Russian air defences claim to have intercepted Ukrainian drones over several regions in Russia, including Moscow. This comes a day after Kyiv reported the 'largest drone attack' on Ukraine since Russia's invasion last year. Ben Aris, founder and editor-in-chief of Bne Intellinews and also former Moscow bureau chief for the Daily Telegraph, joins us to discuss.

Kyiv endures largest drone attack by Russia since the war began | In-Live Discussion

At least five people including an 11-year-old girl have been injured after Russia fired more than 70 drones at Kyiv. As per Ukrainian authorities this was the largest drone strike suffered by the capital. Now Ukrainian President has called the attack an act of 'willful terror'

Zelensky calls Russian attacks an act of 'Willful terror' | WION

Dashing hopes that the hostages will be freed early on Thursday (Nov 23), Israel's national security adviser and the US said the deal had been put on hold until Friday.&nbsp;Israel and Hamas agreed early on Wednesday to a ceasefire in Gaza for at least four days. In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for pulling out of the negotiation process stating that "Moscow never refused peace talks" with Kyiv.

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-netanyahu-thanks-biden-for-efforts-to-secure-release-of-hostages-661699">Israel-Hamas war LIVE | Israel says no release of Gaza captives until Friday</a>

The release of hostages under a temporary truce between Israel and Palestinian Hamas militants will not happen before Friday, Israel's national security adviser and the US said.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/23/394822-succession-2023-11-23t063345897.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-another-pneumonia-epidemic-alarms-who-nearly-four-years-since-covid-was-first-detected-661753">China: Another pneumonia 'epidemic' alarms WHO nearly four years since Covid was first detected</a>

Nearly 48 months after an influenza-like illness was reported from China's Wuhan which snowballed into the Covid pandemic months later, China has reported an outbreak of influenza-like illness mostly among children.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-investigating-vehicle-explosion-at-us-canada-bridge-near-niagara-falls-661692">Vehicle explosion at US-Canada bridge near Niagara Falls kills 2, Trudeau says situation 'very serious'</a>

A vehicle exploded at the Rainbow Bridge border crossing between the United States and Canada near Niagara Falls on Wednesday (Nov 22).&nbsp;The FBI&nbsp;released a statement saying that it is investigating the incident.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-never-refused-peace-talks-with-ukraine-blames-kyiv-for-withdrawing-661708">Vladimir Putin says Russia never refused peace talks with Ukraine, blames Kyiv for withdrawing</a>

In an unprecedented move, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Nov 22) told the leaders of the Group of Twenty (G20) that it was extremely important to come up with a plan on how to stop "the tragedy" of the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uttarakhand-tunnel-rescue-the-great-himalayan-rescue-661677">WATCH |&nbsp;Uttarakhand tunnel rescue: The great Himalayan rescue</a>

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Dashing hopes that the hostages will be freed early on Thursday (Nov 23), Israel's national security adviser and the US said the deal had been put on hold until Friday.

Dashing hopes that the hostages will be freed early on Thursday (Nov 23), Israel's national security adviser and the US said the deal had been put on hold until Friday. Israel and Hamas agreed early on Wednesday to a ceasefire in Gaza for at least four days. In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for pulling out of the negotiation process stating that "Moscow never refused peace talks" with Kyiv. Click on headlines to read more: Israel-Hamas war LIVE | Israel says no release of Gaza captives until Friday The release of hostages under a temporary truce between Israel and Palestinian Hamas militants will not happen before Friday, Israel's national security adviser and the US said. China: Another pneumonia 'epidemic' alarms WHO nearly four years since Covid was first detected Nearly 48 months after an influenza-like illness was reported from China's Wuhan which snowballed into the Covid pandemic months later, China has reported an outbreak of influenza-like illness mostly among children. Vehicle explosion at US-Canada bridge near Niagara Falls kills 2, Trudeau says situation 'very serious' A vehicle exploded at the Rainbow Bridge border crossing between the United States and Canada near Niagara Falls on Wednesday (Nov 22). The FBI released a statement saying that it is investigating the incident. Vladimir Putin says Russia never refused peace talks with Ukraine, blames Kyiv for withdrawing In an unprecedented move, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Nov 22) told the leaders of the Group of Twenty (G20) that it was extremely important to come up with a plan on how to stop "the tragedy" of the war in Ukraine. WATCH | Uttarakhand tunnel rescue: The great Himalayan rescue ×

Morning news brief: Israel-Palestine captives release delayed, Putin blames Kyiv for no peace deal and more

Updates from the Russia-Ukraine war, missile targeting Kyiv has ended nearly two months of relative calm in the Ukrainian Capital. While the frontline regions fended off waves of drone attacks overnight. The Ukrainian Air Force said it destroyed a missile approaching Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine war | Ukraine: Drowned 19 out of 31 drone attacks in the past two days

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv on Saturday ahead of a report the European Union is expected to present next week about Ukraine's progress in its membership bid.

"Good to be back in Kyiv for my sixth wartime visit," von der Leyen wrote on social media platform X, posting a picture of her with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at a railway station.

"I'm here to discuss Ukraine’s accession path to the EU. The EU’s financial support to rebuild Ukraine as a modern, prosperous democracy. And how we will continue to make Russia pay for its war of aggression."

The EU assessment due on Wednesday is expected to detail how far Ukraine has advanced in fulfilling various economic, legal, and other criteria to clear the way for accession talks to be launched in December.

Ukraine, which applied to join the European Union days after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, sees joining the trade bloc as a top priority.

The EU's 27 members are due at a summit in December to decide whether to allow Kyiv to begin accession negotiations, a move requiring the unanimous backing of all the bloc's members.

Ukraine's bid got a boost on Thursday when German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said she was confident the bloc would advance Ukraine's application next month.

Membership talks typically take years and involve extensive legal, political and economic reform. Ukraine's case is made much harder by the war raging in its south and east with no end in sight.

Von der Leyen's visit comes as Ukraine's troops battle fatigue and concerns swirl over the future of U.S. military assistance which Kyiv relies on heavily.

Parliamentary deputy Yaroslav Zheleznyak said on his Telegram channel that von der Leyen was expected to speak in the Ukrainian parliament.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv on Saturday ahead of a report the European Union is expected to present next week about Ukraine's progress in its membership bid.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv on Saturday ahead of a report the European Union is expected to present next week about Ukraine's progress in its membership bid. "Good to be back in Kyiv for my sixth wartime visit," von der Leyen wrote on social media platform X, posting a picture of her with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at a railway station. "I'm here to discuss Ukraine’s accession path to the EU. The EU’s financial support to rebuild Ukraine as a modern, prosperous democracy. And how we will continue to make Russia pay for its war of aggression." The EU assessment due on Wednesday is expected to detail how far Ukraine has advanced in fulfilling various economic, legal, and other criteria to clear the way for accession talks to be launched in December. Ukraine, which applied to join the European Union days after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, sees joining the trade bloc as a top priority. The EU's 27 members are due at a summit in December to decide whether to allow Kyiv to begin accession negotiations, a move requiring the unanimous backing of all the bloc's members. Ukraine's bid got a boost on Thursday when German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said she was confident the bloc would advance Ukraine's application next month. Membership talks typically take years and involve extensive legal, political and economic reform. Ukraine's case is made much harder by the war raging in its south and east with no end in sight. Von der Leyen's visit comes as Ukraine's troops battle fatigue and concerns swirl over the future of U.S. military assistance which Kyiv relies on heavily. Parliamentary deputy Yaroslav Zheleznyak said on his Telegram channel that von der Leyen was expected to speak in the Ukrainian parliament.

EU's von der Leyen visits Kyiv ahead of report on accession progress

The war in Ukraine there's no let up in the intensity there as well Ukraine is reporting small gains in both the east and south.

Moscow hits out: Move deliberately hidden from public

Russian President Vladimir Putin ramps up his nuclear rhetoric. During his speech on Thursday at the Annual Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin announced that Russia has successfully carried out the test of a new generation nuclear-powered cruise missile. And further suggested that the country could resume nuclear testing for the first time in more than three decades.

Moscow could exit at atomic test ban: Putin

Not invading Russian forces, leaked U.S. documents reveal that the Biden administration is more concerned about Ukraine's corruption problem. This comes in the backdrop of Biden's steadfast support for Ukraine even as he faces turmoil at home over Ukraine war funding.

Gravitas: Leaked US docs expose Fears Over Ukraine's Future | Could Kyiv Lose Wartime Aid Over This?

In pics | Defenders of Ukraine Day: Nothing will weaken Kyiv's resolve against Russia, says Zelensky

130,000 individuals are being called up for statutory military duty as part of the regular autumn conscription campaign, according to a decree signed by Vladimir Putin and published on the official government website on Friday.

Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow presses on 'special operation' in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;ramped up his attacks on Russia while speaking at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday (September 20). The Ukrainian leader denounced the Russian invasion, calling it 'criminal'&nbsp;and urged other member nations to strip Moscow of its&nbsp;veto power.&nbsp;

Speaking before the U.N. Security Council session on Wednesday, Zelensky presented his country’s 10-point plan to end the war with Russia.

He also criticised the U.N. for not fulfilling its role and solving world conflicts and called for Moscow to be stripped of its veto power in the Council, said reports. 
 
“We should recognize that the U.N. finds itself in a deadlock on the matter of aggression. Humankind no longer pins its hopes on the U.N. when it comes to the defense of the sovereign border of nations,” he said.

"Veto power in the hands of the aggressor is what has pushed the UN into a deadlock. It is impossible to stop the war because all efforts are vetoed by the aggressor or those who condone the aggressor,"&nbsp;Zelensky continued.

For the first time since the war broke out, Zelensky, clad in his now-customary military fatigues, sat in the same room as a Russian official.&nbsp;

"Most of the world recognises the truth about this war. It is a criminal and unprovoked aggression by Russia against our nation aimed at seizing Ukraine's territory and resources."

As Zelensky continued his speech, the Russian official looked uninterested and continued to scroll through his smartphone.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-addresses-unga-for-first-time-in-person-5-key-points-from-his-speech-637687">Also read | Five key points from Zelensky's first in-person address at UNGA</a>

<h2>Moscow responds</h2>

After Zelensky's speech, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov took the centre stage and defended his country's use of veto power in the UNSC as a "legitimate tool" of international relations.

"The use of veto is an absolutely legitimate tool laid out in the (UN) Charter," said Lavrov.&nbsp;

The Russian leader also accused the US and its allies of&nbsp;“egregiously and openly” interfering in the domestic affairs of Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky's previous stance&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, Wednesday wasn't the first instance when Zelensky had openly egged the UNSC to chalk out Moscow's veto prowess.&nbsp;

During last year's session as well, Zelensky toed a similar line, saying the invasion of a fellow member state had upturned the world order.&nbsp;

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-article-gutter="true" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_9181D249-A6D4-72AB-CAEA-629C54AA91A1@published">“So long as the aggressor is party to decision-making in the international organization, you must be insulated from them, at least until aggression stops,” said Zelensky

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-article-gutter="true" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_58246D06-ED79-DDB9-EEA6-62A1817C02DC@published">“Reject the right to vote. Deprive delegation rights. Remove the right of veto – if it is a member of the UN Security Council," he added.&nbsp;

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-article-gutter="true" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_58246D06-ED79-DDB9-EEA6-62A1817C02DC@published"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-at-un-general-assembly-we-must-be-united-against-war-crimes-637829">Watch |&nbsp;Zelensky at UN General Assembly: We must be united against war crimes</a>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-article-gutter="true" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_58246D06-ED79-DDB9-EEA6-62A1817C02DC@published">Notably, Zelensky's attack on Russia came a day after he addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the first time in person. During the speech, he accused Moscow of&nbsp;"weaponising" both food and energy;&nbsp;committing genocide of Ukrainian children whilst demanding member nations to pursue a strategy of nuclear disarmament against it.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ramped up his attacks on Russia while speaking at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday (September 20). The Ukrainian leader denounced the Russian invasion, calling it 'criminal' and urged other member nations to strip Moscow of its veto power.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ramped up his attacks on Russia while speaking at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday (September 20). The Ukrainian leader denounced the Russian invasion, calling it 'criminal' and urged other member nations to strip Moscow of its veto power. Speaking before the U.N. Security Council session on Wednesday, Zelensky presented his country’s 10-point plan to end the war with Russia. He also criticised the U.N. for not fulfilling its role and solving world conflicts and called for Moscow to be stripped of its veto power in the Council, said reports. “We should recognize that the U.N. finds itself in a deadlock on the matter of aggression. Humankind no longer pins its hopes on the U.N. when it comes to the defense of the sovereign border of nations,” he said. "Veto power in the hands of the aggressor is what has pushed the UN into a deadlock. It is impossible to stop the war because all efforts are vetoed by the aggressor or those who condone the aggressor," Zelensky continued. For the first time since the war broke out, Zelensky, clad in his now-customary military fatigues, sat in the same room as a Russian official. "Most of the world recognises the truth about this war. It is a criminal and unprovoked aggression by Russia against our nation aimed at seizing Ukraine's territory and resources." As Zelensky continued his speech, the Russian official looked uninterested and continued to scroll through his smartphone. Also read | Five key points from Zelensky's first in-person address at UNGA Moscow responds After Zelensky's speech, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov took the centre stage and defended his country's use of veto power in the UNSC as a "legitimate tool" of international relations. "The use of veto is an absolutely legitimate tool laid out in the (UN) Charter," said Lavrov. The Russian leader also accused the US and its allies of “egregiously and openly” interfering in the domestic affairs of Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Zelensky's previous stance Notably, Wednesday wasn't the first instance when Zelensky had openly egged the UNSC to chalk out Moscow's veto prowess. During last year's session as well, Zelensky toed a similar line, saying the invasion of a fellow member state had upturned the world order. “So long as the aggressor is party to decision-making in the international organization, you must be insulated from them, at least until aggression stops,” said Zelensky “Reject the right to vote. Deprive delegation rights. Remove the right of veto – if it is a member of the UN Security Council," he added. Watch | Zelensky at UN General Assembly: We must be united against war crimes Notably, Zelensky's attack on Russia came a day after he addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the first time in person. During the speech, he accused Moscow of "weaponising" both food and energy; committing genocide of Ukrainian children whilst demanding member nations to pursue a strategy of nuclear disarmament against it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky criticises UN, says strip Russia of veto power in UNSC; Lavrov responds

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - India summons Canada High Commissioner, PM Modi proposes 33% reservation for women, PM Modi names old Parliament as 'Constitution House', India summons Canada High Commissioner in a tit-for-tat move, Moscow's missiles intercepted, says Kyiv.

India summons Canada High Commissioner | Parliament Special Session

The United Nations' cultural organisation placed the World Heritage Sites located in Ukrainian cities of Kyiv and Lviv on its list of places “in danger” on Friday (September 15), stating that they stand at risk from the war sparked due to the invasion of the country by Russia.

The decision, which was taken in the meeting of UNESCO's annual World Heritage committee in Riyadh, is the first step towards excluding these sites from UNESCO's World Heritage List which features 1,157 sites.

UNESCO, in a statement, said that it had included Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv and the medieval buildings standing in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery site of the city to the list "due to the threat of destruction the Russian offensive poses". 
 
The statement added that the officials decided because "optimal conditions are no longer met to fully guarantee the protection of the Outstanding Universal Value of the property and that it is threatened by potential danger due to the war".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/relief-for-australia-as-great-barrier-reef-stays-off-unesco-danger-list-621258">Relief for Australia as Great Barrier Reef stays off UNESCO danger list</a>

It stated that two historic sites have "remained under permanent threat since the start of the invasion on February 24, 2022". Saint Sophia Cathedral, present in Kyiv, dates back to the 11th century and is among the best-known landmarks of the city. 
 
The western Ukrainian city of Lviv, which is near the Polish border, came into existence in the late Middle Ages and in 1998, the city's historic centre was inscribed on the World Heritage List. 
 
The step was taken after a decision was taken by UNESCO in January to add the centre of the Black Sea port of Odesa in Ukraine to the World Heritage List.

WATCH |&nbsp;Venice avoids UNESCO world heritage downgrade

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In July, the city centre of Odesa and an Orthodox cathedral suffered damages in a Russian strike, which was condemned by UNESCO.

<h2>Venice escapes UNESCO world heritage downgrade</h2>

The UNESCO on Thursday stopped short of adding Venice to the list of world heritage sites in danger. The Italian city was being considered by UNESCO due to increasing water levels and mass tourism. 
 
"The Committee has taken the decision not to include Venice on the list of World Heritage in Danger," said a UNESCO source, while speaking. Italy's Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano stated that it was "a great victory for Italy and for common sense". 
 
“Venice is in danger from rising water levels, attributed to climate change, and excessive numbers of tourists,” said Lazare Eloundou Assomo, UNESCO's Director of World Heritage, before the Riyadh meeting.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations' cultural organisation placed the World Heritage Sites located in Ukrainian cities of Kyiv and Lviv on its list of places “in danger” on Friday (September 15), stating that they stand at risk from the war sparked due to the invasion of the country by Russia.

The United Nations' cultural organisation placed the World Heritage Sites located in Ukrainian cities of Kyiv and Lviv on its list of places “in danger” on Friday (September 15), stating that they stand at risk from the war sparked due to the invasion of the country by Russia. The decision, which was taken in the meeting of UNESCO's annual World Heritage committee in Riyadh, is the first step towards excluding these sites from UNESCO's World Heritage List which features 1,157 sites. UNESCO, in a statement, said that it had included Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv and the medieval buildings standing in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery site of the city to the list "due to the threat of destruction the Russian offensive poses". The statement added that the officials decided because "optimal conditions are no longer met to fully guarantee the protection of the Outstanding Universal Value of the property and that it is threatened by potential danger due to the war". ALSO READ | Relief for Australia as Great Barrier Reef stays off UNESCO danger list It stated that two historic sites have "remained under permanent threat since the start of the invasion on February 24, 2022". Saint Sophia Cathedral, present in Kyiv, dates back to the 11th century and is among the best-known landmarks of the city. The western Ukrainian city of Lviv, which is near the Polish border, came into existence in the late Middle Ages and in 1998, the city's historic centre was inscribed on the World Heritage List. The step was taken after a decision was taken by UNESCO in January to add the centre of the Black Sea port of Odesa in Ukraine to the World Heritage List. WATCH | Venice avoids UNESCO world heritage downgrade In July, the city centre of Odesa and an Orthodox cathedral suffered damages in a Russian strike, which was condemned by UNESCO. Venice escapes UNESCO world heritage downgrade The UNESCO on Thursday stopped short of adding Venice to the list of world heritage sites in danger. The Italian city was being considered by UNESCO due to increasing water levels and mass tourism. "The Committee has taken the decision not to include Venice on the list of World Heritage in Danger," said a UNESCO source, while speaking. Italy's Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano stated that it was "a great victory for Italy and for common sense". “Venice is in danger from rising water levels, attributed to climate change, and excessive numbers of tourists,” said Lazare Eloundou Assomo, UNESCO's Director of World Heritage, before the Riyadh meeting. (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.

Ukrainian cities Kyiv, Lviv on UNESCO's list of heritage 'in danger'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Kyiv, Ukraine. His visit comes as yet another gesture of support for Ukraine from Washington DC, according to the US Department, Blinken is likely to announce aid for Kyiv.

Blinken visits Ukraine: As counteroffensive in Ukraine continues, Blinken announces aid for Kyiv

Kyiv police, on Friday (September 1), reported bomb threats to the schools in the Ukrainian capital as children returned to schools for their second academic year since Russia's aggression.

Kyiv's police said its forces were reviewing educational buildings.

"We have received information about explosives in Kyiv's schools," news agency AFP quoted police spokeswoman Yulia Girdvilis as saying.

"All educational institutions are being checked by Kyiv police forces with the involvement of the State Emergency Service," she said.

The police also said that they would be collectively making a decision with the schools if any evacuations were to be made, further calling on the people to "stay calm."

Ukraine's education ministry in a statement said that nearly four million students are returning to learning, both virtually and in the classroom.

<h2>Thousands of schools in Ukraine damaged by attacks: Authorities</h2>

As per the authorities, big cities and towns across Ukraine are regularly subjected to artillery, drone and missile attacks and thousands of schools have been damaged or destroyed.

"The nation preserved the opportunity for children to go to Ukrainian school," the head of Ukraine's presidential office, Andriy Yermak, said on social media. "Ukrainian teachers are real heroes."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-recent-drone-attack-over-airport-in-northwestern-russia-launched-from-within-russian-territory-631216">Ukraine claims recent drone attack on airport in Russia launched from within Russian territory</a>

Yermak further said that more than 3.6 million children attend school in Ukraine, including nearly 900,000 who study remotely.

"The main thing is that our children will study," said General Valery Zaluzhny, commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces.

"And our educators, teachers and lecturers will teach. Because knowledge and culture are what distinguish us from the enemy."

Andriy Sadovy, the mayor of the western city of Lviv, while releasing a picture of students behind computers, said that pupils will be taught to fly drones.

"This is our new reality," he said on social media.

Kyiv launched its long-anticipated counteroffensive in June but has acknowledged tough battles as it struggles to break through heavily fortified Russian positions.

 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kyiv police, on Friday (September 1), reported bomb threats to the schools in the Ukrainian capital as children returned to schools for their second academic year since Russia's aggression.

Kyiv police, on Friday (September 1), reported bomb threats to the schools in the Ukrainian capital as children returned to schools for their second academic year since Russia's aggression. Kyiv's police said its forces were reviewing educational buildings. "We have received information about explosives in Kyiv's schools," news agency AFP quoted police spokeswoman Yulia Girdvilis as saying. "All educational institutions are being checked by Kyiv police forces with the involvement of the State Emergency Service," she said. The police also said that they would be collectively making a decision with the schools if any evacuations were to be made, further calling on the people to "stay calm." Ukraine's education ministry in a statement said that nearly four million students are returning to learning, both virtually and in the classroom. Thousands of schools in Ukraine damaged by attacks: Authorities As per the authorities, big cities and towns across Ukraine are regularly subjected to artillery, drone and missile attacks and thousands of schools have been damaged or destroyed. "The nation preserved the opportunity for children to go to Ukrainian school," the head of Ukraine's presidential office, Andriy Yermak, said on social media. "Ukrainian teachers are real heroes." Also read: Ukraine claims recent drone attack on airport in Russia launched from within Russian territory Yermak further said that more than 3.6 million children attend school in Ukraine, including nearly 900,000 who study remotely. "The main thing is that our children will study," said General Valery Zaluzhny, commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces. "And our educators, teachers and lecturers will teach. Because knowledge and culture are what distinguish us from the enemy." Andriy Sadovy, the mayor of the western city of Lviv, while releasing a picture of students behind computers, said that pupils will be taught to fly drones. "This is our new reality," he said on social media. Kyiv launched its long-anticipated counteroffensive in June but has acknowledged tough battles as it struggles to break through heavily fortified Russian positions. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Police report bomb threats in Kyiv as Ukraine children go back to school

In an attempt to cement their authority in the occupied regions, Russian authorities on Thursday (August 31) began holding elections in parts of&nbsp;Moscow-annexed Ukrainian territories. Russia currently controls one-fifth of Ukraine's territory: the Crimea peninsula annexed in 2014, and parts of&nbsp;Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions annexed in 2022.

Moscow's handpicked governors, which include veteran pro-Russian politicians and others known only locally, are currently seeking full terms of office in the four regions. The polls will conclude on September 10, when Russia holds regional polls, according to a Reuters report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All governors have the endorsement of President Vladimir Putin after joining the Kremlin's United Russia bloc with fanfare in recent months. Consequently, most are facing only nominal opposition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-cardboard-drone-tech-used-against-russia-630941">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Cardboard drone tech used against Russia</a>

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<h2>Kyiv condemns the move&nbsp;</h2>

Kyiv has condemned the move and urged the citizens living in the "occupied areas" to not vote in the election, adding they should "leave the region" if possible.

"Russians have started holding 'elections' to pseudo-local councils and 'legislative bodies' in the temporarily occupied territories," Ukraine's National Resistance Centre (NRC), an official agency, was quoted as saying by CNN.&nbsp;

“We urge Ukrainians not to open their doors to the occupiers and, if possible, to leave the region or their homes for the period of 'early voting'," added NRC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telegram-post-ignites-concerns-about-russian-president-vladimir-putins-health-ukraine-reacts-631170">Also read |&nbsp;Telegram post ignites concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. Ukraine reacts</a>

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov slammed the West saying Moscow will not cooperate with the bloc in areas on which its security depends.

“Even if suddenly, by some incomprehensible command from above, the West offers us to return to more or less normal contacts, we will already think whether we should do this, and if so, in what areas,” said Lavrov.&nbsp;

“We will not agree to interact with the West, on which our security depends in every sense: military-political security, economic, technological,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>The war extends&nbsp;</h2>

The Rusia-Ukraine war began last year in February and has dragged on for over 500 days with thousands of casualties and billions in damages. Despite Kyiv initiating a counteroffensive earlier this year, not much has changed on the ground.&nbsp;

After weeks of grinding combat, Kyiv is hoping for a major breakthrough in the Zaporizhzhia region after recapturing the village of Robotyne this week.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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In an attempt to cement their authority in the occupied regions, Russian authorities on Thursday (August 31) began holding elections in parts of Moscow-annexed Ukrainian territories.

In an attempt to cement their authority in the occupied regions, Russian authorities on Thursday (August 31) began holding elections in parts of Moscow-annexed Ukrainian territories. Russia currently controls one-fifth of Ukraine's territory: the Crimea peninsula annexed in 2014, and parts of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions annexed in 2022. Moscow's handpicked governors, which include veteran pro-Russian politicians and others known only locally, are currently seeking full terms of office in the four regions. The polls will conclude on September 10, when Russia holds regional polls, according to a Reuters report. All governors have the endorsement of President Vladimir Putin after joining the Kremlin's United Russia bloc with fanfare in recent months. Consequently, most are facing only nominal opposition. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Cardboard drone tech used against Russia × Kyiv condemns the move Kyiv has condemned the move and urged the citizens living in the "occupied areas" to not vote in the election, adding they should "leave the region" if possible. "Russians have started holding 'elections' to pseudo-local councils and 'legislative bodies' in the temporarily occupied territories," Ukraine's National Resistance Centre (NRC), an official agency, was quoted as saying by CNN. “We urge Ukrainians not to open their doors to the occupiers and, if possible, to leave the region or their homes for the period of 'early voting'," added NRC. Also read | Telegram post ignites concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. Ukraine reacts Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov slammed the West saying Moscow will not cooperate with the bloc in areas on which its security depends. “Even if suddenly, by some incomprehensible command from above, the West offers us to return to more or less normal contacts, we will already think whether we should do this, and if so, in what areas,” said Lavrov. “We will not agree to interact with the West, on which our security depends in every sense: military-political security, economic, technological,” he added. The war extends The Rusia-Ukraine war began last year in February and has dragged on for over 500 days with thousands of casualties and billions in damages. Despite Kyiv initiating a counteroffensive earlier this year, not much has changed on the ground. After weeks of grinding combat, Kyiv is hoping for a major breakthrough in the Zaporizhzhia region after recapturing the village of Robotyne this week. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow holds local elections in occupied parts of Ukraine

Norway supposedly decided to donate F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, if media reports are anything to go by then Norway will become the third country to have decided to do so.

Norway PM meets Zelensky in Kyiv, decides to give F-16s to Ukraine | World News | WION

A couple of days after the United States approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands, Kyiv announced training had begun for Ukrainian pilots on operating the planes.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov in a TV interview informed about the training, adding that it would take at least six months or possibly longer to complete it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Therefore, to build reasonable expectations, set a minimum of six months in your mind, but do not be disappointed if it is longer," said&nbsp;Reznikov, adding that he would not give details on where and when the training was taking place,&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his&nbsp;Danish and Dutch counterparts that Washington will&nbsp;accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained.&nbsp;

"I am writing to express the United States' full support for both the transfer of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine and for the training of Ukrainian pilots by qualified F-16 instructors," wrote Blinken in a letter accessed by Reuters.&nbsp;

"It remains critical that Ukraine is able to defend itself against ongoing Russian aggression and violation of its sovereignty," he added.&nbsp;

He said the approval of the requests would allow Ukraine to take "full advantage of its new capabilities as soon as the first set of pilots complete their training".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853">WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</a>

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<h2>US reacts after 'defeatist' Kyiv statement</h2>

The decision by the US came a day after&nbsp;Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat said his&nbsp;country will not be able to operate the F-16&nbsp;fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year.&nbsp;

“It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter,"&nbsp;Ihnat told Ukrainian channels.&nbsp;

“We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-sounds-defeatist-says-wont-be-able-to-use-f-16-fighter-jets-this-year-626397">Also read |&nbsp;Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year</a>

<h2>Kyiv pressing for fighter jets&nbsp;</h2>

Kyiv had&nbsp;been repeatedly calling upon the&nbsp;Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets for its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remained at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the&nbsp;G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year.&nbsp;

After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme for&nbsp;Ukrainian pilots but never gave a precise timeline.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A couple of days after the United States approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands, Kyiv announced training had begun for Ukrainian pilots on operating the planes.

A couple of days after the United States approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands, Kyiv announced training had begun for Ukrainian pilots on operating the planes. Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov in a TV interview informed about the training, adding that it would take at least six months or possibly longer to complete it. "Therefore, to build reasonable expectations, set a minimum of six months in your mind, but do not be disappointed if it is longer," said Reznikov, adding that he would not give details on where and when the training was taking place, Earlier this week, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Danish and Dutch counterparts that Washington will accelerate clearance of F-16 transfer requests for the war-torn nation after the pilots are trained. "I am writing to express the United States' full support for both the transfer of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine and for the training of Ukrainian pilots by qualified F-16 instructors," wrote Blinken in a letter accessed by Reuters. "It remains critical that Ukraine is able to defend itself against ongoing Russian aggression and violation of its sovereignty," he added. He said the approval of the requests would allow Ukraine to take "full advantage of its new capabilities as soon as the first set of pilots complete their training". WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems US reacts after 'defeatist' Kyiv statement The decision by the US came a day after Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat said his country will not be able to operate the F-16 fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year. “It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter," Ihnat told Ukrainian channels. “We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added. Also read | Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year Kyiv pressing for fighter jets Kyiv had been repeatedly calling upon the Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets for its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remained at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year. After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme for Ukrainian pilots but never gave a precise timeline. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian troops have begun training to operate F-16s, informs defence minister

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Sweden in what is his first trip since Russia launched its offensive on Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Olena and I arrived in Sweden," Zelensky said on X, formerly known as Twitter, while&nbsp;referring to his wife. He said he will hold talks focused on "partnership, defence cooperation, EU integration, and common Euro-Atlantic security."

"I thank all Swedes who support Ukraine."

<h2>Why Zelensky is in Sweden?</h2>

Sweden has a robust defence industry and despite its purported symbolisms of peace advocacy groups in and beyond capital Stockholm, has been a key supplier of weaponry to the countries in many parts of the world.&nbsp;

Zelensky's visit comes amid reports that all of the Archer self-propelled howitzers donated by Sweden will soon be delivered to Ukraine.

During his visit, Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Swedish government officials in Harpsund, located about 120 kilometers west of Stockholm. Additionally, he will have an audience with Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia at a palace in the area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-nato-membership-approval-soon-white-house-613275">Sweden's NATO membership approval soon: White House</a>

Sweden, in a departure from its long-standing military non-alignment policy, has provided support to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia by supplying weapons and aid.

The nation has also applied for NATO membership and is awaiting approval to join the alliance.

Also read |&nbsp;Explained - Why Turkiye agreed to approve Sweden's NATO bid

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Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited top military leaders in the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, near the Ukrainian border.

During the visit, Putin was briefed by Valery Gerasimov, the commander overseeing Moscow's operations in Ukraine, and other high-ranking military officials at the headquarters of Russia's Southern Military District.

The details of Putin's visit were not confirmed, but footage from state media suggested the meeting took place at night, with Gerasimov welcoming Putin and leading him into a building. The meeting itself remained undisclosed to the public.

Ukraine has reported progress in its counteroffensive efforts, reclaiming the village of Urozhaine in the eastern Donetsk region.

The leader of the Russian battalion defending Urozhaine admitted that his troops could not achieve victory against Ukraine and called for a "front freeze."

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Sweden in what is his first trip since Russia launched its offensive on Ukraine. "Olena and I arrived in Sweden," Zelensky said on X, formerly known as Twitter, while referring to his wife.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Sweden in what is his first trip since Russia launched its offensive on Ukraine. "Olena and I arrived in Sweden," Zelensky said on X, formerly known as Twitter, while referring to his wife. He said he will hold talks focused on "partnership, defence cooperation, EU integration, and common Euro-Atlantic security." "I thank all Swedes who support Ukraine." Why Zelensky is in Sweden? Sweden has a robust defence industry and despite its purported symbolisms of peace advocacy groups in and beyond capital Stockholm, has been a key supplier of weaponry to the countries in many parts of the world. Zelensky's visit comes amid reports that all of the Archer self-propelled howitzers donated by Sweden will soon be delivered to Ukraine. During his visit, Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Swedish government officials in Harpsund, located about 120 kilometers west of Stockholm. Additionally, he will have an audience with Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia at a palace in the area. Also read | Sweden's NATO membership approval soon: White House Sweden, in a departure from its long-standing military non-alignment policy, has provided support to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia by supplying weapons and aid. The nation has also applied for NATO membership and is awaiting approval to join the alliance. Also read | Explained - Why Turkiye agreed to approve Sweden's NATO bid × Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited top military leaders in the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, near the Ukrainian border. During the visit, Putin was briefed by Valery Gerasimov, the commander overseeing Moscow's operations in Ukraine, and other high-ranking military officials at the headquarters of Russia's Southern Military District. The details of Putin's visit were not confirmed, but footage from state media suggested the meeting took place at night, with Gerasimov welcoming Putin and leading him into a building. The meeting itself remained undisclosed to the public. Ukraine has reported progress in its counteroffensive efforts, reclaiming the village of Urozhaine in the eastern Donetsk region. The leader of the Russian battalion defending Urozhaine admitted that his troops could not achieve victory against Ukraine and called for a "front freeze." 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 visits NATO-aspirant Sweden with focus on 'EU integration'

Sounding rather defeated,&nbsp;Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat has conceded that his country will not be able to operate the F-16&nbsp;fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year.&nbsp;

Speaking on Wednesday night (August 16),&nbsp;Ihnat said his country had "big hopes" for the deployment of F-16s but it may not come to fruition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter,"&nbsp;Ihnat told Ukrainian channels.&nbsp;

“We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added.&nbsp;

Earlier this year,&nbsp;Ihnat had asserted that Kyiv needed "F-16s to become an integral part of its air defence".

"These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes. By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-focuses-on-upping-its-air-defence-systems-594853">WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems</a>

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<h2>Kyiv pressing for the jets&nbsp;</h2>

Kyiv has repeatedly called upon the Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets in its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the&nbsp;G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year.&nbsp;

After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme&nbsp; for&nbsp;Ukrainian pilots on F-16s. However, up until now, no timing on the supply of the war planes has been given.&nbsp;

Even after announcing the training module, Biden said he had assurances from Zelensky that the jets will not be used in Russian territory.&nbsp;

"I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters at the time.&nbsp;

While Kyiv presses for the jets, Moscow has also repeatedly said that supplying the F-16s would carry "colossal risks".

“We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-west-supplying-f-16-jets-to-ukraine-would-carry-colossal-risks-594646" target="_blank">ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’</a>

“In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Sounding rather defeated, Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat has conceded that his country will not be able to operate the F-16 fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year.

Sounding rather defeated, Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat has conceded that his country will not be able to operate the F-16 fighter jets to defend itself from the Russian onslaught, at least this year. Speaking on Wednesday night (August 16), Ihnat said his country had "big hopes" for the deployment of F-16s but it may not come to fruition. “It’s already obvious we won’t be able to defend Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets during this autumn and winter," Ihnat told Ukrainian channels. “We had big hopes for this plane, that it will become part of air defence, able to protect us from Russia’s missiles and drones terrorism,” he added. Earlier this year, Ihnat had asserted that Kyiv needed "F-16s to become an integral part of its air defence". "These fighters can engage aerial targets from both high and low altitudes. By utilising F-16s, our ground troops will be able to swiftly liberate occupied Ukrainian territories by targeting enemy command posts, military groups and logistics supply chains," he said. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine focuses on upping its air defence systems Kyiv pressing for the jets Kyiv has repeatedly called upon the Western bloc to supply the F-16 jets in its defence against the superior Russian jets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been at the forefront of it as he openly discussed the proposition during his brief appearance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, earlier this year. After much back-and-forth, US President Joe Biden endorsed a training programme for Ukrainian pilots on F-16s. However, up until now, no timing on the supply of the war planes has been given. Even after announcing the training module, Biden said he had assurances from Zelensky that the jets will not be used in Russian territory. "I have a flat assurance from Zelensky that they will not use it to go on and move onto Russian geographic territory, but wherever Russian troops are within Ukraine and the area, they would be able to do that," Biden told reporters at the time. While Kyiv presses for the jets, Moscow has also repeatedly said that supplying the F-16s would carry "colossal risks". “We see that Western countries are still adhering to the escalation scenario. It involves colossal risks for themselves," said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko. ALSO READ | Russia says West's supply of F-16 jets to Ukraine would carry ‘colossal risks’ “In any case, this will be taken into account in all our plans, and we have all the necessary means to achieve the goals we have set.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kyiv sounds defeatist, says 'won't be able' to use F-16 fighter jets this year

Ukraine has called Russia's boarding of a cargo ship in the Black Sea on Sunday (August 13), an "act of piracy", escalating the tension as the repercussions of the cancellation of the grain deal continue to be felt.&nbsp;

Mykhailo Podolyak,&nbsp;an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky took to X, formerly known as Twitter and lashed at Moscow for its actions and called on the international community to recognise Russia's actions as a 'crime'.&nbsp;

"Today's deliberate attack and forced inspection by Russia of Sukru Okan international civilian bulk carrier, which was en route to the Ukrainian port of Izmail, is a clear violation of international law of the sea, an act of piracy and a crime against civilian vessels of a third country in the waters of other states," posted&nbsp;Podolyak.&nbsp;

"Ukraine will draw all the necessary conclusions and choose the best possible response," he added.&nbsp;

Notably, on Sunday, Moscow said one of its warships fired warning shots and boarded a cargo ship, headed to the Ukrainian port of Izmail. The Ministry of Defence said it fired warning shots when the&nbsp;captain&nbsp;of the&nbsp;Palau-flagged dry cargo ship, called the Sukra&nbsp;Okan, failed to acknowledge&nbsp;“the request to stop for inspection for the carriage of prohibited goods".

“To forcibly stop the vessel, warning fire was opened from automatic weapons,” said the Russian officials, adding that the military boarded the vessel with the help of a Ka-29 helicopter.

“After the inspection group completed its work on board, the Sukru Okan continued on its way to the port of Izmail,” added the ministry.&nbsp;

The incident transpired in the southwestern Black Sea on a day when at least seven people, including a baby, were killed after Russian forces pummeled two villages in the southern region of Kherson, according to Kyiv officials.&nbsp;

Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long

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<h2>Aftermath of the deal cancellation</h2>

Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, the fighting between both sides has intensified. Russia initially pounded the port cities of Ukraine such as Odesa and Mykolaiv with missile attacks, killing several innocent civilians in the process. Moreover, Kremlin said it was&nbsp;keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels, and would consider them as&nbsp;potential military targets.

Meanwhile, Kyiv returned the favour by targeting Moscow with indiscriminate drone attacks, which spurred talks that Russia was planning to return to the table to talk shop regarding the deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-russia-could-be-ready-for-resuming-talks-on-black-sea-grain-deal-621520">Also read | US says Russia could be ready for resuming talks on Black Sea grain deal</a>

However, the latest flare-up in the Black Sea suggests that both parties are far from chalking up a new deal.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

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Ukraine has called Russia's boarding of a cargo ship in the Black Sea on Sunday (August 13), an "act of piracy", escalating the tension as the repercussions of the cancellation of the grain deal continue to be felt.

Ukraine has called Russia's boarding of a cargo ship in the Black Sea on Sunday (August 13), an "act of piracy", escalating the tension as the repercussions of the cancellation of the grain deal continue to be felt. Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky took to X, formerly known as Twitter and lashed at Moscow for its actions and called on the international community to recognise Russia's actions as a 'crime'. "Today's deliberate attack and forced inspection by Russia of Sukru Okan international civilian bulk carrier, which was en route to the Ukrainian port of Izmail, is a clear violation of international law of the sea, an act of piracy and a crime against civilian vessels of a third country in the waters of other states," posted Podolyak. "Ukraine will draw all the necessary conclusions and choose the best possible response," he added. Notably, on Sunday, Moscow said one of its warships fired warning shots and boarded a cargo ship, headed to the Ukrainian port of Izmail. The Ministry of Defence said it fired warning shots when the captain of the Palau-flagged dry cargo ship, called the Sukra Okan, failed to acknowledge “the request to stop for inspection for the carriage of prohibited goods". “To forcibly stop the vessel, warning fire was opened from automatic weapons,” said the Russian officials, adding that the military boarded the vessel with the help of a Ka-29 helicopter. “After the inspection group completed its work on board, the Sukru Okan continued on its way to the port of Izmail,” added the ministry. The incident transpired in the southwestern Black Sea on a day when at least seven people, including a baby, were killed after Russian forces pummeled two villages in the southern region of Kherson, according to Kyiv officials. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long Aftermath of the deal cancellation Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal, the fighting between both sides has intensified. Russia initially pounded the port cities of Ukraine such as Odesa and Mykolaiv with missile attacks, killing several innocent civilians in the process. Moreover, Kremlin said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels, and would consider them as potential military targets. Meanwhile, Kyiv returned the favour by targeting Moscow with indiscriminate drone attacks, which spurred talks that Russia was planning to return to the table to talk shop regarding the deal. Also read | US says Russia could be ready for resuming talks on Black Sea grain deal However, the latest flare-up in the Black Sea suggests that both parties are far from chalking up a new deal. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Act of piracy...': Ukraine hits back at Moscow for 'forced boarding' of cargo vessel

Russian drone strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued, damaging the port infrastructure including grain silos, the regional Governor Oleg Kiper said on Wednesday (Aug 2).&nbsp;

"The enemy's obvious target was the port and industrial infrastructure of the region. Air defence forces worked non-stop for almost 3 hours,"&nbsp;said Oleg on Telegram, adding that emergency services had responded to the scene and that there were no reports of casualties.&nbsp;

“As a result of the attack, fires broke out at the facilities of the port and industrial infrastructure of the region, and an elevator was damaged."

According to senior Ukrainian officials, over the past fortnight, Russia has damaged&nbsp;dozens of port infrastructure facilities and multiple civilian vessels. Last month, a Chinese consulate in the port&nbsp;city was also damaged by the Russian strikes.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-consulate-damaged-by-russian-strike-in-port-city-of-odesa-reports-617817" target="_blank">Also read | Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports</a>

Apart from the port city, the capital Kyiv was also attacked by Russian drones in the early hours of Wednesday. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said drone debris had fallen in the central&nbsp;Solomianskyi district and that a non-residential building had been damaged.

"Groups of drones entered Kyiv simultaneously from several directions. However, all air targets -- more than 10 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) -- were detected and destroyed in time by the forces and means of air defence," said&nbsp;Sergiy Popko, head of the city's military administration, adding that Russia used a barrage of Iranian-made Shahed drones.&nbsp;

The attacks come a day after Russia said it had thwarted a wave of Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, Crimea and vessels in the Black Sea. A skyscraper in the city's financial district was struck for the second time in days.&nbsp;

Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long

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<h2>Russia has upped the ante</h2>

Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal earlier this month, attacks have intensified on Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;

The deal granted safe passage to Ukrainian cargo ships carrying grain shipments. However, since the cancellation, Russia has said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels and would consider them as&nbsp;potential military targets.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian drone strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued, damaging the port infrastructure including grain silos, the regional Governor Oleg Kiper said on Wednesday (Aug 2).

Russian drone strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued, damaging the port infrastructure including grain silos, the regional Governor Oleg Kiper said on Wednesday (Aug 2). "The enemy's obvious target was the port and industrial infrastructure of the region. Air defence forces worked non-stop for almost 3 hours," said Oleg on Telegram, adding that emergency services had responded to the scene and that there were no reports of casualties. “As a result of the attack, fires broke out at the facilities of the port and industrial infrastructure of the region, and an elevator was damaged." According to senior Ukrainian officials, over the past fortnight, Russia has damaged dozens of port infrastructure facilities and multiple civilian vessels. Last month, a Chinese consulate in the port city was also damaged by the Russian strikes. Also read | Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports Apart from the port city, the capital Kyiv was also attacked by Russian drones in the early hours of Wednesday. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said drone debris had fallen in the central Solomianskyi district and that a non-residential building had been damaged. "Groups of drones entered Kyiv simultaneously from several directions. However, all air targets -- more than 10 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) -- were detected and destroyed in time by the forces and means of air defence," said Sergiy Popko, head of the city's military administration, adding that Russia used a barrage of Iranian-made Shahed drones. The attacks come a day after Russia said it had thwarted a wave of Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, Crimea and vessels in the Black Sea. A skyscraper in the city's financial district was struck for the second time in days. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long Russia has upped the ante Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal earlier this month, attacks have intensified on Ukrainian cities. The deal granted safe passage to Ukrainian cargo ships carrying grain shipments. However, since the cancellation, Russia has said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels and would consider them as potential military targets. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine war: Russia pounds port, silos in Odesa again; drone debris found in Kyiv

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has once again stirred the 'nuclear' conversation by stating that Moscow will have to use the atomic weapon if Kyiv's ongoing counter-offensive was a success.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally made the comments on social media, imagining a situation where Russian troops were forced to step back by the Ukrainians.&nbsp;

"Imagine if the...offensive, which is backed by NATO, was a success and they tore off a part of our land then we would be forced to use a nuclear weapon according to the rules of a decree from the president of Russia," said Medvedev, who is the deputy chairman of Russia's security council.

"There would simply be no other option. So our enemies should pray for our warriors' (success). They are making sure that a global nuclear fire is not ignited," he added.

Medvedev was referring to Russia's nuclear doctrine which lays out that weapons of mass destruction can be used in response to aggression against Russia carried out using conventional weapons which threatens the existence of the state.

Ukraine has launched a counter-offensive against the Russians to retake territory unilaterally annexed and declared as&nbsp;part of its own by Putin. However, the move is yet to show tangible results. Putin last week said there were no serious battlefield changes to report in recent days and that Ukraine's military had suffered significant losses since June 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-putin-be-arrested-by-the-the-international-criminal-court-573455">WATCH |&nbsp;Can Putin be arrested by the international criminal court?</a>

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<h2>Not&nbsp;Medvedev's first rodeo</h2>

Notably, this is not the first instance when&nbsp;Medvedev has&nbsp;made rather hyperbolic statements. Putin's top ally previously said that a civil war will break out in the US in 2023 and that if Russia lost in the ongoing war, it could provoke the beginning of a 'nuclear war'.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, he also threatened hypersonic missile attacks on the&nbsp;International Criminal Court (ICC) after the global organisation issued an arrest warrant against Putin.

Mincing no words, Medvedev suggested that the ICC judges 'watch the skies closely,'&nbsp;referring to an impending missile coming their way.&nbsp;

"I'm afraid, gentlemen, everyone is answerable to God and missiles. It's quite possible to imagine how a hypersonic Oniks fired from a Russian warship in the North Sea strikes the court building in the Hague," Medvedev wrote on Telegram.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-top-aide-threatens-hypersonic-missile-strike-on-icc-after-issuance-of-arrest-warrant-574213">Also read |&nbsp;Putin's top aide threatens 'hypersonic missile strike' on ICC after issuance of arrest warrant</a>

"It can't be shot down, I'm afraid. And the court is just a pathetic international organisation, not the people of a NATO country. So, they won't start a war. They'll be scared. And no one will be sorry."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has once again stirred the 'nuclear' conversation by stating that Moscow will have to use the atomic weapon if Kyiv's ongoing counter-offensive was a success.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has once again stirred the 'nuclear' conversation by stating that Moscow will have to use the atomic weapon if Kyiv's ongoing counter-offensive was a success. Russian President Vladimir Putin's top ally made the comments on social media, imagining a situation where Russian troops were forced to step back by the Ukrainians. "Imagine if the...offensive, which is backed by NATO, was a success and they tore off a part of our land then we would be forced to use a nuclear weapon according to the rules of a decree from the president of Russia," said Medvedev, who is the deputy chairman of Russia's security council. "There would simply be no other option. So our enemies should pray for our warriors' (success). They are making sure that a global nuclear fire is not ignited," he added. Medvedev was referring to Russia's nuclear doctrine which lays out that weapons of mass destruction can be used in response to aggression against Russia carried out using conventional weapons which threatens the existence of the state. Ukraine has launched a counter-offensive against the Russians to retake territory unilaterally annexed and declared as part of its own by Putin. However, the move is yet to show tangible results. Putin last week said there were no serious battlefield changes to report in recent days and that Ukraine's military had suffered significant losses since June 4. WATCH | Can Putin be arrested by the international criminal court? Not Medvedev's first rodeo Notably, this is not the first instance when Medvedev has made rather hyperbolic statements. Putin's top ally previously said that a civil war will break out in the US in 2023 and that if Russia lost in the ongoing war, it could provoke the beginning of a 'nuclear war'. Earlier this year, he also threatened hypersonic missile attacks on the International Criminal Court (ICC) after the global organisation issued an arrest warrant against Putin. Mincing no words, Medvedev suggested that the ICC judges 'watch the skies closely,' referring to an impending missile coming their way. "I'm afraid, gentlemen, everyone is answerable to God and missiles. It's quite possible to imagine how a hypersonic Oniks fired from a Russian warship in the North Sea strikes the court building in the Hague," Medvedev wrote on Telegram. Also read | Putin's top aide threatens 'hypersonic missile strike' on ICC after issuance of arrest warrant "It can't be shot down, I'm afraid. And the court is just a pathetic international organisation, not the people of a NATO country. So, they won't start a war. They'll be scared. And no one will be sorry." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Nuclear war if...': Putin's top aide issues ultimate threat

The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor&nbsp;Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two&nbsp;"non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.&nbsp;

"Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties."&nbsp;

According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another&nbsp;hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads.&nbsp;

The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv.&nbsp;

"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties."

A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-budget-drones-in-ukraine-are-redefining-warfare-616102">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare&nbsp;</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Previous instances of drone attacks&nbsp;</h2>

This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was&nbsp;attacked by Ukrainian drones&nbsp;which it deemed&nbsp;was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life.&nbsp;

At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia".&nbsp;

"Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-alleged-ukrainian-drones-targeted-luxury-homes-of-putins-ex-wife-and-daughter-600180">Also read |&nbsp;Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters?</a>

"We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added.&nbsp;

Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down&nbsp;five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night.

The ongoing escalation between Russia and Ukraine appears to have intensified. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin in the early hours of Monday (July 24) claimed that "drone strikes" hit two "non-residential buildings" in the Russian capital at night. "Today around 4 am (0100 GMT), drone strikes on two non-residential buildings were reported. There is no serious destruction or casualties." According to Russian news agency TASS, one of the drones fell in Komsomolsky Prospekt, close to Russia's defence ministry while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street, near one of the main ring roads. The defence ministry released a statement in the aftermath and said it had "suppressed" the two Ukrainian drones, adding that it was a "terrorist act" on the Russian capital by Kyiv. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," Russia's defence ministry said. "Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties." A video of the business centre was posted by RIA Novosti which showed visible damage to the top of the multi-storey building. As a precautionary measure, the authorities sealed the road around it. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Budget drones in Ukraine are redefining warfare × Previous instances of drone attacks This is not the first instance when Russia has accused Ukraine of targetting the capital city using drones. In May, Kremlin claimed it was attacked by Ukrainian drones which it deemed was an attempt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's life. At the time, Kremlin described the incident as a "planned terrorist attack" and an "assassination attempt on the president of Russia". "Tonight, the Kyiv regime attempted a drone strike on the Kremlin residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Two drones were aimed at the Kremlin," the press service said in a statement. Also read | Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters? "We regard these actions as a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the president of the Russian Federation, carried out on the eve of Victory Day, the May 9 parade," it added. Similarly, earlier this month, Moscow claimed that it shot down five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning at the Vnukovo international airport. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia calls it a 'terrorist act'

The culture minister of Ukraine has resigned amid alleged disagreement with President Volodymyr Zelensky over budget appropriation.&nbsp;

Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko tendered his resignation Friday (July 21), owing to “a wave of misunderstanding about the importance of wartime culture."

"During the war, both private and budget funds for culture are no less important than for drones, because culture is the shield of our identity and our borders," he wrote in a Facebook post.

<h2>Culture minister had allocated millions for a TV series</h2>

The alleged misunderstanding emerged between the minister and Zelensky after the former decided to allocate 448 million hryvnias (around $12 million) for the production of a television series.&nbsp;

Furthermore, he also wanted to earmark a $13 million package for finishing building a museum to commemorate Ukraine's 1932-33 famine, which Kyiv sees as a deliberate act of genocide by the erstwhile Soviets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a>

"Such things, which speak of the suffering inflicted on the Ukrainian people for decades by Moscow, should be reflected in the museum," he had told a US radio.

"If someone says that the museum should not be built during the war, let them give arguments other than that it is necessary to spend money on reconstruction. There are funds," he said unapologetically.

<h2>Zelensky objects</h2>

Tkachenko’s lavish plans ended up putting him at odds with the President himself. Zelensky on Thursday (July 20) urged his government to rein in government spending while the nation was at war with Russia.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Wheat prices soar after Russia threatens ships

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“In a time of war like this the maximum amount of state attention and therefore state resources should go to defense,” Zelensky said in his nightly video address, after having a conversation with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

He also reportedly asked the PM to consider “changing” the culture minister.

<h2>Ukraine’s funding woes</h2>

The development comes as several US lawmakers and staffers express concerns that Ukraine’s coffers could run dry by mid-summer.

White House in May said that the administration was not planning to ask Congress for additional funding for Ukraine before the end of September, indicating that Kyiv could be left to fend for itself if the funding crunch takes a toll on the war-torn nation’s defence.

Also read:&nbsp;

“Thanks to the bipartisan Congressional support for Ukraine, we believe we have the resources we need through the end of this fiscal year,” a White House spokesperson was quoted as saying by CNN. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The culture minister of Ukraine has resigned amid alleged disagreement with President Volodymyr Zelensky over budget appropriation. Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko tendered his resignation Friday (July 21), owing to “a wave of misunderstanding about the importance of wartime culture.

The culture minister of Ukraine has resigned amid alleged disagreement with President Volodymyr Zelensky over budget appropriation. Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko tendered his resignation Friday (July 21), owing to “a wave of misunderstanding about the importance of wartime culture." "During the war, both private and budget funds for culture are no less important than for drones, because culture is the shield of our identity and our borders," he wrote in a Facebook post. Culture minister had allocated millions for a TV series The alleged misunderstanding emerged between the minister and Zelensky after the former decided to allocate 448 million hryvnias (around $12 million) for the production of a television series. Furthermore, he also wanted to earmark a $13 million package for finishing building a museum to commemorate Ukraine's 1932-33 famine, which Kyiv sees as a deliberate act of genocide by the erstwhile Soviets. Also read: Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism "Such things, which speak of the suffering inflicted on the Ukrainian people for decades by Moscow, should be reflected in the museum," he had told a US radio. "If someone says that the museum should not be built during the war, let them give arguments other than that it is necessary to spend money on reconstruction. There are funds," he said unapologetically. Zelensky objects Tkachenko’s lavish plans ended up putting him at odds with the President himself. Zelensky on Thursday (July 20) urged his government to rein in government spending while the nation was at war with Russia. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Wheat prices soar after Russia threatens ships × “In a time of war like this the maximum amount of state attention and therefore state resources should go to defense,” Zelensky said in his nightly video address, after having a conversation with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. He also reportedly asked the PM to consider “changing” the culture minister. Ukraine’s funding woes The development comes as several US lawmakers and staffers express concerns that Ukraine’s coffers could run dry by mid-summer. White House in May said that the administration was not planning to ask Congress for additional funding for Ukraine before the end of September, indicating that Kyiv could be left to fend for itself if the funding crunch takes a toll on the war-torn nation’s defence. Also read: “Thanks to the bipartisan Congressional support for Ukraine, we believe we have the resources we need through the end of this fiscal year,” a White House spokesperson was quoted as saying by CNN. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine’s culture minister resigns amid ‘misunderstanding’ over budget allocation

&nbsp;A massive overnight drone attack was carried out by Russia on Ukraine's capital city Kyiv in which one person was killed and at least four others suffered injuries, said authorities on Thursday, as explosions were heard across the city in the third night of attacks.

"Tonight, a massive attack by Iranian drones took place," the military administration of Kyiv stated on Telegram.

Shahed explosives, which have been made in Iran, "entered the capital from different directions," it stated, adding that "about a dozen" were downed in the airspace of the city. Kyiv claimed that&nbsp;two cruise missiles and&nbsp;20 Russian attack drones were downed on Thursday.

"We have a successful air defence operation," said air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat. "Twenty Shaheds were destroyed -- all those flying were downed. Two Kalibr cruise missiles were also destroyed," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-russian-general-not-seen-in-public-since-mutiny-lawmaker-says-hes-resting-614837">Top Russian general not seen in public since Wagner mutiny, lawmaker says 'he's resting'</a>

<h2>Debris showers on districts</h2>

In five districts, falling debris of the drone was reported, it said, adding that a 23-year-old man and 19-year-old woman were hospitalised with shrapnel wounds.

In Darnytsky district, two people were wounded "as a result of falling debris," wrote Sergiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, on Telegram. However, it remained unclear if the two people mentioned were the same man and woman who were admitted to a hospital.

In Solomyansky, Shevchenkivsky, Podilsky and Darnytsky districts, emergency services responded to frantic calls after "explosions in the capital," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated earlier.

"In Podilsky district, during the firefighting in an apartment building, the body of one dead person was discovered," posted Klitschko on Telegram.&nbsp;

Klitschko added that two people were "hospitalised" in the Darnytsky district after a residential building was damaged because of falling debris.

Meanwhile, two others were treated at the scene in Shevchenkivsky district, said Klitschko.

WATCH |&nbsp;Erdogan: Ukraine, Russia should go back to peace talks | Russia-Ukraine War

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In the Shevchenkivsky district, an apartment building caught fire and another non-residential building was also set ablaze in the Podilsky district, he stated, adding that emergency services immediately reached the site.

Kyiv's military administration shared a picture on&nbsp;Telegram in which a room can be seen in a high-rise building with part of its wall appearing to be blown out, which was said to have been caused by the falling debris in the Darnytsky district.

Ukraine's Air Force issued a warning that the threat of more drone attacks on the city by Russia still remains.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine's progress near Bakhmut&nbsp;</h2>

Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar, from the front line, reported on Telegram: "In the Bakhmut sector, we attacked today on the southern flank around Bakhmut. There is an advance. Our defenders are digging in at their established positions."

Maliar said an attempted Russian advance on towns to the west and north was contained by the Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;

In the southern direction, they "pressed on with offensive operations" towards the Sea of Azov. "In the past week, our defenders in the south have significantly undermined the enemy's attacking and defensive capabilities," she wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A massive overnight drone attack was carried out by Russia on Ukraine's capital city Kyiv in which one person was killed and at least four others suffered injuries, said authorities on Thursday, as explosions were heard across the city in the third night of attacks.

A massive overnight drone attack was carried out by Russia on Ukraine's capital city Kyiv in which one person was killed and at least four others suffered injuries, said authorities on Thursday, as explosions were heard across the city in the third night of attacks. "Tonight, a massive attack by Iranian drones took place," the military administration of Kyiv stated on Telegram. Shahed explosives, which have been made in Iran, "entered the capital from different directions," it stated, adding that "about a dozen" were downed in the airspace of the city. Kyiv claimed that two cruise missiles and 20 Russian attack drones were downed on Thursday. "We have a successful air defence operation," said air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat. "Twenty Shaheds were destroyed -- all those flying were downed. Two Kalibr cruise missiles were also destroyed," he added. ALSO READ | Top Russian general not seen in public since Wagner mutiny, lawmaker says 'he's resting' Debris showers on districts In five districts, falling debris of the drone was reported, it said, adding that a 23-year-old man and 19-year-old woman were hospitalised with shrapnel wounds. In Darnytsky district, two people were wounded "as a result of falling debris," wrote Sergiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, on Telegram. However, it remained unclear if the two people mentioned were the same man and woman who were admitted to a hospital. In Solomyansky, Shevchenkivsky, Podilsky and Darnytsky districts, emergency services responded to frantic calls after "explosions in the capital," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated earlier. "In Podilsky district, during the firefighting in an apartment building, the body of one dead person was discovered," posted Klitschko on Telegram. Klitschko added that two people were "hospitalised" in the Darnytsky district after a residential building was damaged because of falling debris. Meanwhile, two others were treated at the scene in Shevchenkivsky district, said Klitschko. WATCH | Erdogan: Ukraine, Russia should go back to peace talks | Russia-Ukraine War In the Shevchenkivsky district, an apartment building caught fire and another non-residential building was also set ablaze in the Podilsky district, he stated, adding that emergency services immediately reached the site. Kyiv's military administration shared a picture on Telegram in which a room can be seen in a high-rise building with part of its wall appearing to be blown out, which was said to have been caused by the falling debris in the Darnytsky district. Ukraine's Air Force issued a warning that the threat of more drone attacks on the city by Russia still remains. Ukraine's progress near Bakhmut Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar, from the front line, reported on Telegram: "In the Bakhmut sector, we attacked today on the southern flank around Bakhmut. There is an advance. Our defenders are digging in at their established positions." Maliar said an attempted Russian advance on towns to the west and north was contained by the Ukrainian forces. In the southern direction, they "pressed on with offensive operations" towards the Sea of Azov. "In the past week, our defenders in the south have significantly undermined the enemy's attacking and defensive capabilities," she wrote. (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

One killed, four injured after Russia carries out 'massive' overnight strike on Kyiv

Casting doubt over a proposal to supply Ukraine with retired fighter jets, Australia on Thursday said the matter was “complicated".&nbsp;Kyiv earlier requested dozens of retired F-18 fighter jets from Canberra, saying it would significantly boost its air power against the Russian forces.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said the discussions around the F-18 fighter jets were “going on”, but added they were much more difficult than any other form of military support.

<h2>‘We need to be practical’</h2>

While Australia on Wednesday ramped up its support for Ukraine on the sidelines of the NATO summit which concluded in Lithuania, it stopped short of making any promise on fighter jets. Australia announced that it will send an additional fleet of 30 armoured Bushmaster infantry vehicles at a cost of US$67 million to the war-battered nation.

Watch:&nbsp;Will Ukraine ever join the alliance?

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However, the country’s defence minister added that sending aircraft “becomes a much more complicated question."

"The situation around aircraft is pretty complicated, but we will keep having the conversation with Ukraine around that. What we give, and what we do, needs to be practical and needs to make a difference," said Richard Marles.

<h2>Ukraine requested aircraft in June</h2>

Ukraine is setting its eyes on the Royal Australian Air Force's fleet of 71 F-18s that was retired from service between 2019 and 2021. According to military experts, around 40 retired fighter jets are currently sitting in storage; however, it was not clear how many of them were operational.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-to-offer-security-commitments-to-ukraine-after-slow-progress-on-its-nato-induction-614673">Also read:&nbsp;West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction</a>

Ukraine in June requested Australia to provide some of those fighter jets to help its counteroffensive against Russia. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, said in June, “There has been a request for information. Ukraine is looking at fighter jet capabilities, including this one."

<h2>Ukraine’s current aerial firepower</h2>

According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies' Military Balance publication, Ukraine currently possesses around 82 fighter and attack jets. Sending these aircraft to Ukraine would involve significant diplomatic and logistical negotiations, making a swift agreement unlikely.

Meanwhile, Australia recently revealed its plan to deploy an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance plane to Germany temporarily. The aircraft will be stationed there for six months and will be responsible for monitoring supply routes that connect to Ukraine.

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Casting doubt over a proposal to supply Ukraine with retired fighter jets, Australia on Thursday said the matter was “complicated". Kyiv earlier requested dozens of retired F-18 fighter jets from Canberra, saying it would significantly boost its air power against the Russian forces.

Casting doubt over a proposal to supply Ukraine with retired fighter jets, Australia on Thursday said the matter was “complicated". Kyiv earlier requested dozens of retired F-18 fighter jets from Canberra, saying it would significantly boost its air power against the Russian forces. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said the discussions around the F-18 fighter jets were “going on”, but added they were much more difficult than any other form of military support. ‘We need to be practical’ While Australia on Wednesday ramped up its support for Ukraine on the sidelines of the NATO summit which concluded in Lithuania, it stopped short of making any promise on fighter jets. Australia announced that it will send an additional fleet of 30 armoured Bushmaster infantry vehicles at a cost of US$67 million to the war-battered nation. Watch: Will Ukraine ever join the alliance? × However, the country’s defence minister added that sending aircraft “becomes a much more complicated question." "The situation around aircraft is pretty complicated, but we will keep having the conversation with Ukraine around that. What we give, and what we do, needs to be practical and needs to make a difference," said Richard Marles. Ukraine requested aircraft in June Ukraine is setting its eyes on the Royal Australian Air Force's fleet of 71 F-18s that was retired from service between 2019 and 2021. According to military experts, around 40 retired fighter jets are currently sitting in storage; however, it was not clear how many of them were operational. Also read: West to offer long-term security commitments to Ukraine after slow progress on its NATO induction Ukraine in June requested Australia to provide some of those fighter jets to help its counteroffensive against Russia. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, said in June, “There has been a request for information. Ukraine is looking at fighter jet capabilities, including this one." Ukraine’s current aerial firepower According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies' Military Balance publication, Ukraine currently possesses around 82 fighter and attack jets. Sending these aircraft to Ukraine would involve significant diplomatic and logistical negotiations, making a swift agreement unlikely. Meanwhile, Australia recently revealed its plan to deploy an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance plane to Germany temporarily. The aircraft will be stationed there for six months and will be responsible for monitoring supply routes that connect to Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘It’s complicated': Australia snubs Ukraine’s request for fighter jets

As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meets NATO leaders in Lithuania, Russia launched a wave of Kamikaze drone attacks on Kyiv and other cities for a second night in row. According to the Ukrainian military, Russia launched a total of 15 of the Iranian drones on Ukraine.

War in Ukraine: Russia launches air strikes over Kyiv, wave of Kamikaze drone attacks on Kyiv | WION

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Turkey agrees to support Sweden's NATO bid, France's Macron and Italy's Meloni in Vilnius ahead of summit, US and Kyiv suspect Wagner nearing Nuclear base, Knesset gives initial nod to controversial judicial bill.

Turkey agrees to support Sweden's NATO bid | NATO Summit 2023 | WION Speed News

Russia's entry into Ukraine for what Moscow referred to as a special military operation in February 2022 marked the start of Europe's deadliest conflict, but 500 days later, fighting has continued with explosions at the Crimean Bridge and the Nordstrom Pipeline.

Kyiv: Russian attack kills 8, injures 13 in Lyman in Eastern Ukraine | Russia-Ukraine War

Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv is the hotbed of the Russia-Ukraine war. The city is back in the news but not for the usual reasons. Debris from eight British Hurricane Fighter Jets has been found in there, take a look.

Remains of eight British Hurricane Fighter Jets found in Ukraine

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