The commander in chief of Ukraine claims that Russia has gathered significant forces at several locations along the eastern front, west of three villages, where the outnumbered troops of Kyiv withdrew to take up new positions.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian troops take control of key positions while advancing further into Ukrainian villages

Three global conflicts- the Israel-Iran proxy war, the Israel-Hamas war, and the Russia-Ukraine war have caused havoc. Conscription is becoming a necessity amid a shortage of regular troops. However, citizens are finding ways to avoid the mandatory military service. With civilians in strong disagreement to pick up arms, will war-hit Israel and Ukraine rely on Private Military Contractors (PMCs)? WION Decodes the story.

Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day - Putin plans to visit China in May - Egypt warns of catastrophic consequences - IDF pounds targets in South Lebanon

PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day | Putin plans to visit China in May

The United States in recent weeks secretly shipped long-range missiles to Ukraine for use in its battle to fight off Russian invaders, and Ukraine has now used them twice, a U.S. official said on Wednesday (April 24).

US quietly ships long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine despite Russia's warning

A Russian court on Wednesday ordered one of Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu's deputies to be kept in custody on suspicion of taking bribes, the highest-profile corruption case since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in 2022.

Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov was detained on Tuesday at work by the Federal Security Service (FSB), the main successor to the Soviet-era KGB, for accepting large bribes.

Moscow's Basmanny District Court ordered Ivanov to be kept in custody until June 23. Ivanov, 48, was shown in uniform standing in a glass cage in court, frowning slightly, footage released by the court service showed.

"The investigation believes that Ivanov entered into a criminal conspiracy with third parties, teamed up with them in advance to commit an organised crime by an organised group," the court service said.

It said the conspiracy was to receive "property and services on a particularly large scale during contract and sub-contract work for the ministry of defence."

Ivanov, who said he was innocent, faces 15 years in jail if convicted. State media gave the case full coverage.

The sudden arrest of an ally of Shoigu, whom Putin tasked with fighting the war in Ukraine, triggered speculation about a battle within the elite and of a public crackdown on the corruption that has plagued Russia's post-Soviet armed forces.

Some Russian bloggers, who have accused senior generals of incompetence, rejoiced at the apparent fall of a top military official long linked to the ostentatious opulence which Putin has made clear he does not want to see displayed in wartime.

A Russian source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Ivanov was a close ally of Shoigu and that his arrest was a sharp blow to the defence minister. Shoigu, a Putin ally and one of Russia's most powerful men, is widely expected to keep his position in a coming government reshuffle.

Ivanov, who has served as deputy minister since 2016, was in charge of property management, housing, construction and mortgages at the defence ministry, whose spending has spiralled since the war began.

The TASS state news agency said the investigation into Ivanov has been underway for some time and that the FSB's military counter-intelligence department was involved.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/russia-warns-pakistani-rice-ban-over-violation-in-phytosanitary-requirements-713618" hreflang="en">Russia warns of ban on Pakistani rice imports over violation in phytosanitary requirements</a>

The Kremlin dismissed a Russian report that Ivanov may be suspected of treason as pure speculation.

Ivanov had long been the subject of journalistic investigations. Russia's Anti-Corruption Foundation, headed by the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, had alleged that Ivanov and his family lived a life of luxury including yachts, helicopters, visits to the French Riviera, purchases of diamonds, and a 19th Century mansion in Moscow.

Forbes magazine listed Ivanov as one of the wealthiest men in Russia's security structures. Other investigations alleged corruption in Russia's reconstruction of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol now controlled by Russian forces.

Ivanov was unable to comment as he was in detention. Putin last month ordered the FSB to root out corruption in state defence procurement.

Ivanov, who graduated with from Moscow State University with a mathematics degree, rose through the ranks of Russia's state atomic energy sector before becoming deputy head of the Moscow region government under Shoigu, who was then governor.

Some Russian military bloggers have long accused top generals of corruption, especially after the army's hurried withdrawal from parts of Ukraine after over-extending itself during the first days of the invasion.

"It is clear that this is a tectonic shift," said Yuri Podolyaka, a popular pro-Russian military blogger. "And this is not about Ivanov... I hope this is only the beginning."

A Russian court on Wednesday ordered one of Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu's deputies to be kept in custody on suspicion of taking bribes, the highest-profile corruption case since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in 2022.

A Russian court on Wednesday ordered one of Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu's deputies to be kept in custody on suspicion of taking bribes, the highest-profile corruption case since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in 2022. Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov was detained on Tuesday at work by the Federal Security Service (FSB), the main successor to the Soviet-era KGB, for accepting large bribes. Moscow's Basmanny District Court ordered Ivanov to be kept in custody until June 23. Ivanov, 48, was shown in uniform standing in a glass cage in court, frowning slightly, footage released by the court service showed. "The investigation believes that Ivanov entered into a criminal conspiracy with third parties, teamed up with them in advance to commit an organised crime by an organised group," the court service said. It said the conspiracy was to receive "property and services on a particularly large scale during contract and sub-contract work for the ministry of defence." Ivanov, who said he was innocent, faces 15 years in jail if convicted. State media gave the case full coverage. The sudden arrest of an ally of Shoigu, whom Putin tasked with fighting the war in Ukraine, triggered speculation about a battle within the elite and of a public crackdown on the corruption that has plagued Russia's post-Soviet armed forces. Some Russian bloggers, who have accused senior generals of incompetence, rejoiced at the apparent fall of a top military official long linked to the ostentatious opulence which Putin has made clear he does not want to see displayed in wartime. A Russian source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Ivanov was a close ally of Shoigu and that his arrest was a sharp blow to the defence minister. Shoigu, a Putin ally and one of Russia's most powerful men, is widely expected to keep his position in a coming government reshuffle. Ivanov, who has served as deputy minister since 2016, was in charge of property management, housing, construction and mortgages at the defence ministry, whose spending has spiralled since the war began. The TASS state news agency said the investigation into Ivanov has been underway for some time and that the FSB's military counter-intelligence department was involved. Also read: Russia warns of ban on Pakistani rice imports over violation in phytosanitary requirements The Kremlin dismissed a Russian report that Ivanov may be suspected of treason as pure speculation. Ivanov had long been the subject of journalistic investigations. Russia's Anti-Corruption Foundation, headed by the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, had alleged that Ivanov and his family lived a life of luxury including yachts, helicopters, visits to the French Riviera, purchases of diamonds, and a 19th Century mansion in Moscow. Forbes magazine listed Ivanov as one of the wealthiest men in Russia's security structures. Other investigations alleged corruption in Russia's reconstruction of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol now controlled by Russian forces. Ivanov was unable to comment as he was in detention. Putin last month ordered the FSB to root out corruption in state defence procurement. Ivanov, who graduated with from Moscow State University with a mathematics degree, rose through the ranks of Russia's state atomic energy sector before becoming deputy head of the Moscow region government under Shoigu, who was then governor. Some Russian military bloggers have long accused top generals of corruption, especially after the army's hurried withdrawal from parts of Ukraine after over-extending itself during the first days of the invasion. "It is clear that this is a tectonic shift," said Yuri Podolyaka, a popular pro-Russian military blogger. "And this is not about Ivanov... I hope this is only the beginning."

Russia Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov arrested for alleged bribery, faces 15 years in jail if convicted

A 240-metre&nbsp;television tower can be seen snapped in half and collapsed on the ground in videos emerging from&nbsp;the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Local authorities believe&nbsp;that the incident was probably the result of a Russian missile strike targeting television infrastructure.

As a result, broadcasting signals to Ukraine's second-largest city were disrupted, adding to the&nbsp;damage caused by ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks in the area.

"At the moment there are interruptions to the digital television signal," regional governor Oleh Syniehubov said.

No casualties occurred because workers were in shelters, he mentioned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-is-preparing-for-potential-summer-offensive-by-russia-713717">Also read |&nbsp;Zelensky says Ukraine is preparing for potential summer offensive by Russia</a>

Video footage captured the main mast of the tower breaking and falling while a cloud of smoke rose into the sky.

Watch the video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kharkiv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kharkiv</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>🇺🇦- Television broadcasting tower is struck with half the mast collapsing in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KharkivCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KharkivCity</a>, while signal disruptions are also being reported <a href="https://t.co/y7o57lH1sl">pic.twitter.com/y7o57lH1sl</a>
— CyclistAnons🚲 (@CyclistAnons) <a href="https://twitter.com/CyclistAnons/status/1782470477870661664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Although the footage didn't clarify what hit the mast, Kharkiv prosecutors indicated that Russia likely used a cruise Kh-59 missile in the attack.&nbsp;

In early March 2022, Russia initiated multiple attacks on Kharkiv's television tower shortly after&nbsp;its full-blown&nbsp;invasion, resulting in signal disruptions.

Recently, Moscow has intensified its assaults, coinciding with Ukraine's limited air defence capabilities. Kharkiv and its neighbouring areas have faced the brunt of these heightened attacks.

<h2>Russia captures key frontline village in eastern Ukraine</h2>

Additionally,&nbsp;Russia announced its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-captures-key-frontline-village-in-eastern-ukraine-as-zelensky-pleads-for-urgent-us-aid-713881">seizure of the village of Novomykhailivka</a> in eastern Ukraine. This development coincides with Ukrainian officials' caution about the worsening situation on the frontlines in the upcoming weeks.

The Russian defence ministry in a statement said the “units of the southern grouping of troops have completely liberated the settlement of Novomykhailivka."

Also watch |&nbsp;Setback for Ukraine as Russia takes control of the settlement of Bohdanivka

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/setback-for-ukraine-as-russia-takes-control-of-the-settlement-of-bohdanivka-713843/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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)

A 240-metre television tower can be seen snapped in half and collapsed on the ground in videos emerging from the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Local authorities believe that the incident was probably the result of a Russian missile strike targeting television infrastructure.

A 240-metre television tower can be seen snapped in half and collapsed on the ground in videos emerging from the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Local authorities believe that the incident was probably the result of a Russian missile strike targeting television infrastructure. As a result, broadcasting signals to Ukraine's second-largest city were disrupted, adding to the damage caused by ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks in the area. "At the moment there are interruptions to the digital television signal," regional governor Oleh Syniehubov said. No casualties occurred because workers were in shelters, he mentioned. Also read | Zelensky says Ukraine is preparing for potential summer offensive by Russia Video footage captured the main mast of the tower breaking and falling while a cloud of smoke rose into the sky. Watch the video here: #Kharkiv #Ukraine🇺🇦- Television broadcasting tower is struck with half the mast collapsing in #KharkivCity, while signal disruptions are also being reported pic.twitter.com/y7o57lH1sl — CyclistAnons🚲 (@CyclistAnons) April 22, 2024 × Although the footage didn't clarify what hit the mast, Kharkiv prosecutors indicated that Russia likely used a cruise Kh-59 missile in the attack. In early March 2022, Russia initiated multiple attacks on Kharkiv's television tower shortly after its full-blown invasion, resulting in signal disruptions. Recently, Moscow has intensified its assaults, coinciding with Ukraine's limited air defence capabilities. Kharkiv and its neighbouring areas have faced the brunt of these heightened attacks. Russia captures key frontline village in eastern Ukraine Additionally, Russia announced its seizure of the village of Novomykhailivka in eastern Ukraine. This development coincides with Ukrainian officials' caution about the worsening situation on the frontlines in the upcoming weeks. The Russian defence ministry in a statement said the “units of the southern grouping of troops have completely liberated the settlement of Novomykhailivka." Also watch | Setback for Ukraine as Russia takes control of the settlement of Bohdanivka 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)

240-metre TV tower in Ukraine snaps in two, collapses after alleged Russian missile strike. VIDEO

The Russia-Ukraine war continues to rage on. Ukraine is seeking military aid to fight Russia. Sunak pledges UK’s largest-ever military support package for Ukraine. What will be included in the UK's military package for Ukraine? Watch this video to find out.

Rishi Sunak announces UK’s largest-ever military support package for Ukraine

Russia is continuing its assault on Ukraine. Ukraine is on the verge of losing Chasiv Yar. Russia captures the settlement of Bohdanivka. Is Ukraine running out of steam? Watch this video for all details.

Setback for Ukraine as Russia takes control of the settlement of Bohdanivka

Ukrainian President escaped a death plot. A Polish man has been charged over claims of assisting in an assassination plot on Volodymyr Zelensky.

Did Russia try to assassinate Ukrainian President Zelensky?

Ukraine said it shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber for the first time on Friday (April 19), destroying a warplane capable of carrying long-range missiles used to attack Ukrainian cities.

Ukraine says it shot down Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber for the first time

For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used&nbsp;for launching cruise missiles into its territory.

"For the first time, anti-aircraft missile units of the air force in cooperation with the defence intelligence of Ukraine destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber," Ukraine's military said in a statement, according to news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The official handle of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry posted on X, "The Ukrainian Air Force shot down the enemy Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, which Russia used to attack Ukrainian cities. In addition, our warriors repelled another massive air attack and shot down 29 aerial targets: 2 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles; 14 Shahed UAVs; 11 Kh-59/Kh-69 guided air missiles; 2 Kh-22 cruise missiles."

Watch the video here:

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This morning, a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber crashed outside of Stavropol. 
 
Footage of the Russian bomber falling, burning and in a flatspin: <a href="https://t.co/QJ5yg1vtSU">pic.twitter.com/QJ5yg1vtSU</a>
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1781178675045552537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Russian officials stated that one crew member of the plane died when it crashed in the southern Stavropol region while returning to base.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-arrests-man-on-charges-of-spying-for-russia-and-plotting-zelenskys-assassination-712839">Also read |&nbsp;Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination</a>

"A Russian armed forces Tu-22M3 aircraft crashed in the Stavropol region while returning to the base aerodrome after performing a combat mission. The pilots ejected," the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russia's defence ministry as saying.&nbsp;

<h2>Crew member dies as Russian bomber crashes in southern Russia</h2>

In a post on Telegram, Stavropol governor Vladimir Vladimirov confirmed the death of one crew member and stated that two others were taken to a medical facility. "The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," he added.

Stavropol, situated in Russia's north Caucasus, east of Crimea, has experienced multiple attacks during the war. According to the AFP report citing the governor, the plane crashed in the region's Krasnogvardeysky district, approximately 400 km from the eastern edge of Crimea.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pentagon admits Russia's battlefield gains

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The main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry reported, "The plane was shot down at a distance of about 300 kilometres from Ukraine. As a result of the hit, the bomber was able to fly to the Stavropol area, where it crashed." 
 
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)

For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used for launching cruise missiles into its territory.

For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian long-range bomber used for launching cruise missiles into its territory. "For the first time, anti-aircraft missile units of the air force in cooperation with the defence intelligence of Ukraine destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber," Ukraine's military said in a statement, according to news agency AFP. The official handle of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry posted on X, "The Ukrainian Air Force shot down the enemy Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, which Russia used to attack Ukrainian cities. In addition, our warriors repelled another massive air attack and shot down 29 aerial targets: 2 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles; 14 Shahed UAVs; 11 Kh-59/Kh-69 guided air missiles; 2 Kh-22 cruise missiles." Watch the video here: This morning, a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber crashed outside of Stavropol. Footage of the Russian bomber falling, burning and in a flatspin: pic.twitter.com/QJ5yg1vtSU — OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) April 19, 2024 × Russian officials stated that one crew member of the plane died when it crashed in the southern Stavropol region while returning to base. Also read | Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination "A Russian armed forces Tu-22M3 aircraft crashed in the Stavropol region while returning to the base aerodrome after performing a combat mission. The pilots ejected," the state-run TASS news agency quoted Russia's defence ministry as saying. Crew member dies as Russian bomber crashes in southern Russia In a post on Telegram, Stavropol governor Vladimir Vladimirov confirmed the death of one crew member and stated that two others were taken to a medical facility. "The search for the fourth pilot is continuing," he added. Stavropol, situated in Russia's north Caucasus, east of Crimea, has experienced multiple attacks during the war. According to the AFP report citing the governor, the plane crashed in the region's Krasnogvardeysky district, approximately 400 km from the eastern edge of Crimea. Also watch | Pentagon admits Russia's battlefield gains The main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry reported, "The plane was shot down at a distance of about 300 kilometres from Ukraine. As a result of the hit, the bomber was able to fly to the Stavropol area, where it crashed." 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)

VIDEO: Ukraine’s strike sends Russian bomber into tailspin

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - US, EU to up Iran sanctions - Poll: 74% of Israelis oppose attacking Iran - Iran calls Putin as Israel plans retaliation - Trump blasts trial judge as 'conflicted' - Smoking bill advances in UK Parliament

Trump blasts trial judge as 'conflicted' | Smoking bill advances in UK Parliament

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - US, EU to up Iran sanctions - Poll: 74% of Israelis oppose attacking Iran - Iran calls Putin as israel plans retaliation - Trump blasts trial judge as 'conflicted'

US, EU to up Iran sanctions | Iran calls Putin as Israel plans retaliation

Russian paratroopers have reached the eastern edge of the Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar, which Kyiv's top commander says Moscow wants taken by May 9, the date when Russia marks the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.

Why is Russia trying to capture the Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar?

Niger has beckoned a new friend. The Sahel nation recently severed ties with France and the US with the junta government demanding the full withdrawal of their troops from the nation. Russian president Vladimir Putin has vowed full military support to junta run nations in west Africa.

100 Russian military instructors in Niger

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Biden warns on Beijing's South China sea moves - Boeing safety hearing in focus - Putin calls Ukraine peace summit a 'circus' - Israel preparing for other scenarios

Putin calls Ukraine peace summit a 'circus' | Boeing safety hearing in focus

President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (April 11) that Russia had been obliged to launch strikes that have inflicted heavy damage on Ukrainian energy sites in response to Kyiv's attacks on Russian targets.

Here's what Putin has to say on Russia attacking Ukrainian energy infrastructure

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Taiwan warns of Chinese disinfo during Indian polls - FBI: Possible attack in US after Russia massacre - Israel preparing for other scenarios - Biden warns on Beijing's South China sea moves - Putin justifies strikes on Ukraine energy grid - Boeing safety hearing in focus

Putin justifies strikes on Ukraine energy grid | Israel preparing for other scenarios

In Russia,&nbsp;journalist Antonida Smolina&nbsp;found herself under police scrutiny for an unexpected reason: her choice of clothing.

Smolina, aged 38 and hailing from Veliky Ustyug, was interrogated by law enforcement officials after sharing photos of herself wearing a yellow down jacket on social media. The seemingly innocent act of sporting the jacket against a backdrop of a vaguely blue sky led to accusations of supporting&nbsp;Ukraine's colours, an action considered to disregard&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin's government and military.

"A district police officer came to me," recounted Smolina, describing the encounter. "He said that a certain Valery P wrote a statement against me to the police."&nbsp;

She was accused of wearing a jacket colour that was associated with enemy symbols, which was seen as undermining the government's authority. However, Smolina defended herself by stating that the colour of her jacket was more accurately described as "Crayola."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-visit-beijing-soon-lavrovs-china-visit-lays-groundwork-as-two-countries-defy-west-709744">Also read |&nbsp;Putin to visit Beijing soon? Lavrov's China visit lays groundwork as the two countries defy West</a>

<h2>Social media enraged</h2>

This incident shows how strict laws in Russia can make even clothing choices political. Social media users mocked the situation, highlighting the absurdity of linking ordinary things to political rebellion.

Commenters sarcastically remarked, with one saying, "Yellow is banned? The rainbow is banned? The triumph of greyness." Another joked, "The next step is to ban the yellow sun against the blue sky. This is enemy symbolism."

Expressing concern over the stifling political atmosphere, Smolina lamented, "The post that so offended Valery P has nothing to do with politics, but politics is killing the souls of my fellow countrymen."

Also watch |&nbsp;West Asia picks Vladimir Putin over Biden and Xi Jinping

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Despite the pressure, she remains steadfast, insisting that she changed her jacket solely due to seasonal considerations, not because of the complaint against her.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In Russia, journalist Antonida Smolina found herself under police scrutiny for an unexpected reason: her choice of clothing. Smolina, aged 38 and hailing from Veliky Ustyug, was interrogated by law enforcement officials after sharing photos of herself wearing a yellow down jacket on social media.

In Russia, journalist Antonida Smolina found herself under police scrutiny for an unexpected reason: her choice of clothing. Smolina, aged 38 and hailing from Veliky Ustyug, was interrogated by law enforcement officials after sharing photos of herself wearing a yellow down jacket on social media. The seemingly innocent act of sporting the jacket against a backdrop of a vaguely blue sky led to accusations of supporting Ukraine's colours, an action considered to disregard President Vladimir Putin's government and military. "A district police officer came to me," recounted Smolina, describing the encounter. "He said that a certain Valery P wrote a statement against me to the police." She was accused of wearing a jacket colour that was associated with enemy symbols, which was seen as undermining the government's authority. However, Smolina defended herself by stating that the colour of her jacket was more accurately described as "Crayola." Also read | Putin to visit Beijing soon? Lavrov's China visit lays groundwork as the two countries defy West Social media enraged This incident shows how strict laws in Russia can make even clothing choices political. Social media users mocked the situation, highlighting the absurdity of linking ordinary things to political rebellion. Commenters sarcastically remarked, with one saying, "Yellow is banned? The rainbow is banned? The triumph of greyness." Another joked, "The next step is to ban the yellow sun against the blue sky. This is enemy symbolism." Expressing concern over the stifling political atmosphere, Smolina lamented, "The post that so offended Valery P has nothing to do with politics, but politics is killing the souls of my fellow countrymen." Also watch | West Asia picks Vladimir Putin over Biden and Xi Jinping Despite the pressure, she remains steadfast, insisting that she changed her jacket solely due to seasonal considerations, not because of the complaint against her. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian woman interrogated for wearing yellow jacket on the beach. Know why

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Biden's unpopularity in West Asia making room for his rivals?

The Russian air force is increasing its use&nbsp;of updated Soviet-era weaponry, adapted for modern warfare, to bombard Ukrainian forces, devastate towns, and gain a battlefield edge for Moscow.

“The experience of the past months and weeks shows that the enemy has significantly increased aircraft activity, using guided air bombs that destroy our positions,” Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said.

The guided weapons, often called "glide bombs," are outdated projectiles traditionally released from Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft directly onto targets. With the addition of inexpensive pop-out wings and a satellite navigation system, these once "dumb bombs" can now be deployed by Russian bombers far beyond the front line, beyond the reach of Ukraine's air defence systems.

The glide bombs have a capacity ranging from 500 kilogrammes to 1.5 tonnes of explosives and can travel over 60 kilometres, creating craters up to 20 metres&nbsp;wide and 6 metres deep.

They are highly destructive, leading Ukrainian analysts associated with Deep State, a group affiliated with the defence ministry, to describe them as a weapon against which Kyiv's forces have&nbsp;“practically no countermeasures.”

Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the&nbsp;Financial Times&nbsp;that his country’s soldiers “are being massively, and I would say even routinely, attacked by guided aerial bombs that wipe out our positions”.

Ukrainian defence officials report that Russians have launched approximately 3,500 of these guided aerial bombs at Ukraine this year alone, marking a sixteenfold increase from 2023.

In the third week of March alone, Russia “launched over 700 guided aerial bombs”, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Ukraine requires a substantial increase in modern air defence systems to counter these threats. According to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the rise in glide-bomb attacks highlights the scarcity of air defence weaponry. Delays in European military aid and a stalled $US60 billion package from the US Congress have contributed to this shortage.

During the final week of March, Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, experienced two attacks from "unified multipurpose" glide bombs, which can travel up to 90 kilometres. This marked the city's first encounter with aerial bombs, rather than missiles or drones, since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Since the invasion in February 2022, the Russian air force has played a minor role. The conflict has mainly involved ground battles, resembling a blend of World War I-style trench warfare with modern drone technology.

However, as the fighting has stabilised in recent months, the air war over Ukraine has intensified. In March, Russia launched several&nbsp;cruise and ballistic missiles at Ukrainian energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. These strikes caused prolonged power outages in Kharkiv and endangered hydroelectric power plants in Kaniv and Zaporizhzhia.

At the same time, Kyiv targeted several oil refineries and a drone factory deep within Russia, along with warships and command facilities of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Crimea.

Experts believe that Russia's air force is now taking on a crucial role, shifting the momentum of the war in its favour. This shift is attributed to the development and deployment of glide bombs.

In a recent assessment, the Institute for the Study of War noted that the Russian military effectively used&nbsp;"mass glide-bomb strikes" during the seizure of Avdiivka in mid-February.

Hundreds of glide bombs destroyed the town in the Donetsk region, compelling Ukrainian troops to withdraw.

“These bombs completely destroy any position. All buildings and structures simply turn into a pit after the impact of just one,” Egor Sugar, a Ukrainian soldier who fought in Avdiivka, wrote on X. “And they drop 60-80 on us in one day.”

The leader of the armed forces attributed the use of glide bombs as a significant factor in his decision to order troops to withdraw from Avdiivka. This retreat marked Moscow's first significant battlefield victory in almost a year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-help-hundreds-of-angry-russians-in-orsk-demand-compensation-after-floods-destroys-their-homes-709266">Also read |&nbsp;'Putin help': Hundreds of angry Russians hold rare protest after floods destroy over 10,000 homes</a>

<h2>Large-scale manufacturing</h2>

Currently, Russia is increasing the production of glide bombs and modernising the 500-kilogramme FAB-500 and the 1500-kilogramme FAB-1500 bombs.

Earlier this month, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visited a factory in the Nizhny Novgorod region, where he examined production facilities.

The defence ministry said the factory had “increased the production of FAB-500 aerial bombs many times over [and] doubled the production of the FAB-1500”.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia's Glide bombs add to firepower advantage, know all about these bombs

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-glide-bombs-add-to-firepower-advantage-know-all-about-these-bombs-709474/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Yet, Western experts and even prominent pro-Kremlin military bloggers on Telegram, who run channels devoted to Russia's air force, have voiced doubts regarding the FAB-3000.

Several have called&nbsp;it as impractical since it can only be transported by Tupolev Tu-22M bombers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

&nbsp;

The Russian air force is increasing its use of updated Soviet-era weaponry, adapted for modern warfare, to bombard Ukrainian forces, devastate towns, and gain a battlefield edge for Moscow.

The Russian air force is increasing its use of updated Soviet-era weaponry, adapted for modern warfare, to bombard Ukrainian forces, devastate towns, and gain a battlefield edge for Moscow. “The experience of the past months and weeks shows that the enemy has significantly increased aircraft activity, using guided air bombs that destroy our positions,” Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said. The guided weapons, often called "glide bombs," are outdated projectiles traditionally released from Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft directly onto targets. With the addition of inexpensive pop-out wings and a satellite navigation system, these once "dumb bombs" can now be deployed by Russian bombers far beyond the front line, beyond the reach of Ukraine's air defence systems. The glide bombs have a capacity ranging from 500 kilogrammes to 1.5 tonnes of explosives and can travel over 60 kilometres, creating craters up to 20 metres wide and 6 metres deep. They are highly destructive, leading Ukrainian analysts associated with Deep State, a group affiliated with the defence ministry, to describe them as a weapon against which Kyiv's forces have “practically no countermeasures.” Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba told the Financial Times that his country’s soldiers “are being massively, and I would say even routinely, attacked by guided aerial bombs that wipe out our positions”. Ukrainian defence officials report that Russians have launched approximately 3,500 of these guided aerial bombs at Ukraine this year alone, marking a sixteenfold increase from 2023. In the third week of March alone, Russia “launched over 700 guided aerial bombs”, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Ukraine requires a substantial increase in modern air defence systems to counter these threats. According to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the rise in glide-bomb attacks highlights the scarcity of air defence weaponry. Delays in European military aid and a stalled $US60 billion package from the US Congress have contributed to this shortage. During the final week of March, Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, experienced two attacks from "unified multipurpose" glide bombs, which can travel up to 90 kilometres. This marked the city's first encounter with aerial bombs, rather than missiles or drones, since the start of the full-scale invasion. Since the invasion in February 2022, the Russian air force has played a minor role. The conflict has mainly involved ground battles, resembling a blend of World War I-style trench warfare with modern drone technology. However, as the fighting has stabilised in recent months, the air war over Ukraine has intensified. In March, Russia launched several cruise and ballistic missiles at Ukrainian energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. These strikes caused prolonged power outages in Kharkiv and endangered hydroelectric power plants in Kaniv and Zaporizhzhia. At the same time, Kyiv targeted several oil refineries and a drone factory deep within Russia, along with warships and command facilities of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Crimea. Experts believe that Russia's air force is now taking on a crucial role, shifting the momentum of the war in its favour. This shift is attributed to the development and deployment of glide bombs. In a recent assessment, the Institute for the Study of War noted that the Russian military effectively used "mass glide-bomb strikes" during the seizure of Avdiivka in mid-February. Hundreds of glide bombs destroyed the town in the Donetsk region, compelling Ukrainian troops to withdraw. “These bombs completely destroy any position. All buildings and structures simply turn into a pit after the impact of just one,” Egor Sugar, a Ukrainian soldier who fought in Avdiivka, wrote on X. “And they drop 60-80 on us in one day.” The leader of the armed forces attributed the use of glide bombs as a significant factor in his decision to order troops to withdraw from Avdiivka. This retreat marked Moscow's first significant battlefield victory in almost a year. Also read | 'Putin help': Hundreds of angry Russians hold rare protest after floods destroy over 10,000 homes Large-scale manufacturing Currently, Russia is increasing the production of glide bombs and modernising the 500-kilogramme FAB-500 and the 1500-kilogramme FAB-1500 bombs. Earlier this month, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visited a factory in the Nizhny Novgorod region, where he examined production facilities. The defence ministry said the factory had “increased the production of FAB-500 aerial bombs many times over [and] doubled the production of the FAB-1500”. Also watch | Russia's Glide bombs add to firepower advantage, know all about these bombs Yet, Western experts and even prominent pro-Kremlin military bloggers on Telegram, who run channels devoted to Russia's air force, have voiced doubts regarding the FAB-3000. Several have called it as impractical since it can only be transported by Tupolev Tu-22M bombers. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Explained | How are Russia’s low-cost glide bombs changing the nature of the war in Ukraine?

An odd move became the talk of the town in Russia's Chechnya. Authorities in the Russian Republic of Chechnya have announced a ban on music. The ban has been imposed on music that authorities consider too fast or slow.

Why did Russia's Chechnya ban all music deemed too fast or too slow?

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Russia, China talk Eurasia cooperation - Israeli PM Netanyahu sets date for Rafah invasion - Sunak against children changing gender identity - US: Another Indian student found dead - Putin-Xi meet on the cards

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The Russia-Ukraine war is intensifying. A range of lethal weapons are deployed in Ukraine. Russia is using 1,500-kilogram FAB Russian glide bombs. Are FAB glide bombs proving to be a game-changer? Watch this video to find out.

Russian 'glide bombs' changing the face of war in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Moscow cannot be the target of Islamic fundamentalists. The statement comes after the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the March 22nd attack that claimed lives of 144 people. Watch in for more details!

Moscow Terror Attack | Russia can't be target for Islamic fundamentalists: President Putin

Moscow Terror Attack: Putin says Moscow attack aimed at tampering Russia's unity

NATO celebrated the alliance's 75th anniversary. As per reports, Kremlin responded by saying that Russia and NATO are now in "direct confrontation".

Russia and NATO are now in 'direct confrontation', says Kremlin

Ukrainian president Zelensky says that Ukraine is responding to Russian attacks with "longer-range" strikes. Is the Ukraine war expanding beyond the Russian frontlines?

Gravitas | Ukraine strikes deep into Russia

The Kremlin has dismissed a report that Russian military intelligence might be behind the mysterious "Havana syndrome" ailment that has afflicted US diplomats and spies globally. Watch in for more details!

Kremlin dismisses report Russia behind 'Havana Syndrome' calls it baseless accusations by media

Hackers have reportedly hacked a major&nbsp;Russian prison database, obtaining sensitive information. This breach occurred shortly after the death of prominent opposition figure Alexey Navalny, stirring speculation about potential motives and repercussions. According to an exclusive report from CNN, a faction of anti-Kremlin cybercriminals carried out&nbsp;this breach as a form of retaliation against the Russian government, following Navalny's death.

The timing of this breach is important,&nbsp;considering the recent passing of Alexey Navalny, who was serving a disputed 19-year prison sentence on charges of extremism, which he vehemently contested as politically motivated.

CNN's investigation into the matter includes interviews with hackers and scrutiny of evidence, including screenshots and leaked data. It has been revealed that the hackers used a computer network linked to Russia's prison system to insert Navalny's photo onto a compromised website operated by a prison contractor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-he-approved-prisoner-swap-involving-alexei-navalny-before-his-death-701272">Also read |&nbsp;Putin says he approved prisoner swap involving Alexei Navalny before his death</a>

<h2>Allegations and accusations</h2>

Navalny's death has sparked widespread condemnation and suspicion, with his supporters, relatives, and various Western leaders accusing the Kremlin of culpability—a charge firmly rejected by Russian authorities. After Navalny's passing, his wife has pledged to carry on his legacy, alongside his followers who continue to point fingers at Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

A striking message, "Long live Alexey Navalny," flashed on the hacked website, accompanied by a photograph of Navalny and his wife, Yulia, at a political gathering.

Reports indicate that beyond merely breaching the site, hackers also gained access to a database housing details of hundreds of thousands of Russian prisoners, including their associates.

This database allegedly contained information about prisoners&nbsp;in the Arctic penal colony where Navalny died February 16.

Also watch |&nbsp;Putin says Russia will not attack NATO, but F-16s will be shot down in Ukraine | WION Fineprint

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Furthermore, it has been reported that the hackers exploited the compromised system to manipulate prices on the Russian prison's online store, resulting in heavily discounted items.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hackers have reportedly hacked a major Russian prison database, obtaining sensitive information. This breach occurred shortly after the death of prominent opposition figure Alexey Navalny, stirring speculation about potential motives and repercussions.

Hackers have reportedly hacked a major Russian prison database, obtaining sensitive information. This breach occurred shortly after the death of prominent opposition figure Alexey Navalny, stirring speculation about potential motives and repercussions. According to an exclusive report from CNN, a faction of anti-Kremlin cybercriminals carried out this breach as a form of retaliation against the Russian government, following Navalny's death. The timing of this breach is important, considering the recent passing of Alexey Navalny, who was serving a disputed 19-year prison sentence on charges of extremism, which he vehemently contested as politically motivated. CNN's investigation into the matter includes interviews with hackers and scrutiny of evidence, including screenshots and leaked data. It has been revealed that the hackers used a computer network linked to Russia's prison system to insert Navalny's photo onto a compromised website operated by a prison contractor. Also read | Putin says he approved prisoner swap involving Alexei Navalny before his death Allegations and accusations Navalny's death has sparked widespread condemnation and suspicion, with his supporters, relatives, and various Western leaders accusing the Kremlin of culpability—a charge firmly rejected by Russian authorities. After Navalny's passing, his wife has pledged to carry on his legacy, alongside his followers who continue to point fingers at Russian President Vladimir Putin. A striking message, "Long live Alexey Navalny," flashed on the hacked website, accompanied by a photograph of Navalny and his wife, Yulia, at a political gathering. Reports indicate that beyond merely breaching the site, hackers also gained access to a database housing details of hundreds of thousands of Russian prisoners, including their associates. This database allegedly contained information about prisoners in the Arctic penal colony where Navalny died February 16. Also watch | Putin says Russia will not attack NATO, but F-16s will be shot down in Ukraine | WION Fineprint Furthermore, it has been reported that the hackers exploited the compromised system to manipulate prices on the Russian prison's online store, resulting in heavily discounted items. (With inputs from agencies)

Navalny’s retaliation? Hackers allegedly breach massive Russian prisoner database

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