After a 12-day break, Russia launched an overnight drone strike on Kyiv, according to a Ukrainian military officer. As the nation's capital and several neighbouring regions were on air raid alert in the early hours of Sunday morning, air defence systems destroyed all targets on approach.

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine reports over-night Russian drone attacks after 12 days

<p lang="en-US">Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood.<br />
<br />
Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, US Army General Mark Milley said that the counteroffensive was "advancing steadily, deliberately working its way through very difficult minefields ... 500 metres a day, 1,000 metres a day, 2,000 metres a day, that kind of thing."<br />
<br />
He added that he is not surprised to see the progress slower than what was predicted by a few people and computers. "War on paper and real war are different. In real war, real people die. Real people are on those front lines and real people are in those vehicles. Real bodies are being shredded by high explosives,” he said.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarusian-president-lukashenko-asks-wagner-army-to-train-his-military-610780">Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"What I had said was this is going to take six, eight, 10 weeks, it's going to be very difficult. It's going to be very long, and it's going to be very, very bloody. And no one should have any illusions about any of that,” the army general added.<br />
<br />
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week, said that the counteroffensive has been "slower than desired". Ukraine claims to have recaptured a bunch of villages in operations that freed 130 square km (50 square miles) in the south, however, this remains a small percentage of the total territory which is being held by Russia.<br />
<br />
Zelensky on Friday stated that his forces advanced "in all directions of our active operations," while Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said the military assessed progress as "going according to plan," and that Ukraine's counteroffensive needs to be evaluated by "a lot of different military tasks."</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Slow speed aimed at saving lives</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Zelensky has been quoted as saying that Kyiv wished to show results before a July 11 NATO gathering in Lithuania, at which the country is hoping to get an invitation to start the process of becoming part of the US-led military alliance.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia: 50 soldiers, 2 Generals, 20 foreign mercenaries killed</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">"Before the summit, we have to show results," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Spanish national broadcaster RTVE. "But every kilometre costs lives,” he added.<br />
<br />
Acknowledging that the counteroffensive plans have slowed in recent months, he said, "We stopped because we could not advance. Advancing meant losing people and we had no artillery."<br />
<br />
He was further quoted as saying that Kyiv was "very cautious in this regard" and that he would rather choose to let it take more time if it meant losing fewer lives. "Between time and human beings, people are the most important," he added.</p>

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Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood.

Ukraine has been cautiously counting the gains it has made in the counter-offensive launched this month for reclaiming the territories occupied by Russia and on Friday, a US general and President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed that the progress is measured in blood. Speaking to an audience at the National Press Club in Washington, US Army General Mark Milley said that the counteroffensive was "advancing steadily, deliberately working its way through very difficult minefields ... 500 metres a day, 1,000 metres a day, 2,000 metres a day, that kind of thing." He added that he is not surprised to see the progress slower than what was predicted by a few people and computers. "War on paper and real war are different. In real war, real people die. Real people are on those front lines and real people are in those vehicles. Real bodies are being shredded by high explosives,” he said. ALSO READ | Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military "What I had said was this is going to take six, eight, 10 weeks, it's going to be very difficult. It's going to be very long, and it's going to be very, very bloody. And no one should have any illusions about any of that,” the army general added. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last week, said that the counteroffensive has been "slower than desired". Ukraine claims to have recaptured a bunch of villages in operations that freed 130 square km (50 square miles) in the south, however, this remains a small percentage of the total territory which is being held by Russia. Zelensky on Friday stated that his forces advanced "in all directions of our active operations," while Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said the military assessed progress as "going according to plan," and that Ukraine's counteroffensive needs to be evaluated by "a lot of different military tasks." Slow speed aimed at saving lives Zelensky has been quoted as saying that Kyiv wished to show results before a July 11 NATO gathering in Lithuania, at which the country is hoping to get an invitation to start the process of becoming part of the US-led military alliance. WATCH | Russia: 50 soldiers, 2 Generals, 20 foreign mercenaries killed "Before the summit, we have to show results," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Spanish national broadcaster RTVE. "But every kilometre costs lives,” he added. Acknowledging that the counteroffensive plans have slowed in recent months, he said, "We stopped because we could not advance. Advancing meant losing people and we had no artillery." He was further quoted as saying that Kyiv was "very cautious in this regard" and that he would rather choose to let it take more time if it meant losing fewer lives. "Between time and human beings, people are the most important," he added. (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

Progress of Kyiv's counter-offensive slowed to prevent bloodshed, loss of lives, say Ukraine, US

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meets climate activist Greta Thunberg and others in Kyiv to address the war's effect on ecology.

Ukrainian President Zelensky meets Greta Thunberg in Kyiv

<p>Ukraine on Thursday said the time had come for NATO to clarify its stance on the war-torn country’s membership of the military alliance. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, “Ukraine continues to work actively with all NATO allies to convince them that the time for clarity on Ukraine's membership in the Alliance has come." His remarks came shortly after he spoke with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg over the phone.</p>

<h2><strong>Key NATO summit to be held next month</strong></h2>

<p>A major NATO security summit is slated to be held in Lithuania’s Vilnius on July 11-12, where Ukraine’s membership of the alliance is expected to be the key agenda on the table. Earlier on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky assured his Western counterparts that Kyiv’s full membership will further strengthen NATO, not weaken it. &nbsp;</p>

<p>While delivering a speech in the parliament, Zelensky said, “We are now a recipient of security assistance. But a victorious Ukraine will be a donor of security for our region, for the whole of Europe, for the whole world."</p>

<p>However, Zelensky has himself conceded that Ukraine will not become a NATO member until the conflict with Russia ends.</p>

<h2><strong>NATO ‘split’ on Ukraine’s membership</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking at a press conference in Brussels last week, the NATO chief acknowledged that the member countries were divided over the issue of Ukraine’s admission into the alliance in the upcoming alliance meet. "On that issue, there are different views in the alliance and of course, the only way to make decisions in Nato is by consensus," Stoltenberg was quoted as saying by Indiatimes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Will NATO fight Ukraine's war against Russia?</strong></p>

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<p>"No one is able to tell you exactly what will be the final decision at the Vilnius summit on this issue," Stoltenberg further said.</p>

<h2><strong>US reluctant on Ukraine’s NATO bid</strong></h2>

<p>NATO diplomats have expressed concerns over the United States' hesitation to extend its commitment to Ukraine beyond the membership pledge made 15 years ago. If Ukraine were to join NATO, it would fall under the protection of Article 5, which requires all member states to provide assistance in the event of an attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tough-to-include-ukraine-in-nato-while-war-goes-on-stoltenberg-596111"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Tough to include Ukraine in NATO while war goes on: Stoltenberg</strong></a></p>

<p>However, Western allies of Ukraine are considering alternative security assurances that could be offered as an interim measure before full NATO membership is granted. France has recently stated its willingness to negotiate a deal with Ukraine, offering long-term security guarantees to enhance its self-defence capabilities.</p>

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Ukraine on Thursday said the time had come for NATO to clarify its stance on the war-torn country’s membership of the military alliance. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, “Ukraine continues to work actively with all NATO allies to convince them that the time for clarity on Ukraine's membership in the Alliance has come.

Ukraine on Thursday said the time had come for NATO to clarify its stance on the war-torn country’s membership of the military alliance. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted, “Ukraine continues to work actively with all NATO allies to convince them that the time for clarity on Ukraine's membership in the Alliance has come." His remarks came shortly after he spoke with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg over the phone. Key NATO summit to be held next month A major NATO security summit is slated to be held in Lithuania’s Vilnius on July 11-12, where Ukraine’s membership of the alliance is expected to be the key agenda on the table. Earlier on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky assured his Western counterparts that Kyiv’s full membership will further strengthen NATO, not weaken it. While delivering a speech in the parliament, Zelensky said, “We are now a recipient of security assistance. But a victorious Ukraine will be a donor of security for our region, for the whole of Europe, for the whole world." However, Zelensky has himself conceded that Ukraine will not become a NATO member until the conflict with Russia ends. NATO ‘split’ on Ukraine’s membership Speaking at a press conference in Brussels last week, the NATO chief acknowledged that the member countries were divided over the issue of Ukraine’s admission into the alliance in the upcoming alliance meet. "On that issue, there are different views in the alliance and of course, the only way to make decisions in Nato is by consensus," Stoltenberg was quoted as saying by Indiatimes. Watch: Gravitas: Will NATO fight Ukraine's war against Russia? × "No one is able to tell you exactly what will be the final decision at the Vilnius summit on this issue," Stoltenberg further said. US reluctant on Ukraine’s NATO bid NATO diplomats have expressed concerns over the United States' hesitation to extend its commitment to Ukraine beyond the membership pledge made 15 years ago. If Ukraine were to join NATO, it would fall under the protection of Article 5, which requires all member states to provide assistance in the event of an attack. Also read: Tough to include Ukraine in NATO while war goes on: Stoltenberg However, Western allies of Ukraine are considering alternative security assurances that could be offered as an interim measure before full NATO membership is granted. France has recently stated its willingness to negotiate a deal with Ukraine, offering long-term security guarantees to enhance its self-defence capabilities. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kyiv asks NATO to clarify its stance as alliance remains divided over Ukraine’s membership

<p>A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Pentagon says it overestimated the value of the weapons it has sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billion<a href="https://t.co/GesSDyU1xV">pic.twitter.com/GesSDyU1xV</a></p>
— The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) <a href="https://twitter.com/spectatorindex/status/1671297929200685056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This adjustment has now led to a surplus in American coffers which the administration plans to use in future security packages meant to shore up Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia. Of $6.2 billion, there was an error of $3.6 billion in the current fiscal year and $2.6 billion in the previous year ending September 2022.<br />
<br />
“It’s just going to go back into the pot of money that we have allocated&nbsp;for the future Pentagon stock drawdowns,” the spokeswoman said.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine’s new counter-offensive against Russia</strong></h2>

<p>In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, new developments have emerged as Ukraine launches a counteroffensive against the Kremlin's occupying forces. This move aims to reclaim the territory that has been under Russian control since the full-scale invasion in February 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Fake image of explosion at Pentagon briefly goes viral</strong></p>

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<p>However, Ukrainian forces are encountering challenges such as heavily mined areas and fortified defences, as stated by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia’s assault on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Simultaneously, Russia has intensified its assault on the Kyiv region by deploying numerous Shahed exploding drones. This attack has exposed vulnerabilities in the air defence system of Ukraine, which has been engaged in warfare for nearly 16 months. Ukrainian officials reported that they successfully intercepted and destroyed 32 out of the 35 drones launched by Russia early on Tuesday.</p>

<h2><strong>USA’s military aid to Ukraine so far</strong></h2>

<p>Initially estimated on June 13, the US had pledged over $40 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion. However, with the new calculation, it appears that the actual amount of aid provided by the US is less than $34 billion.</p>

<p>It is difficult for officials to determine the exact remaining funds available for drawdowns or the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which offers long-term funding for the procurement of various weapons, including larger air defence systems.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-daniel-ellsbergs-history-defining-disclosure-with-pentagon-papers-that-rocked-white-house-605431"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Explained | Daniel Ellsberg's history-defining expose of Pentagon Papers that rocked White House</strong></a></p>

<p>In response to Russia's invasion, the US has approved four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totalling approximately $113 billion. Some of this financial support has been allocated to replenishing US military equipment that was deployed to the frontlines.</p>

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A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation.

A spokesperson for the Pentagon said Tuesday that it overestimated the value of weapons it sent to Ukraine over the last two years by a whopping $6.2 billion. Sabrina Singh, the Pentagon’s spokeswoman revealed that the accounting error took place as military officials took into account the replacement cost rather than the book value of the weapons pulled from the Pentagon stocks to be delivered to the war-torn nation. BREAKING: Pentagon says it overestimated the value of the weapons it has sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billionpic.twitter.com/GesSDyU1xV — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) June 20, 2023 × This adjustment has now led to a surplus in American coffers which the administration plans to use in future security packages meant to shore up Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia. Of $6.2 billion, there was an error of $3.6 billion in the current fiscal year and $2.6 billion in the previous year ending September 2022. “It’s just going to go back into the pot of money that we have allocated for the future Pentagon stock drawdowns,” the spokeswoman said. Ukraine’s new counter-offensive against Russia In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, new developments have emerged as Ukraine launches a counteroffensive against the Kremlin's occupying forces. This move aims to reclaim the territory that has been under Russian control since the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Watch: Fake image of explosion at Pentagon briefly goes viral × However, Ukrainian forces are encountering challenges such as heavily mined areas and fortified defences, as stated by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces. Russia’s assault on Ukraine Simultaneously, Russia has intensified its assault on the Kyiv region by deploying numerous Shahed exploding drones. This attack has exposed vulnerabilities in the air defence system of Ukraine, which has been engaged in warfare for nearly 16 months. Ukrainian officials reported that they successfully intercepted and destroyed 32 out of the 35 drones launched by Russia early on Tuesday. USA’s military aid to Ukraine so far Initially estimated on June 13, the US had pledged over $40 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion. However, with the new calculation, it appears that the actual amount of aid provided by the US is less than $34 billion. It is difficult for officials to determine the exact remaining funds available for drawdowns or the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which offers long-term funding for the procurement of various weapons, including larger air defence systems. Also read: Explained | Daniel Ellsberg's history-defining expose of Pentagon Papers that rocked White House In response to Russia's invasion, the US has approved four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totalling approximately $113 billion. Some of this financial support has been allocated to replenishing US military equipment that was deployed to the frontlines. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US overestimated value of weapons sent to Ukraine by $6.2 billion: Pentagon

According to reports, the Kyiv regime is unable to account for hundreds of millions of arms. A recent mainstream media investigation portrays a devastating picture of Kiev's attempts to obtain enough military weaponry to sustain its faltering counteroffensive, complete with missing arms shipments, broken-down trucks, and internal lawsuits.

Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War

United Nations has spoken out against Russia stating that the latter has declined the request to aid in the relief efforts in the aftermath of the Kakhovka dam destruction. Earlier, the UN asked Moscow to act in accordance to their obligations under the International Humanitarian Law, while Moscow maintained its allegations against Kyiv.

Dam breach: Russia declines UN aid, latter says, 'obligation under International Humanitarian Law'

The battle in Ukraine has continued for 17 long months. Rescue efforts in the flood-prone region are still ongoing as Kyiv enters the second week of its counteroffensive, and an African Envoy for Peace has already visited Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv retakes string of settlements in Donetsk region

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Russian troops "already were near Kyiv", he stated. “Should we come back there or not? Only I could give an answer,” Putin said. On the other hand, Three people were arrested after a double stabbing incident on Tuesday (June 13) which left one student from the Indian city of Hyderabad dead and another woman aged 28 injured in north-west London’s Wembley. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-hints-at-his-dangerous-plan-to-attack-ukraines-capital-says-troops-already-near-kyiv-604365">Putin hints at his plan to attack Ukraine's capital, says ‘troops already near Kyiv’</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359448-untitled-design-2023-06-14t170219770.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt. The statement was made by Putin while speaking to military bloggers and war reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-indian-student-killed-another-woman-injured-after-double-stabbing-in-london-three-arrested-604349">UK: Indian student killed, another woman injured after double stabbing incident in London, three arrested</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359443-wion-images-2023-06-14t164343735.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Three people were arrested after a double stabbing incident, on Tuesday (June 13) which left one student from the Indian city of Hyderabad dead and another woman aged 28 injured in north-west London’s Wembley. The two women were found by the police in London’s Neeld Crescent with multiple knife injuries at around 10:00 am (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-die-several-missing-after-boat-capsizes-and-sinks-off-greece-604406">Dozens die, several missing after boat capsizes and sinks off Greece</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359475-succession-44.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>At least 78 migrants lost their lives after their boat capsized and sank off the Peloponnese early on Wednesday, said the country's coast guard. As per the coastguard, more people are feared missing in the incident and the death toll is expected to rise much higher.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/images-taken-from-space-show-forming-of-cyclone-biparjoy-in-the-arabian-sea-604452">Images and video taken from space show Cyclone Biparjoy in the Arabian Sea</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359496-cyclone-biparjoy.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Sultan Al Neyadi, who is a UAE astronaut, has clicked images of Cyclone Biparjoy from space. Al Neyadi, who is currently on the longest Arab space mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), also shared a stunning video that shows the formation of a tropical cyclone over the Arabian Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-looks-to-avoid-miscalculation-in-us-china-ties-604444">Blinken looks to avoid miscalculation in US-China ties</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/24/340652-new-wion-87.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Bliken will be on a rare visit to China this weekend. The top diplomat will seek to reduce the chances of miscalculation in tense relations between the US and China. However, both countries are expecting that long-term tensions will fester. The US has confirmed that Blinken will go to China this weekend.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-real-madrid-announce-jude-bellingham-signing-from-borussia-dortmund-to-be-unveiled-on-thursday-604342">Official: Real Madrid announce Jude Bellingham signing from Borussia Dortmund, to be unveiled on Thursday</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359431-1-7.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Real Madrid have officially announced the signing of English star Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund after reaching an agreement in principle. Bellingham, a long-term target for the Spanish giants joins Brahim Diaz in the incomings with a reported fee of around $100 million being paid for the star. He will be presented to the Madrid crowd on Thursday, June 15 at 12 PM local time as he joins the likes of Michael Owen, David Beckham, and Steve McManaman to have played for the Madrid giants.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-special-about-pm-modis-visit-to-us-this-time-604469">What’s special about PM Modi’s visit to US this time?</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359513-untitled-design-2023-06-14t201833792.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to embark on an official state visit to the United States from June 21 to 24. This visit holds greater significance compared to his previous trips to Washington as per diplomatic protocol.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-hainan-airlines-to-ground-overweight-female-flight-attendants-604398">China's Hainan Airlines to ground 'overweight' female flight attendants</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359461-hainan-airlines.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>China-based Hainan Airlines has been facing criticism for its policy of suspending flight attendants if they are above a certain weight limit. The carrier has defended the move of imposing weight requirements after the report went viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/martian-landscape-on-smartphone-new-map-of-mars-created-from-data-collected-by-nasa-604423">Martian landscape on smartphone? New map of Mars created from data collected by NASA</a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359486-untitled-design-2023-06-14t181110114.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>A team at the US Geological Survey's (USGS) Astrogeology Science Centre generated a map of planet Mars using the treasure trove of data which was collected by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The newly-generated map of Mars will make viewing the Martian landscape more easier than before, allowing people to navigate through it even on their smartphones.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-wont-support-swedens-nato-bid-unless-anti-turkish-protests-are-stopped-erdogan-604388">Turkey won't support Sweden's NATO bid unless anti-Turkish protests are stopped: Erdogan</a></p>

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<p>Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that Ankara won't change its approach towards Sweden's NATO membership bid at the summit of the Western alliance next month unless anti-Turkey protests are stopped in Stockholm.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Russian troops "already were near Kyiv", he stated. “Should we come back there or not? Only I could give an answer,” Putin said. On the other hand, Three people were arrested after a double stabbing incident on Tuesday (June 13) which left one student from the Indian city of Hyderabad dead and another woman aged 28 injured in north-west London’s Wembley. Click on the headlines to read more: Putin hints at his plan to attack Ukraine's capital, says ‘troops already near Kyiv’ Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt. The statement was made by Putin while speaking to military bloggers and war reporters. UK: Indian student killed, another woman injured after double stabbing incident in London, three arrested Three people were arrested after a double stabbing incident, on Tuesday (June 13) which left one student from the Indian city of Hyderabad dead and another woman aged 28 injured in north-west London’s Wembley. The two women were found by the police in London’s Neeld Crescent with multiple knife injuries at around 10:00 am (local time). Dozens die, several missing after boat capsizes and sinks off Greece At least 78 migrants lost their lives after their boat capsized and sank off the Peloponnese early on Wednesday, said the country's coast guard. As per the coastguard, more people are feared missing in the incident and the death toll is expected to rise much higher. Images and video taken from space show Cyclone Biparjoy in the Arabian Sea Sultan Al Neyadi, who is a UAE astronaut, has clicked images of Cyclone Biparjoy from space. Al Neyadi, who is currently on the longest Arab space mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), also shared a stunning video that shows the formation of a tropical cyclone over the Arabian Sea. Blinken looks to avoid miscalculation in US-China ties US Secretary of State Antony Bliken will be on a rare visit to China this weekend. The top diplomat will seek to reduce the chances of miscalculation in tense relations between the US and China. However, both countries are expecting that long-term tensions will fester. The US has confirmed that Blinken will go to China this weekend. Official: Real Madrid announce Jude Bellingham signing from Borussia Dortmund, to be unveiled on Thursday Real Madrid have officially announced the signing of English star Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund after reaching an agreement in principle. Bellingham, a long-term target for the Spanish giants joins Brahim Diaz in the incomings with a reported fee of around $100 million being paid for the star. He will be presented to the Madrid crowd on Thursday, June 15 at 12 PM local time as he joins the likes of Michael Owen, David Beckham, and Steve McManaman to have played for the Madrid giants. What’s special about PM Modi’s visit to US this time? Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to embark on an official state visit to the United States from June 21 to 24. This visit holds greater significance compared to his previous trips to Washington as per diplomatic protocol. China's Hainan Airlines to ground 'overweight' female flight attendants China-based Hainan Airlines has been facing criticism for its policy of suspending flight attendants if they are above a certain weight limit. The carrier has defended the move of imposing weight requirements after the report went viral on social media platforms. Martian landscape on smartphone? New map of Mars created from data collected by NASA A team at the US Geological Survey's (USGS) Astrogeology Science Centre generated a map of planet Mars using the treasure trove of data which was collected by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The newly-generated map of Mars will make viewing the Martian landscape more easier than before, allowing people to navigate through it even on their smartphones. Turkey won't support Sweden's NATO bid unless anti-Turkish protests are stopped: Erdogan Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that Ankara won't change its approach towards Sweden's NATO membership bid at the summit of the Western alliance next month unless anti-Turkey protests are stopped in Stockholm.

Top 10 world news: Putin hints at his plan to attack Kyiv, stabbing incident in UK, and more

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt. The statement was made by Putin while speaking to military bloggers and war reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian troops "already were near Kyiv", he stated. “Should we come back there or not? Only I could give an answer,” Putin said. Moscow can try to carve out more territories of Ukraine to stop shelling into Russia, following attacks on the Belgorod and Kursk regions, explained Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin termed it a "sanitary zone" at the border and said that the amount of territory Russia can capture depends "on potentials that emerge after the so-called [Ukrainian] counteroffensive".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-deliberately-hit-kakhovka-dam-with-himars-rockets-604095">Putin says Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets</a></p>

<h2><strong>Russian missiles&nbsp;strike southern and eastern Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, southern and eastern Ukraine were hit by deadly Russian missile strikes on Wednesday. &nbsp;Air defences of Ukraine fought back as Russia fired four Kalibr missiles from a ship in the Black Sea on the port city Odesa, stated Ukraine's air force, adding that three of them were shot down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A food warehouse was hit by one missile in which three employees were killed and seven others were wounded, said Oleg Kiper, the head of the region's military administration. "There may be people under the rubble," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, six people suffered injuries after a business centre was hit. A residential complex in the city centre and a shop were damaged "as a result of air combat and the blast wave", he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Belarus receives delivery of Russian nuclear weapons</strong></h2>

<p>Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that his country is taking delivery of tactical nuclear weapons from Russia, some of which were claimed to be three times more powerful compared to the atomic bombs that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Putin admits Russia doesn’t have enough weapons and drones</strong></p>

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<p>"We have missiles and bombs that we have received from Russia," said Lukashenko in an interview with the Rossiya-1 Russian state TV channel which was shared on the Belarusian Belta state news agency's Telegram channel.</p>

<p>"The bombs are three times more powerful than those (dropped on) Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have always been a target. They (the West) have wanted to tear us to pieces since 2020. No one has so far fought against a nuclear country, a country that has nuclear weapons," Lukashenko said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement, hinted at another attempt to capture the Ukrainian capital city Kyiv and threatened to launch a new offensive. Ignoring the botched attack by Russia on Kyiv which changed a "three-day special military operation" into months of full-scale war, Putin stated that he was taking into consideration a second attempt. The statement was made by Putin while speaking to military bloggers and war reporters. Russian troops "already were near Kyiv", he stated. “Should we come back there or not? Only I could give an answer,” Putin said. Moscow can try to carve out more territories of Ukraine to stop shelling into Russia, following attacks on the Belgorod and Kursk regions, explained Putin. President Vladimir Putin termed it a "sanitary zone" at the border and said that the amount of territory Russia can capture depends "on potentials that emerge after the so-called [Ukrainian] counteroffensive". ALSO READ | Putin says Ukraine deliberately hit Kakhovka dam with HIMARS rockets Russian missiles strike southern and eastern Ukraine Meanwhile, southern and eastern Ukraine were hit by deadly Russian missile strikes on Wednesday. Air defences of Ukraine fought back as Russia fired four Kalibr missiles from a ship in the Black Sea on the port city Odesa, stated Ukraine's air force, adding that three of them were shot down. A food warehouse was hit by one missile in which three employees were killed and seven others were wounded, said Oleg Kiper, the head of the region's military administration. "There may be people under the rubble," he added. Meanwhile, six people suffered injuries after a business centre was hit. A residential complex in the city centre and a shop were damaged "as a result of air combat and the blast wave", he stated. Belarus receives delivery of Russian nuclear weapons Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that his country is taking delivery of tactical nuclear weapons from Russia, some of which were claimed to be three times more powerful compared to the atomic bombs that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. WATCH | Putin admits Russia doesn’t have enough weapons and drones "We have missiles and bombs that we have received from Russia," said Lukashenko in an interview with the Rossiya-1 Russian state TV channel which was shared on the Belarusian Belta state news agency's Telegram channel. "The bombs are three times more powerful than those (dropped on) Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he added. "We have always been a target. They (the West) have wanted to tear us to pieces since 2020. No one has so far fought against a nuclear country, a country that has nuclear weapons," Lukashenko said. (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

Putin hints at his plan to attack Ukraine's capital, says ‘troops already near Kyiv’

Putin ponders if Russia should try to take Kyiv again

There is a lot going on in Ukraine, but we don't know enough about it. The counteroffensive is believed to be in progress, but Russia dismissed it before it ever got off the ground, and fighting has undoubtedly become worse across Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv claims to retaken ground from Russian forces

Ukraine has announced that its forces have retaken three villages in the Eastern region of Donetsk. This is the first reported gains of Ukraine's much anticipated counter-offensive which President Zelensky confirmed is now underway.

Russia Ukraine War: Kyiv claims 3 villages taken in Donetsk, Moscow yet to confirm the fall

<p>In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun,&nbsp;Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine, on Monday (June 12) also claimed that it&nbsp;recaptured a fourth village in a cluster of settlements in the country's&nbsp;southeast region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The settlements of Blahodatne and Makarivka were liberated,” Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna&nbsp;Maliar&nbsp;said in an&nbsp;update on Telegram.</p>

<p>A third village,&nbsp;Neskuchne, was also claimed by a Ukrainian army brigade on Sunday, though Kyiv defence leaders are yet to comment on the development. Russian military bloggers have&nbsp;made unofficial reports&nbsp;that Neskuchne has been recaptured by Ukraine's troops, reports CNN.<br />
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Video footage posted online&nbsp;showed soldiers holding up the Ukrainian flag in&nbsp;Donetsk region's Storozheve with the defence minister thanking&nbsp;the 35th Separate Brigade of Marines for regaining control of the village.</p>

<p>This comes after Zelensky said that the “relevant counter-offensive defensive actions are taking place in Ukraine,” on Saturday. “Neskuchne of the Donetsk region is under the Ukrainian flag again,” said the state border guard, along with a video of Ukrainian troops announcing the takeover.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian soldiers were also seen shouting Kyiv’s traditional battle cries such as “Glory to Ukraine!” and reportedly derided Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-repel-attack-by-ukraine-on-black-sea-warship-603188">Russia claims to repel attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship</a></strong></p>

<p>This was hours after Ukrainian Land Forces announced that soldiers of the 68th Separate Hunting Brigade had retaken the village of Blahodatne in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-citizen-arrested-in-russia-over-drug-dealing-charges-603227">US citizen arrested in Russia over drug dealing charges</a></strong></p>

<p>The video showed soldiers hoisting a Ukrainian flag over a destroyed building. The Ukrainian government also has released a video for the third consecutive weekend that subtly acknowledges, without directly mentioning, the summer counteroffensive against Russia. &nbsp;<br />
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The most recent video features Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, sitting silently at his desk, gazing into the camera and after 20 seconds or so the words “More to Come” appear, which is followed by the slogan, “Plans Love Silence.” The recurring theme seems to point to the Kyiv government’s efforts symbolising the importance of maintaining silence.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia blows up another dam</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing&nbsp;up another dam in the Zaporizhzhia region, following the destruction of the major Nova Kakhovka on Monday, which caused widespread flooding.</p>

<p>Ukraine says the dam was blown up by Russian forces, who have controlled it since February 2022.</p>

<p>Valeriy Shershen, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military, said Moscow's forces had chosen to blow up a second dam near the village of Novodarivka, which "led to the flooding on both banks of the Mokri Yaly river", Kyiv Independent reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia, Ukraine prisoner&nbsp;swap</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian defence ministry, on Telegram, announced 94 Russian servicemen “who were in mortal danger” are being released after negotiations and will be taken to medical institutes for examination.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-counter-offensive-against-russia-under-way-603074">Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way</a></strong></p>

<p>Head of Ukraine’s presidential administration, Andriy Yermak, said 95 Ukrainian troops had been returned by the Russians. The Ukrainian official also said that some of them were injured and among those who returned were also members of the national guard and border guards.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Is Russia taking control of Wagner?</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia's Wagner mercenary, on Sunday, said his fighters would not sign any contract with the country’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-says-it-repels-many-attacks-by-ukraine-ukraine-claims-gains-in-bakhmut-603084">Russia says it repels many attacks by Ukraine; Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes after the Russian defence ministry on Saturday said Shoigu had ordered all “volunteer detachments” to sign contracts with his ministry by the end of the month. According to the defence ministry, it is in a bid to increase the effectiveness of the Russian army.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia underway</h2>

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<p>While no particular group or forces were mentioned by the ministry, the move is being seen as an attempt to take direct control of Wagner. However, Prigozhin, in response to a request for comment on the matter said, “Wagner will not sign any contracts with Shoigu,” adding that the order did not apply to Wagner.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-dam-collapse-zelensky-says-world-shamefully-indifferent-to-disaster-603032">Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes as the Wagner chief has repeatedly criticised the Russian military brass for incompetence and deliberately undersupplying Wagner fighters in Ukraine. “Shoigu cannot properly manage military formation,” said Wagner chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also went on to say that his group is well integrated with the Russian military and its effectiveness would be affected if they are required to report to the defence minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia said it hit Leopard tanks, Bradley vehicles and Ukrainian fighter je</strong>t</h2>

<p>Earlier, on Sunday, Russia claimed that it destroyed at least seven German-made Leopard tanks and five United States-made Bradley vehicles in the past 48 hours while repelling Ukrainian attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-failing-to-unite-against-putin-heres-why-603145">Russian opposition leaders meet in Brussels, fail to unite against Putin. Here's why</a></strong></p>

<p>It also later claimed that it had successfully taken down a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet in the Kherson region. Russian forces have also repelled three Ukrainian attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region, the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun, Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk.

In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun, Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine, on Monday (June 12) also claimed that it recaptured a fourth village in a cluster of settlements in the country's southeast region. “The settlements of Blahodatne and Makarivka were liberated,” Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar said in an update on Telegram. A third village, Neskuchne, was also claimed by a Ukrainian army brigade on Sunday, though Kyiv defence leaders are yet to comment on the development. Russian military bloggers have made unofficial reports that Neskuchne has been recaptured by Ukraine's troops, reports CNN. Video footage posted online showed soldiers holding up the Ukrainian flag in Donetsk region's Storozheve with the defence minister thanking the 35th Separate Brigade of Marines for regaining control of the village. This comes after Zelensky said that the “relevant counter-offensive defensive actions are taking place in Ukraine,” on Saturday. “Neskuchne of the Donetsk region is under the Ukrainian flag again,” said the state border guard, along with a video of Ukrainian troops announcing the takeover. Ukrainian soldiers were also seen shouting Kyiv’s traditional battle cries such as “Glory to Ukraine!” and reportedly derided Russian President Vladimir Putin. ALSO READ | Russia claims to repel attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship This was hours after Ukrainian Land Forces announced that soldiers of the 68th Separate Hunting Brigade had retaken the village of Blahodatne in the Donetsk region. ALSO READ | US citizen arrested in Russia over drug dealing charges The video showed soldiers hoisting a Ukrainian flag over a destroyed building. The Ukrainian government also has released a video for the third consecutive weekend that subtly acknowledges, without directly mentioning, the summer counteroffensive against Russia. The most recent video features Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, sitting silently at his desk, gazing into the camera and after 20 seconds or so the words “More to Come” appear, which is followed by the slogan, “Plans Love Silence.” The recurring theme seems to point to the Kyiv government’s efforts symbolising the importance of maintaining silence. Russia blows up another dam Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up another dam in the Zaporizhzhia region, following the destruction of the major Nova Kakhovka on Monday, which caused widespread flooding. Ukraine says the dam was blown up by Russian forces, who have controlled it since February 2022. Valeriy Shershen, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military, said Moscow's forces had chosen to blow up a second dam near the village of Novodarivka, which "led to the flooding on both banks of the Mokri Yaly river", Kyiv Independent reported. Russia, Ukraine prisoner swap The Russian defence ministry, on Telegram, announced 94 Russian servicemen “who were in mortal danger” are being released after negotiations and will be taken to medical institutes for examination. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way Head of Ukraine’s presidential administration, Andriy Yermak, said 95 Ukrainian troops had been returned by the Russians. The Ukrainian official also said that some of them were injured and among those who returned were also members of the national guard and border guards. Is Russia taking control of Wagner? Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia's Wagner mercenary, on Sunday, said his fighters would not sign any contract with the country’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. ALSO WATCH | Russia says it repels many attacks by Ukraine; Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut This comes after the Russian defence ministry on Saturday said Shoigu had ordered all “volunteer detachments” to sign contracts with his ministry by the end of the month. According to the defence ministry, it is in a bid to increase the effectiveness of the Russian army. Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia underway While no particular group or forces were mentioned by the ministry, the move is being seen as an attempt to take direct control of Wagner. However, Prigozhin, in response to a request for comment on the matter said, “Wagner will not sign any contracts with Shoigu,” adding that the order did not apply to Wagner. ALSO READ | Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster This comes as the Wagner chief has repeatedly criticised the Russian military brass for incompetence and deliberately undersupplying Wagner fighters in Ukraine. “Shoigu cannot properly manage military formation,” said Wagner chief. He also went on to say that his group is well integrated with the Russian military and its effectiveness would be affected if they are required to report to the defence minister. Russia said it hit Leopard tanks, Bradley vehicles and Ukrainian fighter jet Earlier, on Sunday, Russia claimed that it destroyed at least seven German-made Leopard tanks and five United States-made Bradley vehicles in the past 48 hours while repelling Ukrainian attacks. ALSO READ | Russian opposition leaders meet in Brussels, fail to unite against Putin. Here's why It also later claimed that it had successfully taken down a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet in the Kherson region. Russian forces have also repelled three Ukrainian attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region, the ministry said. (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.

Kyiv recaptures four villages in Donetsk as Ukraine's counter-offensive begins

The West may have imposed massive sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine recently, but a report claims that business is lavishly conducted in Moscow. This raises doubts about the West's obligations to the beleaguered Kyiv government.

Report: Several West-based operating profitably in Russia

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Zelensky meets UK Foreign Secretary in Kyiv, US President meets Danish PM in Washington, Antony Blinken heads to Saudi for three-day visit.

Zelensky meets UK Foreign Secy in Kyiv | US Pres meets Danish PM in Washington | WION Speed News

Intense cross-border shelling between Ukraine and Russia continues into the 16th month of the war. Ukraine force of Russian partisan has now infiltrated a Russian city and captured multiple Russian soldiers.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia 'thwarts' Ukrainian assault on Donetsk | World News | WION

<p>As per some sources linked to US intelligence quoted by CNN, Ukraine is working on arming its "agents and sympathisers"&nbsp;inside Russia with drones to undertake sabotage operations against the Russian establishment. The sources also attributed the recent drone attack on the Kremlin to these agents, who launched the drones from inside Russia rather than flying them from Ukrainian territory far away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several other drone attacks have taken place in Russia over the last few days, including one on a residential neighbourhood near Moscow and another on an oil refinery in southern Russia. However, it was not clear whether those strikes were carried out by Ukrainian agents operating within Russian territory.</p>

<h2><strong>"No US-made drone used in attacks"</strong></h2>

<p>The sources quoted by CNN also clarified that drones used by Ukraine's agents in Russia were manufactured by Ukraine itself, and no US-made drone was used to stage attacks inside Russia. As per the sources, Ukrainian forces have established well-practised smuggling routes beyond the Russian border to send drone components to its operatives in Russia, where they assemble drones and carry out strikes on Russian targets.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia claims US behind Ukraine drone attack on the Kremlin</strong></p>

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<p>CNN also quoted a European intelligence source as saying that since the Russia-Ukraine border was very vast and difficult to control, it provided Ukraine with a god-sent opportunity to set up such smuggling routes along the border and use it to its own advantage.</p>

<h2><strong>"Strikes and explosions inside Russia will continue"</strong></h2>

<p>According to a spokesperson from the Ukrainian Security Service, as reported by CNN, it was suggested that the series of unexplained explosions and drone strikes within Russia would continue, indicating that its network of agents will continue to be active.</p>

<p>The spokesperson quoted the head of the Security Service, Vasyl Malyuk, stating that they would only comment on these incidents, referred to as "cotton" by Ukrainians, after achieving victory. Furthermore, the spokesperson emphasised that "cotton" had occurred, is currently happening, and will continue to occur.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-alleged-ukrainian-drones-targeted-luxury-homes-of-putins-ex-wife-and-daughter-600180"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters?</strong></a></p>

<p>The term "cotton" is a slang word used by Ukrainians to describe explosions, particularly those happening in Russia or Russia-occupied territories within Ukraine. The term originated during the early stages of the war due to the similarity between the Russian word for "pop" and the Ukrainian word for "cotton".</p>

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As per some sources linked to US intelligence quoted by CNN, Ukraine is working on arming its "agents and sympathisers" inside Russia with drones to undertake sabotage operations against the Russian establishment.

As per some sources linked to US intelligence quoted by CNN, Ukraine is working on arming its "agents and sympathisers" inside Russia with drones to undertake sabotage operations against the Russian establishment. The sources also attributed the recent drone attack on the Kremlin to these agents, who launched the drones from inside Russia rather than flying them from Ukrainian territory far away. Several other drone attacks have taken place in Russia over the last few days, including one on a residential neighbourhood near Moscow and another on an oil refinery in southern Russia. However, it was not clear whether those strikes were carried out by Ukrainian agents operating within Russian territory. "No US-made drone used in attacks" The sources quoted by CNN also clarified that drones used by Ukraine's agents in Russia were manufactured by Ukraine itself, and no US-made drone was used to stage attacks inside Russia. As per the sources, Ukrainian forces have established well-practised smuggling routes beyond the Russian border to send drone components to its operatives in Russia, where they assemble drones and carry out strikes on Russian targets. Watch: Russia claims US behind Ukraine drone attack on the Kremlin × CNN also quoted a European intelligence source as saying that since the Russia-Ukraine border was very vast and difficult to control, it provided Ukraine with a god-sent opportunity to set up such smuggling routes along the border and use it to its own advantage. "Strikes and explosions inside Russia will continue" According to a spokesperson from the Ukrainian Security Service, as reported by CNN, it was suggested that the series of unexplained explosions and drone strikes within Russia would continue, indicating that its network of agents will continue to be active. The spokesperson quoted the head of the Security Service, Vasyl Malyuk, stating that they would only comment on these incidents, referred to as "cotton" by Ukrainians, after achieving victory. Furthermore, the spokesperson emphasised that "cotton" had occurred, is currently happening, and will continue to occur. Also read | Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters? The term "cotton" is a slang word used by Ukrainians to describe explosions, particularly those happening in Russia or Russia-occupied territories within Ukraine. The term originated during the early stages of the war due to the similarity between the Russian word for "pop" and the Ukrainian word for "cotton". WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine has built network of agents inside Russia to sabotage Kremlin operations: Report

<p>A dashboard camera of a moving car captured the moment when a motorist came inches close to death as a Russian missile crashed into the busy road in Ukraine's capital city Kyiv.<br />
<br />
In the video, a part of the missile can be seen falling onto the road right in front of a moving car which continued to drive after the strike.<br />
<br />
The incident took place on Monday (May 29) and the missile came crashing during a rare daytime attack on the capital city. However, no injuries were reported. In the recorded video, the missile crashed in the middle of the road as it narrowly missed two white cars.<br />
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The missile first broke the overhead wire displaying street signs and traffic lights before it crashed into the road and exploded. As it crashed, fragments of the missile and the electronic device blasted towards the camera.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A dashcam video has captured the moment a missile narrowly missed a car in Kyiv, Ukraine on Monday.<br />
One person in Kyiv’s Podil district was taken to hospital, local authorities said.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kyiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kyiv</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Missile?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Missile</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dashcam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dashcam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/BSKOhyQewt">pic.twitter.com/BSKOhyQewt</a></p>
— CGTN Europe (@CGTNEurope) <a href="https://twitter.com/CGTNEurope/status/1663959171551879169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A small part of the road is seen on fire as black smoke billows into the sky and vehicles continue to drive as if nothing just happened. As per BBC News, the way the missile fell suggests&nbsp;that the air defences had intercepted it earlier before it reached its target. Later, the police collected the fragments for further investigation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-children-killed-in-russias-fresh-air-strike-in-kyiv-598975">Two children among three killed in Russia's fresh air strike on Kyiv</a></p>

<p>The location of the missile crash was confirmed by Reuters on the basis of the buildings and roads which were visible in the video and matched the area's satellite and file imagery.<br />
<br />
The aftermath of the incident was filmed by Reuters, further verifying the incident's date and location.</p>

<h2><strong>People not intimidated by Russia's strikes</strong></h2>

<p>The head of Ukraine's military intelligence warned that they will quickly respond to a series of missile strikes carried out by Moscow on Kyiv.<br />
<br />
General Kyrylo Budanov stated that the attacks that took place on Monday failed to intimidate the residents of the city, who continued with daily life.<br />
<br />
However, the intercepted missiles' burning debris fell in residential areas of central Kyiv.<br />
<br />
General Budanov said that he wants to 'upset' Russia's supporters by informing them that people in the city remain unfazed by the missile attack and continue to work after it.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine targeting Russian heartland | How will the US react?</strong></p>

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“All those who tried to intimidate us, dreaming that it would have some effect, you will regret it very soon,” he added, in his statement which was published by the intelligence ministry of Ukraine.<br />
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“Our answer will not be long,” he added.<br />
<br />
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier praised the air defence forces of the nation after the largest drone attack was sustained by the capital.<br />
<br />
“You are heroes,” Zelensky stated after military commanders stated that they intercept most of the drones launched by Russia.</p>

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A dashboard camera of a moving car captured the moment when a motorist came inches close to death as a Russian missile crashed into the busy road in Ukraine's capital city Kyiv.

A dashboard camera of a moving car captured the moment when a motorist came inches close to death as a Russian missile crashed into the busy road in Ukraine's capital city Kyiv. In the video, a part of the missile can be seen falling onto the road right in front of a moving car which continued to drive after the strike. The incident took place on Monday (May 29) and the missile came crashing during a rare daytime attack on the capital city. However, no injuries were reported. In the recorded video, the missile crashed in the middle of the road as it narrowly missed two white cars. The missile first broke the overhead wire displaying street signs and traffic lights before it crashed into the road and exploded. As it crashed, fragments of the missile and the electronic device blasted towards the camera. A dashcam video has captured the moment a missile narrowly missed a car in Kyiv, Ukraine on Monday. One person in Kyiv’s Podil district was taken to hospital, local authorities said.#Kyiv #Missile #Dashcam #Ukraine #Russia pic.twitter.com/BSKOhyQewt — CGTN Europe (@CGTNEurope) May 31, 2023 × A small part of the road is seen on fire as black smoke billows into the sky and vehicles continue to drive as if nothing just happened. As per BBC News, the way the missile fell suggests that the air defences had intercepted it earlier before it reached its target. Later, the police collected the fragments for further investigation. ALSO READ | Two children among three killed in Russia's fresh air strike on Kyiv The location of the missile crash was confirmed by Reuters on the basis of the buildings and roads which were visible in the video and matched the area's satellite and file imagery. The aftermath of the incident was filmed by Reuters, further verifying the incident's date and location. People not intimidated by Russia's strikes The head of Ukraine's military intelligence warned that they will quickly respond to a series of missile strikes carried out by Moscow on Kyiv. General Kyrylo Budanov stated that the attacks that took place on Monday failed to intimidate the residents of the city, who continued with daily life. However, the intercepted missiles' burning debris fell in residential areas of central Kyiv. General Budanov said that he wants to 'upset' Russia's supporters by informing them that people in the city remain unfazed by the missile attack and continue to work after it. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine targeting Russian heartland | How will the US react? “All those who tried to intimidate us, dreaming that it would have some effect, you will regret it very soon,” he added, in his statement which was published by the intelligence ministry of Ukraine. “Our answer will not be long,” he added. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier praised the air defence forces of the nation after the largest drone attack was sustained by the capital. “You are heroes,” Zelensky stated after military commanders stated that they intercept most of the drones launched by Russia. 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.

WATCH | Dashcam captures moment when missile crashes into traffic on busy road in Kyiv

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - China fighter jets' 'aggressive manoeuvre', UN Nuclear Chief briefs on Zaporizhzhia power plant, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pulls up Kyiv authorities, North Korea's satellite launch ends in failure.

China fighter jets' 'aggressive manoeuvre' | IAEA Chief briefs on Zaporizhzhia | WION Speed News

Russia unleashed waves of air strikes on Kyiv overnight in what officials said appeared to be the largest drone attack on the city since the start of the war, as the Ukrainian capital prepared to celebrate the anniversary of its founding on Sunday.

Kyiv hit with new wave of Russian attacks | Russia-Ukraine War

Russia unleashes fresh barrage of strikes on Kyiv - this attack comes on the day when the Ukrainian capital Kyiv is marking its Foundation Day. At least one casualty has been confirmed after the strikes took place overnight in several districts in the city.

Russia Ukraine War: At least 1 dead after Russia strikes Ukraine on Kyiv's Foundation Day

Bakhmut, a Ukrainian city, has become the bloodiest battleground in Europe since World War II. The fighting in the besieged city began in May 2022. Now, a year later, the city is a desolated pile of broken buildings debris and even smoke.

Battle for Bakhmut rages on: Wagner Group claims 'Will give Bakhmut to Russia by May 25'

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<p>Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building's roof caught fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko took to Telegram to confirm the reports, adding there was no immediate information about possible victims.</p>

<p>"Fire on the roof of a nine-storey building in one of the residential complexes of Dniprovskyi district," wrote Klitschko.</p>

<p>Serhiy Popko, the head of the civil and military administration of Kyiv suggested the public stay in shelters until an 'all-clear' was granted. Popko stated falling debris was the reason why the building caught fire, adding that more debris&nbsp;fell on several streets in Darnytskyi and Solomyanskyi districts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian Army said drones were headed towards the Kyiv region around 12:45 am local time (2145 GMT Friday) on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an attempt to ensure calm, the Ukrainian military released a statement saying air defence systems were active in the Kyiv and Chernihiv regions. American-made Patriot missiles have helped Kyiv spare the kind of destruction that other regions of the country are currently facing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/patriot-missile-system-in-ukraine-damaged-but-operational-593525"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Patriot missile system in Ukraine damaged but operational</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Similar attack took place earlier this week</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance during the ongoing war when Moscow has conducted overnight strikes on the capital city while the public sleeps. On Thursday as well, the city's military administration reported falling debris that caused the fire in a non-residential building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports at the time, the attack was purportedly carried out by strategic bombers from the Caspian region, perhaps using cruise missiles. Local media reports stated the cruise missiles used were X-101 and X-55 types developed during Soviet times.</p>

<p>The heavy attack on Kyiv comes on the same day President Volodymyr Zelensky headed for the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan.&nbsp;His visit to Japan comes in the backdrop of US granting Kyiv access to&nbsp;advanced fighter jets and training for Kyiv's pilots.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-live-2023-indian-pm-narendra-modi-meets-japanese-pm-fumio-kishida-594292" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | G7 summit LIVE 2023: Indian PM Narendra Modi meets Japanese PM Fumio Kishida</strong></a></p>

<p>According to an AFP report, Zelensky will hold talks with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G7 summit. He will also hold separate meetings with US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida as well as India Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building's roof caught fire.

Loud explosions were heard as Kyiv came under heavy air attack from the Russian side overnight. Authorities on early Saturday informed that falling debris were reported in three districts of the capital city while a residential building's roof caught fire. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko took to Telegram to confirm the reports, adding there was no immediate information about possible victims. "Fire on the roof of a nine-storey building in one of the residential complexes of Dniprovskyi district," wrote Klitschko. Serhiy Popko, the head of the civil and military administration of Kyiv suggested the public stay in shelters until an 'all-clear' was granted. Popko stated falling debris was the reason why the building caught fire, adding that more debris fell on several streets in Darnytskyi and Solomyanskyi districts. The Ukrainian Army said drones were headed towards the Kyiv region around 12:45 am local time (2145 GMT Friday) on Saturday. In an attempt to ensure calm, the Ukrainian military released a statement saying air defence systems were active in the Kyiv and Chernihiv regions. American-made Patriot missiles have helped Kyiv spare the kind of destruction that other regions of the country are currently facing. WATCH | Patriot missile system in Ukraine damaged but operational × Similar attack took place earlier this week This is not the first instance during the ongoing war when Moscow has conducted overnight strikes on the capital city while the public sleeps. On Thursday as well, the city's military administration reported falling debris that caused the fire in a non-residential building. According to reports at the time, the attack was purportedly carried out by strategic bombers from the Caspian region, perhaps using cruise missiles. Local media reports stated the cruise missiles used were X-101 and X-55 types developed during Soviet times. The heavy attack on Kyiv comes on the same day President Volodymyr Zelensky headed for the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan. His visit to Japan comes in the backdrop of US granting Kyiv access to advanced fighter jets and training for Kyiv's pilots. ALSO READ | G7 summit LIVE 2023: Indian PM Narendra Modi meets Japanese PM Fumio Kishida According to an AFP report, Zelensky will hold talks with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G7 summit. He will also hold separate meetings with US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida as well as India Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia intensifies attack on Ukraine overnight; Kyiv says air defence active

As per a US defence official, a Patriot Air Defence System which was damaged by Russians, still remain operational. A Ukrainian Airforce spokesperson has confirmed this and said that the air defence system is functional and all is well.

Russia Ukraine War: In a first, top Chinese envoy visits Kyiv; Ukraine's Foreign Minister meets him

Russia has launched an intense air attack on Kyiv in the early hours of Tuesday. The Russian troops used drones and ballistic missiles, this is the eight air raid on the Ukrainian capital this month itself.

Ukraine hit by 8th round of explosions as Russia launches air raids on Kyiv | World News | WION

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Moscow destroys Kyiv's 22 drones over Black Sea. MIG 21 crashes in India's Rajasthan.

Moscow destroys Kyiv's 22 drones over Black Sea | MIG 21 crashes in Rajasthan

<p>Ukrainian air defences early Monday (May 1) shot down 15 out of 18 missiles launched by Russian forces as Moscow intensifies its offensive. Taking to Telegram, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, said, "Around 2:30 am (1130 GMT), the Russian invaders attacked Ukraine from strategic aviation planes," the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv's city officials, meanwhile, said that all missiles directed at the capital city were destroyed in what they said was the second attack on the city in three days. The city administration posted on Telegram that there were no casualties among the civilian population and no destruction of residential facilities or infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Air defence systems were also called into action to shield the Kyiv region.</p>

<p>Russia also launched missiles at other Ukrainian regions overnight, including on Dnipropetrovsk and Mykola Lukashuk, the head of the Dnipro region council, said. Air defence crews shot down seven missiles, while 25 people needed medical help. The eastern Ukrainian city of Pavlohrad was struck twice overnight, Reuters reported.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-will-launch-counteroffensive-without-western-fighter-aircraft-says-zelensky-587540">Ukraine will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>Monday's missile strikes come after a Ukrainian strike on a Russian border village of Suzemka killed four people and injured two others on Saturday. According to local governor Alexander Bogomaz, the Ukrainian shelling hit Suzemka twice overnight and Russian air defence had "shot down several shells."</p>

<p>Bogomaz said that one shell hit a residential house sparking a fire and that two more houses were damaged, adding the village declared a state of emergency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Work is continuing on the removal of rubble. In the areas where operational measures have been completed, a damage assessment commission has begun working," the local governor said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last Friday (April 28), <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-missile-strikes-kill-26-including-five-children-zelensky-vows-response-587174">Russian forces launched missile strikes across Ukraine</a></strong>, killing 26 people including five children. These were the first large-scale air strikes in war-torn</p>

<p>Ukraine in nearly two months, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowing a response.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And a day later, authorities said a huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Crimea's Sevastopol after a drone strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, most of the fighting in Ukraine is in the east and southern regions. The Ukrainian government said on Sunday that its forces were holding onto parts of Bakhmut and Russia was unable to take control of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fierce fighting continues in the city of Bakhmut. The enemy is unable to take control over the city, despite throwing all its forces into the battle and having some success," Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The defence of Bakhmut is coping with its military tasks," Malyar.</p>

<p>Her remarks come after Russia's Defence Ministry said that its forces had taken four blocks in western Bakhmut, but this claim could not be verified, Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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Ukrainian air defences early Monday (May 1) shot down 15 out of 18 missiles launched by Russian forces as Moscow intensifies its offensive. Taking to Telegram, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, said, "Around 2:30 am (1130 GMT), the Russian invaders attacked Ukraine from strategic aviation planes," the news agency Reuters reported.

Ukrainian air defences early Monday (May 1) shot down 15 out of 18 missiles launched by Russian forces as Moscow intensifies its offensive. Taking to Telegram, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, said, "Around 2:30 am (1130 GMT), the Russian invaders attacked Ukraine from strategic aviation planes," the news agency Reuters reported. Kyiv's city officials, meanwhile, said that all missiles directed at the capital city were destroyed in what they said was the second attack on the city in three days. The city administration posted on Telegram that there were no casualties among the civilian population and no destruction of residential facilities or infrastructure. Air defence systems were also called into action to shield the Kyiv region. Russia also launched missiles at other Ukrainian regions overnight, including on Dnipropetrovsk and Mykola Lukashuk, the head of the Dnipro region council, said. Air defence crews shot down seven missiles, while 25 people needed medical help. The eastern Ukrainian city of Pavlohrad was struck twice overnight, Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Ukraine will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky Monday's missile strikes come after a Ukrainian strike on a Russian border village of Suzemka killed four people and injured two others on Saturday. According to local governor Alexander Bogomaz, the Ukrainian shelling hit Suzemka twice overnight and Russian air defence had "shot down several shells." Bogomaz said that one shell hit a residential house sparking a fire and that two more houses were damaged, adding the village declared a state of emergency. "Work is continuing on the removal of rubble. In the areas where operational measures have been completed, a damage assessment commission has begun working," the local governor said. Last Friday (April 28), Russian forces launched missile strikes across Ukraine, killing 26 people including five children. These were the first large-scale air strikes in war-torn Ukraine in nearly two months, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowing a response. And a day later, authorities said a huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Crimea's Sevastopol after a drone strike. At present, most of the fighting in Ukraine is in the east and southern regions. The Ukrainian government said on Sunday that its forces were holding onto parts of Bakhmut and Russia was unable to take control of the city. "Fierce fighting continues in the city of Bakhmut. The enemy is unable to take control over the city, despite throwing all its forces into the battle and having some success," Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said on Telegram. "The defence of Bakhmut is coping with its military tasks," Malyar. Her remarks come after Russia's Defence Ministry said that its forces had taken four blocks in western Bakhmut, but this claim could not be verified, Reuters reported. (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.

Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched

The war in Ukraine began with a promise. A promise from Russia that the special operation would end in weeks. Weeks, turned into months, months turned into a year. Now fourteen months since the day the conflict started, Ukraine is preparing a spring counter-offensive, even though western F-16 jets have still not been deployed.

War at Ukraine: Ukraine readies for counter-offensive in the absence of Western fighter jets

Ukraine has formally launched a protest with its ally Poland for an import ban enforced in the country's agricultural produce. The ban comes as local Polish farmers have raised some serious objections to the influx of Ukrainian produce that reportedly resulted in a decline in prices.

Ukraine protests Poland ban on import, Kyiv calls import ban 'unacceptable' | World News | WION

<p>In an interview aired on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that if the Russians had attacked his Kyiv headquarters at the outset of the conflict, he would have battled to his death with his inner circle.</p>

<p>"I know how to shoot. Could you imagine (a headline like) 'The President of Ukraine is taken captive by Russians?' This is a disgrace. I believe this would be a disgrace," the Ukrainian president told the 1+1 television channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-210-migrant-bodies-recovered-on-tunisian-coast-in-less-than-two-weeks-587394">Over 210 migrant bodies recovered on Tunisian coast in less than two weeks</a></p>

<p>Russian intelligence allegedly attempted to enter the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv in the early days of the invasion on February 24, 2022.</p>

<p>However, Ukrainian officials say the efforts by Russian officials were thwarted and therefore they were unable to reach Bankova Street in the city, a place where the presidential offices are located.</p>

<p>Other Russian forces attempted to advance in their onslaught on the outskirts of Kyiv. Several unsuccessful sabotage attempts were also reported by officials inside the city.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-could-die-former-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-on-visiting-ukraine-last-year-587377">'We thought we could die': Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi on visiting Ukraine last year</a></p>

<p>"I think if they had gone inside, into the administration, we would not be here," Zelenskiy said. However, the interview does not shed much light as to which Russian units the Ukrainian president was referring during the interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No one would have been taken prisoner because we had a very seriously prepared defence of Bankova Street. We would have been there to the last," he said.</p>

<p>When asked if he carried a pistol and practised using it, he acknowledged that he did. But he rejecting the idea that he may have used it to shoot himself. "No, no, no. It's not (to shoot) myself. To shoot back, surely," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees</strong></p>

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<p>The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of many people.</p>

<p>The international community, including the United Nations, has condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine and imposed sanctions against Russia. The conflict remains unresolved, and efforts to find a peaceful solution have been ongoing but have had limited success.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not fled Ukraine after Russia invaded Ukraine. In fact, he has been a vocal critic of Russian aggression.</p>

<p>Zelensky has visited the front lines of the conflict and has met with soldiers and civilians affected by the conflict. He has also engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, however, it still remains unresolved.&nbsp;</p>

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In an interview aired on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that if the Russians had attacked his Kyiv headquarters at the outset of the conflict, he would have battled to his death with his inner circle.

In an interview aired on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that if the Russians had attacked his Kyiv headquarters at the outset of the conflict, he would have battled to his death with his inner circle. "I know how to shoot. Could you imagine (a headline like) 'The President of Ukraine is taken captive by Russians?' This is a disgrace. I believe this would be a disgrace," the Ukrainian president told the 1+1 television channel. Also Read | Over 210 migrant bodies recovered on Tunisian coast in less than two weeks Russian intelligence allegedly attempted to enter the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv in the early days of the invasion on February 24, 2022. However, Ukrainian officials say the efforts by Russian officials were thwarted and therefore they were unable to reach Bankova Street in the city, a place where the presidential offices are located. Other Russian forces attempted to advance in their onslaught on the outskirts of Kyiv. Several unsuccessful sabotage attempts were also reported by officials inside the city. Also Read | 'We thought we could die': Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi on visiting Ukraine last year "I think if they had gone inside, into the administration, we would not be here," Zelenskiy said. However, the interview does not shed much light as to which Russian units the Ukrainian president was referring during the interview. "No one would have been taken prisoner because we had a very seriously prepared defence of Bankova Street. We would have been there to the last," he said. When asked if he carried a pistol and practised using it, he acknowledged that he did. But he rejecting the idea that he may have used it to shoot himself. "No, no, no. It's not (to shoot) myself. To shoot back, surely," he said. Watch | Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees × The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of many people. The international community, including the United Nations, has condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine and imposed sanctions against Russia. The conflict remains unresolved, and efforts to find a peaceful solution have been ongoing but have had limited success. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not fled Ukraine after Russia invaded Ukraine. In fact, he has been a vocal critic of Russian aggression. Zelensky has visited the front lines of the conflict and has met with soldiers and civilians affected by the conflict. He has also engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, however, it still remains unresolved. 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.

Zelensky says would have fought till death had Russians attacked Kyiv headquarters

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