NATO and the US secretary of state announced military aid to Ukraine and said more weapons are on their way to Ukraine. For more analysis and information, we're joined by VOA's correspondent Jessica Stone.

WION-VOA Co-Production: US announces military aid to Ukraine | Covid surge alarms the World

It’s been six weeks since the Russian invasion started, and Ukraine since then has been repeatedly asking Western countries for equipments to help battle the invasion.

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, made another request on Thursday at the NATO headquarters for planes, armoured vehicles, air defence systems and land-based anti-ship missiles.

Responding to the request, NATO member Slovakia delivered its S-300 air defence system to Ukraine, confirmed Prime Minister Eduard Heger.

The announcement&nbsp;was made a day after the United States declared that more than 30 countries are sending military help to Kyiv.

"I would like to confirm that #Slovakia has provided #Ukraine with an air-defence system S-300. #Ukrainian nation is #bravely defending its sovereign country and us too. It is our duty to help, not to stay put and be ignorant to the loss of human lives under #Russia’s aggression," he tweeted on Friday.

He asserted that Slovakia’s defence system is secure&nbsp;and added that he would visit Kyiv on Friday.

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The prime minister further said that Slovakia would be receiving additional equipments from NATO allies to make further donations.

Watch |&nbsp;Slovakia sends Russian-made S-300 missile system to Ukraine amid Russian invasion

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The donation made by the NATO member&nbsp;is the first one to Ukraine ever since the invasion started in February. On March, Germany and Netherlands sent three batteries of Patriot air defence system to Slovakia which will replace the S-300.

Moreover, Slovakia's defence minister Jaroslav Nad said they would be receiving the fourth patriot from the US next week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-at-least-52-killed-in-train-station-missile-strike-469520">Ukraine-Russia war: At least 52 killed in missile strike on train station</a>

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden thanked Slovakia for sending help to Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

It’s been six weeks since the Russian invasion started, and Ukraine since then has been repeatedly asking Western countries for equipments to help battle the invasion.

It’s been six weeks since the Russian invasion started, and Ukraine since then has been repeatedly asking Western countries for equipments to help battle the invasion. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, made another request on Thursday at the NATO headquarters for planes, armoured vehicles, air defence systems and land-based anti-ship missiles. Responding to the request, NATO member Slovakia delivered its S-300 air defence system to Ukraine, confirmed Prime Minister Eduard Heger. The announcement was made a day after the United States declared that more than 30 countries are sending military help to Kyiv. "I would like to confirm that #Slovakia has provided #Ukraine with an air-defence system S-300. #Ukrainian nation is #bravely defending its sovereign country and us too. It is our duty to help, not to stay put and be ignorant to the loss of human lives under #Russia’s aggression," he tweeted on Friday. He asserted that Slovakia’s defence system is secure and added that he would visit Kyiv on Friday. Also read | India is focusing on stablisation of economic ties with Russia: MEA The prime minister further said that Slovakia would be receiving additional equipments from NATO allies to make further donations. Watch | Slovakia sends Russian-made S-300 missile system to Ukraine amid Russian invasion The donation made by the NATO member is the first one to Ukraine ever since the invasion started in February. On March, Germany and Netherlands sent three batteries of Patriot air defence system to Slovakia which will replace the S-300. Moreover, Slovakia's defence minister Jaroslav Nad said they would be receiving the fourth patriot from the US next week. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war: At least 52 killed in missile strike on train station Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden thanked Slovakia for sending help to Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Slovakia sends S-300 air defence system to Kyiv

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO has pledged to step up military aid to Ukraine. Ukraine has also demanded an energy embargo on Russia.

NATO to step up military aid to Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion

NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg held a news conference on the group's response to the Ukraine war. He said that we are not here to provoke but we are focused on prevention.

NATO chief's comments after meet, says not here to provoke but prevent conflict

During the 2nd day meeting of NATO foreign ministers, Ukraine asked for more weapons. Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said, "The more weapons we get and the sooner they arrive in Ukraine, the more human lives will be saved."

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Ukraine asks for more weapons from NATO

NATO Foreign Ministers have arrived for a 2-Day NATO summit. The leaders will address the Russian invasion and Bucha killings.

NATO Foreign Ministers arrive for 2-Day NATO summit to address Ukraine & Bucha killings

NATO foreign ministers meet in Brussels for a 2-day summit to address Russian invasion and Bucha killings. Nations participating in the summit will extend their support to Ukraine

2-Day NATO summit to address Russian invasion & Bucha killings, Allies to support Ukraine

Former German chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's criticism of calling her 2008 decision to block Ukraine from immediately joining NATO a "miscalculation."

Defending her decision, she said, "In view of the atrocities uncovered in Bucha and other places in Ukraine, all efforts by the government and the international community to stand by Ukraine's side and to bring an end to Russia's barbarism and war against Ukraine have the former chancellor's full support."

Merkel said that the organisation made the decision because it found that the political conditions were not met at that point.

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“I invite Mrs. Merkel and Mr. Sarkozy to visit Bucha and see what their policy of concessions towards Russia has led to in 14 years. See with your own eyes the tortured Ukrainians and Ukrainian women,” Zelensky had said in a night-late address.

Merkel was Germany’s first female chancellor. She was also a driving force behind EU sanctions against Russia over its annexation of Crimea and backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine.

She had retired from politics late last year after four consecutive terms in power. Experts believe that her detente policy towards the Kremlin leader left Germany and Europe vulnerable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/punish-russia-or-dissolve-yourself-altogether-zelensky-tells-the-unsc-468686" hreflang="en">'Punish Russia or 'dissolve yourself altogether': Zelensky tells the UNSC</a>

"My adherence to Nord Stream 2 was clearly a mistake," said German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. He had served as Foreign Minister under Chancellor Angela Merkel before being elevated to the presidency.

"We were sticking to a bridge in which Russia no longer believed and which other partners had warned us against."

"We failed to build a common European house," Steinmeier said. "I did not believe Vladimir Putin would embrace his country's complete economic, political and moral ruin for the sake of his imperial madness," he added.

Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Tuesday that “we are looking at what solutions there are, together with the EU, NATO and in particular the G-7 partners.”

She dismissed criticism that Germany is not&nbsp;doing enough to arm Ukraine, saying “there aren’t many other countries that have supplied more (weapons).” 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former German chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's criticism of calling her 2008 decision to block Ukraine from immediately joining NATO a "miscalculation.

Former German chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's criticism of calling her 2008 decision to block Ukraine from immediately joining NATO a "miscalculation." Defending her decision, she said, "In view of the atrocities uncovered in Bucha and other places in Ukraine, all efforts by the government and the international community to stand by Ukraine's side and to bring an end to Russia's barbarism and war against Ukraine have the former chancellor's full support." Merkel said that the organisation made the decision because it found that the political conditions were not met at that point. “I invite Mrs. Merkel and Mr. Sarkozy to visit Bucha and see what their policy of concessions towards Russia has led to in 14 years. See with your own eyes the tortured Ukrainians and Ukrainian women,” Zelensky had said in a night-late address. Merkel was Germany’s first female chancellor. She was also a driving force behind EU sanctions against Russia over its annexation of Crimea and backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine. She had retired from politics late last year after four consecutive terms in power. Experts believe that her detente policy towards the Kremlin leader left Germany and Europe vulnerable. Also read | 'Punish Russia or 'dissolve yourself altogether': Zelensky tells the UNSC "My adherence to Nord Stream 2 was clearly a mistake," said German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. He had served as Foreign Minister under Chancellor Angela Merkel before being elevated to the presidency. "We were sticking to a bridge in which Russia no longer believed and which other partners had warned us against." "We failed to build a common European house," Steinmeier said. "I did not believe Vladimir Putin would embrace his country's complete economic, political and moral ruin for the sake of his imperial madness," he added. Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Tuesday that “we are looking at what solutions there are, together with the EU, NATO and in particular the G-7 partners.” She dismissed criticism that Germany is not doing enough to arm Ukraine, saying “there aren’t many other countries that have supplied more (weapons).” (With inputs from agencies)

Angela Merkel rejects Zelensky's criticism, stands by her decision to block Ukraine from NATO

Ukraine war: What Panzerfaust 3 weapons can do against Russian tanks

Just days after Russia and Ukraine concluded their talks in Istanbul, NATO declared that "Russia is trying to regroup, resupply and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas region".

"Russia maintains pressure on Kyiv and other cities. So, we can expect additional offensive actions, bringing even more suffering," NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg warned&nbsp;citing intelligence sources.

Russian negotiators had said that its forces would "radically" scale down attacks on Kyiv and northern Ukraine in order to ensure a conducive atmosphere amid the talks.

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"Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions. So we can only judge Russia on its actions, not on its words," Stoltenberg said echoing similar thoughts by US President Joe Biden earlier.

Stoltenberg added that there is "little willingness" on Russia's part to "find a political solution". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier dismissed reports of Russia scaling back troops, even though he said the Russian declaration was "positive" but added his troops won't let down their defences.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine says Russia renewing focus on Donbas region

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"We see continued shelling of cities and we see that Russia is re-positioning some of the troops," Stoltenberg said, adding, "There is a close link between what is going on on the battlefield and what is going on around the negotiating table."

Meanwhile, the Boris Johnson government announced fresh sanctions against Russian "propagandists" including pro-Russian media operations as it accused them of spreading "lies and deceit" about the invasion.

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Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said sanctions have been imposed on "shameless propagandists who push out Putin's fake news and narratives" while adding that "nothing and no one is off the table."

Amid the fighting, Ukraine's government said it is sending buses to evacuate civilians from the besieged city of Mariupol which has come under heavy Russian bombardment.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Just days after Russia and Ukraine concluded their talks in Istanbul, NATO declared that "Russia is trying to regroup, resupply and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas region".

Just days after Russia and Ukraine concluded their talks in Istanbul, NATO declared that "Russia is trying to regroup, resupply and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas region". "Russia maintains pressure on Kyiv and other cities. So, we can expect additional offensive actions, bringing even more suffering," NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg warned citing intelligence sources. Russian negotiators had said that its forces would "radically" scale down attacks on Kyiv and northern Ukraine in order to ensure a conducive atmosphere amid the talks. Also Read in Pics: 'Multiple launches': Russia fires Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missiles in Ukraine war "Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions. So we can only judge Russia on its actions, not on its words," Stoltenberg said echoing similar thoughts by US President Joe Biden earlier. Stoltenberg added that there is "little willingness" on Russia's part to "find a political solution". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier dismissed reports of Russia scaling back troops, even though he said the Russian declaration was "positive" but added his troops won't let down their defences. Watch: Ukraine says Russia renewing focus on Donbas region "We see continued shelling of cities and we see that Russia is re-positioning some of the troops," Stoltenberg said, adding, "There is a close link between what is going on on the battlefield and what is going on around the negotiating table." Meanwhile, the Boris Johnson government announced fresh sanctions against Russian "propagandists" including pro-Russian media operations as it accused them of spreading "lies and deceit" about the invasion. Also Read in Pics: Russia's tactical nuclear weapons arsenal: Will Putin use it? Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said sanctions have been imposed on "shameless propagandists who push out Putin's fake news and narratives" while adding that "nothing and no one is off the table." Amid the fighting, Ukraine's government said it is sending buses to evacuate civilians from the besieged city of Mariupol which has come under heavy Russian bombardment. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia trying to reinforce offensive in Donbas; maintains pressure on Kyiv: NATO

Russian&nbsp;hackers&nbsp;have recently attempted to penetrate the networks of&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;and the&nbsp;militaries&nbsp;of some&nbsp;eastern&nbsp;European&nbsp;countries,&nbsp;Google's Threat Analysis Group said in a report published on Wednesday.

The report did not say which&nbsp;militaries&nbsp;had been&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;in what&nbsp;Google&nbsp;described as "credential phishing campaigns" launched by a&nbsp;Russian-based group called Coldriver, or Callisto.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-zelensky-dismisses-russian-claims-of-scaleback-pakistan-politics-and-more-467041">Morning news brief: Zelensky dismisses Russian claims of scaleback, Pakistan politics, and more</a>

"These campaigns were sent using newly created Gmail accounts to non-Google&nbsp;accounts, so the success rate of these campaigns is unknown," the report&nbsp;said.

Russia, which is now under heavy Western economic sanctions following its decision to invade Ukraine on Feb. 24, regularly denies accusations of mounting cyber attacks on Western targets.

In 2019, Finnish cybersecurity firm F-Secure Labs described Callisto as an unidentified and advanced threat actor "interested in intelligence gathering related to foreign and security policy" in Europe.

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The group also&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;a&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;Centre of Excellence, Wednesday's&nbsp;Google&nbsp;report said, without elaborating.

In a statement,&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;did not directly address&nbsp;Google's report but said: "We see malicious cyber activity on a daily basis."

"NATO&nbsp;Centres of Excellence work alongside the Alliance but they are not part of&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;as such. We are in touch with them on this issue," the statement said.

Watch |&nbsp;United States: Putin misled on how war progressed

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Russian hackers have recently attempted to penetrate the networks of NATO and the militaries of some eastern European countries, Google's Threat Analysis Group said in a report published on Wednesday.

Russian hackers have recently attempted to penetrate the networks of NATO and the militaries of some eastern European countries, Google's Threat Analysis Group said in a report published on Wednesday. The report did not say which militaries had been targeted in what Google described as "credential phishing campaigns" launched by a Russian-based group called Coldriver, or Callisto. Also read | Morning news brief: Zelensky dismisses Russian claims of scaleback, Pakistan politics, and more "These campaigns were sent using newly created Gmail accounts to non-Google accounts, so the success rate of these campaigns is unknown," the report said. Russia, which is now under heavy Western economic sanctions following its decision to invade Ukraine on Feb. 24, regularly denies accusations of mounting cyber attacks on Western targets. In 2019, Finnish cybersecurity firm F-Secure Labs described Callisto as an unidentified and advanced threat actor "interested in intelligence gathering related to foreign and security policy" in Europe. Also read | ‘Russia may single out and detain US citizens’: State Dept issues another travel advisory The group also targeted a NATO Centre of Excellence, Wednesday's Google report said, without elaborating. In a statement, NATO did not directly address Google's report but said: "We see malicious cyber activity on a daily basis." "NATO Centres of Excellence work alongside the Alliance but they are not part of NATO as such. We are in touch with them on this issue," the statement said. Watch | United States: Putin misled on how war progressed

Russian hackers targeted NATO, eastern European militaries: Google

In a recent development in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Zelensky has criticised the West for not doing enough and demanded the West give arms to Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky calls on NATO to support Kyiv

Was British Prime Minister Boris Johnson snubbed by the world leaders ahead of the NATO group photo? The UK media thinks&nbsp;so.

NATO, G7 and European leaders have gathered in Brussels for a crucial meeting about Russia’s war in Ukraine.

But what stood out at the photo op was that Johnson appeared to be standing alone awkwardly as the European Union (EU) leaders shook hands with each other.

A clip shared by Mirror appeared to show French President Emmanuel Macron cheerfully chatting with US leader Joe Biden, while Johnson is left all alone.

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Show the whole video and then we'll see who's having an awkward moment.<a href="https://t.co/HpTYxATWTG">https://t.co/HpTYxATWTG</a>
— pabel (@Pabel5Pabel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pabel5Pabel/status/1507018859605233667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Soon, netizens jumped into it the whole supposed fiasco, branding the UK PM as an “embarrassment” while others quipped that the video shows what world leaders think of “global Britain.”

One user said it looked like ‘an undress rehearsal for The Emperor’s New Clothes’.

The video garnered so much attention as Johnson and Macron have previously failed to see eye to eye on the world stage.

In September last year, Johnson reportedly told Macron to “get a grip” over cancellation of a defence deal due to a pact between the UK, US and Australia.

Then in December, Macron, according to a report in The Guardian, privately called Johnson a “clown”.

But a few hours later, the full video of the NATO gathering was posted by Forbes and other publications, which showed the UK prime minister engaging in a conversation with other EU leaders and greeting US President Joe Biden. He even shook hands with the French prime minister.

“Show the whole video and then we'll see who's having an awkward moment,” a Twitter user said, posting the full clip.

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President Biden Meets With NATO Allies In Brussels <a href="https://t.co/DeAEiJw9s4">https://t.co/DeAEiJw9s4</a> <a href="https://t.co/lYIQqJqIhh">pic.twitter.com/lYIQqJqIhh</a>
— Forbes (@Forbes) <a href="https://twitter.com/Forbes/status/1506969668589965313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;addressed NATO members on Thursday and claimed that Russia has used phosphorus bombs in an attack.

Was British Prime Minister Boris Johnson snubbed by the world leaders ahead of the NATO group photo? The UK media thinks so. NATO, G7 and European leaders have gathered in Brussels for a crucial meeting about Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Was British Prime Minister Boris Johnson snubbed by the world leaders ahead of the NATO group photo? The UK media thinks so. NATO, G7 and European leaders have gathered in Brussels for a crucial meeting about Russia’s war in Ukraine. But what stood out at the photo op was that Johnson appeared to be standing alone awkwardly as the European Union (EU) leaders shook hands with each other. A clip shared by Mirror appeared to show French President Emmanuel Macron cheerfully chatting with US leader Joe Biden, while Johnson is left all alone. Show the whole video and then we'll see who's having an awkward moment.https://t.co/HpTYxATWTG — pabel (@Pabel5Pabel) March 24, 2022 × Soon, netizens jumped into it the whole supposed fiasco, branding the UK PM as an “embarrassment” while others quipped that the video shows what world leaders think of “global Britain.” One user said it looked like ‘an undress rehearsal for The Emperor’s New Clothes’. The video garnered so much attention as Johnson and Macron have previously failed to see eye to eye on the world stage. In September last year, Johnson reportedly told Macron to “get a grip” over cancellation of a defence deal due to a pact between the UK, US and Australia. Then in December, Macron, according to a report in The Guardian, privately called Johnson a “clown”. But a few hours later, the full video of the NATO gathering was posted by Forbes and other publications, which showed the UK prime minister engaging in a conversation with other EU leaders and greeting US President Joe Biden. He even shook hands with the French prime minister. “Show the whole video and then we'll see who's having an awkward moment,” a Twitter user said, posting the full clip. President Biden Meets With NATO Allies In Brussels https://t.co/DeAEiJw9s4 pic.twitter.com/lYIQqJqIhh — Forbes (@Forbes) March 24, 2022 × Earlier, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed NATO members on Thursday and claimed that Russia has used phosphorus bombs in an attack.

Watch: UK PM Boris Johnson ‘snubbed’ ahead of NATO group photo

US President Joe Biden met Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov on Saturday in Warsaw, in his first face-to-face meeting with top Ukrainian officials since the start of the war.

Kuleba and Reznikov have made a rare trip out of Ukraine as a possible sign of growing confidence in the fightback against Russian forces.

The meeting took place at the Marriott Hotel in the city centre,&nbsp;opposite a Warsaw train station where there has been a constant flow of Ukrainian refugees since the conflict started.

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More&nbsp;security assurances

''We did receive additional promises from the United States on how our defence co-operation will evolve,"&nbsp;Kuleba&nbsp;told reporters.

Kuleba&nbsp;said they were working with international organisations to get information on Ukrainians that have been evacuated to Russia “by force”, and also to prevent companies providing elements use in weapons to Russia.

"(When) our defenders capture enemy soldiers and their equipment, we discover especially vulnerable instruments they use in fighting against us... And we see which companies produce this or that detail or element, we inform our partners and prepare the next wave of sanctions against those foreign companies that deliver to Russia."

Biden last met Kuleba in Washington on February 22,&nbsp;two days before Russia began its assault. Since then, Kuleba has also met with Blinken in Poland next to the border with Ukraine on March 5.

Warsaw, the backdrop for the remarks, was until the collapse of communist rule in 1989 behind the Iron Curtain for four decades, under Soviet influence and a member of the Moscow-led Warsaw Pact security alliance.

Now, Poland is the biggest formerly communist member of the European Union and NATO, the security alliance founded to counter the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/increase-energy-output-so-that-nobody-can-use-it-as-a-weapon-to-blackmail-zelensky-to-doha-forum-465665" hreflang="en">Increase energy output so that nobody can use it as a weapon to blackmail: Zelensky to Doha Forum</a>

The rise of rightwing populism in Poland in recent years has put it in conflict with the European Union and Washington, but the threat of Russia pressing beyond its borders has drawn Poland closer to its Western neighbours.

Labels Putin a 'butcher'&nbsp;

Biden&nbsp;branded Russian President Vladimir Putin a "butcher" during a meeting with refugees who have fled the war in Ukraine to the Polish capital.

He added that Putin could not remain in power, and his war against Ukraine has been a strategic failure for Moscow.

"For God's sake, this man cannot remain in power," Biden told a crowd in Warsaw. Biden also said the Russia-Ukraine war, now in its second month, had united the West, adding that NATO was a defensive alliance that never sought Russia's demise.

"The West is now stronger, more united than it has ever been," Biden told hundreds of Polish elected officials, students and U.S. embassy staff, many holding U.S., Polish and Ukrainian flags.

"We need to steel ourselves for the long fight ahead."

Biden, who took office last year after a violently contested election, vowed to restore democracy at home and unite democracies abroad to confront autocrats including the Russian president and China's leader Xi Jinping.

Putin's February 24 invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a "special operation", has tested that promise and threatened to inaugurate a new Cold War three decades after the Soviet Union unravelled.

Biden is on the second and final day of a visit to Poland after he met with EU and NATO leaders in Brussels earlier in the week.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/one-month-since-russia-invaded-ukraine-hundreds-dead-millions-displaced-when-will-it-end-465149">One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end?</a>

Washington, seeking to avoid a direct conflict with Russia, rejected a surprise offer by Poland to transfer Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a US base in Germany to be used to replenish Ukraine's air force.

Now, Poland wants to accelerate the purchase of US.-made Patriot missiles, F35 fighter jets and tanks for its own security, and seek reassurance on NATO commitments to defend its members.

"Above all, we want the unshakable guarantee that the United States provides within the framework of the alliance," the head of the National Security Bureau, Pawel Soloch, said on Friday.&nbsp;

"Especially here, to Poland and the countries of the region. If there was an attack on Poland, the USA would defend Poland."

The US&nbsp;and many of its allies have imposed multiple rounds of economic and other sanctions on Russian individuals, banks, and other entities in hopes that the cumulative effect over time will force Putin to withdraw his troops.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden met Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov on Saturday in Warsaw, in his first face-to-face meeting with top Ukrainian officials since the start of the war.

US President Joe Biden met Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov on Saturday in Warsaw, in his first face-to-face meeting with top Ukrainian officials since the start of the war. Kuleba and Reznikov have made a rare trip out of Ukraine as a possible sign of growing confidence in the fightback against Russian forces. The meeting took place at the Marriott Hotel in the city centre, opposite a Warsaw train station where there has been a constant flow of Ukrainian refugees since the conflict started. Also read | Ukraine war: Main goal is the liberation of Donbass, says Russian general More security assurances ''We did receive additional promises from the United States on how our defence co-operation will evolve," Kuleba told reporters. Kuleba said they were working with international organisations to get information on Ukrainians that have been evacuated to Russia “by force”, and also to prevent companies providing elements use in weapons to Russia. "(When) our defenders capture enemy soldiers and their equipment, we discover especially vulnerable instruments they use in fighting against us... And we see which companies produce this or that detail or element, we inform our partners and prepare the next wave of sanctions against those foreign companies that deliver to Russia." Biden last met Kuleba in Washington on February 22, two days before Russia began its assault. Since then, Kuleba has also met with Blinken in Poland next to the border with Ukraine on March 5. Warsaw, the backdrop for the remarks, was until the collapse of communist rule in 1989 behind the Iron Curtain for four decades, under Soviet influence and a member of the Moscow-led Warsaw Pact security alliance. Now, Poland is the biggest formerly communist member of the European Union and NATO, the security alliance founded to counter the Soviet Union. Also read | Increase energy output so that nobody can use it as a weapon to blackmail: Zelensky to Doha Forum The rise of rightwing populism in Poland in recent years has put it in conflict with the European Union and Washington, but the threat of Russia pressing beyond its borders has drawn Poland closer to its Western neighbours. Labels Putin a 'butcher' Biden branded Russian President Vladimir Putin a "butcher" during a meeting with refugees who have fled the war in Ukraine to the Polish capital. He added that Putin could not remain in power, and his war against Ukraine has been a strategic failure for Moscow. "For God's sake, this man cannot remain in power," Biden told a crowd in Warsaw. Biden also said the Russia-Ukraine war, now in its second month, had united the West, adding that NATO was a defensive alliance that never sought Russia's demise. "The West is now stronger, more united than it has ever been," Biden told hundreds of Polish elected officials, students and U.S. embassy staff, many holding U.S., Polish and Ukrainian flags. "We need to steel ourselves for the long fight ahead." Biden, who took office last year after a violently contested election, vowed to restore democracy at home and unite democracies abroad to confront autocrats including the Russian president and China's leader Xi Jinping. Putin's February 24 invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a "special operation", has tested that promise and threatened to inaugurate a new Cold War three decades after the Soviet Union unravelled. Biden is on the second and final day of a visit to Poland after he met with EU and NATO leaders in Brussels earlier in the week. Also see | One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end? Washington, seeking to avoid a direct conflict with Russia, rejected a surprise offer by Poland to transfer Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets to a US base in Germany to be used to replenish Ukraine's air force. Now, Poland wants to accelerate the purchase of US.-made Patriot missiles, F35 fighter jets and tanks for its own security, and seek reassurance on NATO commitments to defend its members. "Above all, we want the unshakable guarantee that the United States provides within the framework of the alliance," the head of the National Security Bureau, Pawel Soloch, said on Friday. "Especially here, to Poland and the countries of the region. If there was an attack on Poland, the USA would defend Poland." The US and many of its allies have imposed multiple rounds of economic and other sanctions on Russian individuals, banks, and other entities in hopes that the cumulative effect over time will force Putin to withdraw his troops. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden meets Ukrainian ministers in first face-to-face meeting since Russia's invasion

As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, Russian President Vladimir Putin has placed nuclear forces on high alert. Recently, NATO warned that Russia can't win nuclear war.

The threat of a nuclear war: Russia reasserts rights to use nukes

US President Joe Biden holds a news conference after emergency meeting with NATO leaders in Brussels.

US President Joe Biden speaks after emergency meeting with NATO leaders

US President Joe Biden attended an emergency NATO summit as well as a gathering of the Group of Seven industrialised nations and a summit of the 27 members of the European Union.

WION-VOA Co-Production: US President Joe Biden meets leaders from NATO, G7 and EU

Russia's invasion of Ukraine began one month ago. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky today demanded "unlimited assistance" from NATO. Once again, NATO has responded with more bluster. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: 1 month of Ukraine invasion: More bluster from NATO

European leaders have assembled for 2nd day in Brussels to establish trust funds for Ukrainians. Joe Biden has also sealed the energy deal to help Europe and said that US will provide natural gas to Europe.

Day 2 of EU Council Summit: US to provide natural gas to Europe

US President Joe Biden said that he wants Russia out of the G-20. Biden made the comments during a press conference in Brussels following a series of urgent NATO meetings on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Also, the world leaders have convene first of trio of emergency summits in Brussels focusing on Russia’s month-long war in Ukraine.

US President Joe Biden supports calls to exclude Moscow from G-20

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO leaders met in Brussels. NATO allies are bolstering its eastern flank.

NATO leaders meet in Brussels amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

US President Joe Biden has said that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will retaliate if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine.

"The single most important thing is for us to stay unified and the world continue to focus on what a brute this guy is and all the innocent people's lives that are being lost and ruined," Biden told reporters in Brussels, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Biden's Europe trip for the series of high-level meetings, is designed to underscore Washington's willingness to defend NATO allies, as fears rise that the month-old war in Ukraine could yet spark what he has called "World War III".

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Around the capital, Kyiv, and other areas, Ukrainian defenders have fought Moscow’s ground troops to a near-stalemate, raising fears that a frustrated Putin will resort to chemical, biological or nuclear weapons.

With the war headed into a second month, the two sides traded heavy blows in what has become a devastating war of attrition.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has also said that Russia may find a pretext to attack Ukraine with chemical or biological weapons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/one-month-since-russia-invaded-ukraine-hundreds-dead-millions-displaced-when-will-it-end-465149" hreflang="en">One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end?</a>

"We are concerned partly because we see the rhetoric and we see that Russia is trying to create some kind of pretext accusing Ukraine, the United States and NATO allies of preparing to use chemical and biological weapons," he told reporters after a NATO summit in Brussels, adding any use of chemical weapons would have widespread consequences.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pleaded with the Western allies via video for planes, tanks, rockets, air defense systems and other weapons, saying his country is “defending our common values.”

He said thousands of people, including 128 children, have died in the first month of the war. Across the country, 230 schools and 155 kindergartens have been destroyed. Cities and villages “lie in ashes,” he said.

The Russian invasion unleashed on February 24 has killed thousands of people, sent 3.6 million abroad, smashed cities and driven more than half of Ukraine's children from their homes, according to the United Nations. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden has said that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will retaliate if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine. "The single most important thing is for us to stay unified and the world continue to focus on what a brute this guy is and all the innocent people's lives that are being lost and ruined," Biden told reporters in Brussels, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

US President Joe Biden has said that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will retaliate if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine. "The single most important thing is for us to stay unified and the world continue to focus on what a brute this guy is and all the innocent people's lives that are being lost and ruined," Biden told reporters in Brussels, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Biden's Europe trip for the series of high-level meetings, is designed to underscore Washington's willingness to defend NATO allies, as fears rise that the month-old war in Ukraine could yet spark what he has called "World War III". Around the capital, Kyiv, and other areas, Ukrainian defenders have fought Moscow’s ground troops to a near-stalemate, raising fears that a frustrated Putin will resort to chemical, biological or nuclear weapons. With the war headed into a second month, the two sides traded heavy blows in what has become a devastating war of attrition. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has also said that Russia may find a pretext to attack Ukraine with chemical or biological weapons. Also read | One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end? "We are concerned partly because we see the rhetoric and we see that Russia is trying to create some kind of pretext accusing Ukraine, the United States and NATO allies of preparing to use chemical and biological weapons," he told reporters after a NATO summit in Brussels, adding any use of chemical weapons would have widespread consequences. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pleaded with the Western allies via video for planes, tanks, rockets, air defense systems and other weapons, saying his country is “defending our common values.” He said thousands of people, including 128 children, have died in the first month of the war. Across the country, 230 schools and 155 kindergartens have been destroyed. Cities and villages “lie in ashes,” he said. The Russian invasion unleashed on February 24 has killed thousands of people, sent 3.6 million abroad, smashed cities and driven more than half of Ukraine's children from their homes, according to the United Nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden warns NATO retaliation if Russia uses chemical weapons in Ukraine

NATO is looking to expand its forces towards central and eastern Europe, the chief of alliance said on Wednesday.

Speaking ahead of a gathering of NATO leaders in Brussels, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned Russia against using nuclear weapons, but also added that it does not seek a direct confrontation.

"I expect leaders will agree to strengthen NATO's posture in all domains, with major increases in the eastern part of the alliance. On land, in the air and at sea," Stoltenberg told a news conference.

He added that the decision to send forces eastward would be taken on Thursday during the NATO summit in Brussels.

NATO has sharply increased its presence at the eastern border of the alliance, with some 40,000 troops spread from the Baltic to the Black Sea, and is seeking to deploy four new combat units in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, he said.

The secretary-general also said that he expects leaders to task military commanders with looking into the alliance’s long-term options.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-us-president-biden-to-visit-poland-on-europe-trip-this-week-464181">Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland on Europe trip this week</a>

“There is a need to reset our deterrence and defence, and I expect that to be a substantial increase in our presence for the long term,” Stoltenberg said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden headed to Brussels on Wednesday to attend an emergency&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;Summit, address&nbsp;European Union&nbsp;leaders and hold meetings with G-7 leaders.

He will have the opportunity to coordinate on the next phase of military assistance to Ukraine, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters at a White House news conference on Tuesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-spies-in-poland-country-expels-45-russian-diplomats-for-espionage-464868">Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage</a>

According to the White House, President Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, Prime Minister Mario Draghi of Italy, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom are all slated to attend.

Biden has no plans to visit Ukraine, according to White House officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

NATO is looking to expand its forces towards central and eastern Europe, the chief of alliance said on Wednesday. Speaking ahead of a gathering of NATO leaders in Brussels, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned Russia against using nuclear weapons, but also added that it does not seek a direct confrontation.

NATO is looking to expand its forces towards central and eastern Europe, the chief of alliance said on Wednesday. Speaking ahead of a gathering of NATO leaders in Brussels, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned Russia against using nuclear weapons, but also added that it does not seek a direct confrontation. "I expect leaders will agree to strengthen NATO's posture in all domains, with major increases in the eastern part of the alliance. On land, in the air and at sea," Stoltenberg told a news conference. He added that the decision to send forces eastward would be taken on Thursday during the NATO summit in Brussels. NATO has sharply increased its presence at the eastern border of the alliance, with some 40,000 troops spread from the Baltic to the Black Sea, and is seeking to deploy four new combat units in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, he said. The secretary-general also said that he expects leaders to task military commanders with looking into the alliance’s long-term options. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland on Europe trip this week “There is a need to reset our deterrence and defence, and I expect that to be a substantial increase in our presence for the long term,” Stoltenberg said. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden headed to Brussels on Wednesday to attend an emergency NATO Summit, address European Union leaders and hold meetings with G-7 leaders. He will have the opportunity to coordinate on the next phase of military assistance to Ukraine, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters at a White House news conference on Tuesday. Also read | Russian spies in Poland?: Country expels 45 Russian diplomats for espionage According to the White House, President Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, Prime Minister Mario Draghi of Italy, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom are all slated to attend. Biden has no plans to visit Ukraine, according to White House officials. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO looking to boost forces in eastern Europe, says alliance chief Stoltenberg

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg will remain in his role for an extra year to help steer the 30-nation military organization through the security crisis sparked by Russia's war on Ukraine.

NATO Chief Stoltenberg's term extended by a year due to Russia-Ukraine war

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