A super yacht which was seized from a sanctioned Russian oligarch has cost the American taxpayers a total of $20 million and nearly $1 million per month to maintain, recent court filings showed. This comes as the war in Ukraine rages on and Kyiv’s Western allies, including the United States, have imposed thousands of sanctions against Russia in response.

<h2>About the Russian oligarch’s superyacht</h2>

The US Department of Justice has sought permission to sell the 348-foot yacht called Amadea which was seized in 2022. Estimated at a price of&nbsp;around $300 million, the superyacht was&nbsp;allegedly owned by Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;'Any war is a tragedy', says Russian President Putin as Ukraine war enters third year

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/any-war-is-a-tragedy-says-russian-president-putin-as-ukraine-war-enters-third-year-697659/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kerimov was sanctioned by the US Treasury Department in 2014 and again in 2018 in response to Russia’s activities in Syria and Ukraine.&nbsp;

The US government has sought to sell the mega-yacht, which is currently docked in San Diego, for $230 million due to the “excessive costs” of the maintenance and crew which can be as high as $922,000 a month.&nbsp;

According to the court documents, monthly costs for Amadea include $600,000 per month in running costs; $360,000 for the crew; $75,000 for fuel; and $165,000 for maintenance.&nbsp;

The ship also requires an additional $144,000 in insurance and the occasional one-off fees to cover dry docking expenses which add another $178,000 to the monthly bill.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/filipino-nationals-two-among-three-killed-in-houthi-missile-attack-in-gulf-of-aden-697466">Two Filipino nationals among three killed in Houthi missile attack in Gulf of Aden</a>

“It is excessive for taxpayers to pay nearly a million dollars per month to maintain the Amadea when these expenses could be reduced to zero through sale,” the US prosecutors argued in the court filing.&nbsp;

In previous court filings, prosecutors have also said that these maintenance payments are essential to preserving the yacht’s value.

<h2>Battle over Amadea</h2>

The US government has tried to previously get rid of the yacht but the efforts to auction it have been challenged by Eduard Khudainatov, who led the Russian state oil and gas company Rosneft from 2010 to 2013.

Khudainatov who has claimed ownership of the Amadea said that it cannot be forfeited because he has not been sanctioned. However, in previous court filings, prosecutors have alleged that he is acting as the superyacht’s “straw owner” to disguise Kerimov’s role.&nbsp;

However, the Russian oligarch’s lawyers have argued that the motion to sell the vessel was “premature” and urged the judge to decline it till the court “determines whether the seizure was unconstitutional.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-lawmakers-introduce-bill-targeting-tiktok-over-national-security-concerns-697591">US lawmakers introduce bill targeting TikTok over national security concerns</a>

The court battle over Amadea highlights the financial and legal challenges of the sanctions imposed by the US which also involves seizing and selling assets owned by Russian oligarchs. If the US government succeeds,&nbsp;they would likely eventually transfer sale proceeds to support Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, last week suggested something similar saying that the EU should use profits from more than $200 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s war effort.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A super yacht which was seized from a sanctioned Russian oligarch has cost the American taxpayers a total of $20 million and nearly $1 million per month to maintain, recent court filings showed.

A super yacht which was seized from a sanctioned Russian oligarch has cost the American taxpayers a total of $20 million and nearly $1 million per month to maintain, recent court filings showed. This comes as the war in Ukraine rages on and Kyiv’s Western allies, including the United States, have imposed thousands of sanctions against Russia in response. About the Russian oligarch’s superyacht The US Department of Justice has sought permission to sell the 348-foot yacht called Amadea which was seized in 2022. Estimated at a price of around $300 million, the superyacht was allegedly owned by Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov. WATCH | 'Any war is a tragedy', says Russian President Putin as Ukraine war enters third year Kerimov was sanctioned by the US Treasury Department in 2014 and again in 2018 in response to Russia’s activities in Syria and Ukraine. The US government has sought to sell the mega-yacht, which is currently docked in San Diego, for $230 million due to the “excessive costs” of the maintenance and crew which can be as high as $922,000 a month. According to the court documents, monthly costs for Amadea include $600,000 per month in running costs; $360,000 for the crew; $75,000 for fuel; and $165,000 for maintenance. The ship also requires an additional $144,000 in insurance and the occasional one-off fees to cover dry docking expenses which add another $178,000 to the monthly bill. Also Read | Two Filipino nationals among three killed in Houthi missile attack in Gulf of Aden “It is excessive for taxpayers to pay nearly a million dollars per month to maintain the Amadea when these expenses could be reduced to zero through sale,” the US prosecutors argued in the court filing. In previous court filings, prosecutors have also said that these maintenance payments are essential to preserving the yacht’s value. Battle over Amadea The US government has tried to previously get rid of the yacht but the efforts to auction it have been challenged by Eduard Khudainatov, who led the Russian state oil and gas company Rosneft from 2010 to 2013. Khudainatov who has claimed ownership of the Amadea said that it cannot be forfeited because he has not been sanctioned. However, in previous court filings, prosecutors have alleged that he is acting as the superyacht’s “straw owner” to disguise Kerimov’s role. However, the Russian oligarch’s lawyers have argued that the motion to sell the vessel was “premature” and urged the judge to decline it till the court “determines whether the seizure was unconstitutional.” Also Read | US lawmakers introduce bill targeting TikTok over national security concerns The court battle over Amadea highlights the financial and legal challenges of the sanctions imposed by the US which also involves seizing and selling assets owned by Russian oligarchs. If the US government succeeds, they would likely eventually transfer sale proceeds to support Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, last week suggested something similar saying that the EU should use profits from more than $200 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s war effort. (With inputs from agencies)

Sanctions against Moscow backfire? US spent $20mn to maintain superyacht seized from Russian oligarch

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said players from the two countries could take part in the Paris Games as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems. Russians and Belarusians were banned from competing internationally following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground.

In March last year, however, the IOC issued a set of recommendations for international sports federations to allow competitors from these countries to return. Speaking before his Indian Wells opener on Friday, Russian Medvedev said he was looking forward to playing in the Olympics after a positive experience in Tokyo three years ago when he made the quarter-finals of the singles competition.

Alsor read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahead-of-paris-olympics-french-women-gymnastics-coach-gets-suspended-amid-investigation-into-abuse-697524">Ahead of Paris Olympics, French women gymnastics coach gets suspended amid investigation into abuse</a>

"If I can, I'm going to be there. I'm going to play singles and doubles," Medvedev told reporters. "When I was in Tokyo it was an amazing experience. It was probably one of the biggest memories of my sporting life, which I was surprised (by) because in tennis, we tend to think that the Grand Slams are more important. "About the neutral flag, I'll follow the rules. If it's under a neutral flag I'll play under a neutral flag and I'm going to try to compete there, show good tennis and try to win, for sure."

Russian and Belarusian players already compete on the ATP and WTA tours as neutrals. The Olympic tennis event will begin on July 27.

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday.

World number four Daniil Medvedev said he was excited about competing at the Paris Olympics and will follow the rules as a neutral athlete after the sport's governing body announced its stance on players from Russia and Belarus on Wednesday. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said players from the two countries could take part in the Paris Games as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems. Russians and Belarusians were banned from competing internationally following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground. In March last year, however, the IOC issued a set of recommendations for international sports federations to allow competitors from these countries to return. Speaking before his Indian Wells opener on Friday, Russian Medvedev said he was looking forward to playing in the Olympics after a positive experience in Tokyo three years ago when he made the quarter-finals of the singles competition. Alsor read: Ahead of Paris Olympics, French women gymnastics coach gets suspended amid investigation into abuse "If I can, I'm going to be there. I'm going to play singles and doubles," Medvedev told reporters. "When I was in Tokyo it was an amazing experience. It was probably one of the biggest memories of my sporting life, which I was surprised (by) because in tennis, we tend to think that the Grand Slams are more important. "About the neutral flag, I'll follow the rules. If it's under a neutral flag I'll play under a neutral flag and I'm going to try to compete there, show good tennis and try to win, for sure." Russian and Belarusian players already compete on the ATP and WTA tours as neutrals. The Olympic tennis event will begin on July 27.

Tennis: Daniil Medvedev ready to play as neutral athlete in forthcoming Paris Olympics

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, on Tuesday (Mar 5) said that one high-level military officer used an unsecured phone line during a call about the ongoing war in Ukraine, which Russia intercepted and leaked to the public. He also dismissed concerns about German communications systems being compromised.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Individual’s operational mistake’</h2>

In an incident which has caused an outcry and massive embarrassment for Germany, Russian media, last week released a 38-minute audio recording of a discussion among four senior German air force officials discussing how and if Ukraine could use Taurus long-range cruise missiles against invading Russian forces.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Germany probes military security leak after Russia wiretap

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-probes-military-security-leak-after-russia-wiretap-696462/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Our communication systems have not been compromised,” Pistorius told reporters in Berlin speaking about the initial results of an ongoing investigation into the wiretap incident.&nbsp;

He added, “The reason the air force call could nonetheless be recorded was because of an individual’s operational mistake.”

Pistorius said that one of the participants had accidentally joined the official meeting from a non-secure line which had likely been intercepted by chance by Russia via its widespread surveillance.&nbsp;

One of the four participants joined the meeting held on the Webex platform from a hotel in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-airshow-indias-advanced-light-helicopter-dhruv-participates-asias-biggest-air-show-692009">Singapore</a>, as the city-state at the time, was hosting an air show which saw the participation of many high-ranking military officials from across the world.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-sunk-russian-warship-near-crimea-using-sea-drones-696813">Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones</a>

The German defence minister also noted that the use of Webex for calls up to a certain security grade was authorised. The version of Webex is not some off-the-shelf software, said Pistorius, but a specially certified one with servers in the Bundeswehr’s computing centres in Germany.

<h2>About the wiretap</h2>

In the audio recording, posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist and head of Russia Today (RT) channel, Margarita Simonyan, German Air Force Chief Ingo Gerhartz was purportedly heard discussing possible delivery of Taurus missiles to Kyiv with three high-ranking Luftwaffe officials. &nbsp;

The German officials also discussed the training of Ukrainian soldiers and potential military targets for the cruise missiles including the Crimea bridge – which links occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the German defence minister said Russia had leaked the call in a bid to create divisions in Berlin and between the country and its allies.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-demands-explanation-from-germany-after-call-recording-over-ukraine-gets-leaked-696199">Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap</a>

This comes as the leaked discussion about possibly delivering Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv which Chancellor Olaf Scholz has publicly rejected, fuelled a public debate.&nbsp;

When asked if the leak would affect Gerhartz’s position, Pistorius said if nothing emerged from the probe then “I am not going to sacrifice one of my best officers to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s games”.&nbsp;

The German defence minister also said that Berlin would take measures so that such an incident would not happen again.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, on Tuesday (Mar 5) said that one high-level military officer used an unsecured phone line during a call about the ongoing war in Ukraine, which Russia intercepted and leaked to the public.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, on Tuesday (Mar 5) said that one high-level military officer used an unsecured phone line during a call about the ongoing war in Ukraine, which Russia intercepted and leaked to the public. He also dismissed concerns about German communications systems being compromised. ‘Individual’s operational mistake’ In an incident which has caused an outcry and massive embarrassment for Germany, Russian media, last week released a 38-minute audio recording of a discussion among four senior German air force officials discussing how and if Ukraine could use Taurus long-range cruise missiles against invading Russian forces. WATCH | Germany probes military security leak after Russia wiretap “Our communication systems have not been compromised,” Pistorius told reporters in Berlin speaking about the initial results of an ongoing investigation into the wiretap incident. He added, “The reason the air force call could nonetheless be recorded was because of an individual’s operational mistake.” Pistorius said that one of the participants had accidentally joined the official meeting from a non-secure line which had likely been intercepted by chance by Russia via its widespread surveillance. One of the four participants joined the meeting held on the Webex platform from a hotel in Singapore, as the city-state at the time, was hosting an air show which saw the participation of many high-ranking military officials from across the world. Also Read | Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones The German defence minister also noted that the use of Webex for calls up to a certain security grade was authorised. The version of Webex is not some off-the-shelf software, said Pistorius, but a specially certified one with servers in the Bundeswehr’s computing centres in Germany. About the wiretap In the audio recording, posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist and head of Russia Today (RT) channel, Margarita Simonyan, German Air Force Chief Ingo Gerhartz was purportedly heard discussing possible delivery of Taurus missiles to Kyiv with three high-ranking Luftwaffe officials. The German officials also discussed the training of Ukrainian soldiers and potential military targets for the cruise missiles including the Crimea bridge – which links occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland. On Tuesday, the German defence minister said Russia had leaked the call in a bid to create divisions in Berlin and between the country and its allies. Also Read | Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap This comes as the leaked discussion about possibly delivering Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv which Chancellor Olaf Scholz has publicly rejected, fuelled a public debate. When asked if the leak would affect Gerhartz’s position, Pistorius said if nothing emerged from the probe then “I am not going to sacrifice one of my best officers to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s games”. The German defence minister also said that Berlin would take measures so that such an incident would not happen again. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany blames military recording leak on one participant’s error leading to Russian intercept

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for top Russian commanders Sergei Kobylash and Viktor Sokolov, on Tuesday (Mar 5) over alleged war crimes that they committed in Ukraine amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Kobylash, an army lieutenant general and Sokolov, a navy admiral, were named as the ICC issued a second round of arrest warrants against Russian officials related to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine claims sinking yet another Russian warship in the Black Sea

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-claims-sinking-yet-another-russian-warship-in-the-black-sea-696959/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Allegations against Russian commanders</h2>

The Hague-based ICC, in a statement, said that they have reasonable grounds to believe that the two were responsible for “missile strikes carried out by the forces under their command against the Ukrainian electric infrastructure from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023”.&nbsp;

It added, “During this timeframe, there was an alleged campaign of strikes against numerous electric power plants and sub-stations, which were carried out by the Russian armed forces in multiple locations in Ukraine.”

The court also noted that these attacks caused civilian harm and damage which was clearly excessive.&nbsp;

However, since Russia does not recognise the ICC it is highly likely that the Russian commanders will ever be deported to face the charges.&nbsp;

In 2022, the ICC also issued an arrest for President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-sunk-russian-warship-near-crimea-using-sea-drones-696813">Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones</a>

The two Russian commanders, according to ICC, “are each allegedly responsible for the war crime of directing attacks at civilian objects,” “war crime of causing excessive incidental harm to civilians or damage to civilian objects,” and “crime against humanity of inhumane acts”. &nbsp;

At the time of the alleged crimes, Kobylash, 58, was the commander of the so-called long-range aviation of the Russian air force and Sokolov, 61, was an admiral in the Russian navy who commanded the Black Sea Fleet, according to the ICC.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine, rights group&nbsp;welcome arrest warrants</h2>

“Every Russian commander who orders strikes against Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure must know that justice will be served,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a post on X welcoming the arrest warrants.&nbsp;

He added, “Every perpetrator of such crimes must know that they will be held accountable.”

The exact details, specific incidents, and possible victims have been kept a secret amid the ongoing investigation, said the ICC.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-asks-nationals-to-relocate-to-safe-areas-in-israel-after-kerala-based-man-dies-in-missile-attack-696839">&nbsp;India asks nationals to relocate to safe areas in Israel after Kerala-based man dies in missile attack</a>

“By issuing arrest warrants for Kobylash and Sokolov, the ICC has demonstrated that it will pursue cases to the top of the chain of command,” said Erica Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s senior director for research, advocacy, and policy, in a statement.&nbsp;

She also called on member states to ensure that the Russian commanders are arrested if they choose to leave Russia.&nbsp;

“In addition to ICC fugitives, President Putin and Ms Lvova-Belova, the international community must ensure that Mr Kobylash or Mr Sokolov are immediately arrested and surrendered to the ICC if they leave Russia,” Rosas added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for top Russian commanders Sergei Kobylash and Viktor Sokolov, on Tuesday (Mar 5) over alleged war crimes that they committed in Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for top Russian commanders Sergei Kobylash and Viktor Sokolov, on Tuesday (Mar 5) over alleged war crimes that they committed in Ukraine amid the ongoing war. Kobylash, an army lieutenant general and Sokolov, a navy admiral, were named as the ICC issued a second round of arrest warrants against Russian officials related to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. WATCH | Ukraine claims sinking yet another Russian warship in the Black Sea Allegations against Russian commanders The Hague-based ICC, in a statement, said that they have reasonable grounds to believe that the two were responsible for “missile strikes carried out by the forces under their command against the Ukrainian electric infrastructure from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023”. It added, “During this timeframe, there was an alleged campaign of strikes against numerous electric power plants and sub-stations, which were carried out by the Russian armed forces in multiple locations in Ukraine.” The court also noted that these attacks caused civilian harm and damage which was clearly excessive. However, since Russia does not recognise the ICC it is highly likely that the Russian commanders will ever be deported to face the charges. In 2022, the ICC also issued an arrest for President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights. Also Read | Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones The two Russian commanders, according to ICC, “are each allegedly responsible for the war crime of directing attacks at civilian objects,” “war crime of causing excessive incidental harm to civilians or damage to civilian objects,” and “crime against humanity of inhumane acts”. At the time of the alleged crimes, Kobylash, 58, was the commander of the so-called long-range aviation of the Russian air force and Sokolov, 61, was an admiral in the Russian navy who commanded the Black Sea Fleet, according to the ICC. Ukraine, rights group welcome arrest warrants “Every Russian commander who orders strikes against Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure must know that justice will be served,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a post on X welcoming the arrest warrants. He added, “Every perpetrator of such crimes must know that they will be held accountable.” The exact details, specific incidents, and possible victims have been kept a secret amid the ongoing investigation, said the ICC. Also Read | India asks nationals to relocate to safe areas in Israel after Kerala-based man dies in missile attack “By issuing arrest warrants for Kobylash and Sokolov, the ICC has demonstrated that it will pursue cases to the top of the chain of command,” said Erica Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s senior director for research, advocacy, and policy, in a statement. She also called on member states to ensure that the Russian commanders are arrested if they choose to leave Russia. “In addition to ICC fugitives, President Putin and Ms Lvova-Belova, the international community must ensure that Mr Kobylash or Mr Sokolov are immediately arrested and surrendered to the ICC if they leave Russia,” Rosas added. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC issues arrest warrants for top Russian commanders over suspected war crimes in Ukraine

In a significant development resonating within both the international chess community and political circles, Russia's financial watchdog officially included Garry Kasparov, the Soviet-born chess grandmaster and a vocal critic of President Vladimir Putin, in its list of terrorists and extremists on Wednesday (March 6).

This move represents a notable escalation in the Russian government's efforts to quell dissent, particularly targeting prominent figures like Kasparov who have vocally opposed Putin's regime and policies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-will-be-assassinated-if-he-steps-back-from-ukraine-war-says-elon-musk-690104">Russia's Putin will be 'assassinated' if he steps back from Ukraine war, says Elon Musk</a>

Kasparov, residing in the United States for almost a decade, has steadfastly championed democracy and human rights in Russia, earning him the Kremlin's displeasure.

<h2>Background of Garry Kasparov</h2>

Garry Kasparov, once hailed as a national hero for his unparalleled achievements in chess, evolved into one of the Kremlin's most formidable opponents after retiring from professional chess.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opposition-politician-alexei-navalny-is-dead-reports-690945" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opposition-politician-alexei-navalny-is-dead-reports-690945&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMgNWR_N-EAxX9zDgGHTl1CRUQFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1-dkOXDBMtsxgjAfIzElQR" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opposition-politician-alexei-navalny-is-dead-reports-690945" target="_blank">Alexei&nbsp;Navalny, most ardent Putin critic in recent years dies in prison</a>

His shift from chess grandmaster to political activist stemmed from a desire to witness a corruption-free and democratic Russia. Over the years, Kasparov has utilised his global platform to condemn Putin's authoritarian policies, endorse democratic movements and advocate for sanctions against Russian officials implicated in human rights violations.

His role in establishing the Anti-War Committee among exiled Russian public figures further solidifies his resistance against the Kremlin, particularly amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

<h2>Inference of the designation</h2>

Being categorised as a terrorist or extremist by the Russian government carries severe consequences, not just for Kasparov's personal safety but also for those associated with him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-slams-western-hegemony-and-warns-over-nuclear-testing-says-mission-is-to-create-new-world-643050">'No chance of survival': Putin's latest nuclear warning has the world on edge</a>

This designation effectively criminalises any support or affiliation within Russia, isolating him and others on the list from their support networks in the country. This move aligns with the broader strategy of the Russian government to suppress dissent and silence opposition voices, especially those capable of mobilising public opinion against the regime.

It also underscores the troubling trend of employing counter-terrorism legislation to target political adversaries, a tactic criticised by human rights organisations worldwide.

<h2>Global reaction and future projection</h2>

The international community has responded with concern and condemnation to the news of Kasparov's designation. Chess organisations, human rights groups and governments globally have expressed support for Kasparov, emphasising the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression and political dissent.&nbsp; 
 
This incident has shed light on the broader issue of the Kremlin's crackdown on opposition figures and the diminishing space for civil society in Russia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-funeral-putins-fierce-critic-buried-in-moscow-amid-tight-security-695615" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-funeral-putins-fierce-critic-buried-in-moscow-amid-tight-security-695615&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMgNWR_N-EAxX9zDgGHTl1CRUQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2OsB2XnW79c8s-RjJ20EI3" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-funeral-putins-fierce-critic-buried-in-moscow-amid-tight-security-695615" target="_blank">Alexei&nbsp;Navalny&nbsp;funeral: Putin's fierce critic buried in Moscow</a>

Despite the risks posed by his new status in Russia, Kasparov remains resolute in his advocacy for democracy and human rights.

This latest development serves as a rallying cry for the global community to stand in solidarity with those fighting for freedom and justice in Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant development resonating within both the international chess community and political circles, Russia's financial watchdog officially included Garry Kasparov, the Soviet-born chess grandmaster and a vocal critic of President Vladimir Putin, in its list of terrorists and extremists on Wednesday (March 6).

In a significant development resonating within both the international chess community and political circles, Russia's financial watchdog officially included Garry Kasparov, the Soviet-born chess grandmaster and a vocal critic of President Vladimir Putin, in its list of terrorists and extremists on Wednesday (March 6). This move represents a notable escalation in the Russian government's efforts to quell dissent, particularly targeting prominent figures like Kasparov who have vocally opposed Putin's regime and policies. Also read: Russia's Putin will be 'assassinated' if he steps back from Ukraine war, says Elon Musk Kasparov, residing in the United States for almost a decade, has steadfastly championed democracy and human rights in Russia, earning him the Kremlin's displeasure. Background of Garry Kasparov Garry Kasparov, once hailed as a national hero for his unparalleled achievements in chess, evolved into one of the Kremlin's most formidable opponents after retiring from professional chess. Also read: Alexei Navalny, most ardent Putin critic in recent years dies in prison His shift from chess grandmaster to political activist stemmed from a desire to witness a corruption-free and democratic Russia. Over the years, Kasparov has utilised his global platform to condemn Putin's authoritarian policies, endorse democratic movements and advocate for sanctions against Russian officials implicated in human rights violations. His role in establishing the Anti-War Committee among exiled Russian public figures further solidifies his resistance against the Kremlin, particularly amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Inference of the designation Being categorised as a terrorist or extremist by the Russian government carries severe consequences, not just for Kasparov's personal safety but also for those associated with him. Also read: 'No chance of survival': Putin's latest nuclear warning has the world on edge This designation effectively criminalises any support or affiliation within Russia, isolating him and others on the list from their support networks in the country. This move aligns with the broader strategy of the Russian government to suppress dissent and silence opposition voices, especially those capable of mobilising public opinion against the regime. It also underscores the troubling trend of employing counter-terrorism legislation to target political adversaries, a tactic criticised by human rights organisations worldwide. Global reaction and future projection The international community has responded with concern and condemnation to the news of Kasparov's designation. Chess organisations, human rights groups and governments globally have expressed support for Kasparov, emphasising the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression and political dissent. This incident has shed light on the broader issue of the Kremlin's crackdown on opposition figures and the diminishing space for civil society in Russia. Also read: Alexei Navalny funeral: Putin's fierce critic buried in Moscow Despite the risks posed by his new status in Russia, Kasparov remains resolute in his advocacy for democracy and human rights. This latest development serves as a rallying cry for the global community to stand in solidarity with those fighting for freedom and justice in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian authorities include chess icon Garry Kasparov in list of ‘terrorists and extremists’

Russia witnessed a surge in oil and gas revenue in February, with proceeds exceeding $10 billion, representing an increase of over 80 per cent compared to the previous year.<o:p></o:p>

According to a Bloomberg report, the surge in revenue was attributed to soaring prices for Russian crude, despite enduring Western sanctions targeting the nation's energy sector.<o:p></o:p>

The average price of $65 per barrel for Urals, Russia's primary export blend was used to compute the oil taxes. Compared to a year ago, that was less than $50.

Taxes on crude and petroleum products, constituting 84 per cent of total hydrocarbon revenues, more than doubled, according to calculations made by Bloomberg based on official data.<o:p></o:p>

Russia's oil and gas sectors serve as crucial revenue sources for the nation, particularly amid rising military expenditures associated with Moscow's involvement in Ukraine. <o:p></o:p>

Despite the economic pressures and sanctions, Russia's ability to bolster its energy revenues underscores the resilience of its energy industry amid geopolitical challenges.<o:p></o:p>

Western sanctions imposed to curb Russia's oil revenues have seen varying degrees of effectiveness. <o:p></o:p>

While the European Union and the Group of Seven nations imposed restrictions on crude imports and imposed price caps on Russian oil cargoes, Moscow has leveraged alternative strategies to mitigate the impact, including the utilisation of a shadow fleet of tankers and collaboration with non-Western buyers and intermediaries.<o:p></o:p>

In response to sanctions and fluctuating oil prices, Russia has implemented measures to safeguard its budgetary cash flows, including the activation of a "price floor mechanism." <o:p></o:p>

This mechanism ensures that producers pay taxes based on an artificial discount for Urals crude, shielding budget revenues from potential price fluctuations.<o:p></o:p>

Additionally, Russia's adjustments in taxation policies, including reductions in export duties on crude and oil products along with increases in the oil-extraction tax, have contributed to strengthening revenue from the oil-production tax. <o:p></o:p>

These fiscal measures have enabled Russia to maintain stability in its energy revenue streams amid evolving market conditions.<o:p></o:p>

Moreover, Russia allocated subsidies to its oil processors in February for domestic sales of diesel and gasoline, indicating a multifaceted approach to stabilise the energy sector and ensure market stability. <o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Bloomberg)<o:p></o:p>

Russia witnessed a surge in oil and gas revenue in February, with proceeds exceeding $10 billion, representing an increase of over 80 per cent compared to the previous year.

Russia witnessed a surge in oil and gas revenue in February, with proceeds exceeding $10 billion, representing an increase of over 80 per cent compared to the previous year. According to a Bloomberg report, the surge in revenue was attributed to soaring prices for Russian crude, despite enduring Western sanctions targeting the nation's energy sector. The average price of $65 per barrel for Urals, Russia's primary export blend was used to compute the oil taxes. Compared to a year ago, that was less than $50. Taxes on crude and petroleum products, constituting 84 per cent of total hydrocarbon revenues, more than doubled, according to calculations made by Bloomberg based on official data. Russia's oil and gas sectors serve as crucial revenue sources for the nation, particularly amid rising military expenditures associated with Moscow's involvement in Ukraine. Despite the economic pressures and sanctions, Russia's ability to bolster its energy revenues underscores the resilience of its energy industry amid geopolitical challenges. Western sanctions imposed to curb Russia's oil revenues have seen varying degrees of effectiveness. While the European Union and the Group of Seven nations imposed restrictions on crude imports and imposed price caps on Russian oil cargoes, Moscow has leveraged alternative strategies to mitigate the impact, including the utilisation of a shadow fleet of tankers and collaboration with non-Western buyers and intermediaries. In response to sanctions and fluctuating oil prices, Russia has implemented measures to safeguard its budgetary cash flows, including the activation of a "price floor mechanism." This mechanism ensures that producers pay taxes based on an artificial discount for Urals crude, shielding budget revenues from potential price fluctuations. Additionally, Russia's adjustments in taxation policies, including reductions in export duties on crude and oil products along with increases in the oil-extraction tax, have contributed to strengthening revenue from the oil-production tax. These fiscal measures have enabled Russia to maintain stability in its energy revenue streams amid evolving market conditions. Moreover, Russia allocated subsidies to its oil processors in February for domestic sales of diesel and gasoline, indicating a multifaceted approach to stabilise the energy sector and ensure market stability. (With inputs from Bloomberg)

Russia's oil and gas revenue surges, providing budget boost amid sanctions

Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to sink a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch Strait in occupied Crimea. In other news,&nbsp;Israel’s relentless pounding of the besieged territory in Gaza has severed aid delivery, leading to a lethal shortage of medical supplies, food and fuel.

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Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to sink a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch Strait in occupied Crimea. Meanwhile, a military intelligence source in Kyiv told AFP that Ukraine also struck an oil depot in the Russian border region of Belgorod and set at least one fuel tank ablaze.&nbsp;

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Meta platforms Facebook and Instagram were down on Tuesday (Mar 5) as tens of thousands of users reportedly faced a global outage, said outage tracking website Downdetector.com.

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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and several cabinet ministers received a threatening email on Tuesday (March 5), allegedly sent by an individual named Shahid Khan.

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Rights groups on Tuesday (Mar 5) released a report on all executions that took place in Iran in 2023. The report reveals that the number was highest since 2015 as capital punishment surged in the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;

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Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to sink a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch Strait in occupied Crimea. In other news, Israel’s relentless pounding of the besieged territory in Gaza has severed aid delivery, leading to a lethal shortage of medical supplies, food and fuel.

Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to sink a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch Strait in occupied Crimea. In other news, Israel’s relentless pounding of the besieged territory in Gaza has severed aid delivery, leading to a lethal shortage of medical supplies, food and fuel. Click on the headlines to read more: Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to sink a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch Strait in occupied Crimea. Meanwhile, a military intelligence source in Kyiv told AFP that Ukraine also struck an oil depot in the Russian border region of Belgorod and set at least one fuel tank ablaze. Gaza war: At least 15 children have died due to ‘starvation’ amid calls to restore food, medical supplies Israel’s relentless pounding of the besieged territory has severed aid delivery, leading to a lethal shortage of medical supplies, food and fuel. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus revealed on X how a team of WHO found “severe levels of malnutrition, children dying of starvation, hospital buildings destroyed” in the Gaza Strip Super Tuesday updates: Donald Trump aims to deliver knockout blow to Nikki Haley The United States is all set for Super Tuesday - a presidential primary election day when the greatest number of US states hold primary elections and caucuses. Today, 15 states are holding Republican contests on the biggest voting day of the primary season. Donald Trump will aim to deliver a knockout blow to his lone challenger for the Republican presidential nomination, Nikki Haley. Facebook, Messenger and Instagram face global outage Meta platforms Facebook and Instagram were down on Tuesday (Mar 5) as tens of thousands of users reportedly faced a global outage, said outage tracking website Downdetector.com. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah & Deputy CM DK Shivakumar receive bomb threat via email Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and several cabinet ministers received a threatening email on Tuesday (March 5), allegedly sent by an individual named Shahid Khan. Elon Musk slams Biden administration over 'importing' migrants for vote bank Billionaire businessman Elon Musk on Tuesday (Mar 5) slammed the Biden administration for "importing voters and creating a national security threat". Musk's remarks came on "Super Tuesday" — the biggest day of primaries in the presidential election cycle. Iran executed at least 834 people in 2023, highest number since 2015: Report Rights groups on Tuesday (Mar 5) released a report on all executions that took place in Iran in 2023. The report reveals that the number was highest since 2015 as capital punishment surged in the Islamic Republic. Amid diplomatic row with India, Maldives to get free military aid from China In the midst of a diplomatic conflict with India, the Maldives is poised to receive complimentary military aid from China. On Monday (March 5), Beijing officially inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives, offering free military assistance to strengthen bilateral relations. EU proposes extensive defense enhancement as Ukraine conflict persists The European Union has put forth an expansive proposal for a substantial increase in defence capabilities as the conflict in Ukraine persists. EU officials revealed plans on Tuesday to enhance weapons production and procurement within the bloc, aiming to reduce dependence on US arms and respond to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Elon Musk is again toppled as world's richest person. Here's who has replaced him this time Musk was toppled from the highest position in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index and the place was taken by Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos after shares in Tesla Inc. fell by 27 per cent on Monday (Mar 4).

Top 10 world news: Ukraine claims it sank Russian warship; children starving to death in Gaza; and more

The European Union has put forth an expansive proposal for a substantial increase in defence capabilities as the conflict in Ukraine persists.

EU officials revealed plans on Tuesday to enhance weapons production and procurement within the bloc, aiming to reduce dependence on US arms and respond to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-sunk-russian-warship-near-crimea-using-sea-drones-696813">Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones</a>

European Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager emphasised the need for the EU to take greater responsibility for its security while maintaining commitment to the NATO alliance.

The European Defence Industrial Strategy, proposed by the commission, aims to incentivise European arms manufacturers to invest more, increase production agility&nbsp;and collectively catalog their available resources.

However, financing the ambitious initiative poses a challenge for a continent that has reduced defense investment for decades. EU internal market commissioner Thierry Breton has indicated a requirement of around 100 billion euros for the EU to compete with the Pentagon and US defence industry.

To kickstart the project, the commission plans to allocate 1.5 billion euros from the EU's current budget until 2027. This amount, although acknowledged as relatively modest, is seen as an incentive to support member states' increased funding over the coming years.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-responsibility-for-railway-bridge-blast-in-southwest-russia-696496">Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia</a>

Some countries, like France, advocate for EU bonds to finance a pan-European weapons production base, similar to the approach taken for economic recovery from the Covid pandemic.

However, frugal countries such as Germany oppose this, expressing concerns about centralising budget power in Brussels and compromising national sovereignty over defence matters.

The impetus for this proposed defence industry strategy was Russia's invasion of Ukraine two years ago.

EU officials argue that the bloc now faces a new security paradigm&nbsp;with an assertive Russia operating under wartime economic conditions. The initiative aims to counter the return of high-intensity warfare on the EU's borders.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-10-in-russian-drone-attack-on-ukraines-odesa-zelensky-calls-for-western-air-defence-696164">Death toll rises to 10 in Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Odesa; Zelensky calls for Western air defence</a>

Despite financial and military support to Ukraine, the EU has fallen short on arms production targets, failing to deliver the promised one million artillery shells.

The proposed strategy seeks to address these shortcomings and reduce the EU's reliance on external defence spending, particularly from the US.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union has put forth an expansive proposal for a substantial increase in defence capabilities as the conflict in Ukraine persists. EU officials revealed plans on Tuesday to enhance weapons production and procurement within the bloc, aiming to reduce dependence on US arms and respond to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The European Union has put forth an expansive proposal for a substantial increase in defence capabilities as the conflict in Ukraine persists. EU officials revealed plans on Tuesday to enhance weapons production and procurement within the bloc, aiming to reduce dependence on US arms and respond to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also read: Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones European Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager emphasised the need for the EU to take greater responsibility for its security while maintaining commitment to the NATO alliance. The European Defence Industrial Strategy, proposed by the commission, aims to incentivise European arms manufacturers to invest more, increase production agility and collectively catalog their available resources. However, financing the ambitious initiative poses a challenge for a continent that has reduced defense investment for decades. EU internal market commissioner Thierry Breton has indicated a requirement of around 100 billion euros for the EU to compete with the Pentagon and US defence industry. To kickstart the project, the commission plans to allocate 1.5 billion euros from the EU's current budget until 2027. This amount, although acknowledged as relatively modest, is seen as an incentive to support member states' increased funding over the coming years. Also Read | Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia Some countries, like France, advocate for EU bonds to finance a pan-European weapons production base, similar to the approach taken for economic recovery from the Covid pandemic. However, frugal countries such as Germany oppose this, expressing concerns about centralising budget power in Brussels and compromising national sovereignty over defence matters. The impetus for this proposed defence industry strategy was Russia's invasion of Ukraine two years ago. EU officials argue that the bloc now faces a new security paradigm with an assertive Russia operating under wartime economic conditions. The initiative aims to counter the return of high-intensity warfare on the EU's borders. Also Read | Death toll rises to 10 in Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Odesa; Zelensky calls for Western air defence Despite financial and military support to Ukraine, the EU has fallen short on arms production targets, failing to deliver the promised one million artillery shells. The proposed strategy seeks to address these shortcomings and reduce the EU's reliance on external defence spending, particularly from the US. (With inputs from agencies)

EU proposes extensive defence enhancement as Ukraine conflict persists

The Russian Supreme Court, on Monday (Mar 4) upheld a ruling which barred anti-war presidential hopeful Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in the upcoming election. This comes weeks after Nadezhdin had conceded saying he does not have a chance to appear on the March ballot.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian Supreme Court ruling</h2>

Nadezhdin, 60, had filed an appeal against a decision taken by Russia’s Central Election Commission to bar him from being registered for running against incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the upcoming election.&nbsp;

“We’re now writing a complaint to the presidium of the Supreme Court. From there we’re only one step away from the Constitutional Court,” said the 60-year-old city council member in the town of Dolgoprudny, in a post on Telegram. He added, “For now, we are guided by Russian law.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-responsibility-for-railway-bridge-blast-in-southwest-russia-696496">Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia</a>

“I’m not going to stop, I’ll fight until the end,” said Nadezhdin. The anti-war presidential hopeful was nominated by the Civic Initiative party to oppose the incumbent president who is running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030.&nbsp;

The 60-year-old has been a vocal critic of the war in Ukraine and garnered support among Russians who also oppose it. The latest rejection comes after the Russian apex court&nbsp;rejected two other appeals Nadezhdin lodged after the Central Election Commission’s decision to bar him.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is he barred from contesting the election?</h2>

Russian election law requires candidates to attain at least 100,000 signatures to qualify to run for the presidency. The 60-year-old had garnered 105,000 signatures with opposing the war in Ukraine being a key part of his campaign.

However, in late February, the Central Election Commission declared more than 9,000 of the signatures submitted by Nadezhdin’s campaign invalid, which was enough to get him disqualified from the race.&nbsp;

Over the years, Russian elections, tightly controlled by the Kremlin, have reportedly been marred by the exclusion of opposition candidates, voter intimidation, and even ballot stuffing.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-40-countries-call-for-international-probe-into-death-of-kremlin-critic-navalny-696541">More than 40 countries call for international probe into death of Kremlin critic Navalny</a>

Before he was disqualified, Nadezhdin had run an effective campaign and garnered attention for his anti-war stance by calling it a “fatal mistake” and criticism of Putin.&nbsp;

So far, four candidates, including the Russian president, have been approved to contest in the March elections which will be held between 15 and 17.&nbsp;

However, the three candidates have not criticised Putin and are said to be from Kremlin-friendly parties represented in parliament and are viewed by many as token contenders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Russian Supreme Court, on Monday (Mar 4) upheld a ruling which barred anti-war presidential hopeful Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in the upcoming election.

The Russian Supreme Court, on Monday (Mar 4) upheld a ruling which barred anti-war presidential hopeful Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in the upcoming election. This comes weeks after Nadezhdin had conceded saying he does not have a chance to appear on the March ballot. Russian Supreme Court ruling Nadezhdin, 60, had filed an appeal against a decision taken by Russia’s Central Election Commission to bar him from being registered for running against incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the upcoming election. “We’re now writing a complaint to the presidium of the Supreme Court. From there we’re only one step away from the Constitutional Court,” said the 60-year-old city council member in the town of Dolgoprudny, in a post on Telegram. He added, “For now, we are guided by Russian law.” Also Read | Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia “I’m not going to stop, I’ll fight until the end,” said Nadezhdin. The anti-war presidential hopeful was nominated by the Civic Initiative party to oppose the incumbent president who is running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030. The 60-year-old has been a vocal critic of the war in Ukraine and garnered support among Russians who also oppose it. The latest rejection comes after the Russian apex court rejected two other appeals Nadezhdin lodged after the Central Election Commission’s decision to bar him. Why is he barred from contesting the election? Russian election law requires candidates to attain at least 100,000 signatures to qualify to run for the presidency. The 60-year-old had garnered 105,000 signatures with opposing the war in Ukraine being a key part of his campaign. However, in late February, the Central Election Commission declared more than 9,000 of the signatures submitted by Nadezhdin’s campaign invalid, which was enough to get him disqualified from the race. Over the years, Russian elections, tightly controlled by the Kremlin, have reportedly been marred by the exclusion of opposition candidates, voter intimidation, and even ballot stuffing. Also Read | More than 40 countries call for international probe into death of Kremlin critic Navalny Before he was disqualified, Nadezhdin had run an effective campaign and garnered attention for his anti-war stance by calling it a “fatal mistake” and criticism of Putin. So far, four candidates, including the Russian president, have been approved to contest in the March elections which will be held between 15 and 17. However, the three candidates have not criticised Putin and are said to be from Kremlin-friendly parties represented in parliament and are viewed by many as token contenders. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian presidential election: Top court upholds decision barring anti-war candidate; Nadezhdin vows to appeal

Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to down a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch strait in occupied Crimea. Meanwhile, a military intelligence source in Kyiv told AFP that Ukraine also struck an oil depot in the Russian border region of Belgorod and set at least one fuel tank ablaze.&nbsp;

The latest reported attack on a Russian warship in Crimea delivers a further blow to Moscow’s naval power and its control over the Black Sea as Ukrainian forces continue to face losses elsewhere amid the ongoing war.

<h2>Attack on Russian warship in Crimea</h2>

The Ukrainian intelligence agency (HUR), on Tuesday, took to Telegram and said that a special unit Group 13 attacked the Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergey Kotov near the Kerch Strait.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-responsibility-for-railway-bridge-blast-in-southwest-russia-696496">Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia</a>

“As a result of a strike by Magura V5 maritime drones, the Russian ship Project 22160 Sergey Kotov sustained damage to the stern, starboard and port sides,” said the Ukrainian intelligence agency. The ship is said to be worth around $65 million, according to HUR.&nbsp;

The dramatic footage of the attack claimed by Kyiv shows a Ukrainian kamikaze drone closing in on the Russian vessel before a drone hits the ship’s hull causing a large explosion. Subsequently, the video shared by the Group 13 special unit, shows several other drones attacking a jagged hole caused by the first strike.&nbsp;

Andriy Yermak, the head of the office of&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky also took to Telegram and said how the “Russian Black Sea Fleet is a symbol of occupation” and it “cannot be in the Ukrainian Crimea,” in an apparent reference to the attack.&nbsp;

The fate of the Russian warship and its crew of around 60 people was not immediately known. HUR said that the attack was conducted in coordination with the naval forces of the armed forces of Ukraine, and the digital transformation ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>Train and highway traffic disrupted: Russian-installed officials</h2>

Trains were briefly halted on the bridge linking the Crimean peninsula – which Moscow annexed in 2014 – to the Russian mainland, reported Reuters citing the Telegram channel of a Russia-installed official in Crimea.&nbsp;

The Telegram channel of the Russian-installed administration managing the bridge also reportedly said that highway traffic was suspended for several hours before reopening just around 0700 GMT.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine attack on oil depot: Report</h2>

A Ukrainian drone&nbsp;hit the facility in the Russian village of Dolgoye which is around four kilometres from the border, reported AFP citing an intelligence source in Kyiv.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-10-in-russian-drone-attack-on-ukraines-odesa-zelensky-calls-for-western-air-defence-696164">Death toll rises to 10 in Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Odesa; Zelensky calls for Western air defence</a>

Belgorod region Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that emergency services are dealing with a fire that broke out at an “infrastructure facility,” adding that there were no casualties, but did not mention any drone attack.&nbsp;

Ukraine has ramped up attacks on the Russian energy industry over the past three months or so. Kyic also conducted artillery strikes in the neighbouring region of Kursk which sparked a fire at a train station and cut power to a village.&nbsp;

“The Glushkovo railway station was shelled from the Ukrainian side. A total of nine incoming attacks were counted, there were no casualties,” said region governor, Roman Starovoit.&nbsp;

He also said that electricity lines were “damaged” and that both the station and the village of Kulbaki were left without power.&nbsp;

“As soon as it is safe, emergency crews will start restoring it,” Starovoit added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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.&nbsp;

Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to down a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch strait in occupied Crimea. Meanwhile, a military intelligence source in Kyiv told AFP that Ukraine also struck an oil depot in the Russian border region of Belgorod and set at least one fuel tank ablaze.

Kyiv, on Tuesday (Mar 5) claimed that it used sea drones to down a Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship near the Kerch strait in occupied Crimea. Meanwhile, a military intelligence source in Kyiv told AFP that Ukraine also struck an oil depot in the Russian border region of Belgorod and set at least one fuel tank ablaze. The latest reported attack on a Russian warship in Crimea delivers a further blow to Moscow’s naval power and its control over the Black Sea as Ukrainian forces continue to face losses elsewhere amid the ongoing war. Attack on Russian warship in Crimea The Ukrainian intelligence agency (HUR), on Tuesday, took to Telegram and said that a special unit Group 13 attacked the Russian Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergey Kotov near the Kerch Strait. Also Read | Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia “As a result of a strike by Magura V5 maritime drones, the Russian ship Project 22160 Sergey Kotov sustained damage to the stern, starboard and port sides,” said the Ukrainian intelligence agency. The ship is said to be worth around $65 million, according to HUR. The dramatic footage of the attack claimed by Kyiv shows a Ukrainian kamikaze drone closing in on the Russian vessel before a drone hits the ship’s hull causing a large explosion. Subsequently, the video shared by the Group 13 special unit, shows several other drones attacking a jagged hole caused by the first strike. Andriy Yermak, the head of the office of President Volodymyr Zelensky also took to Telegram and said how the “Russian Black Sea Fleet is a symbol of occupation” and it “cannot be in the Ukrainian Crimea,” in an apparent reference to the attack. The fate of the Russian warship and its crew of around 60 people was not immediately known. HUR said that the attack was conducted in coordination with the naval forces of the armed forces of Ukraine, and the digital transformation ministry. Train and highway traffic disrupted: Russian-installed officials Trains were briefly halted on the bridge linking the Crimean peninsula – which Moscow annexed in 2014 – to the Russian mainland, reported Reuters citing the Telegram channel of a Russia-installed official in Crimea. The Telegram channel of the Russian-installed administration managing the bridge also reportedly said that highway traffic was suspended for several hours before reopening just around 0700 GMT. Ukraine attack on oil depot: Report A Ukrainian drone hit the facility in the Russian village of Dolgoye which is around four kilometres from the border, reported AFP citing an intelligence source in Kyiv. Also Read | Death toll rises to 10 in Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Odesa; Zelensky calls for Western air defence Belgorod region Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that emergency services are dealing with a fire that broke out at an “infrastructure facility,” adding that there were no casualties, but did not mention any drone attack. Ukraine has ramped up attacks on the Russian energy industry over the past three months or so. Kyic also conducted artillery strikes in the neighbouring region of Kursk which sparked a fire at a train station and cut power to a village. “The Glushkovo railway station was shelled from the Ukrainian side. A total of nine incoming attacks were counted, there were no casualties,” said region governor, Roman Starovoit. He also said that electricity lines were “damaged” and that both the station and the village of Kulbaki were left without power. “As soon as it is safe, emergency crews will start restoring it,” Starovoit added. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo".&nbsp;

Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

"A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said.

Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said.

"Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added.

Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured.

"Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said.

"An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying.

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<h2>Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa</h2>

Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people.&nbsp;

The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.”

<h2>Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems</h2>

Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days.&nbsp;

Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials.&nbsp;

“We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media.&nbsp;

He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion. "A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said. Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said. "Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added. Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured. "Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said. "An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying. Also read: Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people. The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.” Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days. Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials. “We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media. He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.” (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia

<o:p></o:p>In a bid to strengthen the oil market against concerns over global growth and escalating output from non-member countries, OPEC+ members, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, have agreed to prolong voluntary oil output cuts into the second quarter of the year. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, this decision, announced on Sunday, entails maintaining cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd), with Saudi Arabia and Russia leading the charge. <o:p></o:p>

Saudi Arabia, acting as the de facto leader of OPEC, committed to sustaining its voluntary cut of 1 million bpd until the end of June, holding its output steady at around 9 million bpd. <o:p></o:p>

Concurrently, Russia, at the helm of OPEC+ allies, disclosed plans to slash oil production and exports by an additional 471,000 bpd in the upcoming quarter, highlighting a rising reliance on production cuts to balance the market.<o:p></o:p>

"This decision sends a message of cohesion and confirms that the group is not in a hurry to return supply volumes, supporting the view that when this finally happens, it will be gradual," Reuters quoted analysts at investment bank Jefferies as saying.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;The unexpected move by Russia to further reduce output has garnered attention from market analysts, with UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo acknowledging the potential price-lifting impact if these cuts are fully implemented.<o:p></o:p>

The oil market has encountered support in 2024 amidst escalating geopolitical tensions and Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. <o:p></o:p>

However, apprehensions regarding economic growth have lingered. <o:p></o:p>

Despite widespread anticipation of OPEC+ maintaining existing cuts, Russia's announcement of additional reductions has the potential to provide further buoyancy to prices, as stated by analysts.<o:p></o:p>

Brent crude settled at $83.55 a barrel on Friday, marking an increase of $1.64, or 2 per cent, and reflecting a year-to-date surge of over 8 per cent.<o:p></o:p>

Individual OPEC+ members revealed their contributions to the extended cuts, with Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Algeria, and Oman among those affirming their commitment to maintaining reduced output levels throughout the second quarter. <o:p></o:p>

Kazakhstan, likewise, pledged to extend voluntary cuts through the same period.<o:p></o:p>

The collective efforts of OPEC+ since late 2022 have resulted in pledged cuts amounting to approximately 5.86 million bpd, equating to roughly 5.7 per cent of daily world demand, according to Reuters calculations.<o:p></o:p>

Amidst uncertainties surrounding the oil demand outlook for the year, OPEC projects strong demand growth of 2.25 million bpd, primarily driven by Asia, while the International Energy Agency (IEA) foresees more modest growth of 1.22 million bpd. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, the IEA anticipates oil supply to reach a record high of about 103.8 million bpd in 2024, largely propelled by producers outside OPEC+, including the United States, Brazil, and Guyana.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

In a bid to strengthen the oil market against concerns over global growth and escalating output from non-member countries, OPEC+ members, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, have agreed to prolong voluntary oil output cuts into the second quarter of the year.

In a bid to strengthen the oil market against concerns over global growth and escalating output from non-member countries, OPEC+ members, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, have agreed to prolong voluntary oil output cuts into the second quarter of the year. According to Reuters, this decision, announced on Sunday, entails maintaining cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd), with Saudi Arabia and Russia leading the charge. Saudi Arabia, acting as the de facto leader of OPEC, committed to sustaining its voluntary cut of 1 million bpd until the end of June, holding its output steady at around 9 million bpd. Concurrently, Russia, at the helm of OPEC+ allies, disclosed plans to slash oil production and exports by an additional 471,000 bpd in the upcoming quarter, highlighting a rising reliance on production cuts to balance the market. "This decision sends a message of cohesion and confirms that the group is not in a hurry to return supply volumes, supporting the view that when this finally happens, it will be gradual," Reuters quoted analysts at investment bank Jefferies as saying. The unexpected move by Russia to further reduce output has garnered attention from market analysts, with UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo acknowledging the potential price-lifting impact if these cuts are fully implemented. The oil market has encountered support in 2024 amidst escalating geopolitical tensions and Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. However, apprehensions regarding economic growth have lingered. Despite widespread anticipation of OPEC+ maintaining existing cuts, Russia's announcement of additional reductions has the potential to provide further buoyancy to prices, as stated by analysts. Brent crude settled at $83.55 a barrel on Friday, marking an increase of $1.64, or 2 per cent, and reflecting a year-to-date surge of over 8 per cent. Individual OPEC+ members revealed their contributions to the extended cuts, with Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Algeria, and Oman among those affirming their commitment to maintaining reduced output levels throughout the second quarter. Kazakhstan, likewise, pledged to extend voluntary cuts through the same period. The collective efforts of OPEC+ since late 2022 have resulted in pledged cuts amounting to approximately 5.86 million bpd, equating to roughly 5.7 per cent of daily world demand, according to Reuters calculations. Amidst uncertainties surrounding the oil demand outlook for the year, OPEC projects strong demand growth of 2.25 million bpd, primarily driven by Asia, while the International Energy Agency (IEA) foresees more modest growth of 1.22 million bpd. Additionally, the IEA anticipates oil supply to reach a record high of about 103.8 million bpd in 2024, largely propelled by producers outside OPEC+, including the United States, Brazil, and Guyana. (With inputs from Reuters)

OPEC+ extends oil output cuts amid global growth concerns: Report

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday promised a full investigation after what appeared to be a recording of confidential army talks on the Ukraine war was posted on Russian social media, in a potentially huge embarrassment for Berlin.

The head of Russia's state-backed RT channel, Margarita Simonyan, on Friday posted the 38-minute audio recording of what she claimed were German army officers on February 19 discussing striking Crimea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-assault-in-odesa-claims-two-lives-leaves-eight-injured-695854">Russian drone assault in Odesa claims two lives, leaves eight injured</a>

"What is being reported is a very serious matter and that is why it is now being investigated very carefully, very intensively and very quickly," Scholz said while on a visit to Rome.

In the recording, discussions can be heard on the possible use by Ukrainian forces of German-made Taurus missiles and their potential impact.

Topics include aiming the missiles at targets such as a key bridge over the Kerch Strait linking the Russian mainland to Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.

The discussions also cover the use of missiles provided to Kyiv by France and Britain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-in-rare-visit-to-kharkiv-netherlands-pm-signs-security-deal-with-kyiv-695728">In rare visit to Kharkiv, Netherlands PM signs security deal with Kyiv</a>

Experts consulted by Der Spiegel magazine said they believed the recording was authentic.

A defence ministry spokeswoman told AFP it was investigating "whether communications in the air force sector were intercepted".

- 'Sworn enemies' -

Kyiv has long been clamouring for Germany to provide it with Taurus missiles, which can reach targets up to 500 kilometres (about 300 miles) away.

Scholz has so far refused to send the missiles, fearing that it would lead to an escalation of the conflict.

"If this story turns out to be true, it would be a highly problematic event," Green party politician Konstantin von Notz told the RND broadcaster.

"The question arises as to whether this is a one-off incident or a structural safety problem," he added.

Speaking at a diplomatic forum in Turkey on Saturday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the recording indicates that Ukraine and its backers "do not want to change their course at all, and want to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia on the battlefield".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-ukraine-discusses-security-deals-with-allies-as-war-enters-third-year-what-are-they-693703">Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they?</a>

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova demanded that Germany "promptly" provide explanations for the discussion.

"Attempts to avoid answering the questions will be regarded as an admission of guilt," she said.

"Our age-old rivals -- the Germans -- have again turned into our sworn enemies," former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy head of the Security Council and the foreign ministry, wrote in a Telegram post.&nbsp;

- Taurus missiles -

The acquisition of German Taurus missiles would provide a massive boost for Ukraine as Kyiv struggles to fend off Russia's invasion.

France and Britain have supplied Kyiv with SCALP or Storm Shadow missiles, both of which have a range of about 250 kilometres.

But Scholz said last week that Germany could not justify matching British and French moves in sending long-range missiles to Ukraine and supporting the weapon system's deployment.

"This is a very long-range weapon, and what the British and French are doing in terms of targeting and supporting targeting cannot be done in Germany," Scholz said, without specifying exactly what he meant.

Britain denied that it had any direct involvement in operating the missiles.

"Ukraine's use of Storm Shadow and its targeting processes are the business of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," a Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson said in a statement to AFP.

Roderich Kiesewetter, from Germany's opposition conservatives, warned that further recordings may also be leaked.

"A number of other conversations will certainly have been intercepted and may be leaked at a later date for Russia's benefit," he told broadcaster ZDF.&nbsp;

It can be assumed "that the conversation was deliberately leaked by Russia at this point in time with a specific intention", namely "to prevent Taurus delivery by Germany", he said.

According to Der Spiegel, the videoconference was held not on a secret internal army network but on the WebEx platform.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday promised a full investigation after what appeared to be a recording of confidential army talks on the Ukraine war was posted on Russian social media, in a potentially huge embarrassment for Berlin.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday promised a full investigation after what appeared to be a recording of confidential army talks on the Ukraine war was posted on Russian social media, in a potentially huge embarrassment for Berlin. The head of Russia's state-backed RT channel, Margarita Simonyan, on Friday posted the 38-minute audio recording of what she claimed were German army officers on February 19 discussing striking Crimea. Also read: Russian drone assault in Odesa claims two lives, leaves eight injured "What is being reported is a very serious matter and that is why it is now being investigated very carefully, very intensively and very quickly," Scholz said while on a visit to Rome. In the recording, discussions can be heard on the possible use by Ukrainian forces of German-made Taurus missiles and their potential impact. Topics include aiming the missiles at targets such as a key bridge over the Kerch Strait linking the Russian mainland to Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014. The discussions also cover the use of missiles provided to Kyiv by France and Britain. Also read: In rare visit to Kharkiv, Netherlands PM signs security deal with Kyiv Experts consulted by Der Spiegel magazine said they believed the recording was authentic. A defence ministry spokeswoman told AFP it was investigating "whether communications in the air force sector were intercepted". - 'Sworn enemies' - Kyiv has long been clamouring for Germany to provide it with Taurus missiles, which can reach targets up to 500 kilometres (about 300 miles) away. Scholz has so far refused to send the missiles, fearing that it would lead to an escalation of the conflict. "If this story turns out to be true, it would be a highly problematic event," Green party politician Konstantin von Notz told the RND broadcaster. "The question arises as to whether this is a one-off incident or a structural safety problem," he added. Speaking at a diplomatic forum in Turkey on Saturday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the recording indicates that Ukraine and its backers "do not want to change their course at all, and want to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia on the battlefield". Also read | Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they? Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova demanded that Germany "promptly" provide explanations for the discussion. "Attempts to avoid answering the questions will be regarded as an admission of guilt," she said. "Our age-old rivals -- the Germans -- have again turned into our sworn enemies," former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy head of the Security Council and the foreign ministry, wrote in a Telegram post. - Taurus missiles - The acquisition of German Taurus missiles would provide a massive boost for Ukraine as Kyiv struggles to fend off Russia's invasion. France and Britain have supplied Kyiv with SCALP or Storm Shadow missiles, both of which have a range of about 250 kilometres. But Scholz said last week that Germany could not justify matching British and French moves in sending long-range missiles to Ukraine and supporting the weapon system's deployment. "This is a very long-range weapon, and what the British and French are doing in terms of targeting and supporting targeting cannot be done in Germany," Scholz said, without specifying exactly what he meant. Britain denied that it had any direct involvement in operating the missiles. "Ukraine's use of Storm Shadow and its targeting processes are the business of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," a Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson said in a statement to AFP. Roderich Kiesewetter, from Germany's opposition conservatives, warned that further recordings may also be leaked. "A number of other conversations will certainly have been intercepted and may be leaked at a later date for Russia's benefit," he told broadcaster ZDF. It can be assumed "that the conversation was deliberately leaked by Russia at this point in time with a specific intention", namely "to prevent Taurus delivery by Germany", he said. According to Der Spiegel, the videoconference was held not on a secret internal army network but on the WebEx platform.

Scholz vows probe into apparent leak of secret talks over Ukraine war

In Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa, a Russian drone crashed into an apartment block on Saturday (March 2), resulting in two fatalities, eight injuries and six individuals still missing, as reported by authorities.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced the incident, stating in a Telegram post that Russia continues to target civilians, and a residential building in Odessa was hit by an enemy drone, causing the destruction of 18 apartments.

Zelensky shared a video revealing the severe damage to the apartment building, with a substantial section removed from several stories. The footage depicted numerous rescuers working tirelessly amidst a sea of rubble.

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The Ukrainian President identified the drone responsible as a Shahed, a large kamikaze drone with wings supplied by Iran. Throughout the ongoing war, Russia has deployed thousands of these drones to strike deep within Ukraine.

Oleh Kiper, Odesa's regional governor, reported at 8:30 am local time (0630 GMT) that efforts were underway to clear the rubble. He mentioned that one person had been rescued alive, likely sheltering in the basement during the drone strike.

According to Ukraine's Suspilne public broadcaster, local prosecutors indicated that six individuals were still unaccounted for in the aftermath of the incident.

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Earlier, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte signed a 10-year security deal with Ukraine in Kharkiv on Friday (March 1), becoming the seventh Western leader to sign a security agreement with the war-torn country.

Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, France, and Denmark have signed bilateral security deals with Ukraine over the past two months.

According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Prime Minister Rutte told reporters that his government would contribute to the Czech Republic's initiative to purchase 800,000 artillery shells.

In February, the Czech Republic said it had sourced 500,000 rounds of 155 mm shells and 300,000 122 mm rounds from other countries, which could be delivered to Ukraine in weeks if funding was secured.

Rutte told reporters that the Netherlands would donate $162 million (150 million euros) to the Czech initiative, taking the total to $271 million.

(With inputs from agencies)

In Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa, a Russian drone crashed into an apartment block on Saturday (March 2), resulting in two fatalities, eight injuries and six individuals still missing, as reported by authorities.

In Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa, a Russian drone crashed into an apartment block on Saturday (March 2), resulting in two fatalities, eight injuries and six individuals still missing, as reported by authorities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced the incident, stating in a Telegram post that Russia continues to target civilians, and a residential building in Odessa was hit by an enemy drone, causing the destruction of 18 apartments. Zelensky shared a video revealing the severe damage to the apartment building, with a substantial section removed from several stories. The footage depicted numerous rescuers working tirelessly amidst a sea of rubble. Also read: In rare visit to Kharkiv, Netherlands PM signs security deal with Kyiv The Ukrainian President identified the drone responsible as a Shahed, a large kamikaze drone with wings supplied by Iran. Throughout the ongoing war, Russia has deployed thousands of these drones to strike deep within Ukraine. Oleh Kiper, Odesa's regional governor, reported at 8:30 am local time (0630 GMT) that efforts were underway to clear the rubble. He mentioned that one person had been rescued alive, likely sheltering in the basement during the drone strike. According to Ukraine's Suspilne public broadcaster, local prosecutors indicated that six individuals were still unaccounted for in the aftermath of the incident. Also read | Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they? Earlier, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte signed a 10-year security deal with Ukraine in Kharkiv on Friday (March 1), becoming the seventh Western leader to sign a security agreement with the war-torn country. Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, France, and Denmark have signed bilateral security deals with Ukraine over the past two months. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Prime Minister Rutte told reporters that his government would contribute to the Czech Republic's initiative to purchase 800,000 artillery shells. In February, the Czech Republic said it had sourced 500,000 rounds of 155 mm shells and 300,000 122 mm rounds from other countries, which could be delivered to Ukraine in weeks if funding was secured. Rutte told reporters that the Netherlands would donate $162 million (150 million euros) to the Czech initiative, taking the total to $271 million. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian drone assault in Odesa claims two lives, leaves eight injured

Pro-Russian separatist officials in Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria, on Wednesday (Feb 28), held a rare meeting of its special congress and passed a resolution which sought Moscow’s “protection” against the Chisinau government. The Moldovan government said that it rejected “propaganda statements” from the region’s officials who are trying to gain headlines.&nbsp;

<h2>Transnistria asks Russia for ‘protection’</h2>

Transnistria, long seen as a flashpoint with Russia in Europe, held a rare meeting of the “congress of deputies of all levels,” on Wednesday.&nbsp;

During this meeting, the pro-Russian officials of the unrecognised statelet passed a resolution saying that it would appeal to both houses of the Russian parliament to “protect Transnistria in the face of increasing pressure from Moldova”.&nbsp;

The rare meeting came a month after Moldova introduced customs regulations requiring the Transnistria companies to pay import duties into the Moldovan budget.

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Transnistria has maintained its three-decade-long autonomy from Moldova thanks to support from Russia, which has sent more than a thousand of its troops since a brief war in 1992.

The region’s officials alleged that the Moldovan government in Chisinau had unleashed an “economic war” against Transnistria by blocking vital imports to turn it into a “ghetto”.&nbsp;

“The decisions of the current congress cannot be ignored by the international community,” said Transnistria’s foreign policy chief Vitaly Ignatiev during the meeting.&nbsp;

He later also told Russian media that they were “talking about an appeal for diplomatic support.”

<h2>‘Propaganda statements’</h2>

Moldova’s government swiftly rejected the resolution and called it “propaganda statements” from pro-Russian separatists.&nbsp;

The government “recalls that the Transnistrian region benefits from the policies of peace, security and economic integration with the European Union, which are beneficial for all citizens,” Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister Oleg Serebrian wrote on Telegram.&nbsp;

The Moldovan government also downplayed the concerns saying “things look calm” in Chisinau and that there “is no danger of escalation and destabilisation of the situation in the Transnistrian region. This is another campaign to create hysteria.”&nbsp;

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“This is a propaganda event, a trap that does not deserve the attention of foreign journalists or sensational headlines in news bulletins,” Moldovan government spokesman Daniel Voda had said before the resolution was passed.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia makes region its ‘priority’</h2>

Speaking about the resolution, the Russian foreign ministry said defending the interests of Transnistria is their priority and that the request would be reviewed carefully, reported news agency RIA.&nbsp;

Moldova has previously accused Russia of stoking tensions in Transnistria which is a primarily Russian-speaking region and heavily relies on Moscow for support.&nbsp;

Chisinau has also expressed concerns that the Kremlin could use Transnistria to open a new front amid its ongoing war with Ukraine, in Moldova’s southwest near Odesa.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Russian separatist officials in Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria, on Wednesday (Feb 28), held a rare meeting of its special congress and passed a resolution which sought Moscow’s “protection” against the Chisinau government.

Pro-Russian separatist officials in Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria, on Wednesday (Feb 28), held a rare meeting of its special congress and passed a resolution which sought Moscow’s “protection” against the Chisinau government. The Moldovan government said that it rejected “propaganda statements” from the region’s officials who are trying to gain headlines. Transnistria asks Russia for ‘protection’ Transnistria, long seen as a flashpoint with Russia in Europe, held a rare meeting of the “congress of deputies of all levels,” on Wednesday. During this meeting, the pro-Russian officials of the unrecognised statelet passed a resolution saying that it would appeal to both houses of the Russian parliament to “protect Transnistria in the face of increasing pressure from Moldova”. The rare meeting came a month after Moldova introduced customs regulations requiring the Transnistria companies to pay import duties into the Moldovan budget. Also Read | Use frozen Russian profits for Ukrainian military, says EU's von der Leyen Transnistria has maintained its three-decade-long autonomy from Moldova thanks to support from Russia, which has sent more than a thousand of its troops since a brief war in 1992. The region’s officials alleged that the Moldovan government in Chisinau had unleashed an “economic war” against Transnistria by blocking vital imports to turn it into a “ghetto”. “The decisions of the current congress cannot be ignored by the international community,” said Transnistria’s foreign policy chief Vitaly Ignatiev during the meeting. He later also told Russian media that they were “talking about an appeal for diplomatic support.” ‘Propaganda statements’ Moldova’s government swiftly rejected the resolution and called it “propaganda statements” from pro-Russian separatists. The government “recalls that the Transnistrian region benefits from the policies of peace, security and economic integration with the European Union, which are beneficial for all citizens,” Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister Oleg Serebrian wrote on Telegram. The Moldovan government also downplayed the concerns saying “things look calm” in Chisinau and that there “is no danger of escalation and destabilisation of the situation in the Transnistrian region. This is another campaign to create hysteria.” Also Read | With eye on Russia, Moldova wants to join EU 'as soon as possible' “This is a propaganda event, a trap that does not deserve the attention of foreign journalists or sensational headlines in news bulletins,” Moldovan government spokesman Daniel Voda had said before the resolution was passed. Russia makes region its ‘priority’ Speaking about the resolution, the Russian foreign ministry said defending the interests of Transnistria is their priority and that the request would be reviewed carefully, reported news agency RIA. Moldova has previously accused Russia of stoking tensions in Transnistria which is a primarily Russian-speaking region and heavily relies on Moscow for support. Chisinau has also expressed concerns that the Kremlin could use Transnistria to open a new front amid its ongoing war with Ukraine, in Moldova’s southwest near Odesa. (With inputs from agencies)

Transnistria: Pro-Russian rebels in Moldovan breakaway state ask for Moscow’s ‘protection’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday pleaded with Balkan leaders for greater backing to help fend off Russian forces, emphasising how ammo shortages were impacting frontline troops.

Zelensky has been crisscrossing the globe in recent weeks to rally support for his embattled country, as fresh US support is tangled in domestic politics and Russia has made battlefield advances.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-feud-between-zelensky-and-ukraine-army-chief-he-wants-to-sack-685971" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-feud-between-zelensky-and-ukraine-army-chief-he-wants-to-sack-685971&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj6uvPKpM6EAxVPr1YBHeW_B3oQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3MvNL5OErG5iaTPWYLQprn" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-feud-between-zelensky-and-ukraine-army-chief-he-wants-to-sack-685971" target="_blank">Explained | The feud between&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;and Ukraine Army chief</a>

During opening remarks at the meeting in Albania, Zelensky thanked Balkan leaders for their military and humanitarian support over the past two years of war, but emphasised that supplies were still running low at the frontline.&nbsp;

"We see the problems with the supply of ammunition which are affecting the situation on the battlefield," said Zelensky, adding that his administration was interested in hosting a future "Ukrainian-Balkans defence industry forum".

Zelensky went on to stress that efforts to supply Ukraine must be streamlined immediately, warning against further delays that provided Russia with an advantage in the war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskys-rare-admission-says-31000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-in-war-with-russia-693799" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskys-rare-admission-says-31000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-in-war-with-russia-693799&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj6uvPKpM6EAxVPr1YBHeW_B3oQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2NC76Al5OSZ0479QQL7FUb" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskys-rare-admission-says-31000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-in-war-with-russia-693799" target="_blank">Zelensky&nbsp;admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia</a>

"Every pause in supply, every doubt that the world is ready to defend itself, all this inspires one person. All this inspires Putin," he told reporters, referring to the Russian president.&nbsp;

"We don't have time and we don't have alternatives," he added.&nbsp;

The comments came hours after arriving in Albania late Tuesday for the "Ukraine-Southeast Europe Summit" -- his first visit to the Balkan nation since Russia's invasion in February 2022.&nbsp;

Following a sitdown with Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama on Wednesday, the Ukrainian president said the two sides were exploring further defence cooperation.&nbsp;

"Since the first days of the full-scale invasion, Albania has supported Ukraine in our struggle for freedom and territorial integrity," Zelensky wrote on X.&nbsp;

"Today we also discussed Ukraine's defence needs and potential joint arms production," he added.

- Urgent need for help -

Albania, a NATO member since 2009, has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine but has stayed largely quiet in public about supplying Kyiv with arms.

During a visit to Albania earlier this month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised Tirana's backing of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-become-stronger-zelensky-vows-to-unleash-wrath-against-russia-in-2024-675416" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-become-stronger-zelensky-vows-to-unleash-wrath-against-russia-in-2024-675416&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimuI3lpM6EAxXDbmwGHZvpACs4ChAWegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3w-ETKyefpV5YaVIU3yQL9" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-become-stronger-zelensky-vows-to-unleash-wrath-against-russia-in-2024-675416" target="_blank">'Ukraine has become stronger':&nbsp;Zelensky</a>

"It was one of the first countries to send military aid to Ukraine in the wake of the Russian aggression –- guns, ammunition, mine resistant vehicles –- and it's currently one of the top ten per capita in terms of its support for Ukraine and security assistance," Blinken said.

Leaders from across the Balkans -- including Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, and Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani -- were in attendance at the summit in Tirana.&nbsp;

Serbia remains a rare outlier in the region for refusing to sanction Russia, while Ukraine has never formally recognised Kosovo's independence declaration in 2008.&nbsp;

Despite the lack of ties, Kosovo's president said the government in Pristina was supportive of Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia &amp; Ukraine exchange over 400 Prisoners of War, Zelensky releases video of people celebrating

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"The moment of joint recognition will come with the freedom of Ukraine," Osmani told reporters as she entered the summit.&nbsp;

Zelensky has repeatedly pleaded with allies for more aid, warning that Ukrainian victory depends on the West boosting support.

Already outgunned, his country is fending off a renewed Russian offensive with dwindling ammunition that has had to be rationed.&nbsp;

- US aid dries up -

EU allies are rallying to address that shortfall with a Czech-led plan to buy artillery from outside the bloc.

More than two years after Russia's invasion, the EU is facing the prospect of having to shoulder more of the aid burden as funds from the United States dry up.&nbsp;

Political infighting in the US Congress has stalled a vital $60 billion aid package, with the Republican right-wing, led by 2024 presidential candidate Donald Trump, souring against Ukraine's cause.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, an ally of former president Donald Trump and head of a razor-thin Republican majority, has refused to allow a vote on the package.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-personally-ordered-belgorod-attack-claims-russian-state-media-675579" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-personally-ordered-belgorod-attack-claims-russian-state-media-675579&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimuI3lpM6EAxXDbmwGHZvpACs4ChAWegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2w9UOG3BC6imKbtw4nFO_l" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-personally-ordered-belgorod-attack-claims-russian-state-media-675579" target="_blank">Zelensky&nbsp;personally ordered Belgorod attack, claims Russia</a>

French President Emmanuel Macron meanwhile provoked backlash from fellow allies and a warning from the Kremlin this week when he raised the possibility of sending Western troops into Ukraine.

Before arriving in Tirana, Zelensky stopped in Saudi Arabia, where he sought to promote his peace plan and discuss potential prisoner of war exchanges.

Saudi Arabia maintains relations with both Russia and Ukraine and has mediated between the warring parties before, including a deal struck in September 2022 that saw the release of more than 200 captive Ukrainians.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday pleaded with Balkan leaders for greater backing to help fend off Russian forces, emphasising how ammo shortages were impacting frontline troops.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday pleaded with Balkan leaders for greater backing to help fend off Russian forces, emphasising how ammo shortages were impacting frontline troops. Zelensky has been crisscrossing the globe in recent weeks to rally support for his embattled country, as fresh US support is tangled in domestic politics and Russia has made battlefield advances. Also read: Explained | The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine Army chief During opening remarks at the meeting in Albania, Zelensky thanked Balkan leaders for their military and humanitarian support over the past two years of war, but emphasised that supplies were still running low at the frontline. "We see the problems with the supply of ammunition which are affecting the situation on the battlefield," said Zelensky, adding that his administration was interested in hosting a future "Ukrainian-Balkans defence industry forum". Zelensky went on to stress that efforts to supply Ukraine must be streamlined immediately, warning against further delays that provided Russia with an advantage in the war. Also read: Zelensky admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia "Every pause in supply, every doubt that the world is ready to defend itself, all this inspires one person. All this inspires Putin," he told reporters, referring to the Russian president. "We don't have time and we don't have alternatives," he added. The comments came hours after arriving in Albania late Tuesday for the "Ukraine-Southeast Europe Summit" -- his first visit to the Balkan nation since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Following a sitdown with Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama on Wednesday, the Ukrainian president said the two sides were exploring further defence cooperation. "Since the first days of the full-scale invasion, Albania has supported Ukraine in our struggle for freedom and territorial integrity," Zelensky wrote on X. "Today we also discussed Ukraine's defence needs and potential joint arms production," he added. - Urgent need for help - Albania, a NATO member since 2009, has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine but has stayed largely quiet in public about supplying Kyiv with arms. During a visit to Albania earlier this month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised Tirana's backing of Ukraine. Also read: 'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky "It was one of the first countries to send military aid to Ukraine in the wake of the Russian aggression –- guns, ammunition, mine resistant vehicles –- and it's currently one of the top ten per capita in terms of its support for Ukraine and security assistance," Blinken said. Leaders from across the Balkans -- including Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, and Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani -- were in attendance at the summit in Tirana. Serbia remains a rare outlier in the region for refusing to sanction Russia, while Ukraine has never formally recognised Kosovo's independence declaration in 2008. Despite the lack of ties, Kosovo's president said the government in Pristina was supportive of Ukraine. Watch: Russia & Ukraine exchange over 400 Prisoners of War, Zelensky releases video of people celebrating × "The moment of joint recognition will come with the freedom of Ukraine," Osmani told reporters as she entered the summit. Zelensky has repeatedly pleaded with allies for more aid, warning that Ukrainian victory depends on the West boosting support. Already outgunned, his country is fending off a renewed Russian offensive with dwindling ammunition that has had to be rationed. - US aid dries up - EU allies are rallying to address that shortfall with a Czech-led plan to buy artillery from outside the bloc. More than two years after Russia's invasion, the EU is facing the prospect of having to shoulder more of the aid burden as funds from the United States dry up. Political infighting in the US Congress has stalled a vital $60 billion aid package, with the Republican right-wing, led by 2024 presidential candidate Donald Trump, souring against Ukraine's cause. House Speaker Mike Johnson, an ally of former president Donald Trump and head of a razor-thin Republican majority, has refused to allow a vote on the package. Also read: Zelensky personally ordered Belgorod attack, claims Russia French President Emmanuel Macron meanwhile provoked backlash from fellow allies and a warning from the Kremlin this week when he raised the possibility of sending Western troops into Ukraine. Before arriving in Tirana, Zelensky stopped in Saudi Arabia, where he sought to promote his peace plan and discuss potential prisoner of war exchanges. Saudi Arabia maintains relations with both Russia and Ukraine and has mediated between the warring parties before, including a deal struck in September 2022 that saw the release of more than 200 captive Ukrainians.

Zelensky rallies Balkan allies for support, weapons

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Feb 28) said that the 27-nation bloc should consider using profits from frozen Russian assets to buy military supplies for Ukraine. She was speaking in the European Parliament and urged the EU to take more steps on defence policy.

"It is time to start a conversation about using the windfall profits of frozen Russian assets to jointly purchase military equipment for Ukraine," she said.

"There could be no stronger symbol and no greater use for that money than to make Ukraine and all of Europe a safer place to live."

Von der Leyen said that EU 'may not' face an 'imminent' threat of war but added that such a situation was "not impossible".

"The risks of war should not be overblown, but they should be prepared for and that starts with the urgent need to rebuild, replenish, modernise member states' armed forces," she said.

Watch | US, NATO ally reject France President Macron's intention to send troops to Ukraine

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During the speech, she said that the European Commission will present a fresh European Industrial Defence Strategy. Von der Leyen added that one of the principal aims of the strategy would be to prioritise joint procurement.

"Europe should strive to develop and manufacture the next generation of battle-winning operational capabilities," she said. "That means turbo-charging our defence industrial capacity in the next five years."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-send-troops-to-fight-in-ukraine-694517">US among several NATO allies that rule out sending troops to fight in Ukraine</a>

She maintained that greater EU efforts in defence arena will not diminish the importance and the need for North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

"In fact, a more sovereign Europe, in particular on defence, is vital to strengthening NATO," she said.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The West, led by the United States, poured billions of dollars in humanitarian and military help. However, in spite of provision of weapons, Ukrainian army has not been able make sizeable battlefield gains against Russian troops. This has given rise to voices, particularly in lawmaking circles in the US, that question continued support to Ukraine.

European countries and the European Union has had to step-in to fill the USA's position.

(With inputs from agencies)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Feb 28) said that the 27-nation bloc should consider using profits from frozen Russian assets to buy military supplies for Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (Feb 28) said that the 27-nation bloc should consider using profits from frozen Russian assets to buy military supplies for Ukraine. She was speaking in the European Parliament and urged the EU to take more steps on defence policy. "It is time to start a conversation about using the windfall profits of frozen Russian assets to jointly purchase military equipment for Ukraine," she said. "There could be no stronger symbol and no greater use for that money than to make Ukraine and all of Europe a safer place to live." Von der Leyen said that EU 'may not' face an 'imminent' threat of war but added that such a situation was "not impossible". "The risks of war should not be overblown, but they should be prepared for and that starts with the urgent need to rebuild, replenish, modernise member states' armed forces," she said. Watch | US, NATO ally reject France President Macron's intention to send troops to Ukraine × During the speech, she said that the European Commission will present a fresh European Industrial Defence Strategy. Von der Leyen added that one of the principal aims of the strategy would be to prioritise joint procurement. "Europe should strive to develop and manufacture the next generation of battle-winning operational capabilities," she said. "That means turbo-charging our defence industrial capacity in the next five years." Also Read | US among several NATO allies that rule out sending troops to fight in Ukraine She maintained that greater EU efforts in defence arena will not diminish the importance and the need for North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). "In fact, a more sovereign Europe, in particular on defence, is vital to strengthening NATO," she said. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The West, led by the United States, poured billions of dollars in humanitarian and military help. However, in spite of provision of weapons, Ukrainian army has not been able make sizeable battlefield gains against Russian troops. This has given rise to voices, particularly in lawmaking circles in the US, that question continued support to Ukraine. European countries and the European Union has had to step-in to fill the USA's position. (With inputs from agencies)

Use frozen Russian profits for Ukrainian military, says EU's von der Leyen

A close ally of the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny reiterated the Kremlin critic’s call asking Russians to take to the streets against President Vladimir Putin on election day next month. Navalny had called for the “Noon against Putin” protest by asking all Russians to turn out to vote at the same time.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Navalny’s direct political testament’</h2>

In a video published on YouTube, Navalny ally Leonid Volkov said the protest call was “Navalny’s direct political testament” and last call of action.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Can Alexei Navalny's death impact the upcoming Russian election?

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In a post on social media, on February 1, Navalny before his death, urged Russians to show their protest by forming long queues at noon on March 17 to vote against the president who is seeking his fifth term in office.&nbsp;

However, with the disqualification of two anti-war candidates on technical grounds and three candidates who support the president, Putin is expected to win easily.&nbsp;

The jailed Kremlin critic reportedly died in an Arctic penal colony on February 16. “Now this is no longer just a political action aimed at overcoming political loneliness and isolation,” said Volkov.&nbsp;

He added, “Now this is a rally of mourning and a civic memorial, an action in memory of Navalny, who asked us to hold it.”&nbsp;

“People will thus fulfil the last will of Alexei Navalny, so this is very important. Do it. And in the time remaining before the election, convince as many people as possible to do this,” said Navalny’s ally.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Russian presidential elections, experts said independent monitoring of the balloting will be difficult since the voting is expected to take place between March 15 and 17. Additionally, an online voting system will be in place in many regions.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-presidential-election-early-voting-begins-in-occupied-ukrainian-region-of-zaporizhzhia-693789">Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia</a>

However, the late Russian opposition leader’s team said they would continue to campaign against Putin and came up with the idea of voters going to the polls at a specific time in a show of defiance. The idea seemed “weak” initially, said Navalny’s allies, but they did the math.&nbsp;

“There are 2,058 polling stations in Moscow, even if half a million people will show up at the same time, it will be 250 like-minded people at each polling station, which is already a lot of people at each polling station,” Navalny ally Ivan Zhdanov said in a post on X, earlier this month.&nbsp;

At the time, Navalny said the “Noon against Putin” demonstration would be a “completely legal and safe” way to protest since Russian authorities have no way to counter it.&nbsp;

<h2>Kremlin criticises ‘provocative call’</h2>

The Kremlin has since warned of legal consequences for those who heeded what it called “provocative” calls from people it labelled as dangerous United States-backed extremists.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/co-chair-of-nobel-winning-rights-group-oleg-orlov-sentenced-to-30-months-in-prison-694375">Nobel-winning rights group co-chair, Oleg Orlov, sentenced to 30 months in prison</a>

“These people, so-called supporters (of Navalny) are well known for their provocative calls - to break the laws of the Russian Federation,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;

He added, “This is a very harmful practice and has legal and law enforcement consequences for those who respond to these calls.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A close ally of the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny reiterated the Kremlin critic’s call asking Russians to take to the streets against President Vladimir Putin on election day next month.

A close ally of the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny reiterated the Kremlin critic’s call asking Russians to take to the streets against President Vladimir Putin on election day next month. Navalny had called for the “Noon against Putin” protest by asking all Russians to turn out to vote at the same time. ‘Navalny’s direct political testament’ In a video published on YouTube, Navalny ally Leonid Volkov said the protest call was “Navalny’s direct political testament” and last call of action. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Can Alexei Navalny's death impact the upcoming Russian election? In a post on social media, on February 1, Navalny before his death, urged Russians to show their protest by forming long queues at noon on March 17 to vote against the president who is seeking his fifth term in office. However, with the disqualification of two anti-war candidates on technical grounds and three candidates who support the president, Putin is expected to win easily. The jailed Kremlin critic reportedly died in an Arctic penal colony on February 16. “Now this is no longer just a political action aimed at overcoming political loneliness and isolation,” said Volkov. He added, “Now this is a rally of mourning and a civic memorial, an action in memory of Navalny, who asked us to hold it.” “People will thus fulfil the last will of Alexei Navalny, so this is very important. Do it. And in the time remaining before the election, convince as many people as possible to do this,” said Navalny’s ally. Ahead of the Russian presidential elections, experts said independent monitoring of the balloting will be difficult since the voting is expected to take place between March 15 and 17. Additionally, an online voting system will be in place in many regions. Also Read | Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia However, the late Russian opposition leader’s team said they would continue to campaign against Putin and came up with the idea of voters going to the polls at a specific time in a show of defiance. The idea seemed “weak” initially, said Navalny’s allies, but they did the math. “There are 2,058 polling stations in Moscow, even if half a million people will show up at the same time, it will be 250 like-minded people at each polling station, which is already a lot of people at each polling station,” Navalny ally Ivan Zhdanov said in a post on X, earlier this month. At the time, Navalny said the “Noon against Putin” demonstration would be a “completely legal and safe” way to protest since Russian authorities have no way to counter it. Kremlin criticises ‘provocative call’ The Kremlin has since warned of legal consequences for those who heeded what it called “provocative” calls from people it labelled as dangerous United States-backed extremists. Also Read | Nobel-winning rights group co-chair, Oleg Orlov, sentenced to 30 months in prison “These people, so-called supporters (of Navalny) are well known for their provocative calls - to break the laws of the Russian Federation,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He added, “This is a very harmful practice and has legal and law enforcement consequences for those who respond to these calls.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Noon against Putin’: Navalny ally urges Russians to join election day protest in Kremlin critic’s memory

Veteran human rights activist and co-chair of the rights group Memorial, Oleg Orlov, on Tuesday (Feb 27) was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for discrediting the Russian army.&nbsp;

The 70-year-old has served as one of the leaders of the rights group, Memorial, for more than two decades. The Russian rights group won a share of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022, a year after being banned and dissolved.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Will France send its troops to Ukraine? Here's what Macron has to say

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<h2>What happened in the court?</h2>

A report by Reuters citing Memorial said Orlov was handcuffed after the verdict, and the court ordered him to be taken immediately into custody. In his closing remarks on Monday (Feb 26), the 70-year-old decried the “strangulation of freedom” in Russia.&nbsp;

Orlov was convicted of “repeatedly discrediting” the Russian army in an article he wrote in 2022 which opposed the Ukraine war. However, the 70-year-old had rejected the case against him and called it politically motivated.&nbsp;

The veteran human rights activist was initially just charged a fine of $1,628 by a district court in 2023 given his age and health, but a retrial was later ordered in the case. The prosecution, on Monday, sought a sentence of two years and 11 months in prison.&nbsp;

The charges against the 70-year-old rights activist stem from the article he wrote in 2022, in which he criticised the invasion of Ukraine and reportedly said Russia under President Vladimir Putin had descended into fascism.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-peace-prize-2022-winners-who-are-the-human-rights-activists-in-belarus-russia-and-ukraine-523353">Nobel Peace Prize 2022 winners: Who are the human rights activists in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine?</a>

The prosecution had alleged that Orlov had published the article motivated by hostility “against traditional Russian spiritual, moral and patriotic values” and hatred of the Russian military, reported Russian news outlet Mediazona, on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<h2>Orlov calls Russia ‘fascist’ in court</h2>

The sentence comes a day after the veteran human rights activist in his closing arguments maintained that he had committed no crime and regretted nothing. He also went on to criticise the “totalitarian” and “fascist” Russian state.&nbsp;

“All these are links in the same chain: the death, or rather, the massacre of Alexei (Navalny), the judicial reprisals against other critics of the regime, including me, the strangulation of freedom in the country, the entry of Russian troops into Ukraine,” the 70-year-old told the court.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-was-supposed-to-be-released-before-death-his-ally-claims-694125">Alexei Navalny was supposed to be ‘released’ in prisoner swap, his ally claims</a>

He added, “Isn’t it scary to watch what our country, which you probably also love, is turning into? Isn’t it scary that in this absurdity, in this dystopia, maybe not only you and your children will have to live, but also, God forbid, your grandchildren?”

Orlov’s remarks were broadcast on Memorial’s Telegram channel. The United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in Russia, Mariana Katzarova called the trial “an orchestrated attempt to silence the voices of human rights defenders in Russia.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Veteran human rights activist and co-chair of the rights group Memorial, Oleg Orlov, on Tuesday (Feb 27) was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for discrediting the Russian army.

Veteran human rights activist and co-chair of the rights group Memorial, Oleg Orlov, on Tuesday (Feb 27) was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for discrediting the Russian army. The 70-year-old has served as one of the leaders of the rights group, Memorial, for more than two decades. The Russian rights group won a share of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022, a year after being banned and dissolved. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Will France send its troops to Ukraine? Here's what Macron has to say What happened in the court? A report by Reuters citing Memorial said Orlov was handcuffed after the verdict, and the court ordered him to be taken immediately into custody. In his closing remarks on Monday (Feb 26), the 70-year-old decried the “strangulation of freedom” in Russia. Orlov was convicted of “repeatedly discrediting” the Russian army in an article he wrote in 2022 which opposed the Ukraine war. However, the 70-year-old had rejected the case against him and called it politically motivated. The veteran human rights activist was initially just charged a fine of $1,628 by a district court in 2023 given his age and health, but a retrial was later ordered in the case. The prosecution, on Monday, sought a sentence of two years and 11 months in prison. The charges against the 70-year-old rights activist stem from the article he wrote in 2022, in which he criticised the invasion of Ukraine and reportedly said Russia under President Vladimir Putin had descended into fascism. Also Read | Nobel Peace Prize 2022 winners: Who are the human rights activists in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine? The prosecution had alleged that Orlov had published the article motivated by hostility “against traditional Russian spiritual, moral and patriotic values” and hatred of the Russian military, reported Russian news outlet Mediazona, on Tuesday. Orlov calls Russia ‘fascist’ in court The sentence comes a day after the veteran human rights activist in his closing arguments maintained that he had committed no crime and regretted nothing. He also went on to criticise the “totalitarian” and “fascist” Russian state. “All these are links in the same chain: the death, or rather, the massacre of Alexei (Navalny), the judicial reprisals against other critics of the regime, including me, the strangulation of freedom in the country, the entry of Russian troops into Ukraine,” the 70-year-old told the court. Also Read | Alexei Navalny was supposed to be ‘released’ in prisoner swap, his ally claims He added, “Isn’t it scary to watch what our country, which you probably also love, is turning into? Isn’t it scary that in this absurdity, in this dystopia, maybe not only you and your children will have to live, but also, God forbid, your grandchildren?” Orlov’s remarks were broadcast on Memorial’s Telegram channel. The United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in Russia, Mariana Katzarova called the trial “an orchestrated attempt to silence the voices of human rights defenders in Russia.” (With inputs from agencies)

Nobel-winning rights group co-chair, Oleg Orlov, sentenced to 30 months in prison

Ukraine on Friday (Feb 23) said they have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane, whihc&nbsp;is the second such claim made by Kyiv&nbsp;in less than a&nbsp;month. 
 
According to Ukrainian military sources, the plane was destroyed between the Russian cities of Rostov-on-Don and Krasnodar and nearly 200km from the front line. 
 
The fragments of the plane were reportedly found by the emergency services in Kanevskoy district and the officials also doused a raging fire.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/can-ukraine-sustain-the-fight-against-russia-693306">Can Ukraine sustain the fight against Russia?</a>

Russia haven't responded to the claims made by&nbsp;Ukraine, so far. February 24 marks two years since a full-scale invasion was launched by Russia.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> A Russian spy plane is reportedly shot down and crashed inside Russia territory <a href="https://t.co/BlC4YIYXw1">pic.twitter.com/BlC4YIYXw1</a>
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Speaking about the incident, head of Ukraine's Air Force Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday. 
 
"Congratulations to the occupiers on the Defender of the Fatherland Day," Oleshchuk said on Telegram.

<h2 lang="en-US">Plane 'in flames' after crash</h2>

In the videos shared on the social media platforms, it appeared that the plane was shot down from the air and huge flames as well as dark smoke rose after the crash. 
 
However, one Russian military-aligned Telegram channel claimed that the plane may have come down because of friendly fire. "At the moment it is unknown who shot it down,” Fighterbomber wrote on Telegram. 
 
On January 14, Ukraine claimed that it had shot down an A-50. The UK's Ministry of Defence, in a previous media briefing, said that Russia has at least six operational A-50s in service.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: 81 Frontline battles in past 24 hours

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The planes, which are able to detect air defences as well as co-ordinate targets for Russian jets, are likely to cost hundreds of millions of dollars to build. 
 
Ukraine has been facing difficulties in making significant advances against the forces of Russia, especially in the south-east. 
 
In the incident which occurred last month, Ukrainian army officials claimed that they destroyed a&nbsp;Il-22 control centre plane as well as the A-50.

(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.

Ukraine on Friday (Feb 23) said they have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane, whihc is the second such claim made by Kyiv in less than a month. According to Ukrainian military sources, the plane was destroyed between the Russian cities of Rostov-on-Don and Krasnodar and nearly 200km from the front line.

Ukraine on Friday (Feb 23) said they have downed a Russian A-50 military spy plane, whihc is the second such claim made by Kyiv in less than a month. According to Ukrainian military sources, the plane was destroyed between the Russian cities of Rostov-on-Don and Krasnodar and nearly 200km from the front line. The fragments of the plane were reportedly found by the emergency services in Kanevskoy district and the officials also doused a raging fire. Also Read: Can Ukraine sustain the fight against Russia? Russia haven't responded to the claims made by Ukraine, so far. February 24 marks two years since a full-scale invasion was launched by Russia. #BREAKING A Russian spy plane is reportedly shot down and crashed inside Russia territory pic.twitter.com/BlC4YIYXw1 — Guy Elster (@guyelster) February 23, 2024 × Speaking about the incident, head of Ukraine's Air Force Mykola Oleshchuk thanked his service and military intelligence for taking measures to bring down the suspected 'spy' plane, which they claimed was a long-range radar detection aircraft and emphasised how the incident coincided with a key Russian military holiday. "Congratulations to the occupiers on the Defender of the Fatherland Day," Oleshchuk said on Telegram. Plane 'in flames' after crash In the videos shared on the social media platforms, it appeared that the plane was shot down from the air and huge flames as well as dark smoke rose after the crash. However, one Russian military-aligned Telegram channel claimed that the plane may have come down because of friendly fire. "At the moment it is unknown who shot it down,” Fighterbomber wrote on Telegram. On January 14, Ukraine claimed that it had shot down an A-50. The UK's Ministry of Defence, in a previous media briefing, said that Russia has at least six operational A-50s in service. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: 81 Frontline battles in past 24 hours The planes, which are able to detect air defences as well as co-ordinate targets for Russian jets, are likely to cost hundreds of millions of dollars to build. Ukraine has been facing difficulties in making significant advances against the forces of Russia, especially in the south-east. In the incident which occurred last month, Ukrainian army officials claimed that they destroyed a Il-22 control centre plane as well as the A-50. (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.

Ukraine claims it downed second Russian 'spy' plane in weeks, as war completes two years

Some 20 European leaders meet in Paris on Monday to send Russian President Vladimir Putin a message of European resolve on Ukraine and counter the Kremlin's narrative that Russia is bound to win a war now in its third year.

President Emmanuel Macron has invited his European counterparts to the Elysee Palace for a working meeting announced at short notice to discuss how to ramp up ammunition supplies to Ukraine amid what his advisers say is an escalation in Russian aggression over the past few weeks.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: 2 years into war, west's optimism flips into unremitting gloom

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"We want to send Putin a very clear message, that he won't win in Ukraine," a presidential adviser told reporters in a briefing. "Our goal is to crush this idea he wants us to believe that he would be somehow winning."

After initial successes in pushing back the Russian army, Ukraine has suffered setbacks on eastern battlefields, with its generals complaining of shortages of arms and soldiers.

Officials say the meeting will not be an occasion to announce new weapon deliveries to Ukraine but more to brainstorm ways to be more efficient on the ground, as well as increase coordination between allies and Ukraine.

One area where there could be progress is on a Czech-led initiative to buy hundreds of thousands of ammunition rounds from third countries, something that France has been cautious about as it wants to prioritise the development of Europe's own industry.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-sabotage-denmark-closes-probe-into-intentional-blasts-694079">Nord Stream sabotage: Denmark closes probe into ‘intentional’ blasts</a>

"I am about to fly to Paris for a summit that Emmanuel Macron called and which follows up the initiative that I presented at the European Council at the beginning of February," Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said on X before travelling to France.

"The goal is to collect enough money for ammunition that Ukraine needs."

Ammunition supplies have become a critical issue for Kyiv. The European Union, though, is falling short of its target of sending Ukraine a million rounds of artillery shells by March.

"We must be able to deliver more shells. The principle is that shells will be purchased where they are available," said the adviser. "There is no dogmatic (French) position."

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, British foreign minister David Cameron, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, as well as leaders from Scandinavian and Baltic countries, are among those attending.

The United States, which has been under much scrutiny as its latest military aid package for Ukraine has stalled in Congress, will be represented by Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Jim O'Brien.

French officials said the security conference in Munich earlier this month, which coincided with the death of Putin's most formidable domestic opponent, Alexei Navalny, was all about "doom and gloom", and that Macron, who is due in Kyiv in March, was keen to dispel that.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalny-was-supposed-to-be-released-before-death-his-ally-claims-694125">Alexei Navalny was supposed to be 'released' before death, his ally claims</a>

"We're neither doomy nor gloomy," the French adviser said. "We want Russia to understand that. Russia will have to count on us all collectively to end this war and restore Ukraine's rights."

French officials have said Russia has shown renewed aggression in recent weeks, including as Putin's flight on a nuclear-capable bomber, in what they view as an attempt to intimidate Europeans at a time U.S. support is thrown into doubt by the presidential election.

Without offering details, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has long opposed military supplies to Ukraine and has taken a position seen by some critics as pro-Russian, said ahead of travelling to Paris that several NATO and EU members were considering sending soldiers to Ukraine on a bilateral basis.

Some 20 European leaders meet in Paris on Monday to send Russian President Vladimir Putin a message of European resolve on Ukraine and counter the Kremlin's narrative that Russia is bound to win a war now in its third year.

Some 20 European leaders meet in Paris on Monday to send Russian President Vladimir Putin a message of European resolve on Ukraine and counter the Kremlin's narrative that Russia is bound to win a war now in its third year. President Emmanuel Macron has invited his European counterparts to the Elysee Palace for a working meeting announced at short notice to discuss how to ramp up ammunition supplies to Ukraine amid what his advisers say is an escalation in Russian aggression over the past few weeks. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: 2 years into war, west's optimism flips into unremitting gloom "We want to send Putin a very clear message, that he won't win in Ukraine," a presidential adviser told reporters in a briefing. "Our goal is to crush this idea he wants us to believe that he would be somehow winning." After initial successes in pushing back the Russian army, Ukraine has suffered setbacks on eastern battlefields, with its generals complaining of shortages of arms and soldiers. Officials say the meeting will not be an occasion to announce new weapon deliveries to Ukraine but more to brainstorm ways to be more efficient on the ground, as well as increase coordination between allies and Ukraine. One area where there could be progress is on a Czech-led initiative to buy hundreds of thousands of ammunition rounds from third countries, something that France has been cautious about as it wants to prioritise the development of Europe's own industry. Also Read | Nord Stream sabotage: Denmark closes probe into ‘intentional’ blasts "I am about to fly to Paris for a summit that Emmanuel Macron called and which follows up the initiative that I presented at the European Council at the beginning of February," Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said on X before travelling to France. "The goal is to collect enough money for ammunition that Ukraine needs." Ammunition supplies have become a critical issue for Kyiv. The European Union, though, is falling short of its target of sending Ukraine a million rounds of artillery shells by March. "We must be able to deliver more shells. The principle is that shells will be purchased where they are available," said the adviser. "There is no dogmatic (French) position." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, British foreign minister David Cameron, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, as well as leaders from Scandinavian and Baltic countries, are among those attending. The United States, which has been under much scrutiny as its latest military aid package for Ukraine has stalled in Congress, will be represented by Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Jim O'Brien. French officials said the security conference in Munich earlier this month, which coincided with the death of Putin's most formidable domestic opponent, Alexei Navalny, was all about "doom and gloom", and that Macron, who is due in Kyiv in March, was keen to dispel that. Also Read | Alexei Navalny was supposed to be 'released' before death, his ally claims "We're neither doomy nor gloomy," the French adviser said. "We want Russia to understand that. Russia will have to count on us all collectively to end this war and restore Ukraine's rights." French officials have said Russia has shown renewed aggression in recent weeks, including as Putin's flight on a nuclear-capable bomber, in what they view as an attempt to intimidate Europeans at a time U.S. support is thrown into doubt by the presidential election. Without offering details, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has long opposed military supplies to Ukraine and has taken a position seen by some critics as pro-Russian, said ahead of travelling to Paris that several NATO and EU members were considering sending soldiers to Ukraine on a bilateral basis.

‘Russia cannot win’: Ukraine’s allies meet in Paris in show of unity, discuss munitions

Early voting in Russia’s presidential election began in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, reported state news agency TASS, on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a Moscow-appointed local election official. Meanwhile, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations said that they will “never recognise” the elections held in the occupied Ukrainian regions.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian presidential election early voting</h2>

Early voting for the Russian presidential election kicked off in the Russian-occupied region of Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia, said Galina Katyushchenko, chairperson of the regional election commission, according to TASS.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: EU President says, 'More than ever, we stand firmly by Ukraine'

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The district election commission members will reportedly go door-to-door in the settlements which are adjacent to the frontline amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with ballot papers and boxes and the residents of these areas and Russian soldiers, will be the first ones to vote.&nbsp;

“People who live close to the line of engagement and service members will be the first to vote,” Katyushchenko told reporters, as quoted by TASS.&nbsp;

The voters will be asked to present their Russian or Ukrainian passports in order to cast the ballots, according to the commission in the Russian-occupied region. The polling stations in Zaporizhzhia will open on March 17, reported TASS.

Zaporizhzhia is one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia annexed in 2022 but only controls parts of them. In September, Russian authorities held elections in the annexed regions for Russian-installed officials which was denounced by the West and Ukraine as a sham.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-23-year-old-indian-killed-in-drone-strike-was-employed-by-russia-693753">Russia-Ukraine war: 23-year-old Indian killed in drone strike, was employed by Russia</a>

The election will see Russian President Vladimir Putin running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030.&nbsp;

Last week, the Russian Supreme Court upheld the ruling by electoral authorities barring anti-war candidate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-anti-putin-campaigner-nadezhdin-from-election-688290">Boris Nadezhdin</a> from contesting in next month’s election.&nbsp;

<h2>G7 leaders won’t recognise elections</h2>

On Saturday (Feb 24) marking the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the leaders from G7 nations released a statement saying that they will not recognise the elections held in Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-50-of-western-arms-deliveries-dont-arrive-on-time-says-kyiv-693727">Ukraine war: 50% of Western arms deliveries don’t arrive on time, says Kyiv</a>

The leaders of the G7 nations – Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as the European Union – called on Russia to “immediately cease its war of aggression and completely and unconditionally withdraw its military forces from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine.”&nbsp;

It added, “We will never recognise so-called ‘elections’, past and future, held by Russia in the territories of Ukraine, nor their results.”&nbsp;

The G7 leaders called Russia’s intention to hold votes in occupied Ukrainian territories in the upcoming presidential election, an “outrageous violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Early voting in Russia’s presidential election began in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, reported state news agency TASS, on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a Moscow-appointed local election official.

Early voting in Russia’s presidential election began in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, reported state news agency TASS, on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a Moscow-appointed local election official. Meanwhile, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations said that they will “never recognise” the elections held in the occupied Ukrainian regions. Russian presidential election early voting Early voting for the Russian presidential election kicked off in the Russian-occupied region of Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia, said Galina Katyushchenko, chairperson of the regional election commission, according to TASS. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: EU President says, 'More than ever, we stand firmly by Ukraine' The district election commission members will reportedly go door-to-door in the settlements which are adjacent to the frontline amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with ballot papers and boxes and the residents of these areas and Russian soldiers, will be the first ones to vote. “People who live close to the line of engagement and service members will be the first to vote,” Katyushchenko told reporters, as quoted by TASS. The voters will be asked to present their Russian or Ukrainian passports in order to cast the ballots, according to the commission in the Russian-occupied region. The polling stations in Zaporizhzhia will open on March 17, reported TASS. Zaporizhzhia is one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia annexed in 2022 but only controls parts of them. In September, Russian authorities held elections in the annexed regions for Russian-installed officials which was denounced by the West and Ukraine as a sham. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: 23-year-old Indian killed in drone strike, was employed by Russia The election will see Russian President Vladimir Putin running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030. Last week, the Russian Supreme Court upheld the ruling by electoral authorities barring anti-war candidate Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in next month’s election. G7 leaders won’t recognise elections On Saturday (Feb 24) marking the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the leaders from G7 nations released a statement saying that they will not recognise the elections held in Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine. Also Read | Ukraine war: 50% of Western arms deliveries don’t arrive on time, says Kyiv The leaders of the G7 nations – Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as the European Union – called on Russia to “immediately cease its war of aggression and completely and unconditionally withdraw its military forces from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine.” It added, “We will never recognise so-called ‘elections’, past and future, held by Russia in the territories of Ukraine, nor their results.” The G7 leaders called Russia’s intention to hold votes in occupied Ukrainian territories in the upcoming presidential election, an “outrageous violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty”. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia

In Russia, hundreds gathered in St Petersburg for an exhibition showcasing Russia's military power on Saturday. The exhibition came at the same day as the second anniversary of Russia's war in Ukraine. Watch to know more!

Russia: Hundreds gather for 2-day weapon display organised on Russian Army day

Russian authorities are threatening to bury opposition leader Alexei Navalny's body on prison grounds if the family did not agree to hold a closed funeral for him, the leader's team said on Friday (Feb 23).&nbsp;

"An hour ago, investigators called Alexei's mother and gave her an ultimatum. She has three hours to agree to a secret funeral without a public farewell, or Alexei will be buried in the colony," Navalny's spokesperson Kira Yarmysh wrote in a post on X.

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Navalny, the most prominent face of Russian political opposition and a fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, died on February 16 in a prison in the country. He was incarcerated for three years over charges that were perceived by many to be retribution for his constant criticism of the president and the Russian state headed by him.

Watch | Joe Biden meets Navalny's widow, daughter

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His body has not been handed over to his mother Lyudmila Navalnaya despite the 69-year-old braving the Arctic wind to reach the prison in northern Siberia where her son died. The authorities have refused to hand over the body.

Navalny's team has been maintaining that pro-Putin elements were "scared" of Navalny even after his death and are not handing over the body fearing a public funeral that'll potentially be a rallying point for those who oppose Putin.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a>

Authorities have not allowed an independent forensic analysis of Navalny's body. Navalny' supporters and&nbsp;allies allege it is 'killer' Putin who is trying to cover his tracks.

Hundreds of the mourners, who gathered near makeshift memorials across Russia were arrested by the Russian police on Friday.

Putin is yet to comment publicly on Navalny's death.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian authorities are threatening to bury opposition leader Alexei Navalny's body on prison grounds if the family did not agree to hold a closed funeral for him, the leader's team said on Friday (Feb 23).

Russian authorities are threatening to bury opposition leader Alexei Navalny's body on prison grounds if the family did not agree to hold a closed funeral for him, the leader's team said on Friday (Feb 23). "An hour ago, investigators called Alexei's mother and gave her an ultimatum. She has three hours to agree to a secret funeral without a public farewell, or Alexei will be buried in the colony," Navalny's spokesperson Kira Yarmysh wrote in a post on X. An investigator called Alexey’s mother an hour ago and gave her an ultimatum. Either she agrees to a secret funeral without a public farewell within 3 hours, or Alexey will be buried in the colony. She refused to negotiate with the IC, as they are not authorised to decide how and… — Кира Ярмыш (@Kira_Yarmysh) February 23, 2024 × Navalny, the most prominent face of Russian political opposition and a fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, died on February 16 in a prison in the country. He was incarcerated for three years over charges that were perceived by many to be retribution for his constant criticism of the president and the Russian state headed by him. Watch | Joe Biden meets Navalny's widow, daughter × His body has not been handed over to his mother Lyudmila Navalnaya despite the 69-year-old braving the Arctic wind to reach the prison in northern Siberia where her son died. The authorities have refused to hand over the body. Navalny's team has been maintaining that pro-Putin elements were "scared" of Navalny even after his death and are not handing over the body fearing a public funeral that'll potentially be a rallying point for those who oppose Putin. Also Read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' Authorities have not allowed an independent forensic analysis of Navalny's body. Navalny' supporters and allies allege it is 'killer' Putin who is trying to cover his tracks. Hundreds of the mourners, who gathered near makeshift memorials across Russia were arrested by the Russian police on Friday. Putin is yet to comment publicly on Navalny's death. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny's team says authorities are threatening to bury him on prison grounds

Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Iryna Borovets visited Indian capital New Delhi for Raisina Dialogue 2024. On the sidelines, she interacted with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal and spoke on many topics ranging from India-Ukraine ties to Ukraine war and more.

During the interaction, she expressed hope that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the peace summit due to be held in Switzerland this year. Switzerland is holding the summit to hold discussion on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

While being mindful of the fact that general elections are due in India in coming months, she said the Ukrainian side was hopeful of Indian participation.

Thanking India for the humanitarian aid it had sent to Ukraine so far, Borovets said that India can play an important part in stopping the hostilities.

Mentioning PM Modi's words, “This is not an era of war,” Borovets said Ukraine agreed with PM Modi but the other side (Russia) was not paying heed to the message.

<h2>India-Ukraine ties</h2>

The deputy foreign minister expressed happiness on the state of India-Ukraine ties. Mentioning that both sides have been in contact with each other on various international forums Borovets underlined that a Ukrainian delegation attended 'Vibrant Gujarat Summit' for the first time this year. The minister said that India and Ukraine could further boost the bilateral ties.

Watch | Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks about the evolution of Ukraine's relationship with India

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Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is likely to visit India in near future. Borovets said that she was pleased to observe that the Indian side was looking forward to Kuleba's visit. She mentioned that Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar conveyed this sentiment to her on Friday.

On defence co-operation between India and Ukraine, the minister opined that both countries should build upon the robust tradition of working together since the Soviet times. She also invited India to invest in Ukraine after war for its recovery.

<h2>On Indian students in Ukraine</h2>

Mentioning that hundreds of Indian students are still studying in India, the deputy foreign minister invited others back to Ukraine, especially those Indian students who had to leave their studies and return to India after war broke out.

Borovets said that out of more than 20,000 students studying in Ukraine before war, 500 are still in the country. She underlined that western part of her country was relatively safe.

<h2>Situation in war against Russia</h2>

Although she admitted that situation with respect to the ongoing war was difficult and there was shortage of arms, ammunition, air defence systems and more, Ukrainian soldiers were bravely fighting on the front lines.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a>

Some countries have offered to provide ammunitions for free while others were selling it to Ukraine. She said that military equipment was being transferred to the front lines and when adequately equipped, the Ukrainian army will be better prepared to fight.

When asked whether Israel-Hamas war had taken the focus away from Ukraine war, deputy foreign minister said no and maintained the global commitment for Ukraine is very much there.

"Solidarity around Ukraine is very solid," she said.

Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Iryna Borovets visited Indian capital New Delhi for Raisina Dialogue 2024. On the sidelines, she interacted with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal and spoke on many topics ranging from India-Ukraine ties to Ukraine war and more.

Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Iryna Borovets visited Indian capital New Delhi for Raisina Dialogue 2024. On the sidelines, she interacted with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal and spoke on many topics ranging from India-Ukraine ties to Ukraine war and more. During the interaction, she expressed hope that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the peace summit due to be held in Switzerland this year. Switzerland is holding the summit to hold discussion on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. While being mindful of the fact that general elections are due in India in coming months, she said the Ukrainian side was hopeful of Indian participation. Thanking India for the humanitarian aid it had sent to Ukraine so far, Borovets said that India can play an important part in stopping the hostilities. Mentioning PM Modi's words, “This is not an era of war,” Borovets said Ukraine agreed with PM Modi but the other side (Russia) was not paying heed to the message. India-Ukraine ties The deputy foreign minister expressed happiness on the state of India-Ukraine ties. Mentioning that both sides have been in contact with each other on various international forums Borovets underlined that a Ukrainian delegation attended 'Vibrant Gujarat Summit' for the first time this year. The minister said that India and Ukraine could further boost the bilateral ties. Watch | Ukraine's Deputy FM, Iryana Borovets talks about the evolution of Ukraine's relationship with India × Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is likely to visit India in near future. Borovets said that she was pleased to observe that the Indian side was looking forward to Kuleba's visit. She mentioned that Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar conveyed this sentiment to her on Friday. On defence co-operation between India and Ukraine, the minister opined that both countries should build upon the robust tradition of working together since the Soviet times. She also invited India to invest in Ukraine after war for its recovery. On Indian students in Ukraine Mentioning that hundreds of Indian students are still studying in India, the deputy foreign minister invited others back to Ukraine, especially those Indian students who had to leave their studies and return to India after war broke out. Borovets said that out of more than 20,000 students studying in Ukraine before war, 500 are still in the country. She underlined that western part of her country was relatively safe. Situation in war against Russia Although she admitted that situation with respect to the ongoing war was difficult and there was shortage of arms, ammunition, air defence systems and more, Ukrainian soldiers were bravely fighting on the front lines. Also Read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' Some countries have offered to provide ammunitions for free while others were selling it to Ukraine. She said that military equipment was being transferred to the front lines and when adequately equipped, the Ukrainian army will be better prepared to fight. When asked whether Israel-Hamas war had taken the focus away from Ukraine war, deputy foreign minister said no and maintained the global commitment for Ukraine is very much there. "Solidarity around Ukraine is very solid," she said.

Exclusive: Hopeful that PM Modi will attend Ukraine peace summit, says Ukrainian minister Iryna Borovets

Four world leaders visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Saturday (Feb 24), a day that marked the completion of two years of the Russia-Ukraine war. It was on this day in 2022, that Russian forces launched what&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin calls a 'special military operation'. On Saturday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence that Ukraine will clinch victory in the ongoing conflict.

He was flanked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.

"We will win," said Zelensky during the joint press conference at Gostomel airport in Kyiv. The airport has frequently been targeted by Russia.

In 2022, when Russian forces invaded Ukraine, it was expected that the former world superpower will quickly attain victory. But Ukrainian forces fought back. The West, led by the United States, slapped sanctions on Russia and poured billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid for Ukraine.&nbsp;

However, following Western help Ukraine has not been able to mount a successful counteroffensive and Russian forces have dug in, building fortified defences on Ukrainian land.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-enters-third-year-as-putin-defies-wests-support-for-zelensky-693480">Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky</a>

On Saturday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg Ukraine and the allies to not "lose heart". European Commission chief von der Leyen praised Ukraine for what she called its "extraordinary resistance".

Oleksandr Syrsky, Ukrainian military chief, said that he was sure of victory "because light always conquers darkness".

On the battlefield however, the war looks like a stalemate.

Additionally, Russia has ramped up its arms production and has increased budget spending for the defence sector. While confidence in the Western camp appeared to have taken a hit following lack of progress from the Ukrainian side.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia says its forces push further West after taking Avdiivka

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There are now many voices in the Western lawmaking circles that are questioning continued assistance to Ukraine.

AFP quoted some Ukrainian soldiers who said that they did not have adequate equipment&nbsp;and weapons.

"Give us artillery, drones, counter-battery, shells," said a 31-year-old Ukrainian soldier, who identified himself as Woodie.

"Our infantry, armed with assault rifles and grenades, were facing artillery, aircraft, and tanks," added a 39-year-old serviceman from Kyiv.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four world leaders visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Saturday (Feb 24), a day that marked the completion of two years of the Russia-Ukraine war. It was on this day in 2022, that Russian forces launched what President Vladimir Putin calls a 'special military operation'.

Four world leaders visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Saturday (Feb 24), a day that marked the completion of two years of the Russia-Ukraine war. It was on this day in 2022, that Russian forces launched what President Vladimir Putin calls a 'special military operation'. On Saturday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence that Ukraine will clinch victory in the ongoing conflict. He was flanked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. "We will win," said Zelensky during the joint press conference at Gostomel airport in Kyiv. The airport has frequently been targeted by Russia. In 2022, when Russian forces invaded Ukraine, it was expected that the former world superpower will quickly attain victory. But Ukrainian forces fought back. The West, led by the United States, slapped sanctions on Russia and poured billions of dollars in humanitarian as well as military aid for Ukraine. However, following Western help Ukraine has not been able to mount a successful counteroffensive and Russian forces have dug in, building fortified defences on Ukrainian land. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West's support for Zelensky On Saturday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg Ukraine and the allies to not "lose heart". European Commission chief von der Leyen praised Ukraine for what she called its "extraordinary resistance". Oleksandr Syrsky, Ukrainian military chief, said that he was sure of victory "because light always conquers darkness". On the battlefield however, the war looks like a stalemate. Additionally, Russia has ramped up its arms production and has increased budget spending for the defence sector. While confidence in the Western camp appeared to have taken a hit following lack of progress from the Ukrainian side. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia says its forces push further West after taking Avdiivka × There are now many voices in the Western lawmaking circles that are questioning continued assistance to Ukraine. AFP quoted some Ukrainian soldiers who said that they did not have adequate equipment and weapons. "Give us artillery, drones, counter-battery, shells," said a 31-year-old Ukrainian soldier, who identified himself as Woodie. "Our infantry, armed with assault rifles and grenades, were facing artillery, aircraft, and tanks," added a 39-year-old serviceman from Kyiv. (With inputs from agencies)

Two years of Ukraine war: World leaders visit Kyiv, Zelensky confident of victory

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) sarcastically responded to his American counterpart Joe Biden calling him a “crazy SOB,” earlier this week. The Russian president also said that he still prefers Biden over former United States President Donald Trump ahead of the upcoming presidential election.&nbsp;

<h2>‘He wasn’t going to say thank you’</h2>

“We are ready to work with any president. But I believe that for us, Biden is a more preferable president for Russia, and judging by what he has just said, I am absolutely right,” Putin said in an interview with pro-Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin with a slight smile.&nbsp;

The Russian president in a seemingly sarcastic tone&nbsp;went on to say that it’s not like Biden was going to thank him for the endorsement. “It’s not like he can say to me, ‘Volodya, thank you, well done, you’ve helped me a lot,’” said Putin.&nbsp;

He added, “You asked me which is better for us. I said it then that, and I still think I can repeat it: Biden.”&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Inside Putin's Russia

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Last week, the Russian president told Zarubin in a separate interview when questioned about the upcoming US presidential election, that Biden would be better for Russia “because he is a more experienced person, he is predictable, he is a politician of an old formation”.&nbsp;

However, he said that Russia would “work with any leader of the US who gains the trust of the American people”.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden’s ‘crazy SOB’ remark</h2>

Biden, on Wednesday (Feb 21) called Putin a “crazy SOB” while addressing a public fundraising event in the US state of California.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-he-prefers-joe-bidens-presidency-over-trump-in-white-house-690509">Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House&nbsp;</a>

“We have a crazy SOB like that guy Putin, and others, and we always have to worry about nuclear conflict, but the existential threat to humanity is climate,” the US president said in a brief speech at the event in San Francisco.

<h2>Kremlin responds to Biden’s remark</h2>

Earlier on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Reuters that the use of such language only “debases” the US.&nbsp;

“The use of such language against the head of another state by the president of the United States is unlikely to infringe on our president, President Putin,” said Peskov, adding that it “debases those who use such vocabulary.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-calls-russian-counterpart-vladimir-putin-crazy-sob-692528">US President Joe Biden calls Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin 'crazy SOB'</a>

The remark was “probably some kind of attempt to look like a Hollywood cowboy. But honestly I don't think it's possible,” the Kremlin spokesperson told Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) sarcastically responded to his American counterpart Joe Biden calling him a “crazy SOB,” earlier this week.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) sarcastically responded to his American counterpart Joe Biden calling him a “crazy SOB,” earlier this week. The Russian president also said that he still prefers Biden over former United States President Donald Trump ahead of the upcoming presidential election. ‘He wasn’t going to say thank you’ “We are ready to work with any president. But I believe that for us, Biden is a more preferable president for Russia, and judging by what he has just said, I am absolutely right,” Putin said in an interview with pro-Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin with a slight smile. The Russian president in a seemingly sarcastic tone went on to say that it’s not like Biden was going to thank him for the endorsement. “It’s not like he can say to me, ‘Volodya, thank you, well done, you’ve helped me a lot,’” said Putin. He added, “You asked me which is better for us. I said it then that, and I still think I can repeat it: Biden.” WATCH | Inside Putin's Russia Last week, the Russian president told Zarubin in a separate interview when questioned about the upcoming US presidential election, that Biden would be better for Russia “because he is a more experienced person, he is predictable, he is a politician of an old formation”. However, he said that Russia would “work with any leader of the US who gains the trust of the American people”. Biden’s ‘crazy SOB’ remark Biden, on Wednesday (Feb 21) called Putin a “crazy SOB” while addressing a public fundraising event in the US state of California. Also Read | Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House “We have a crazy SOB like that guy Putin, and others, and we always have to worry about nuclear conflict, but the existential threat to humanity is climate,” the US president said in a brief speech at the event in San Francisco. Kremlin responds to Biden’s remark Earlier on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Reuters that the use of such language only “debases” the US. “The use of such language against the head of another state by the president of the United States is unlikely to infringe on our president, President Putin,” said Peskov, adding that it “debases those who use such vocabulary.” Also Read | US President Joe Biden calls Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin 'crazy SOB' The remark was “probably some kind of attempt to look like a Hollywood cowboy. But honestly I don't think it's possible,” the Kremlin spokesperson told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin responds to Biden’s ‘crazy SOB’ remark, still prefers his presidency over Trump’s

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) flew on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, in a move which is seen as a reminder to the West of Moscow’s nuclear capabilities amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>Putin’s flight in nuclear-capable bomber</h2>

The Russian president took a 30-minute flight, as per Russian state news agency TASS, in the giant swing-wing plane, Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, codenamed ‘Blackjack’ by NATO. The military aircraft is a modernised version of a Cold War-era bomber which was deployed by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear war to deliver weapons over long distances.&nbsp;

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President Vladimir Putin takes to the skies in Russia's TU-160M strategic bomber 
 
(Video: The Kremlin)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VladimirPutin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VladimirPutin</a> <a href="https://t.co/bCD6QxgR1A">pic.twitter.com/bCD6QxgR1A</a>
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The Russian state TV showed Putin climbing down a ladder from the plane after the flight and praised the upgraded version of the Tu-160 bomber and called it a reliable aircraft which could be used by the Air Force.&nbsp;

“It’s a new machine, a lot about it is new. It’s easier to control. It’s reliable,” said Putin. As per Russian media reports he flew in an aircraft, named Ilya Muromets which took off from the Gorbunov Kazan Aviation Plant located in Kazan, 720 kilometres from the capital city of Moscow.&nbsp;

The bomber’s route was not disclosed, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov ahead of the flight. The flight also came a day after Putin climbed into the aircraft’s cockpit and toured the plant in Kazan.&nbsp;

Putin’s flight in the nuclear-capable bomber comes amid its ongoing war with Ukraine where Russia recently took over the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka marking Moscow's&nbsp;biggest battlefield gain since its forces captured Bakhmut last May.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-taken-over-village-of-pobieda-in-ukraines-donetsk-region-692733">Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region</a>

The Russian president, who is expected to easily win another six-year term in next month’s election, made the flight at a time when Moscow and the West are at odds due to the war in Ukraine and the recent death of opposition politician Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;

<h2>About the Tu-160M strategic bomber</h2>

The Tu-160M which can carry a crew of four is also capable of carrying 12 cruise missiles or 12 short-range nuclear missiles. The aircraft can fly around 12,000 kilometres without refuelling. It is also said to be the world’s largest supersonic military aircraft and the heaviest warplane.&nbsp;

<img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74983163-0a08-43f1-a0b5-c0e836e651b6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-02-22T213025.147.png" />

Image shows a&nbsp;modernized Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber taking off in Kazan, Russia February 22, 2024. (Photo: Reuters)

Notably, this is not the first time that the 71-year-old Russian leader has flown on a Tu-160 aircraft. In 2005, Putin took an older version of the Tu-160 aircraft to an area where Russia's Northern Fleet was conducting training exercises.&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing war, the Russian president has repeatedly made veiled threats to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Additionally, in a warning to the West over its continued support for Kyiv Russia suspended its participation in a landmark nuclear arms control agreement, the New START treaty.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) flew on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, in a move which is seen as a reminder to the West of Moscow’s nuclear capabilities amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) flew on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, in a move which is seen as a reminder to the West of Moscow’s nuclear capabilities amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. Putin’s flight in nuclear-capable bomber The Russian president took a 30-minute flight, as per Russian state news agency TASS, in the giant swing-wing plane, Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, codenamed ‘Blackjack’ by NATO. The military aircraft is a modernised version of a Cold War-era bomber which was deployed by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear war to deliver weapons over long distances. President Vladimir Putin takes to the skies in Russia's TU-160M strategic bomber (Video: The Kremlin)#VladimirPutin pic.twitter.com/bCD6QxgR1A — WION (@WIONews) February 22, 2024 × The Russian state TV showed Putin climbing down a ladder from the plane after the flight and praised the upgraded version of the Tu-160 bomber and called it a reliable aircraft which could be used by the Air Force. “It’s a new machine, a lot about it is new. It’s easier to control. It’s reliable,” said Putin. As per Russian media reports he flew in an aircraft, named Ilya Muromets which took off from the Gorbunov Kazan Aviation Plant located in Kazan, 720 kilometres from the capital city of Moscow. The bomber’s route was not disclosed, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov ahead of the flight. The flight also came a day after Putin climbed into the aircraft’s cockpit and toured the plant in Kazan. Putin’s flight in the nuclear-capable bomber comes amid its ongoing war with Ukraine where Russia recently took over the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka marking Moscow's biggest battlefield gain since its forces captured Bakhmut last May. Also Read | Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region The Russian president, who is expected to easily win another six-year term in next month’s election, made the flight at a time when Moscow and the West are at odds due to the war in Ukraine and the recent death of opposition politician Alexei Navalny. About the Tu-160M strategic bomber The Tu-160M which can carry a crew of four is also capable of carrying 12 cruise missiles or 12 short-range nuclear missiles. The aircraft can fly around 12,000 kilometres without refuelling. It is also said to be the world’s largest supersonic military aircraft and the heaviest warplane. Image shows a modernized Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber taking off in Kazan, Russia February 22, 2024. (Photo: Reuters) Notably, this is not the first time that the 71-year-old Russian leader has flown on a Tu-160 aircraft. In 2005, Putin took an older version of the Tu-160 aircraft to an area where Russia's Northern Fleet was conducting training exercises. Amid the ongoing war, the Russian president has repeatedly made veiled threats to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Additionally, in a warning to the West over its continued support for Kyiv Russia suspended its participation in a landmark nuclear arms control agreement, the New START treaty. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Russian President Putin takes flight on nuclear-capable Tu-160M strategic bomber

Russia has successfully fulfilled its commitment to provide humanitarian aid in the form of 200,000 metric tonnes of free grain to six African countries, as previously announced by President Vladimir Putin in July. <o:p></o:p>

This is based on a Reuters report.<o:p></o:p>

The delivery, confirmed by Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev, included 50,000 tonnes each to Somalia and the Central African Republic, and 25,000 tonnes each to Mali, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, and Eritrea.<o:p></o:p>

The initiative, a response to Putin's pledge made during the Russia-Africa summit, aimed to strengthen ties and cooperation between Moscow and African nations. <o:p></o:p>

The swift execution of the grain delivery underscores Russia's commitment to supporting these countries in times of need. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Patrushev, in a meeting with Putin, who said, "After the Russia-Africa summit, we have been maintaining relations with African countries and building cooperation. As a result, we were able to deliver this volume of wheat to these countries quite quickly."<o:p></o:p>

The gesture also follows Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea grain initiative, a deal that permitted Ukraine to ship grain from its Black Sea ports amid the ongoing conflict. <o:p></o:p>

Putin argued that the initiative was ineffective in addressing the urgent needs of the recipient countries. <o:p></o:p>

The recent shipment to Africa represents a proactive step by Moscow to establish alternative channels for aiding nations in distress.<o:p></o:p>

Looking ahead, Patrushev informed Putin that Russia anticipates exporting up to 70 million metric tonnes of grain during the 2023-2024 agricultural year, which commenced on July 1, 2023, and concludes on June 30, 2024. <o:p></o:p>

In the previous season, Russia exported 66 million tonnes valued at nearly $16.5 billion.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Russia has successfully fulfilled its commitment to provide humanitarian aid in the form of 200,000 metric tonnes of free grain to six African countries, as previously announced by President Vladimir Putin in July.

Russia has successfully fulfilled its commitment to provide humanitarian aid in the form of 200,000 metric tonnes of free grain to six African countries, as previously announced by President Vladimir Putin in July. This is based on a Reuters report. The delivery, confirmed by Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev, included 50,000 tonnes each to Somalia and the Central African Republic, and 25,000 tonnes each to Mali, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, and Eritrea. The initiative, a response to Putin's pledge made during the Russia-Africa summit, aimed to strengthen ties and cooperation between Moscow and African nations. The swift execution of the grain delivery underscores Russia's commitment to supporting these countries in times of need. Reuters cited Patrushev, in a meeting with Putin, who said, "After the Russia-Africa summit, we have been maintaining relations with African countries and building cooperation. As a result, we were able to deliver this volume of wheat to these countries quite quickly." The gesture also follows Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea grain initiative, a deal that permitted Ukraine to ship grain from its Black Sea ports amid the ongoing conflict. Putin argued that the initiative was ineffective in addressing the urgent needs of the recipient countries. The recent shipment to Africa represents a proactive step by Moscow to establish alternative channels for aiding nations in distress. Looking ahead, Patrushev informed Putin that Russia anticipates exporting up to 70 million metric tonnes of grain during the 2023-2024 agricultural year, which commenced on July 1, 2023, and concludes on June 30, 2024. In the previous season, Russia exported 66 million tonnes valued at nearly $16.5 billion. (With inputs from Reuters)

Russia delivers on grain promise: 200,000 tonnes shipped to six African nations

Russian troops have taken over the village of Pobieda in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, said the Russian defence ministry, on Thursday (Feb 22). While, the Ukrainian military denied the claim and said it was repelling attacks in the region.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian forces capture another village</h2>

“On the Donetsk front, units of the ‘Southern’ group of troops liberated the village of Pobeda and improved their position along the front line,” said the Russian defence ministry.

If confirmed, the capture would mark a loss for Ukraine, a week after Kyiv said that Russian forces had taken over Avdiivka after months of battle.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russia claims capture of Krynky and new advances in Dnipro bridgehead

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Russia’s defence ministry said that it had taken the village and improved its position in several other areas of the Donetsk region.&nbsp;

Russia’s claim about capturing another Ukrainian village also comes a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky seemingly downplayed the loss of Avdiivka to Russian forces in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Last week, Russia’s takeover of the Ukrainian town marked its biggest battlefield gain since its forces captured Bakhmut last May. In a recent interview, Zelensky also&nbsp;acknowledged that 2023 has been “complicated” for Kyiv, particularly the last few months.&nbsp;

“During these two years we got (back) part of the Kharkiv region. Now we are in this region ... and we unblocked the Black Sea. There are grain routes and we destroyed a lot of their ships of the Russian fleet,” said Zelensky.&nbsp;

He added, “That is what we did over two years. And what they could do? Only this one place. But what for?”

<h2>Fighting continues</h2>

Ukraine in a briefing before Russia’s statement said that their troops were repelling attacks near the village and continuing to “contain the enemy.”

“Russians are concentrating their main activity on the Donetsk region,” said Ukraine’s senior commander in the area, Oleksandr Tarnavsky.

<h2>Zelensky rejects Russia’s claim on Krynky</h2>

Zelensky, on Thursday, rejected Russia’s claims to have seized Krynky, Ukraine’s bridgehead on the Russian-occupied side of the Dnipro river.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-reclaimed-ukraine-bridgehead-on-dnipros-left-bank-claims-moscow-692085">Russia claims it has taken back Ukraine bridgehead on Dnipro’s left bank</a>

“Krynky – our marines are firmly holding the bridgehead,” said the Ukrainian president in a post on Telegram adding that “the enemy managed only a disinformation operation”.&nbsp;

Russia, on Tuesday (Feb 20) claimed a new military success in Ukraine ahead of the second anniversary of its “special military operation,” while President Vladimir Putin mocked what he called Kyiv’s “flight” from the frontline town of Avdiivka.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine alleges use of North Korean missiles</h2>

Ukrainian security service (SBU), on Thursday (Feb 22) alleged that Russia used North Korean missiles in several attacks that killed more than 20 people and left dozens of others injured.&nbsp;

“According to the investigation, Russian troops released more than 20 North Korean weapons over Ukraine...at least 24 civilians were killed and more than a hundred seriously injured,” said the SBU.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-fires-north-korean-missiles-at-ukraine-for-first-time-kyiv-official-677027">Russia fires North Korean missiles at Ukraine for first time - Kyiv official</a>

The Ukrainian military identified the weapons as “Hwasong-11 ballistic missiles” and posted images of the fragments on Telegram. Moscow also launched Pyongyang-supplied missiles in the frontline regions of Donetsk and Kharkiv, said the SBU.&nbsp;

In January, when reports of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia first emerged, nearly 50 nations, including the United States, countries in the European Union, and South Korea condemned the alleged transfer.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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.

Russian troops have taken over the village of Pobieda in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, said the Russian defence ministry, on Thursday (Feb 22). While, the Ukrainian military denied the claim and said it was repelling attacks in the region.

Russian troops have taken over the village of Pobieda in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, said the Russian defence ministry, on Thursday (Feb 22). While, the Ukrainian military denied the claim and said it was repelling attacks in the region. Russian forces capture another village “On the Donetsk front, units of the ‘Southern’ group of troops liberated the village of Pobeda and improved their position along the front line,” said the Russian defence ministry. If confirmed, the capture would mark a loss for Ukraine, a week after Kyiv said that Russian forces had taken over Avdiivka after months of battle. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia claims capture of Krynky and new advances in Dnipro bridgehead Russia’s defence ministry said that it had taken the village and improved its position in several other areas of the Donetsk region. Russia’s claim about capturing another Ukrainian village also comes a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky seemingly downplayed the loss of Avdiivka to Russian forces in eastern Ukraine. Last week, Russia’s takeover of the Ukrainian town marked its biggest battlefield gain since its forces captured Bakhmut last May. In a recent interview, Zelensky also acknowledged that 2023 has been “complicated” for Kyiv, particularly the last few months. “During these two years we got (back) part of the Kharkiv region. Now we are in this region ... and we unblocked the Black Sea. There are grain routes and we destroyed a lot of their ships of the Russian fleet,” said Zelensky. He added, “That is what we did over two years. And what they could do? Only this one place. But what for?” Fighting continues Ukraine in a briefing before Russia’s statement said that their troops were repelling attacks near the village and continuing to “contain the enemy.” “Russians are concentrating their main activity on the Donetsk region,” said Ukraine’s senior commander in the area, Oleksandr Tarnavsky. Zelensky rejects Russia’s claim on Krynky Zelensky, on Thursday, rejected Russia’s claims to have seized Krynky, Ukraine’s bridgehead on the Russian-occupied side of the Dnipro river. Also Read | Russia claims it has taken back Ukraine bridgehead on Dnipro’s left bank “Krynky – our marines are firmly holding the bridgehead,” said the Ukrainian president in a post on Telegram adding that “the enemy managed only a disinformation operation”. Russia, on Tuesday (Feb 20) claimed a new military success in Ukraine ahead of the second anniversary of its “special military operation,” while President Vladimir Putin mocked what he called Kyiv’s “flight” from the frontline town of Avdiivka. Ukraine alleges use of North Korean missiles Ukrainian security service (SBU), on Thursday (Feb 22) alleged that Russia used North Korean missiles in several attacks that killed more than 20 people and left dozens of others injured. “According to the investigation, Russian troops released more than 20 North Korean weapons over Ukraine...at least 24 civilians were killed and more than a hundred seriously injured,” said the SBU. Also Read | Russia fires North Korean missiles at Ukraine for first time - Kyiv official The Ukrainian military identified the weapons as “Hwasong-11 ballistic missiles” and posted images of the fragments on Telegram. Moscow also launched Pyongyang-supplied missiles in the frontline regions of Donetsk and Kharkiv, said the SBU. In January, when reports of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia first emerged, nearly 50 nations, including the United States, countries in the European Union, and South Korea condemned the alleged transfer. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region

Lyudmila Navalnaya, the mother of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, has filed a lawsuit in the Arctic city of Salekhard, challenging the refusal to release her son's body, Russia's state news agency TASS&nbsp;reported on Wednesday (Feb 21).

Citing court officials, the state media reported that a closed-door hearing is scheduled for March 4.&nbsp;

She had urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to hand over her son's body after his death five days ago in an Arctic jail.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-disagrees-with-brazils-holocaust-remarks-for-israel-blinken-tells-lula-692486">US 'disagrees' with Brazil's Holocaust remarks for Israel, Blinken tells Lula</a>&nbsp;

Her message to Putin came after she travelled to the remote IK-3 prison where her son died. She has been prevented from seeing his body since Saturday - the day she arrived there.&nbsp;

Appealing to Putin, she said: "I appeal to you, Vladimir Putin, the solution to the issue depends only on you. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexei's body be released immediately so that I can bury him in a humane way."&nbsp;

The TASS news agency reported the court had received a complaint on "illegal acts" and that the hearing would take place behind closed doors.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-calls-for-urgent-meet-with-polish-government-to-solve-border-blockade-692479">Zelensky calls for urgent meet with Polish government to solve border blockade</a>&nbsp;

Navalny's spokesperson said on Monday that Russian investigators will keep Navalny's body for "at least two weeks" to examine the corpse.&nbsp;

"Investigators told Alexei's mother and lawyers that they are not handing over the body and in the next 14 days they will conduct a chemical analysis, an investigation," Navalny spokesperson Kira Yarymsh said in a YouTube broadcast.&nbsp;

Navalny's supporters and several leaders from the West have accused Putin of Navalny's death. Meanwhile, Russian authorities have said the cause of Navalny’s death is still unknown.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia eyeing Robotyne after Avdiivka, say Ukrainians | Moscow producing more drones than Kyiv

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<h2>Russian opposition figures react to Navalny's death in prison&nbsp;</h2>

Several Russian opposition figures, who are serving time in prison, have expressed condolences for Navalny's death, with his former regional aide saying on Wednesday that she was in "mourning".&nbsp;

Most Russian opposition figures have fled the country in past years, but some have stayed and are serving long prison terms.&nbsp;

"Censorship is not allowing me to say everything that I think about the death of Alexei Navalny," Lilia Chanysheva, Navalny's representative in Bashkortostan who is serving seven years in prison, said in a message distributed by her associates.&nbsp;

"I send my condolences to his close ones and parents. I am mourning," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Lyudmila Navalnaya, the mother of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, has filed a lawsuit in the Arctic city of Salekhard, challenging the refusal to release her son's body, Russia's state news agency TASS reported on Wednesday (Feb 21).

Lyudmila Navalnaya, the mother of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, has filed a lawsuit in the Arctic city of Salekhard, challenging the refusal to release her son's body, Russia's state news agency TASS reported on Wednesday (Feb 21). Citing court officials, the state media reported that a closed-door hearing is scheduled for March 4. She had urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to hand over her son's body after his death five days ago in an Arctic jail. Also read: US 'disagrees' with Brazil's Holocaust remarks for Israel, Blinken tells Lula Her message to Putin came after she travelled to the remote IK-3 prison where her son died. She has been prevented from seeing his body since Saturday - the day she arrived there. Appealing to Putin, she said: "I appeal to you, Vladimir Putin, the solution to the issue depends only on you. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexei's body be released immediately so that I can bury him in a humane way." The TASS news agency reported the court had received a complaint on "illegal acts" and that the hearing would take place behind closed doors. Also read: Zelensky calls for urgent meet with Polish government to solve border blockade Navalny's spokesperson said on Monday that Russian investigators will keep Navalny's body for "at least two weeks" to examine the corpse. "Investigators told Alexei's mother and lawyers that they are not handing over the body and in the next 14 days they will conduct a chemical analysis, an investigation," Navalny spokesperson Kira Yarymsh said in a YouTube broadcast. Navalny's supporters and several leaders from the West have accused Putin of Navalny's death. Meanwhile, Russian authorities have said the cause of Navalny’s death is still unknown. Watch: Russia eyeing Robotyne after Avdiivka, say Ukrainians | Moscow producing more drones than Kyiv × Russian opposition figures react to Navalny's death in prison Several Russian opposition figures, who are serving time in prison, have expressed condolences for Navalny's death, with his former regional aide saying on Wednesday that she was in "mourning". Most Russian opposition figures have fled the country in past years, but some have stayed and are serving long prison terms. "Censorship is not allowing me to say everything that I think about the death of Alexei Navalny," Lilia Chanysheva, Navalny's representative in Bashkortostan who is serving seven years in prison, said in a message distributed by her associates. "I send my condolences to his close ones and parents. I am mourning," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny's mother files lawsuit over refusal to release her son's body

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