its forces did not need to take the factory in the city.

Russian forces were hitting the Azovstal complex with airstrikes and trying to storm it, presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said, adding "the enemy is trying to strangle the final resistance of Mariupol's defenders".

Mariupol is crucial for Russia to link eastern Donbas region and Russian-controlled Crimea.

Russia-Ukraine War: Europe sent Weapons to Russia despite an embargo on arms shipment

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Russia's defence ministry said on Friday the remaining fighters had been "securely blockaded" at the steel plant. On Thursday, President Vladimir Putin had declared the city "liberated" and ordered his defence minister to block off the Azovstal complex "so not even a fly can get through" rather than try to storm it.

"There's no need to climb into these catacombs and crawl underground through these industrial facilities" Putin said on television.

As per Arestovych, the Ukrainian soldiers were holding out in Azovstal complex and were attempting counterattacks "despite the very difficult situation".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-designs-to-capture-other-countries-after-ukraine-says-zelensky-473173">Russia has designs to capture other countries after Ukraine, says Zelensky</a>

As per Ukrainian authorities, more than 1000 civilians are inside the steel plant along with soldiers.

Russian forces besieged and bombarded Mariupol - home to more than 400,000 people before the war - for weeks, leaving a city in ruins. Ukraine estimates tens of thousands of civilians have died and says 100,000 civilians are still there. The United Nations and Red Cross say the civilian toll is at least in the thousands.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has resumed its attack on last Ukrainian defenders in the port city Mariupol, according to Ukrainian official quoted by Reuters. These Ukrainian soldiers are holed up in a giant steel factory.

Russia has resumed its attack on last Ukrainian defenders in the port city Mariupol, according to Ukrainian official quoted by Reuters. These Ukrainian soldiers are holed up in a giant steel factory. The resumption of Russian attack has come days after Moscow's declaration of victory in Mariupol. As the time of declaring victory, Russia had said that its forces did not need to take the factory in the city. Russian forces were hitting the Azovstal complex with airstrikes and trying to storm it, presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said, adding "the enemy is trying to strangle the final resistance of Mariupol's defenders". Mariupol is crucial for Russia to link eastern Donbas region and Russian-controlled Crimea. Russia-Ukraine War: Europe sent Weapons to Russia despite an embargo on arms shipment × Russia's defence ministry said on Friday the remaining fighters had been "securely blockaded" at the steel plant. On Thursday, President Vladimir Putin had declared the city "liberated" and ordered his defence minister to block off the Azovstal complex "so not even a fly can get through" rather than try to storm it. "There's no need to climb into these catacombs and crawl underground through these industrial facilities" Putin said on television. As per Arestovych, the Ukrainian soldiers were holding out in Azovstal complex and were attempting counterattacks "despite the very difficult situation". Also Read | Russia has designs to capture other countries after Ukraine, says Zelensky As per Ukrainian authorities, more than 1000 civilians are inside the steel plant along with soldiers. Russian forces besieged and bombarded Mariupol - home to more than 400,000 people before the war - for weeks, leaving a city in ruins. Ukraine estimates tens of thousands of civilians have died and says 100,000 civilians are still there. The United Nations and Red Cross say the civilian toll is at least in the thousands. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia resumes attack on Mariupol, Ukraine soldiers holed up in steel plant

As Russian artillery and rockets land on Ukrainian hospitals and apartment blocks, devastating residential districts with no military value, the world is watching with horror what is, for Russia, an increasingly standard practice.

Its forces conducted similar attacks in Syria, bombing hospitals and other civilian structures as part of Russia’s intervention to prop up that country’s government.

Moscow went even further in Chechnya, a border region that had sought independence in the Soviet Union’s 1991 breakup. During two formative wars there, Russia’s artillery and air forces turned city blocks to rubble, and its ground troops massacred civilians in what was widely seen as a deliberate campaign to terrorize the population into submission.

Now Vladimir Putin, whose rise to Russia’s presidency paralleled and was in some ways cemented by the Chechen wars, appears to be deploying a similar playbook in Ukraine, albeit so far only by increments.

These tactics reflect something more specific than simple ruthlessness alone. They emerged from Russia’s experiences in a string of wars that led its leaders to conclude, for reasons both strategic and ideological, that bombarding whole populations was not only acceptable but militarily sound.

They also reflect the circumstances of an authoritarian state with few allies, enabling the Kremlin to ignore and even embrace revulsion at its military conduct — or so Russian leaders seem to believe.

“​​Massive devastation and collateral fatalities among the civilian population are acceptable in order to limit one’s own casualties,” Alexei Arbatov, a prominent Russian military strategist and at the time a federal legislator, wrote in 2000, during Russia’s second war in Chechnya.

“The use of force is the most efficient problem solver, if applied decisively and massively,” Arbatov wrote, adding that international horror at Russian actions should be “discounted.”

But the shocking human toll that champions of this approach dismiss as irrelevant may be part of why it has so far failed in Ukraine.

Global outrage did not turn back Russian advances in Chechnya or Syria. But it is now driving the sanctions and military support that are devastating Russia’s economy and miring its invasion in quagmire — underscoring that Moscow’s way of war may not be as ruthlessly pragmatic as it believes.

The United States, of course, also frequently kills civilians in war, in drone and other airstrikes whose toll the U.S. treats as a regrettable but acceptable cost. Although the intention behind this strategy differs from Russia’s, the distinction may be of little significance for the dead.

A Russian Way of War

The Soviet military emerged from World War II with a mission to never again allow a foreign invasion of the homeland, growing formidable enough to stand toe-to-toe with the combined forces of NATO.

But in 1979 it faced a threat for which it was poorly suited: an insurgency in neighboring Afghanistan, where Soviet forces intervened that year.

The Soviets suffered heavy casualties at the Afghan rebels’ hands before limping home in humiliating defeat a decade later.

Over the war’s course, Soviet officers came to favor air power as well as large-scale shows of violence.

“In the valleys around Kabul, the Russians undertook a series of large operations engaging hundreds of tanks, mobilizing significant means, using bombs, rockets, napalm, and even, once, gas, destroying all in their path,” a 1984 chronicle of the war recounted.

Then, in 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, and with it much of what had been the Soviet military. That year, leaders in Chechnya began asserting the region’s independence. In 1994, Moscow ordered a major assault to retake control.

Russian troops again faced heavy losses against insurgents. A monthslong siege of Grozny, Chechnya’s capital, obliterated much of the city and killed thousands of civilians. Still, Russian troops withdrew in a 1996 defeat that further loosened the Kremlin’s weakening hold on power.

But when Moscow launched a second invasion, in 1999, its top general said that, if Russia had erred, it was in having “sinned by being too kindhearted,” pledging even greater violence.

Human rights groups chronicled spates of massacres throughout the war. In some cases, Russian officers declared certain villages to be “safe zones,” then blanketed them in so-called fuel-air bombs banned under the Geneva Conventions, killing scores at a time.

“All those remaining in Grozny will be considered terrorists and will be wiped out by artillery and aviation,” an official military edict warned. Although the statement was rescinded, Russian forces shelled the city indiscriminately, blockading its exits to prevent residents from fleeing.

Putin, whom President Boris Yeltsin promoted from virtual anonymity to prime minister around the war’s outset, asserted himself as the face of the conflict, visiting front lines and pushing for escalation.

When Yeltsin resigned, Putin became acting president, a position he formally won in an election dominated by the war. He built his presidency around the conflict, asserting presidential powers and curbing political rights as wartime necessities, championing it ever since as a great triumph.

That conflict, along with the Russian military’s adaptations for a new Europe in which NATO forces now vastly outmatched their own, led to new sort of doctrine.

“Assault by troops, which previously predetermined the outcome of the battles, will be used today, and even more so in the future, only to complete the defeat of the enemy,” A.A. Korabelnikov, a Russian officer, wrote in a 2019 white paper.

Instead, artillery and air power would do much of the work, inflicting devastating damage from afar. But because much of this technology remained Soviet-era, strikes were often indiscriminate — which Moscow had anyway embraced in Chechnya.

When Russian forces entered the Syrian war in 2015, that country’s Moscow-allied military was already massacring civilians at scale. Seeking to avoid an Afghanistan-style quagmire, Russian air power pulverized Syrian cities from above, cementing the Chechnya model.

Valery Gerasimov, now Russia’s top general, wrote in 2016 that the country’s forces were “acquiring priceless combat experience in Syria,” drawing lessons that Moscow extrapolated into formal policies the next year.

Russian forces did not immediately repeat this approach in Ukraine. But as the invasion has ground down, they have increasingly targeted civilian areas, especially in cities like Mariupol and Kharkiv that they have struggled to capture.

Audience Costs

Strongman leaders like Putin, because they face less accountability from citizens and fewer checks on their power than even other kinds of dictators, tend be more aggressive and take more risks in war, research has found.

This also makes them more able to shrug off public disgust over civilian casualties, which surveys have found can lead citizens in democracies to revoke support for foreign wars.

Russia also has few real allies, normally a restraint on military conduct toward foreign civilians. Putin has even repeated a famous saying by Alexander III, a 19th-century Russian emperor, that Russia’s only true allies were its army and its navy.

This does not mean that widely allied democracies like the United States necessarily kill fewer civilians in war.

U.S. air campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan have killed large numbers of civilians. Under an Obama administration policy, the U.S. launched drone strikes on groups of people merely because they fit certain profiles, sometimes mistakenly striking weddings or funerals.

The U.S. has sometimes used indiscriminate tools of war — for example, dropping 1,200 cluster bombs, which much of the world has banned for their danger to civilians — in its 2001 invasion of Afghanistan.

U.S. strikes on the Syrian city of Raqqa, then held by the Islamic State group, killed scores, with a single errant bomb claiming 70 civilians.

U.S. officials stress that they strain to avoid civilian casualties, which they know anger local populations they hope to win over. Still, the U.S. has long maintained a strategy, centering on air power and drone strikes, that it knows brings a significant likelihood of killing civilians, even covering up embarrassing incidents.

Questions of how to parse the relative morality of these two approaches — deliberately killing civilians versus choosing a strategy that is known to bring it about — may ultimately matter more to the perpetrators of these strategies than to their victims.

According to top-level estimates by Airwars, a nonprofit group, the Russian air campaign in Syria killed 6,398 civilians, whereas that by the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq killed 13,244.

A Horrifying Kind of War

For all of Moscow’s embrace of brutality in war, much of the toll of Russia’s wars may come down to a simple matter of the location of the fighting: often in large, opposition-held cities.

Throughout the modern era, urban sieges have consistently been among the bloodiest forms of warfare.

They are often defined by horrifying violence against civilians as invaders seek to root out strongholds of resistance from areas where perhaps millions of innocents still live. Mass homelessness and starvation are common.

As armed resistance grinds on, occupiers will often come to see whole populations as threats to be suppressed.

In World War II, both the U.S. and Soviet Union laid waste to German cities. U.S.-led firebombing of German and Japanese cities killed hundreds of thousands.

It is a lesson that is hardly alien to Russians, who endured, in that war, some of the deadliest sieges in modern history.

“Where is mankind heading?” one survivor wrote in his diary amid Leningrad’s two-year encirclement by Nazi forces in which 800,000 civilians died. “How will this most brutal carnage end? Dreadful questions!” 
&nbsp;

As Russian artillery and rockets land on Ukrainian hospitals and apartment blocks, devastating residential districts with no military value, the world is watching with horror what is, for Russia, an increasingly standard practice.

As Russian artillery and rockets land on Ukrainian hospitals and apartment blocks, devastating residential districts with no military value, the world is watching with horror what is, for Russia, an increasingly standard practice. Its forces conducted similar attacks in Syria, bombing hospitals and other civilian structures as part of Russia’s intervention to prop up that country’s government. Moscow went even further in Chechnya, a border region that had sought independence in the Soviet Union’s 1991 breakup. During two formative wars there, Russia’s artillery and air forces turned city blocks to rubble, and its ground troops massacred civilians in what was widely seen as a deliberate campaign to terrorize the population into submission. Now Vladimir Putin, whose rise to Russia’s presidency paralleled and was in some ways cemented by the Chechen wars, appears to be deploying a similar playbook in Ukraine, albeit so far only by increments. These tactics reflect something more specific than simple ruthlessness alone. They emerged from Russia’s experiences in a string of wars that led its leaders to conclude, for reasons both strategic and ideological, that bombarding whole populations was not only acceptable but militarily sound. They also reflect the circumstances of an authoritarian state with few allies, enabling the Kremlin to ignore and even embrace revulsion at its military conduct — or so Russian leaders seem to believe. “Massive devastation and collateral fatalities among the civilian population are acceptable in order to limit one’s own casualties,” Alexei Arbatov, a prominent Russian military strategist and at the time a federal legislator, wrote in 2000, during Russia’s second war in Chechnya. “The use of force is the most efficient problem solver, if applied decisively and massively,” Arbatov wrote, adding that international horror at Russian actions should be “discounted.” But the shocking human toll that champions of this approach dismiss as irrelevant may be part of why it has so far failed in Ukraine. Global outrage did not turn back Russian advances in Chechnya or Syria. But it is now driving the sanctions and military support that are devastating Russia’s economy and miring its invasion in quagmire — underscoring that Moscow’s way of war may not be as ruthlessly pragmatic as it believes. The United States, of course, also frequently kills civilians in war, in drone and other airstrikes whose toll the U.S. treats as a regrettable but acceptable cost. Although the intention behind this strategy differs from Russia’s, the distinction may be of little significance for the dead. A Russian Way of War The Soviet military emerged from World War II with a mission to never again allow a foreign invasion of the homeland, growing formidable enough to stand toe-to-toe with the combined forces of NATO. But in 1979 it faced a threat for which it was poorly suited: an insurgency in neighboring Afghanistan, where Soviet forces intervened that year. The Soviets suffered heavy casualties at the Afghan rebels’ hands before limping home in humiliating defeat a decade later. Over the war’s course, Soviet officers came to favor air power as well as large-scale shows of violence. “In the valleys around Kabul, the Russians undertook a series of large operations engaging hundreds of tanks, mobilizing significant means, using bombs, rockets, napalm, and even, once, gas, destroying all in their path,” a 1984 chronicle of the war recounted. Then, in 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, and with it much of what had been the Soviet military. That year, leaders in Chechnya began asserting the region’s independence. In 1994, Moscow ordered a major assault to retake control. Russian troops again faced heavy losses against insurgents. A monthslong siege of Grozny, Chechnya’s capital, obliterated much of the city and killed thousands of civilians. Still, Russian troops withdrew in a 1996 defeat that further loosened the Kremlin’s weakening hold on power. But when Moscow launched a second invasion, in 1999, its top general said that, if Russia had erred, it was in having “sinned by being too kindhearted,” pledging even greater violence. Human rights groups chronicled spates of massacres throughout the war. In some cases, Russian officers declared certain villages to be “safe zones,” then blanketed them in so-called fuel-air bombs banned under the Geneva Conventions, killing scores at a time. “All those remaining in Grozny will be considered terrorists and will be wiped out by artillery and aviation,” an official military edict warned. Although the statement was rescinded, Russian forces shelled the city indiscriminately, blockading its exits to prevent residents from fleeing. Putin, whom President Boris Yeltsin promoted from virtual anonymity to prime minister around the war’s outset, asserted himself as the face of the conflict, visiting front lines and pushing for escalation. When Yeltsin resigned, Putin became acting president, a position he formally won in an election dominated by the war. He built his presidency around the conflict, asserting presidential powers and curbing political rights as wartime necessities, championing it ever since as a great triumph. That conflict, along with the Russian military’s adaptations for a new Europe in which NATO forces now vastly outmatched their own, led to new sort of doctrine. “Assault by troops, which previously predetermined the outcome of the battles, will be used today, and even more so in the future, only to complete the defeat of the enemy,” A.A. Korabelnikov, a Russian officer, wrote in a 2019 white paper. Instead, artillery and air power would do much of the work, inflicting devastating damage from afar. But because much of this technology remained Soviet-era, strikes were often indiscriminate — which Moscow had anyway embraced in Chechnya. When Russian forces entered the Syrian war in 2015, that country’s Moscow-allied military was already massacring civilians at scale. Seeking to avoid an Afghanistan-style quagmire, Russian air power pulverized Syrian cities from above, cementing the Chechnya model. Valery Gerasimov, now Russia’s top general, wrote in 2016 that the country’s forces were “acquiring priceless combat experience in Syria,” drawing lessons that Moscow extrapolated into formal policies the next year. Russian forces did not immediately repeat this approach in Ukraine. But as the invasion has ground down, they have increasingly targeted civilian areas, especially in cities like Mariupol and Kharkiv that they have struggled to capture. Audience Costs Strongman leaders like Putin, because they face less accountability from citizens and fewer checks on their power than even other kinds of dictators, tend be more aggressive and take more risks in war, research has found. This also makes them more able to shrug off public disgust over civilian casualties, which surveys have found can lead citizens in democracies to revoke support for foreign wars. Russia also has few real allies, normally a restraint on military conduct toward foreign civilians. Putin has even repeated a famous saying by Alexander III, a 19th-century Russian emperor, that Russia’s only true allies were its army and its navy. This does not mean that widely allied democracies like the United States necessarily kill fewer civilians in war. U.S. air campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan have killed large numbers of civilians. Under an Obama administration policy, the U.S. launched drone strikes on groups of people merely because they fit certain profiles, sometimes mistakenly striking weddings or funerals. The U.S. has sometimes used indiscriminate tools of war — for example, dropping 1,200 cluster bombs, which much of the world has banned for their danger to civilians — in its 2001 invasion of Afghanistan. U.S. strikes on the Syrian city of Raqqa, then held by the Islamic State group, killed scores, with a single errant bomb claiming 70 civilians. U.S. officials stress that they strain to avoid civilian casualties, which they know anger local populations they hope to win over. Still, the U.S. has long maintained a strategy, centering on air power and drone strikes, that it knows brings a significant likelihood of killing civilians, even covering up embarrassing incidents. Questions of how to parse the relative morality of these two approaches — deliberately killing civilians versus choosing a strategy that is known to bring it about — may ultimately matter more to the perpetrators of these strategies than to their victims. According to top-level estimates by Airwars, a nonprofit group, the Russian air campaign in Syria killed 6,398 civilians, whereas that by the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq killed 13,244. A Horrifying Kind of War For all of Moscow’s embrace of brutality in war, much of the toll of Russia’s wars may come down to a simple matter of the location of the fighting: often in large, opposition-held cities. Throughout the modern era, urban sieges have consistently been among the bloodiest forms of warfare. They are often defined by horrifying violence against civilians as invaders seek to root out strongholds of resistance from areas where perhaps millions of innocents still live. Mass homelessness and starvation are common. As armed resistance grinds on, occupiers will often come to see whole populations as threats to be suppressed. In World War II, both the U.S. and Soviet Union laid waste to German cities. U.S.-led firebombing of German and Japanese cities killed hundreds of thousands. It is a lesson that is hardly alien to Russians, who endured, in that war, some of the deadliest sieges in modern history. “Where is mankind heading?” one survivor wrote in his diary amid Leningrad’s two-year encirclement by Nazi forces in which 800,000 civilians died. “How will this most brutal carnage end? Dreadful questions!”

Russia’s brutality in Ukraine has roots in earlier conflicts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he can discuss the future of Crimea and Donbas with Russia as he made crucial comments on the membership of NATO.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukrainian cities on February 24, before that, Putin signed a decree to recognise the separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in the Donbas as independent states.&nbsp;

In an exclusive chat with ABC News that aired Monday night, Zelensky said, "The people who elected me are not ready to surrender. We are not ready for ultimatums. But we can discuss with Russia the future of Crimea and Donbas."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icon-of-post-soviet-russia-mcdonalds-closure-in-russia-is-of-huge-significance-heres-why-460479">Icon of post-Soviet Russia: Significance of McDonald's closure in Russia is huge, here's why</a>

One of the demands by Putin stated that Ukraine would not join NATO. In that context, Zelensky said, "Regarding NATO, I have cooled down regarding this question long ago after we understood that NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, pointing out the death and destruction, Zelensky said on Wednesday (March 9) the international community would be responsible for a mass "humanitarian catastrophe" if it did not agree to a no-fly zone.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a>

He said, "Russia is using missiles, aviation, helicopters against us. Against civilians. Against our cities. Against our infrastructure. It is the humanitarian responsibility of the world - to respond. But... there is no decision."&nbsp;

Ukraine has pleaded with Western nations to provide it with fighter jets to counter a Russian invasion that has forced more than two million refugees to flee the country.&nbsp;

The US lawmakers have responded by pushing President Joe Biden's administration to facilitate the transfer of aircraft.&nbsp;

WATCH | US rejects Poland's offer on MIG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine

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(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he can discuss the future of Crimea and Donbas with Russia as he made crucial comments on the membership of NATO.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he can discuss the future of Crimea and Donbas with Russia as he made crucial comments on the membership of NATO. Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukrainian cities on February 24, before that, Putin signed a decree to recognise the separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in the Donbas as independent states. In an exclusive chat with ABC News that aired Monday night, Zelensky said, "The people who elected me are not ready to surrender. We are not ready for ultimatums. But we can discuss with Russia the future of Crimea and Donbas." ALSO READ | Icon of post-Soviet Russia: Significance of McDonald's closure in Russia is huge, here's why One of the demands by Putin stated that Ukraine would not join NATO. In that context, Zelensky said, "Regarding NATO, I have cooled down regarding this question long ago after we understood that NATO is not prepared to accept Ukraine." Meanwhile, pointing out the death and destruction, Zelensky said on Wednesday (March 9) the international community would be responsible for a mass "humanitarian catastrophe" if it did not agree to a no-fly zone. IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks He said, "Russia is using missiles, aviation, helicopters against us. Against civilians. Against our cities. Against our infrastructure. It is the humanitarian responsibility of the world - to respond. But... there is no decision." Ukraine has pleaded with Western nations to provide it with fighter jets to counter a Russian invasion that has forced more than two million refugees to flee the country. The US lawmakers have responded by pushing President Joe Biden's administration to facilitate the transfer of aircraft. WATCH | US rejects Poland's offer on MIG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine × (With inputs from agencies)

Volodymyr Zelensky says 'can discuss the future of Crimea and Donbas with Russia'

Russia’s military announced the withdrawal of troops taking part in drills in annexed Crimea as Moscow signaled de-escalation in the Ukraine crisis.

Russia announces end of military drills in Crimea

Russia&nbsp;announced a new drawdown of military forces from the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula Thursday, continuing a troop withdrawal that was met with scepticism from Ukraine's Western allies.

"Units of the southern military district that ended tactical exercises at training grounds on the Crimean peninsula are returning by rail to their permanent bases," the defence ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-hit-by-cyberattack-after-some-russian-troops-pullback-453614">Ukraine hit by cyberattack after some Russian troops pull back</a>

The United States on Wednesday dismissed reports that Russia was withdrawing troops from Ukraine's border, instead accusing Moscow of sending more soldiers as fears of an invasion grow.

State-run television showed columns of military hardware crossing a recently-constructed bridge connecting the peninsula to the Russian mainland.

Thursday's announcement is the latest reported drawdown of a Russian military force estimated by the West to be more than 100,000 troops, which Washington had said could be preparing to invade.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine-Russia conflict: Wednesday the day of attack?

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NATO, the United States and European leaders have denied, however, that there is any meaningful pullback of Russian troops and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow's military personnel were actually rotating.

Russia took control of the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and threw its weight behind pro-Moscow separatists in fighting that broke out that year and has claimed more than 14,000 lives.
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Russia announced a new drawdown of military forces from the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula Thursday, continuing a troop withdrawal that was met with scepticism from Ukraine's Western allies.

Russia announced a new drawdown of military forces from the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula Thursday, continuing a troop withdrawal that was met with scepticism from Ukraine's Western allies. "Units of the southern military district that ended tactical exercises at training grounds on the Crimean peninsula are returning by rail to their permanent bases," the defence ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies. Also read | Ukraine hit by cyberattack after some Russian troops pull back The United States on Wednesday dismissed reports that Russia was withdrawing troops from Ukraine's border, instead accusing Moscow of sending more soldiers as fears of an invasion grow. State-run television showed columns of military hardware crossing a recently-constructed bridge connecting the peninsula to the Russian mainland. Thursday's announcement is the latest reported drawdown of a Russian military force estimated by the West to be more than 100,000 troops, which Washington had said could be preparing to invade. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine-Russia conflict: Wednesday the day of attack? NATO, the United States and European leaders have denied, however, that there is any meaningful pullback of Russian troops and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow's military personnel were actually rotating. Russia took control of the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and threw its weight behind pro-Moscow separatists in fighting that broke out that year and has claimed more than 14,000 lives.

Russia announces new military withdrawal from Crimea

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