Ukraine and Russia on New Year, Monday (January 1) accused each other of carrying out attacks. A Russian&nbsp;official alleged that Ukraine's shelling of Donetsk caused four deaths while Ukrainian officials said that Russian air attacks on Odesa killed at least one person.

Denis Pushilin, Russia-appointed head of Ukraine's Donetsk region said that in addition to four deaths, Ukrainian shelling on Donetsk city injured 14 people.

While, Oleh Kiper, governor of Ukraine's Odesa region said that at least one person was killed in Russian drone attack on the port city of Odesa city.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia accuses Kyiv of 'terrorist' attack on Belgorod civilians

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He said that though Ukraine's air defence systems engaged in order to repel the drone attack, falling debris started several fires in different parts of the city.

Odesa Mayor Henadii Trukhanov posted a video on social media that shows him inspecting a damaged apartment.

"They say that how you welcome the New Year is how you will live the year," Trukhanov said in a post.

"Well, this year Ukraine will break this rule: we will persevere and we will win."

Meanwhile, Ukraine's air force said Russian air attack targeted Mykolaiv and Dnipro regions.

Both, Russia and Ukraine, have denied targeting civilians in the ongoing war.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-become-stronger-zelensky-vows-to-unleash-wrath-against-russia-in-2024-675416">'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024</a>

Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After initial success, its army was forced to withdraw from large swathes of land. Meanwhile, the West, led by the United States, poured in billions of dollars to support Ukraine and even provided weapons and weapon systems. It was then anticipated that Ukraine would be able to recapture lost land in a swift offensive. But this has not happened at least till now.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-missiles-and-drone-strikes-on-kharkiv-after-belgorod-terrorist-attack-675323">Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod 'terrorist attack'</a>

This has led to murmurs within the Western camp as to whether it was economically feasible to continue assisting&nbsp;Ukraine in the war. Several United States senators have expressed their opposition to supporting Ukraine indefinitely.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine and Russia on New Year, Monday (January 1) accused each other of carrying out attacks. A Russian official alleged that Ukraine's shelling of Donetsk caused four deaths while Ukrainian officials said that Russian air attacks on Odesa killed at least one person.

Ukraine and Russia on New Year, Monday (January 1) accused each other of carrying out attacks. A Russian official alleged that Ukraine's shelling of Donetsk caused four deaths while Ukrainian officials said that Russian air attacks on Odesa killed at least one person. Denis Pushilin, Russia-appointed head of Ukraine's Donetsk region said that in addition to four deaths, Ukrainian shelling on Donetsk city injured 14 people. While, Oleh Kiper, governor of Ukraine's Odesa region said that at least one person was killed in Russian drone attack on the port city of Odesa city. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia accuses Kyiv of 'terrorist' attack on Belgorod civilians × He said that though Ukraine's air defence systems engaged in order to repel the drone attack, falling debris started several fires in different parts of the city. Odesa Mayor Henadii Trukhanov posted a video on social media that shows him inspecting a damaged apartment. "They say that how you welcome the New Year is how you will live the year," Trukhanov said in a post. "Well, this year Ukraine will break this rule: we will persevere and we will win." Meanwhile, Ukraine's air force said Russian air attack targeted Mykolaiv and Dnipro regions. Both, Russia and Ukraine, have denied targeting civilians in the ongoing war. Also Read | 'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024 Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After initial success, its army was forced to withdraw from large swathes of land. Meanwhile, the West, led by the United States, poured in billions of dollars to support Ukraine and even provided weapons and weapon systems. It was then anticipated that Ukraine would be able to recapture lost land in a swift offensive. But this has not happened at least till now. Also Read | Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod 'terrorist attack' This has led to murmurs within the Western camp as to whether it was economically feasible to continue assisting Ukraine in the war. Several United States senators have expressed their opposition to supporting Ukraine indefinitely. (With inputs from agencies)

On New Year, Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of attacks

A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30).

"According to updated information, 12 adults and two children were killed in Belgorod. Another 108 people, including 15 children, were injured," the ministry said.

Earlier, the ministry had reported the death toll as 10 which included nine adults and one child.

"Nine adults and one child were killed in Belgorod due to shelling by the Ukrainian army. 45 people were injured, including 4 children," Russia's emergencies ministry said.

Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, in a post on the social media platform Telegram said that a residential building was hit by the strike, further urging the residents to rush to air raid shelters as sirens blared across the city.

Belgorod, which is about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Ukrainian border has like other Russian border zones suffered shelling and drone attacks all throughout the year that authorities have condemned Ukraine for.

As per the news agency AFP, unverified footage of the strike showed debris scattered across the street and smoke billowing from burnt-out cars in the city's centre.

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<h2>Putin briefed on strike</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been briefed about the Ukrainian strike, the Kremlin said.

"President Vladimir Putin has been informed about the Ukrainian armed forces' strike on residential neighbourhoods in Belgorod," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the TASS news agency.

Moscow also said that this act "would not go unpunished".

"This offence will not go unpunished," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement.

<h2>Russia&nbsp;seeking UN Security Council meeting on strike</h2>

Russia requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the Ukrainian strike on the city of Belgorod.

"We have requested a meeting of the Security Council on Belgorod for 15.00 New York time (2000 GMT) today, 30 December," Moscow's deputy permanent representative to the UN Dmitry Polyansky said.&nbsp;

The attack came after the Russian strikes killed at least 39 people just a day before.

Ukraine's military estimated Russia had launched 158 missiles and drones on Ukraine and 114 of them had been destroyed.

Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ignat told the news agency AFP that this was a "record number" of missiles and "the most massive missile attack" of the conflict, excluding the early days of constant bombardment.

"Work is still underway to eliminate the consequences of yesterday's Russian attack," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30).

A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30). "According to updated information, 12 adults and two children were killed in Belgorod. Another 108 people, including 15 children, were injured," the ministry said. Earlier, the ministry had reported the death toll as 10 which included nine adults and one child. "Nine adults and one child were killed in Belgorod due to shelling by the Ukrainian army. 45 people were injured, including 4 children," Russia's emergencies ministry said. Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, in a post on the social media platform Telegram said that a residential building was hit by the strike, further urging the residents to rush to air raid shelters as sirens blared across the city. Belgorod, which is about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Ukrainian border has like other Russian border zones suffered shelling and drone attacks all throughout the year that authorities have condemned Ukraine for. As per the news agency AFP, unverified footage of the strike showed debris scattered across the street and smoke billowing from burnt-out cars in the city's centre. Also read: Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check' Putin briefed on strike Russian President Vladimir Putin has been briefed about the Ukrainian strike, the Kremlin said. "President Vladimir Putin has been informed about the Ukrainian armed forces' strike on residential neighbourhoods in Belgorod," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the TASS news agency. Moscow also said that this act "would not go unpunished". "This offence will not go unpunished," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement. Russia seeking UN Security Council meeting on strike Russia requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the Ukrainian strike on the city of Belgorod. "We have requested a meeting of the Security Council on Belgorod for 15.00 New York time (2000 GMT) today, 30 December," Moscow's deputy permanent representative to the UN Dmitry Polyansky said. The attack came after the Russian strikes killed at least 39 people just a day before. Ukraine's military estimated Russia had launched 158 missiles and drones on Ukraine and 114 of them had been destroyed. Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ignat told the news agency AFP that this was a "record number" of missiles and "the most massive missile attack" of the conflict, excluding the early days of constant bombardment. "Work is still underway to eliminate the consequences of yesterday's Russian attack," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia

In Pics | World gears up to ring in 2024

A star-studded party in Russia recently sparked outrage after videos of scantily clad celebrities took the internet by storm. The event, being described as "almost-naked", also had a rapper attending with only a sock to hide his modesty, who has now been imprisoned for 15 days.

A star-studded party in Russia recently sparked outrage after videos of scantily clad celebrities took the internet by storm. The event, being described as "almost-naked", also had a rapper attending with only a sock to hide his modesty, who has now been imprisoned for 15 days. Nikolai Vasilyev, also known as Vacio, was jailed and fined for endorsing "non-traditional sexual relations". The other stars, who wore flesh-coloured mesh, lace, and lingerie, now face cancelled concerts, lost TV appearances, and broken sponsorship deals. Held at a nightclub in Moscow on Dec 21, the party also led to the termination of contracts with some of Russia's renowned entertainers. The party was organised by famous Instagram influencer Anastasia Ivleeva and was attended by several celebs who have been staying in the country since Putin launched his offensive against Russia in Feb 2022. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × “Everyone was having a good time, no one could imagine what a mess this would all become,” the Guardian quoted a person who attended the party as saying. Wartime backlash The footage of the party spread like fire across Russian social media applications, triggering severe backlash in the country, especially among pro-war commentators and nationalist officials, and also reportedly left President Vladimir Putin unimpressed. A video clip of Putin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, being briefed about the party by one of the attending celebrities has been doing rounds on the internet. As per Baza, a news outlet which is known to have connections with security service officials, the troops fighting in Ukraine were among the first to express displeasure on viewing the footage. Peskov, on Wednesday (Dec 28), refrained from publicly commenting on the burgeoning scandal on being asked about it by reporters. "Let you and I be the only ones in the country who aren't discussing this topic," he said. Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, commenting on the event, said that it had "stained" the ones who attended it. She, however, noted that the controversy had also provided an opportunity for the attendees to reflect and work upon themselves, as per the Ura.ru news outlet. “There is a war going on in the country, but these beasts, scum are organising all this, these brutes who don’t care what’s going on,” said Vladimir Solovyov, Russia’s most prominent television propagandist, in a Telegram post, as per the Guardian. Also read: Ghost ships at North Korean port sends alarm bells ringing for Ukraine The controversial event and the criticism it has invited from the authorities, pro-Kremlin lawmakers and bloggers, state media, and Orthodox Church groups, has since then taken over the major headlines replacing stories about the surge in prices of staples like eggs and inflation. Celebrities issue public apology After rapper Vacio was sentenced to 15-day-imprisonment under the charges of “gay propaganda” law, many celebs who attended the party issued public apologies. Russia’s king of pop, Filipp Kirkorov, on Tuesday (Dec 26), begged for forgiveness. “There are moments in everyone’s life when you walk through the wrong door,” he said. He added: “In these difficult times, heroic times, an artist of my calibre, a people’s artist, cannot and should not be so irresponsible when participating in various events.” Ksenia Sobchak, who is also the rumoured goddaughter of Putin, said that she had realised that being a part of such an event and sharing images online wasn't the right thing to do at a time when Russian troops were fighting in Ukraine. “If anyone was offended by my appearance, I apologise for that,” Sobchak said. “I don’t want to cause hatred and anger toward myself and other artists because of this stupid accident.” Russian Eurovision veteran Dima Bilan said he “couldn’t know in advance what the other guests would be wearing”. The party's organiser, Anastasia (Nastya) Ivleeva, also issued two public apology videos. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × In the second video, which she released on Wednesday (Dec 27), she expressed regret over her actions saying that she deserved the treatment she was getting from people across the country but hoped people could give her a second chance. “They say that Russia knows how to forgive. If so, I would like to ask you, the people, for a second chance,” she said in her video apology on Wednesday. “If the answer is no, then I’m ready for my public execution. I won’t shy away. I’m ready for any outcome.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × Ivleeva had grabbed headlines after she wore jewellery worth 23 million roubles ($251,000) at a time when Russians were struggling to get by. View this post on Instagram A post shared by НАСТЯ ИВЛЕЕВА (@_agentgirl_) × Event angers Russians who back war in Ukraine The controversy has angered Russians who back Moscow's aggression against Ukraine. "To hold such events at a time when our guys are dying in the (Ukrainian) special military operation and many children are losing their fathers is cynical," said Yekaterina Mizulina, director of Russia's League for a Safe Internet, a body founded with the authorities support. "Our soldiers on the front line are definitely not fighting for this." As per the news agency Reuters, a woman whose nephew lost both his legs in the war against Kyiv wrote in a posting on social media that the celebrities who attended the party should pay for prosthetic legs for her relative. "That would be a better apology," the unidentified woman wrote. Meanwhile, some call the scandal a part of Russia's bid to endorse its "traditional values". “Moscow has become similar to Chechnya: public apologies from party participants trembling with fear, tax audits, the prospect of criminal cases,” wrote Alexander Rodnyansky, a Ukrainian producer, on Instagram. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia’s star-studded ‘almost naked’ party triggers severe backlash | Here’s what happened

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations,&nbsp;stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial.

Jaishankar at a joint press briefing with Lavrov said that both sides had a "very good session of talks".

“I think today what clearly came out was that India-Russia relations remain very steady, remain very strong, they are based on our strategic convergence, on our geopolitical interests, and because they are mutually beneficial,” he said.

“For us, Russia is a valued partner, a time-tested partner. It is a relationship from which both India and Russia have benefitted enormously,” Jaishankar said while responding to a question.

“My presence here today and the fact that all the developments that I have pointed out including our growing trade, investments, our military-technical cooperation, our connectivity projects, I think all of this will give you a good sense of the importance and value that we attach to the relationship,” he added.

Talking about the North-South transport corridor, Jaishankar said that it was in the interest&nbsp;of the entire global economy. “It is in our interest and not just in our interest, I think in the interest of the global economy that this corridor progresses. And we will give it the highest priority,” he said responding to another question.

<h2>India-Russia trade exceeds USD 50 billion</h2>

Jaishankar, further highlighting the significant progress made, said that the bilateral trade had surpassed USD 50 billion.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-foreign-minister-jaishankar-meets-russian-president-vladimir-putin-in-moscow-674123">Putin discusses trade, Ukraine war with Jaishankar, invites 'friend' PM Modi to Russia</a>

He also emphasised the potential for further growth and the need to provide trade ties with a more sustainable character.

“We appreciate the fact that our trade is at an all-time high. We crossed $50 billion turnover last year. We expect to exceed that this year. And what is important is that this trade is more balanced. It is sustainable, and it provides for fair market access,” Jaishankar said.

He further said that the&nbsp;two countries also discussed cooperation in their relationship with the Russian Far East.

He said that he expects a delegation from the Far East to participate in the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January.

“We discussed long-term arrangements. We are today, in our trade, energy, fertilizers, and cooking coal are very big components of that. How do we reach long-term arrangements in that regard was a big part of our discussion. We discussed mutual investments, and the need to progress on a bilateral investment treaty,” he said.

“We spoke about railways yesterday, about industrial zone infrastructure. And we have agreed that the negotiations between India and the Eurasian Economic Union for a free trade agreement will be resumed in the second half of January this year,” he said, referring to his meeting with the co-chair of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-microsoft-sued-by-new-york-times-for-use-of-stories-to-train-chatbots-674120">OpenAI, Microsoft sued by New York Times for use of its stories to train their chatbots</a>

He also underlined the discussions held taking into consideration Indian investments in Russia, in oil and gas, which he said India was seeking to expand.

“We also spoke about connectivity; connectivity from western India through the International North-South Transport Corridor. Also connectivity from eastern India, from Chennai to Vladivostok and the polar route. We discussed various related areas where India’s polar capabilities could be enhanced in collaboration with Russia,” he added.

He then said that civil aviation and tourism were also touched upon during the discussions between both sides. “We would like to see more Russian tourists in India. We have increased the number of flights from India every week, from 52 to 64. We are open to increasing it further.”

<h2>Good to see India-Russia ties progressing consistently, says Lavrov&nbsp;</h2>

Lavrov said that the ties between both countries are based on mutual respect and that it was good to see that the relations were consistently making progress.

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to our Indian counterparts for their aspiration to take a responsible approach in considering and resolving regional and global issues, primarily focusing on national interests, the interests of equal and fair international cooperation. This approach is also characteristic of India’s position on the ongoing processes in and around Ukraine, and we have also talked about it,” Lavrov said.

He further lauded India's G20 presidency, adding that Russia backed India’s candidacy for the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

“The New Delhi G20 Summit that took place last year was a true triumph of India’s foreign policy; it was a triumph of multilateral diplomacy, which has become possible, to a decisive degree, because the G20 Chair did not allow making the outcome document unilateral. The outcome document reflects the balance of interests,” he said.

Jaishankar, earlier on Wednesday (Dec 27), held wide-ranging talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow where he said that the relations between both countries reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit.

Jaishankar and Lavrov also exchanged views on the Indo-Pacific region, conflict in Ukraine, the ongoing situation in Gaza, &nbsp;Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, G20 and UN-related matters.

"A wide-ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. As strategic partners, (we) discussed the international situation and contemporary issues," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

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A wide ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. 
 
As strategic partners, discussed the international situation and contemporary issues. Exchanged views on Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation , Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, SCO, G20 and… <a href="https://t.co/Uk9VTbZm5y">pic.twitter.com/Uk9VTbZm5y</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1740000058618024124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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He further said that both sides&nbsp;noted the progress in economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity efforts, military-technical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.

“Signed Protocol on Consultations for the period 2024-28. India-Russia relations reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations, stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial.

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations, stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial. Jaishankar at a joint press briefing with Lavrov said that both sides had a "very good session of talks". “I think today what clearly came out was that India-Russia relations remain very steady, remain very strong, they are based on our strategic convergence, on our geopolitical interests, and because they are mutually beneficial,” he said. “For us, Russia is a valued partner, a time-tested partner. It is a relationship from which both India and Russia have benefitted enormously,” Jaishankar said while responding to a question. “My presence here today and the fact that all the developments that I have pointed out including our growing trade, investments, our military-technical cooperation, our connectivity projects, I think all of this will give you a good sense of the importance and value that we attach to the relationship,” he added. Talking about the North-South transport corridor, Jaishankar said that it was in the interest of the entire global economy. “It is in our interest and not just in our interest, I think in the interest of the global economy that this corridor progresses. And we will give it the highest priority,” he said responding to another question. India-Russia trade exceeds USD 50 billion Jaishankar, further highlighting the significant progress made, said that the bilateral trade had surpassed USD 50 billion. Also read: Putin discusses trade, Ukraine war with Jaishankar, invites 'friend' PM Modi to Russia He also emphasised the potential for further growth and the need to provide trade ties with a more sustainable character. “We appreciate the fact that our trade is at an all-time high. We crossed $50 billion turnover last year. We expect to exceed that this year. And what is important is that this trade is more balanced. It is sustainable, and it provides for fair market access,” Jaishankar said. He further said that the two countries also discussed cooperation in their relationship with the Russian Far East. He said that he expects a delegation from the Far East to participate in the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January. “We discussed long-term arrangements. We are today, in our trade, energy, fertilizers, and cooking coal are very big components of that. How do we reach long-term arrangements in that regard was a big part of our discussion. We discussed mutual investments, and the need to progress on a bilateral investment treaty,” he said. “We spoke about railways yesterday, about industrial zone infrastructure. And we have agreed that the negotiations between India and the Eurasian Economic Union for a free trade agreement will be resumed in the second half of January this year,” he said, referring to his meeting with the co-chair of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, on Tuesday. Also read: OpenAI, Microsoft sued by New York Times for use of its stories to train their chatbots He also underlined the discussions held taking into consideration Indian investments in Russia, in oil and gas, which he said India was seeking to expand. “We also spoke about connectivity; connectivity from western India through the International North-South Transport Corridor. Also connectivity from eastern India, from Chennai to Vladivostok and the polar route. We discussed various related areas where India’s polar capabilities could be enhanced in collaboration with Russia,” he added. He then said that civil aviation and tourism were also touched upon during the discussions between both sides. “We would like to see more Russian tourists in India. We have increased the number of flights from India every week, from 52 to 64. We are open to increasing it further.” Good to see India-Russia ties progressing consistently, says Lavrov Lavrov said that the ties between both countries are based on mutual respect and that it was good to see that the relations were consistently making progress. “We express our heartfelt gratitude to our Indian counterparts for their aspiration to take a responsible approach in considering and resolving regional and global issues, primarily focusing on national interests, the interests of equal and fair international cooperation. This approach is also characteristic of India’s position on the ongoing processes in and around Ukraine, and we have also talked about it,” Lavrov said. He further lauded India's G20 presidency, adding that Russia backed India’s candidacy for the UN Security Council. “The New Delhi G20 Summit that took place last year was a true triumph of India’s foreign policy; it was a triumph of multilateral diplomacy, which has become possible, to a decisive degree, because the G20 Chair did not allow making the outcome document unilateral. The outcome document reflects the balance of interests,” he said. Jaishankar, earlier on Wednesday (Dec 27), held wide-ranging talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow where he said that the relations between both countries reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit. Jaishankar and Lavrov also exchanged views on the Indo-Pacific region, conflict in Ukraine, the ongoing situation in Gaza, Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, G20 and UN-related matters. "A wide-ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. As strategic partners, (we) discussed the international situation and contemporary issues," Jaishankar said in a post on X. A wide ranging and useful meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. As strategic partners, discussed the international situation and contemporary issues. Exchanged views on Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation , Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, SCO, G20 and… pic.twitter.com/Uk9VTbZm5y — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 27, 2023 × He further said that both sides noted the progress in economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity efforts, military-technical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. “Signed Protocol on Consultations for the period 2024-28. India-Russia relations reflect geopolitical realities, strategic convergence and mutual benefit,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lavrov hails 'mutually beneficial' India-Russia ties, Jaishankar calls Moscow a 'time-tested partner'

The United States President Joe Biden’s administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth around $250 million, amid its ongoing war with Russia. The latest package marked the last funding available for the war-torn country without fresh approval from Congress where the talks on a new agreement have stalled.&nbsp;

<h2>About the latest military aid package</h2>

The latest package included air defence munitions, anti-tank weapons, artillery ammunition, anti-armour munitions and over 15 million rounds of ammunition, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Washington’s top diplomat, in a statement, said Congress, where Republicans are split on supporting Ukraine, should “act swiftly” to renew the flow.&nbsp;

He added, “Our assistance has been critical to supporting our Ukrainian partners as they defend their country and their freedom against Russia’s aggression.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown</a>

The weapons, worth up to $250 million are provided through the Presidential Drawdown Authority and will be pulled from Pentagon stockpiles. The drawdown is a US foreign policy tool, which allows speedy delivery of Department of Defense stocks to foreign countries in crisis and does not need Congressional approval.&nbsp;

In a statement, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Garron Garn, a Pentagon spokesperson said there is no more funding to replace the weapons taken from department stocks. Therefore, Garn added, “Without the supplemental funding, there will be a shortfall in replenishing U.S. military stocks, affecting American military readiness.”

Earlier this month, Biden signed a $200 million emergency aid drawdown for Kyiv amid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Washington. This is after Zelensky failed to sway US lawmakers as criticism of continued financial support for Ukraine has grown louder on Capitol Hill in recent months, particularly from the Republicans.

However, the US president has made backing Ukraine a priority as Western aid has been crucial in helping the war-torn country against a far larger attacking Russian army.

<h2>Biden’s $106 billion aid package proposal</h2>

Biden has sought Congress’ approval of a broader $106 billion emergency spending package which would include funding for US border security and military and humanitarian aid for Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-us-aid-for-ukraine-would-allow-putin-to-prevail-warns-white-house-666210">Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House</a>

Out of the $106 billion spending package, proposed by the White House, more than $61 billion would be allocated to Ukraine.&nbsp;

While there is broad bipartisan backing for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, support from Kyiv’s Western allies has dwindled in recent months amid a stalled counter-offensive in the east of the country and little progress along the line of control.

Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, any agreement on further military aid to Ukraine has been stopped by Republicans who insist that tougher security measures on the US-Mexico border as a condition for a deal.

Congress has approved more than $110 billion in aid for Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia fires another barrage of drones</h2>

The announcement on Wednesday comes as Russia fired almost 50 Shahed drones at targets in Ukraine, reported the Associated Press. Moscow also reportedly shelled a train station in the southern city of Kherson where more than 100 civilians were gathered to catch a train to Kyiv.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-drone-and-artillery-attack-kills-6-in-ukrainian-city-causes-power-outage-674075">Russia-Ukraine war: Drone and artillery attack kills 6 in Ukrainian city, causes power outage</a>

As per the officials, the barrages killed at least five people and knocked out power in most of the southern city of Kherson.&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.

The United States President Joe Biden’s administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth around $250 million, amid its ongoing war with Russia.

The United States President Joe Biden’s administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth around $250 million, amid its ongoing war with Russia. The latest package marked the last funding available for the war-torn country without fresh approval from Congress where the talks on a new agreement have stalled. About the latest military aid package The latest package included air defence munitions, anti-tank weapons, artillery ammunition, anti-armour munitions and over 15 million rounds of ammunition, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday. Washington’s top diplomat, in a statement, said Congress, where Republicans are split on supporting Ukraine, should “act swiftly” to renew the flow. He added, “Our assistance has been critical to supporting our Ukrainian partners as they defend their country and their freedom against Russia’s aggression.” ALSO READ | Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown The weapons, worth up to $250 million are provided through the Presidential Drawdown Authority and will be pulled from Pentagon stockpiles. The drawdown is a US foreign policy tool, which allows speedy delivery of Department of Defense stocks to foreign countries in crisis and does not need Congressional approval. In a statement, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Garron Garn, a Pentagon spokesperson said there is no more funding to replace the weapons taken from department stocks. Therefore, Garn added, “Without the supplemental funding, there will be a shortfall in replenishing U.S. military stocks, affecting American military readiness.” Earlier this month, Biden signed a $200 million emergency aid drawdown for Kyiv amid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Washington. This is after Zelensky failed to sway US lawmakers as criticism of continued financial support for Ukraine has grown louder on Capitol Hill in recent months, particularly from the Republicans. However, the US president has made backing Ukraine a priority as Western aid has been crucial in helping the war-torn country against a far larger attacking Russian army. Biden’s $106 billion aid package proposal Biden has sought Congress’ approval of a broader $106 billion emergency spending package which would include funding for US border security and military and humanitarian aid for Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine. ALSO READ | Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House Out of the $106 billion spending package, proposed by the White House, more than $61 billion would be allocated to Ukraine. While there is broad bipartisan backing for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, support from Kyiv’s Western allies has dwindled in recent months amid a stalled counter-offensive in the east of the country and little progress along the line of control. Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, any agreement on further military aid to Ukraine has been stopped by Republicans who insist that tougher security measures on the US-Mexico border as a condition for a deal. Congress has approved more than $110 billion in aid for Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion. Russia fires another barrage of drones The announcement on Wednesday comes as Russia fired almost 50 Shahed drones at targets in Ukraine, reported the Associated Press. Moscow also reportedly shelled a train station in the southern city of Kherson where more than 100 civilians were gathered to catch a train to Kyiv. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Drone and artillery attack kills 6 in Ukrainian city, causes power outage As per the officials, the barrages killed at least five people and knocked out power in most of the southern city of Kherson. (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.

White House to release final package of authorised military aid for Ukraine amid deadlock in Congress

Two Russians have been handed hefty jail terms for reading poetry against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A court in Moscow on Thursday (Dec 28) handed seven-year jail sentence to Artyom Kamardin (33) and a five-and-a-half-year sentence to Yegor Shtovba (23). According to news agency AFP, supporters of the two men, who were present inside the courtroom, shouted "Shame!" as the jail-terms were announced.

After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow has dealt with&nbsp;any perceived protest harshly. The criticism of what Russia calls the 'special military operation' has effectively been outlawed.

Artyom Kamardin (33) has reportedly said that he was violently beaten and raped when he was in detention. He said that the officers threatened his girlfriend and made him shoot an apology video.

On the eve of his arrest, Kamardin had recited his poem "Kill me, militia man!". The recitation took place on a square in Moscow where dissidents have held demonstrations since the times of Soviet Russia. He also raised slogans that protested Russian attempts to annex regions in southern Ukraine.

Both Kamardin and Shtovba were found guilty of 'inciting hatred' and "calling for activities threatening state security".

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: U.S. releases final Kyiv aid tranche

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Kamardin said in court that he didn't know that recitation of poetry broke the law.

"I am not a hero, and going to prison for my beliefs was never in my plans," he said in a statement, which was posted on his supporters' Telegram channel.

Shtovba also maintained that he didn't break the law.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-modi-well-for-lok-sabha-elections-heres-what-it-means-for-india-russia-ties-674323">Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties</a>

"What have I done that's illegal? Read poetry?" he said in court, as per his statement published by independent site Mediazona.

He even mentioned his mother, who he said was financially dependent on him.

"Mom, I know that you, more than anyone, believe in my innocence... Still, I'm sorry for how things turned out, leaving you and dad alone."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-star-studded-almost-naked-party-triggers-severe-backlash-heres-what-happened-674393">Russia's star-studded 'almost naked' party triggers severe backlash | Here's what happened</a>

The latest sentences add to string of many that have been handed by Russian courts for perceived dissent against Ukraine invasion.

Just last month, artist Alexandra Skochilenko was sent to prison for seven years after she swapped price-tags in clothes shop with slogans against Russia's military offensive in Ukraine. She did this in Saint Peterburg, in a branch of Russia's largest supermarket chains.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Russians have been handed hefty jail terms for reading poetry against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A court in Moscow on Thursday (Dec 28) handed seven-year jail sentence to Artyom Kamardin (33) and a five-and-a-half-year sentence to Yegor Shtovba (23).

Two Russians have been handed hefty jail terms for reading poetry against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A court in Moscow on Thursday (Dec 28) handed seven-year jail sentence to Artyom Kamardin (33) and a five-and-a-half-year sentence to Yegor Shtovba (23). According to news agency AFP, supporters of the two men, who were present inside the courtroom, shouted "Shame!" as the jail-terms were announced. After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow has dealt with any perceived protest harshly. The criticism of what Russia calls the 'special military operation' has effectively been outlawed. Artyom Kamardin (33) has reportedly said that he was violently beaten and raped when he was in detention. He said that the officers threatened his girlfriend and made him shoot an apology video. On the eve of his arrest, Kamardin had recited his poem "Kill me, militia man!". The recitation took place on a square in Moscow where dissidents have held demonstrations since the times of Soviet Russia. He also raised slogans that protested Russian attempts to annex regions in southern Ukraine. Both Kamardin and Shtovba were found guilty of 'inciting hatred' and "calling for activities threatening state security". Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: U.S. releases final Kyiv aid tranche × Kamardin said in court that he didn't know that recitation of poetry broke the law. "I am not a hero, and going to prison for my beliefs was never in my plans," he said in a statement, which was posted on his supporters' Telegram channel. Shtovba also maintained that he didn't break the law. Also Read | Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties "What have I done that's illegal? Read poetry?" he said in court, as per his statement published by independent site Mediazona. He even mentioned his mother, who he said was financially dependent on him. "Mom, I know that you, more than anyone, believe in my innocence... Still, I'm sorry for how things turned out, leaving you and dad alone." Also Read | Russia's star-studded 'almost naked' party triggers severe backlash | Here's what happened The latest sentences add to string of many that have been handed by Russian courts for perceived dissent against Ukraine invasion. Just last month, artist Alexandra Skochilenko was sent to prison for seven years after she swapped price-tags in clothes shop with slogans against Russia's military offensive in Ukraine. She did this in Saint Peterburg, in a branch of Russia's largest supermarket chains. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Russians sent to jail for reciting poetry against Ukraine invasion

A Russian soldier, heavily wounded in the war against Ukraine, received two buckets of carrots and a bag of onions from the government as compensation, a report carried by independent investigative outlet Mozhem Obyasnit (We Can Explain) has claimed.

A Russian soldier, heavily wounded in the war against Ukraine, received two buckets of carrots and a bag of onions from the government as compensation, a report carried by independent investigative outlet Mozhem Obyasnit (We Can Explain) has claimed. The publication reportedly interviewed the soldier's wife for the story who said the family thought they would receive money for the trauma his husband had gone through but instead all they got was vegetables. The soldier identified as Oleg Rybkin, 45, was mobilised from Russia's Volgograd region to fight in Ukraine in September 2022. In June 2023, Rybkin found himself in combat near the village of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast - the epicentre of the counteroffensive operation launched by Ukrainian troops. During one of the operations, Rybkin was wounded in the abdomen, liver and kidneys while his right knee joint was destroyed. A heavily injured Rybkin was then taken to a local hospital in Ukraine where he underwent abdominal surgery with the military medical commission deeming him "temporarily unfit" to fight. Later, he was sent to Saint Petersburg for rehabilitation. According to Irina Rybakina, her husband remains in extreme pain and needs knee surgery for which no compensation has been provided up until now. She said the military command doesn't want to be forced to pay the 3 million rubles ($32,730) in compensation and a lifelong pension. "He has severe pain, his knee cannot straighten, and he cannot walk without crutches. He's on painkillers and sleeping pills," Irina Rybkina told the outlet. "What vegetables, what gifts, do I need to replace my husband's joint and get him discharged!" she added. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Can Zelensky stop the Russian assault Similar instances Oleg's case is not the only one to come out of Russia amid the ongoing war. In October, a Russian corporal named Khizri Kurazov was denied standard compensation for his war injuries as they were inflicted by his own comrades instead of Ukrainian forces. Kurazov served as a corporal of the military unit 3737 of the Russian Guard and got wounded in Ukraine by a mine accidentally detonated by a fellow unit soldier. Also read: Moscow discussed Russia-Crimea tunnel project with Chinese construction companies The case went to court which decided that there was no ground for the corporal to receive the lump-sum payment, with Kurazov's commander ordering a refusal of the claim. Kurazov further appealed his case at the southern district military court in Rostov-on-Don but a panel of three military court judges — Viktor Alekseevich Kostin, Dmitry Viktorovich Merkulov, and Magomedbasir Gapurovich Shuaipov upheld the original decision. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian soldier receives vegetables as compensation for war injuries: Report

A fire broke out on a nuclear-powered Russian cargo ship on Sunday (Dec 24).The incident took place in one of the&nbsp;cabins of the&nbsp;cargo-icebreaker Soviet-era ship,&nbsp;currently docked in Murmansk, northern Russian city.

The state company which runs the ship said that emergency crews put out the fire and that there were no casualties. It added there wasn't any threat to the nuclear reactor.

Russia's emergency ministry has said that at its peak, the fire covered 30 square metres (323 square feet) area on the ship.

"The fire was quickly liquidated," Atomflot, which owns the vessel, said in a statement. "There were no injuries."

"There was no threat to crucial support systems or to the reactor plant," Atomflot said.

It was not immediately clear what caused the fire. There was no immediate official clarification on this.

Atomflot is part of Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear corporation. Atomflot operates the country's fleet of nuclear icebreakers.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian strikes kill at least 4 in Kherson

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Sevmorput, the ship on which the fire broke out, entered service in the year 1988. Just a decade ago, the ship underwent an extensive upgrade. It is the only nuclear-powered icebreaking transport ship in Russia, says Rosatom.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-moved-to-prison-in-the-arctic-673412">Jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny moved to Arctic penal colony</a>

Murmansk region in northwest Russia borders Norway and Finland. It also has access to the Barents and White seas.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-arrives-in-russia-on-five-day-visit-673388">India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrives in Russia on five-day visit</a>

The fire at the nuclear powered&nbsp;ship&nbsp;caused a scare in world media, and may start a debate about safety and risks around nuclear-powered shipping.

Sevmorput, the ship in question has been in news due to previous incidents. It was allegedly involved in an incident which caused damage to an undersea gas pipeline.

(With inputs from agencies)

A fire broke out on a nuclear-powered Russian cargo ship on Sunday (Dec 24).The incident took place in one of the cabins of the cargo-icebreaker Soviet-era ship, currently docked in Murmansk, northern Russian city.

A fire broke out on a nuclear-powered Russian cargo ship on Sunday (Dec 24).The incident took place in one of the cabins of the cargo-icebreaker Soviet-era ship, currently docked in Murmansk, northern Russian city. The state company which runs the ship said that emergency crews put out the fire and that there were no casualties. It added there wasn't any threat to the nuclear reactor. Russia's emergency ministry has said that at its peak, the fire covered 30 square metres (323 square feet) area on the ship. "The fire was quickly liquidated," Atomflot, which owns the vessel, said in a statement. "There were no injuries." "There was no threat to crucial support systems or to the reactor plant," Atomflot said. It was not immediately clear what caused the fire. There was no immediate official clarification on this. Atomflot is part of Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear corporation. Atomflot operates the country's fleet of nuclear icebreakers. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian strikes kill at least 4 in Kherson × Sevmorput, the ship on which the fire broke out, entered service in the year 1988. Just a decade ago, the ship underwent an extensive upgrade. It is the only nuclear-powered icebreaking transport ship in Russia, says Rosatom. Also Read | Jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny moved to Arctic penal colony Murmansk region in northwest Russia borders Norway and Finland. It also has access to the Barents and White seas. Also Read | India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrives in Russia on five-day visit The fire at the nuclear powered ship caused a scare in world media, and may start a debate about safety and risks around nuclear-powered shipping. Sevmorput, the ship in question has been in news due to previous incidents. It was allegedly involved in an incident which caused damage to an undersea gas pipeline. (With inputs from agencies)

Fire breaks out on Russian nuclear-powered ship

At least five civilians were killed after Russian attacks on southern Ukraine’s Kherson region, said Ukrainian officials. Meanwhile, Russian-installed officials in the eastern town of Horlivka said one person was killed after Ukrainian shelling.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian army, on Monday (Dec 25) also claimed to have shot down 28 of the 31 drones fired by Russia and destroyed two missiles mostly targeting the south of the country. The war-torn country is also in the midst of celebrating Christmas on December 25 for the first time in over a century.&nbsp;

<h2>Attacks in Kherson and Horlivka</h2>

The deaths in the Ukrainian region follow incessant Russian shelling of Kherson&nbsp;city and the region over the preceding 24 hours, according to local officials. Reuters citing regional police said three people died in the shelling of an apartment building and a private home in Kherson city.&nbsp;

Additionally, a woman died in a drone attack in a small town south of Kherson and a second woman was killed when a town further north came under heavy fire. The attacks also partially cut gas and water supplies as well as hit a medical facility.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-marks-sombre-christmas-celebration-with-vigil-amid-gaza-war-673157">‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a>

“The windows were broken, the building was damaged,” Oleksandr Tolokonnikov from Kherson’s regional military administration told the Ukrainian public broadcaster.&nbsp;

Around 600 kilometres northeast of Kherson in the town of Horlivka, in Ukraine’s Donetsk region under Russian control, one woman was killed and six others were injured following Ukrainian shelling, said a Russian-installed official.&nbsp;

Mayor of Horlivka, Ivan Prikhodko, in a post on Telegram, also said that the shelling destroyed a shopping centre and several other buildings.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine downs&nbsp;barrage of drones fired by Russia</h2>

According to the Ukrainian military, Russia launched 31 drones from Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.&nbsp;

“As a result of air combat, the Ukrainian Air Force and defence forces destroyed 28 Shahed attack drones in Odesa, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kirovohrad and Khmelnytskyi regions,” said Ukrainian Air Forces in a post on Telegram.&nbsp;

Debris from the downed drones damaged technical facilities in the Odesa port as well as an “inoperable administrative building and a warehouse,” said the Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;

The attack, according to the military, also led to a fire in a warehouse in the Kherson region. “No people were injured,” it added.

<h2>Moscow ‘will be defeated’</h2>

In what is being seen as a snub to Russia, Ukraine has decided to officially celebrate Christmas on December 25 this year. It will be the first time in over a century that Ukrainians will observe the festival in line with the Gregorian calendar and along with most of the world’s Christians.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed his nation on Sunday (Dec 24), Christmas Eve with a message of encouragement amid the ongoing war with Russia.&nbsp;

“In the end, darkness will lose. Evil will be defeated,” the Ukrainian president said in a video message reportedly recorded in front of Kyiv’s famous Pechersk Lavra monastery complex.&nbsp;

The whole country would pray together during the holidays “for our freedom. For our victory. For our Ukraine,” said Zelensky.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-to-officially-celebrate-christmas-on-december-25-for-the-first-time-in-snub-to-russia-673201">Ukrainians to officially celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time</a>

Like Russia, Ukraine has also been observing the holiday on January 7, following the old Julian calendar. However, a bill making the date change was passed in July and later signed by the Ukrainian president.

Zelensky noted this change allows Ukrainians to “abandon the Russian heritage of imposing Christmas celebrations on January 7.”&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine received $1.34 billion under World Bank plan</h2>

Kyiv received $1.34 billion under the World Bank’s public expenditures for administrative capacity endurance in Ukraine, said the Ukrainian finance ministry, on Monday (Dec 25).&nbsp;

The financing consisted of a $1.086 billion loan from the World Bank, $190 million grant from Norway, $50 million grant from the United States and $20 million grant from Switzerland, said the ministry.&nbsp;

The funds, in part, will be used for non-security and defence-related expenditures like old-age social payments. 
 
“International financial assistance is a significant contribution to maintaining Ukraine’s financial and economic stability and allows us to provide priority social expenditures during the war,” said Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least five civilians were killed after Russian attacks on southern Ukraine’s Kherson region, said Ukrainian officials. Meanwhile, Russian-installed officials in the eastern town of Horlivka said one person was killed after Ukrainian shelling.

At least five civilians were killed after Russian attacks on southern Ukraine’s Kherson region, said Ukrainian officials. Meanwhile, Russian-installed officials in the eastern town of Horlivka said one person was killed after Ukrainian shelling. The Ukrainian army, on Monday (Dec 25) also claimed to have shot down 28 of the 31 drones fired by Russia and destroyed two missiles mostly targeting the south of the country. The war-torn country is also in the midst of celebrating Christmas on December 25 for the first time in over a century. Attacks in Kherson and Horlivka The deaths in the Ukrainian region follow incessant Russian shelling of Kherson city and the region over the preceding 24 hours, according to local officials. Reuters citing regional police said three people died in the shelling of an apartment building and a private home in Kherson city. Additionally, a woman died in a drone attack in a small town south of Kherson and a second woman was killed when a town further north came under heavy fire. The attacks also partially cut gas and water supplies as well as hit a medical facility. ALSO READ | ‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war “The windows were broken, the building was damaged,” Oleksandr Tolokonnikov from Kherson’s regional military administration told the Ukrainian public broadcaster. Around 600 kilometres northeast of Kherson in the town of Horlivka, in Ukraine’s Donetsk region under Russian control, one woman was killed and six others were injured following Ukrainian shelling, said a Russian-installed official. Mayor of Horlivka, Ivan Prikhodko, in a post on Telegram, also said that the shelling destroyed a shopping centre and several other buildings. Ukraine downs barrage of drones fired by Russia According to the Ukrainian military, Russia launched 31 drones from Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. “As a result of air combat, the Ukrainian Air Force and defence forces destroyed 28 Shahed attack drones in Odesa, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Donetsk, Kirovohrad and Khmelnytskyi regions,” said Ukrainian Air Forces in a post on Telegram. Debris from the downed drones damaged technical facilities in the Odesa port as well as an “inoperable administrative building and a warehouse,” said the Ukrainian forces. The attack, according to the military, also led to a fire in a warehouse in the Kherson region. “No people were injured,” it added. Moscow ‘will be defeated’ In what is being seen as a snub to Russia, Ukraine has decided to officially celebrate Christmas on December 25 this year. It will be the first time in over a century that Ukrainians will observe the festival in line with the Gregorian calendar and along with most of the world’s Christians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed his nation on Sunday (Dec 24), Christmas Eve with a message of encouragement amid the ongoing war with Russia. “In the end, darkness will lose. Evil will be defeated,” the Ukrainian president said in a video message reportedly recorded in front of Kyiv’s famous Pechersk Lavra monastery complex. The whole country would pray together during the holidays “for our freedom. For our victory. For our Ukraine,” said Zelensky. ALSO READ | Ukrainians to officially celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time Like Russia, Ukraine has also been observing the holiday on January 7, following the old Julian calendar. However, a bill making the date change was passed in July and later signed by the Ukrainian president. Zelensky noted this change allows Ukrainians to “abandon the Russian heritage of imposing Christmas celebrations on January 7.” Ukraine received $1.34 billion under World Bank plan Kyiv received $1.34 billion under the World Bank’s public expenditures for administrative capacity endurance in Ukraine, said the Ukrainian finance ministry, on Monday (Dec 25). The financing consisted of a $1.086 billion loan from the World Bank, $190 million grant from Norway, $50 million grant from the United States and $20 million grant from Switzerland, said the ministry. The funds, in part, will be used for non-security and defence-related expenditures like old-age social payments. “International financial assistance is a significant contribution to maintaining Ukraine’s financial and economic stability and allows us to provide priority social expenditures during the war,” said Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: Six killed after attacks on Kherson, Horlivka; Moscow ‘will be defeated’, says Zelensky

The mystery around the disappearance of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny continues to deepen after he remained absent from two scheduled court hearings which were conducted through video link on Friday (Dec 22), as per a statement from his team. 
 
The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. 
 
“Today Alexey was supposed to have two trials. He was again not brought to the meetings. Navalny has never been hidden for so long,” said Navalny’s team, in a Telegram post. 
 
The unprecedented duration of the absence of Navalny from public view has sparked concerns regarding his safety and well-being. 
 
The aides of Navalny have again submitted a plea for information in which they have offered a cryptocurrency reward for complete and reliable details regarding his current status or location.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-unaware-of-navalnys-whereabouts-rebuffs-us-concerns-over-his-disappearance-668976">Kremlin says unaware of Navalny's whereabouts, rebuffs US concerns over his 'disappearance'</a>

When the Kremlin last week was repeatedly asked about the absence of Navalny, they told reporters that they had “neither the intention nor the ability to monitor the fate of prisoners and the process of their stay in the relevant institutions.”

<h2>No coincidence, says former minister</h2>

Former Russian deputy energy minister and an adviser to Navalny Vladimir Milov, while speaking to CNN, said that the timing of the disappearance of Navalny was “no coincidence”, noting Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement that he will be running for elections in March 2024. 
 
“I think it is a deliberate tactic. It is no coincidence that Navalny disappeared exactly the moment when the so-called sham presidential elections were announced and that Putin announced that he was going to be running again,” said Milov. 
 
“Putin is really willing to show that he is going to enter the Kremlin for another term through intimidation, through repression, through pressure on society, and that is clearly blackmail on all the opposition forces,” he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia: Vladimir Putin's jailed opponent Alexei Navalny missing since a week, US concerned

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Milov further said that even though he made efforts to find the whereabouts of Navalny, “so far, there is no answer.” 
 
Milov added that his colleagues are required to send written and formal inquiries to detention institutions in Russia and to get information regarding the whereabouts of Navalny, a process he called “tedious” and “time and effort-consuming.” 
 
“My colleagues have been bombarding all the known detention institutions in Russia to try and find Navalny across the country,” said Milov.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The mystery around the disappearance of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny continues to deepen after he remained absent from two scheduled court hearings which were conducted through video link on Friday (Dec 22), as per a statement from his team.

The mystery around the disappearance of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny continues to deepen after he remained absent from two scheduled court hearings which were conducted through video link on Friday (Dec 22), as per a statement from his team. The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. “Today Alexey was supposed to have two trials. He was again not brought to the meetings. Navalny has never been hidden for so long,” said Navalny’s team, in a Telegram post. The unprecedented duration of the absence of Navalny from public view has sparked concerns regarding his safety and well-being. The aides of Navalny have again submitted a plea for information in which they have offered a cryptocurrency reward for complete and reliable details regarding his current status or location. Also read: Kremlin says unaware of Navalny's whereabouts, rebuffs US concerns over his 'disappearance' When the Kremlin last week was repeatedly asked about the absence of Navalny, they told reporters that they had “neither the intention nor the ability to monitor the fate of prisoners and the process of their stay in the relevant institutions.” No coincidence, says former minister Former Russian deputy energy minister and an adviser to Navalny Vladimir Milov, while speaking to CNN, said that the timing of the disappearance of Navalny was “no coincidence”, noting Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement that he will be running for elections in March 2024. “I think it is a deliberate tactic. It is no coincidence that Navalny disappeared exactly the moment when the so-called sham presidential elections were announced and that Putin announced that he was going to be running again,” said Milov. “Putin is really willing to show that he is going to enter the Kremlin for another term through intimidation, through repression, through pressure on society, and that is clearly blackmail on all the opposition forces,” he added. Watch: Russia: Vladimir Putin's jailed opponent Alexei Navalny missing since a week, US concerned Milov further said that even though he made efforts to find the whereabouts of Navalny, “so far, there is no answer.” Milov added that his colleagues are required to send written and formal inquiries to detention institutions in Russia and to get information regarding the whereabouts of Navalny, a process he called “tedious” and “time and effort-consuming.” “My colleagues have been bombarding all the known detention institutions in Russia to try and find Navalny across the country,” said Milov. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia’s former minister says ‘no coincidence’ as Putin’s rival Navalny remains absent from court hearings

Russia on Saturday (Dec 23) rejected an application by presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova calling for peace. The Central Electoral Commission, citing mistakes in the documents submitted by Duntsova, cancelled the plea, reported Russian television.

The commission's chief, Ella Pamfilova, released a statement saying that the members rejected Duntsova's bid to stand in the elections to be held next year.

It further said Duntsova, who is a former journalist and city councillor campaigning "for peace and democratic processes", could not move on to the next stage of assembling thousands of supporters' signatures.

Pamfilova told her: "You are a young woman, you have everything ahead of you."

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She further said that at least 29 people had filed to run for the presidency in Russia.

The 40-year-old former journalist was asked to provide documents proving that a group of at least 500 people had held a meeting supporting her.

"A people's initiative is not needed, is not welcomed," Duntsova told journalists, saying she would not have time to file another application as an independent candidate.

She then took to her official social media account saying that she would file an appeal against the ruling with the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

<h2>Anti-war candidate</h2>

Duntsova submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024.&nbsp;

She had planned to run on a scaffold of ending the war in Ukraine and freeing political prisoners.

Duntsova, in an interview with Reuters last month, called for an end to the war and the release of political prisoners, including opposition leader Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/czech-president-attends-mass-for-victims-of-prague-attack-as-country-holds-national-mourning-672861">Prague shooting: Czech president attends mass for victims as nation mourns</a>

“I feel a sense of accomplishment: We’ve done everything that we needed to do. We’ve made this step, and I think it should inspire people who support us,” said Duntsova, speaking to journalists in Moscow on Wednesday.

In her interview with Reuters, Duntsova avoided using the word “war” to describe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which Putin calls his “special military operation", but did acknowledge that she was afraid. “Any sane person taking this step would be afraid - but fear must not win.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Saturday (Dec 23) rejected an application by presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova calling for peace. The Central Electoral Commission, citing mistakes in the documents submitted by Duntsova, cancelled the plea, reported Russian television.

Russia on Saturday (Dec 23) rejected an application by presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova calling for peace. The Central Electoral Commission, citing mistakes in the documents submitted by Duntsova, cancelled the plea, reported Russian television. The commission's chief, Ella Pamfilova, released a statement saying that the members rejected Duntsova's bid to stand in the elections to be held next year. It further said Duntsova, who is a former journalist and city councillor campaigning "for peace and democratic processes", could not move on to the next stage of assembling thousands of supporters' signatures. Pamfilova told her: "You are a young woman, you have everything ahead of you." Also read: Missile strike hits merchant ship off India's coast; crew included 21 Indians She further said that at least 29 people had filed to run for the presidency in Russia. The 40-year-old former journalist was asked to provide documents proving that a group of at least 500 people had held a meeting supporting her. "A people's initiative is not needed, is not welcomed," Duntsova told journalists, saying she would not have time to file another application as an independent candidate. She then took to her official social media account saying that she would file an appeal against the ruling with the Supreme Court. Anti-war candidate Duntsova submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024. She had planned to run on a scaffold of ending the war in Ukraine and freeing political prisoners. Duntsova, in an interview with Reuters last month, called for an end to the war and the release of political prisoners, including opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Also read: Prague shooting: Czech president attends mass for victims as nation mourns “I feel a sense of accomplishment: We’ve done everything that we needed to do. We’ve made this step, and I think it should inspire people who support us,” said Duntsova, speaking to journalists in Moscow on Wednesday. In her interview with Reuters, Duntsova avoided using the word “war” to describe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which Putin calls his “special military operation", but did acknowledge that she was afraid. “Any sane person taking this step would be afraid - but fear must not win.” (With inputs from agencies)

Russia bars anti-war candidate Yekaterina Duntsova from presidential ballot

Russian Security Council secretary and President Vladimir Putin's right hand Nikolai Patrushev had given orders for Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's assassination, reported the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) while citing Western intelligence as well as former Russian intelligence officer. 
 
The Wagner Group was the Russian army's crucial wing in the Ukraine war before the escalating rhetoric between the country's defence minister and Yevgeny Prigozhin resulted in the former leading a brief mutiny against the government of Russia in June 2023 which shook the foundation of the Kremlin.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-upgrading-nuclear-arsenal-amid-hybrid-war-with-west-671399">Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid ‘hybrid war’ with West</a>

The so-called “march of justice” was abruptly ended by Yevgeny Prigozhin as he reached close to Moscow after a deal between him and Putin was brokered by Belarus's Alexander Lukashenko which permitted him and his Wagner forces to seek shelter in his country.

<h2>Nikolai Patrushev saw Prigozhin as a 'threat'</h2>

In August, Yevgeny Prigozhin, along with other top Wagner commanders, was killed after his plane exploded. For a long time, Yevgeny Prigozhin was seen as a threat by Nikolai Patrushev, even before the mutiny took place. 
 
Patrushev did approve the top Russian military brass' open criticism by Wagner's boss and was concerned that probably he gained a lot of power, as per the report. 
 
Nikolai Patrushev - who has worked with Vladimir Putin since he became the president and is Russia's second-most powerful man – had taken the decision to punish Prigozhin after the mutiny, claimed the report. The report added that Putin "did not object" to it. 
 
After Prigozhin's death in the plane explosion, Putin in his statement had said that "he made mistakes." The president also speculated that the explosion was caused by the grenades' poor handling by those present onboard.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Did Putin order the killing of Wagner Chief?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-putin-order-the-killing-of-wagner-chief-672655/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This claim was denied in a WSJ report which stated that a small bomb was attached under the wing of the plane in which Yevgeny Prigozhin boarded. The bomb was attached when the plane was waiting on the tarmac at a Moscow airport which caused the explosion. 
 
Meanwhile, reacting to the report, the Kremlin accused the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) of publishing "pulp fiction". 
 
“We have seen this material, but we would not like to comment on it. It is unlikely that such materials can be commented on,” he 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;

Russian Security Council secretary and President Vladimir Putin's right hand Nikolai Patrushev had given orders for Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's assassination, reported the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) while citing Western intelligence as well as former Russian intelligence officer.

Russian Security Council secretary and President Vladimir Putin's right hand Nikolai Patrushev had given orders for Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's assassination, reported the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) while citing Western intelligence as well as former Russian intelligence officer. The Wagner Group was the Russian army's crucial wing in the Ukraine war before the escalating rhetoric between the country's defence minister and Yevgeny Prigozhin resulted in the former leading a brief mutiny against the government of Russia in June 2023 which shook the foundation of the Kremlin. Also read: Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid ‘hybrid war’ with West The so-called “march of justice” was abruptly ended by Yevgeny Prigozhin as he reached close to Moscow after a deal between him and Putin was brokered by Belarus's Alexander Lukashenko which permitted him and his Wagner forces to seek shelter in his country. Nikolai Patrushev saw Prigozhin as a 'threat' In August, Yevgeny Prigozhin, along with other top Wagner commanders, was killed after his plane exploded. For a long time, Yevgeny Prigozhin was seen as a threat by Nikolai Patrushev, even before the mutiny took place. Patrushev did approve the top Russian military brass' open criticism by Wagner's boss and was concerned that probably he gained a lot of power, as per the report. Nikolai Patrushev - who has worked with Vladimir Putin since he became the president and is Russia's second-most powerful man – had taken the decision to punish Prigozhin after the mutiny, claimed the report. The report added that Putin "did not object" to it. After Prigozhin's death in the plane explosion, Putin in his statement had said that "he made mistakes." The president also speculated that the explosion was caused by the grenades' poor handling by those present onboard. Watch: Gravitas: Did Putin order the killing of Wagner Chief? This claim was denied in a WSJ report which stated that a small bomb was attached under the wing of the plane in which Yevgeny Prigozhin boarded. The bomb was attached when the plane was waiting on the tarmac at a Moscow airport which caused the explosion. Meanwhile, reacting to the report, the Kremlin accused the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) of publishing "pulp fiction". “We have seen this material, but we would not like to comment on it. It is unlikely that such materials can be commented on,” he 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.

Russia's Putin gave orders to kill Wagner Chief Prigozhin, claims report

Former TV journalist and Russian lawmaker calling for peace in Ukraine, Yekaterina Duntsova, submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024.&nbsp;

She presented her documents to Russia’s Central Election Commission to register as a candidate days after taking her first steps toward candidate status Sunday. In line with the country’s law, her run had to be endorsed by 500 supporters.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Humane’ Russia</h2>

The 40-year-old Russian lawmaker hopes to challenge Putin by promoting her vision of a “humane” Russia “that’s peaceful, friendly and ready to cooperate with everyone on the principle of respect.”

Duntsova, in an interview with Reuters last month, called for an end to the war in Ukraine and the release of political prisoners, including opposition leader Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;

She has submitted her documents to formally enter the election which Putin is expected to win, a foregone conclusion by supporters and opponents alike.&nbsp;

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“I feel a sense of accomplishment: We’ve done everything that we needed to do. We’ve made this step, and I think it should inspire people who support us,” said Duntsova, speaking to journalists in Moscow on Wednesday.

If accepted as an independent candidate, the former journalist faces the herculean task of collecting 300,000 signatures of support for her candidacy, from at least 40 Russian regions, by January 31.&nbsp;

“(I hope that) I’ll at least be registered (as a candidate). But, of course, collecting signatures is a huge job and I hope that people will be actively taking part.”

She also corrected a reporter who asked if she thought the authorities would actually allow her to stand. “Why are we talking about permission if this is my right according to the law and I have that possibility and have the necessary qualities to put myself forward?” she responded.&nbsp;

“We are just moving according to the formula prescribed by federal law, and for that we don’t need anyone’s permission,” Duntsova added.&nbsp;

In her interview with Reuters, Duntsova avoided using the word “war” to describe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which Putin calls his “special military operation",&nbsp;but did acknowledge that she was afraid. “Any sane person taking this step would be afraid - but fear must not win.”&nbsp;

<h2>Upcoming Russian presidential elections</h2>

Russian state parliament set March 17 as the date for the country’s 2024 presidential election earlier this month.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-court-filings-show-two-navalny-court-hearings-postponed-until-january-671069">Russian court filings show two Navalny court hearings postponed until January</a>

Putin, who has been in power either as president or prime minister since 1999, announced his candidacy earlier this month and has sought another six-year term. If he wins, this will be the 71-year-old incumbent’s 5th term in office.&nbsp;

Over his more than two decades in power, Putin has established tight control on Russia’s political system, and with prominent critics in jail or outside the country at risk of arrest, there are no established opposition figures to challenge him.

Navalny’s supporters have called the process a sham, saying the Kremlin, via the electoral commission, controls who can run and can easily manipulate the vote with the help of an opaque electronic voting system.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Kremlin says that Putin will win because he enjoys overwhelming public support, with opinion poll ratings of around 80 per cent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former TV journalist and Russian lawmaker calling for peace in Ukraine, Yekaterina Duntsova, submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024.

Former TV journalist and Russian lawmaker calling for peace in Ukraine, Yekaterina Duntsova, submitted her application on Wednesday (Dec 20) to challenge incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the country’s upcoming elections in March 2024. She presented her documents to Russia’s Central Election Commission to register as a candidate days after taking her first steps toward candidate status Sunday. In line with the country’s law, her run had to be endorsed by 500 supporters. ‘Humane’ Russia The 40-year-old Russian lawmaker hopes to challenge Putin by promoting her vision of a “humane” Russia “that’s peaceful, friendly and ready to cooperate with everyone on the principle of respect.” Duntsova, in an interview with Reuters last month, called for an end to the war in Ukraine and the release of political prisoners, including opposition leader Alexei Navalny. She has submitted her documents to formally enter the election which Putin is expected to win, a foregone conclusion by supporters and opponents alike. ALSO READ | Vladimir Putin will run again in Russian presidential elections next March “I feel a sense of accomplishment: We’ve done everything that we needed to do. We’ve made this step, and I think it should inspire people who support us,” said Duntsova, speaking to journalists in Moscow on Wednesday. If accepted as an independent candidate, the former journalist faces the herculean task of collecting 300,000 signatures of support for her candidacy, from at least 40 Russian regions, by January 31. “(I hope that) I’ll at least be registered (as a candidate). But, of course, collecting signatures is a huge job and I hope that people will be actively taking part.” She also corrected a reporter who asked if she thought the authorities would actually allow her to stand. “Why are we talking about permission if this is my right according to the law and I have that possibility and have the necessary qualities to put myself forward?” she responded. “We are just moving according to the formula prescribed by federal law, and for that we don’t need anyone’s permission,” Duntsova added. In her interview with Reuters, Duntsova avoided using the word “war” to describe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which Putin calls his “special military operation", but did acknowledge that she was afraid. “Any sane person taking this step would be afraid - but fear must not win.” Upcoming Russian presidential elections Russian state parliament set March 17 as the date for the country’s 2024 presidential election earlier this month. ALSO READ | Russian court filings show two Navalny court hearings postponed until January Putin, who has been in power either as president or prime minister since 1999, announced his candidacy earlier this month and has sought another six-year term. If he wins, this will be the 71-year-old incumbent’s 5th term in office. Over his more than two decades in power, Putin has established tight control on Russia’s political system, and with prominent critics in jail or outside the country at risk of arrest, there are no established opposition figures to challenge him. Navalny’s supporters have called the process a sham, saying the Kremlin, via the electoral commission, controls who can run and can easily manipulate the vote with the help of an opaque electronic voting system. Meanwhile, the Kremlin says that Putin will win because he enjoys overwhelming public support, with opinion poll ratings of around 80 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-war Russian presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova applies to run in election against Putin

Former US Marine Paul Whelan (53), who is in a Russian prison over charges of spying, has told BBC that he feels "abandoned" and betrayed by his home country. Whelan has been handed a 16-year jail sentence for spying and has been in prison since 2018. US government says spying charges against Whelan don't have merit.

Whelan is serving a sentence in a prison in Mordavia, a Russian region infamous for its harsh jails. Mordavia is about 400 kilometres (250 miles) southeast of Moscow.

A prisoner swap was negotiated recently between Russia and the US. Whelan was left out.

"They've basically abandoned me here," he told BBC.

"I'm extremely concerned."&nbsp;

"With each case, my case is going to the back of the line. They've kind of just left me in the dust. And at this point, this juncture, it's very concerning."

Whelan holds UK, Irish and Canadian passports as well. At the time of his arrest in 2018, Whelan worked in security for a US company that made vehicle parts.

He has consistently denied charges against him and has said that evidence against him was falsified.

According to BBC, Whelan now works in a prison factory stitching work overalls and hats and his prison barracks are unheated.

His family said in November that Whelan was assaulted by a new prisoner and was "hit in the face".&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he wanted Russia and the US to find a solution to release Whelan and Evan Gershkovich. The latter is a Wall Street Journal reporter.

<h2>The case of Evan Gershkovich</h2>

Gershkovich was arrested In Yekaterinburg in March on spying allegations. He was on a reporting trip.

A Moscow court ruled on December 14 that he will be held in detention until January 30. If convicted, he faces 20 years in prison.

"There are contacts on this issue and dialogue is ongoing, but it's not straightforward," Putin said during his end-of-year press conference on December 14.

"I hope we will find a solution. But the US side should also hear us and make a decision that will suit the Russian Federation."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former US Marine Paul Whelan (53), who is in a Russian prison over charges of spying, has told BBC that he feels "abandoned" and betrayed by his home country. Whelan has been handed a 16-year jail sentence for spying and has been in prison since 2018.

Former US Marine Paul Whelan (53), who is in a Russian prison over charges of spying, has told BBC that he feels "abandoned" and betrayed by his home country. Whelan has been handed a 16-year jail sentence for spying and has been in prison since 2018. US government says spying charges against Whelan don't have merit. Whelan is serving a sentence in a prison in Mordavia, a Russian region infamous for its harsh jails. Mordavia is about 400 kilometres (250 miles) southeast of Moscow. A prisoner swap was negotiated recently between Russia and the US. Whelan was left out. "They've basically abandoned me here," he told BBC. "I'm extremely concerned." "With each case, my case is going to the back of the line. They've kind of just left me in the dust. And at this point, this juncture, it's very concerning." Whelan holds UK, Irish and Canadian passports as well. At the time of his arrest in 2018, Whelan worked in security for a US company that made vehicle parts. He has consistently denied charges against him and has said that evidence against him was falsified. According to BBC, Whelan now works in a prison factory stitching work overalls and hats and his prison barracks are unheated. His family said in November that Whelan was assaulted by a new prisoner and was "hit in the face". Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he wanted Russia and the US to find a solution to release Whelan and Evan Gershkovich. The latter is a Wall Street Journal reporter. The case of Evan Gershkovich Gershkovich was arrested In Yekaterinburg in March on spying allegations. He was on a reporting trip. A Moscow court ruled on December 14 that he will be held in detention until January 30. If convicted, he faces 20 years in prison. "There are contacts on this issue and dialogue is ongoing, but it's not straightforward," Putin said during his end-of-year press conference on December 14. "I hope we will find a solution. But the US side should also hear us and make a decision that will suit the Russian Federation." (With inputs from agencies)

I feel 'abandoned', says ex-US marine Whelan held in Russian prison

As the war between Russia and Ukraine drags on, it seems like drone strikes or artillery fire are not the only dangers faced by the Russian troops on the frontlines. A recent report by Ukraine claims that Moscow’s soldiers are suffering due to the outbreak of so-called “mouse fever” or “rat-bite fever” on the Kupyansk frontline.&nbsp;

According to the report, the disease that causes people to bleed from their eyes, suffer from severe headaches and vomit several times a day is “mowing down” frontline Russian troops.

<h2>What does the report say?</h2>

The outbreak of the so-called “mouse fever” – a viral disease – has been recorded in many units of the Russian forces near Ukraine’s Kupyansk frontline, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence’s main directorate of intelligence said in a post on its official Telegram channel.

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The illness spread by rodents is said to be affecting Russian soldiers “en masse”. However, Russian commanders dismissed the troops’ concerns, claimed the Ukrainian defence ministry.&nbsp;

The infection transmits to humans through direct contact with rodents carrying the bacteria, as well as inhalation of their urine, faeces, or mucous secretions.&nbsp;

Symptoms of the infection include severe headache, body temperature rising to 40 degrees Celsius, rashes and redness, decreased blood pressure, haemorrhages in the eyes, nausea and vomiting several times a day, according to the report by Ukraine.&nbsp;

However, Kyiv has claimed that Russian commanders have ignored these concerns and consider it an excuse to avoid fighting, saying that “at the first stage of the course, ‘mouse fever’ resembles an ordinary flu.”&nbsp;

“In the Kupyansk direction of the front of the occupiers, mouse fever is mowing down en masse,” said the Ukrainian agency on Telegram. It added, “As a result, mouse fever significantly reduced the fighting ability of Russian rats.”

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The Ukrainian agency has also said Russian troops are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/demoralised-russian-troops-shoot-selves-with-ukrainian-ammo-in-legs-to-avoid-fighting-say-reports-463966">frustrated</a> by the “inadequate provision of winter items and a complete lack of medical assistance.”&nbsp;

The disease is also affecting the Russian soldiers’ kidneys, causing intense pain in their lower back and severe difficulty in urinating, Ukrainian officials claimed.

<h2>What is ‘mouse fever’?</h2>

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the infection can spread through bites or scratches from rodents carrying the bacteria as well as through contact with surfaces that are contaminated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-four-pro-russian-troops-in-ukraine-with-war-crimes-666944">US charges four pro-Russian troops in Ukraine with war crimes</a>

However, the disease does not spread from one person to another. Rat-bite fever “can be a serious or even fatal disease,” according to the CDC.&nbsp;

Symptoms and signs of “mouse fever” include fever, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, joint pain or swelling, and rashes, said the CDC.&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.

As the war between Russia and Ukraine drags on, it seems like drone strikes or artillery fire are not the only dangers faced by the Russian troops on the frontlines.

As the war between Russia and Ukraine drags on, it seems like drone strikes or artillery fire are not the only dangers faced by the Russian troops on the frontlines. A recent report by Ukraine claims that Moscow’s soldiers are suffering due to the outbreak of so-called “mouse fever” or “rat-bite fever” on the Kupyansk frontline. According to the report, the disease that causes people to bleed from their eyes, suffer from severe headaches and vomit several times a day is “mowing down” frontline Russian troops. What does the report say? The outbreak of the so-called “mouse fever” – a viral disease – has been recorded in many units of the Russian forces near Ukraine’s Kupyansk frontline, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence’s main directorate of intelligence said in a post on its official Telegram channel. ALSO READ | Trump insists he hasn’t read Hitler’s ‘Mein Kampf’ after backlash on remarks against migrants The illness spread by rodents is said to be affecting Russian soldiers “en masse”. However, Russian commanders dismissed the troops’ concerns, claimed the Ukrainian defence ministry. The infection transmits to humans through direct contact with rodents carrying the bacteria, as well as inhalation of their urine, faeces, or mucous secretions. Symptoms of the infection include severe headache, body temperature rising to 40 degrees Celsius, rashes and redness, decreased blood pressure, haemorrhages in the eyes, nausea and vomiting several times a day, according to the report by Ukraine. However, Kyiv has claimed that Russian commanders have ignored these concerns and consider it an excuse to avoid fighting, saying that “at the first stage of the course, ‘mouse fever’ resembles an ordinary flu.” “In the Kupyansk direction of the front of the occupiers, mouse fever is mowing down en masse,” said the Ukrainian agency on Telegram. It added, “As a result, mouse fever significantly reduced the fighting ability of Russian rats.” ALSO READ | India stands ready for peace efforts, committed to providing humanitarian aid to Gaza: PM Modi The Ukrainian agency has also said Russian troops are frustrated by the “inadequate provision of winter items and a complete lack of medical assistance.” The disease is also affecting the Russian soldiers’ kidneys, causing intense pain in their lower back and severe difficulty in urinating, Ukrainian officials claimed. What is ‘mouse fever’? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the infection can spread through bites or scratches from rodents carrying the bacteria as well as through contact with surfaces that are contaminated. ALSO READ | US charges four pro-Russian troops in Ukraine with war crimes However, the disease does not spread from one person to another. Rat-bite fever “can be a serious or even fatal disease,” according to the CDC. Symptoms and signs of “mouse fever” include fever, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, joint pain or swelling, and rashes, said the CDC. (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.

‘Mouse fever’ outbreak is ‘mowing down’ Russian troops in Kupyansk frontline, claims Ukraine

In a strategic move responding to geopolitical changes, South Korea's Hyundai Motor is set to sell its Russian plant for a nominal 7,000 roubles ($77.67), becoming the latest global automaker to divest from Russian assets since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. &nbsp;

According to Reuters, the sale, detailed in a regulatory filing, involves a significant financial setback, with Hyundai Motor anticipating a 287 billion won ($219.19 million) loss on the St. Petersburg plant, where operations were halted in March 2022.&nbsp;

Hyundai Motor aims to finalise the deal with Russia's Art-Finance, incorporating a buyback option into the transaction, and expects to complete the process by December 28. While the company is set to receive a total of 10,000 roubles for the sale of all its Russian assets, the move aligns with a broader trend among major automakers opting for nominal fees and buyback options, potentially leaving the door open for future returns.&nbsp;

Approval from Russia's government commission on foreign asset sales, known for requiring at least a 50 per cent discount on such deals, has been granted. Russian Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov, cited by the RIA news agency, stated that "Hyundai and Art-Finance are clarifying the parameters of the deal, including the buyback option.”&nbsp;

Before the war in Ukraine, Hyundai and its affiliate Kia Corp were among the top three selling brands in Russia. However, with the global exodus of players and the influx of Chinese brands taking their place, Hyundai Motor's decision to sell aligns with the industry trend.&nbsp;

Art-Finance, the acquiring entity, is linked to Andrei Pavlovich, who previously acquired Volkswagen's Russian assets, according to AGR Automotive. The Auto dealer group Avilon, which supported Art-Finance in the Volkswagen deal, clarifies that it is not connected to Art-Finance and AGR Automotive.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

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In a strategic move responding to geopolitical changes, South Korea's Hyundai Motor is set to sell its Russian plant for a nominal 7,000 roubles ($77.67), becoming the latest global automaker to divest from Russian assets since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine.

In a strategic move responding to geopolitical changes, South Korea's Hyundai Motor is set to sell its Russian plant for a nominal 7,000 roubles ($77.67), becoming the latest global automaker to divest from Russian assets since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. According to Reuters, the sale, detailed in a regulatory filing, involves a significant financial setback, with Hyundai Motor anticipating a 287 billion won ($219.19 million) loss on the St. Petersburg plant, where operations were halted in March 2022. Hyundai Motor aims to finalise the deal with Russia's Art-Finance, incorporating a buyback option into the transaction, and expects to complete the process by December 28. While the company is set to receive a total of 10,000 roubles for the sale of all its Russian assets, the move aligns with a broader trend among major automakers opting for nominal fees and buyback options, potentially leaving the door open for future returns. Approval from Russia's government commission on foreign asset sales, known for requiring at least a 50 per cent discount on such deals, has been granted. Russian Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov, cited by the RIA news agency, stated that "Hyundai and Art-Finance are clarifying the parameters of the deal, including the buyback option.” Before the war in Ukraine, Hyundai and its affiliate Kia Corp were among the top three selling brands in Russia. However, with the global exodus of players and the influx of Chinese brands taking their place, Hyundai Motor's decision to sell aligns with the industry trend. Art-Finance, the acquiring entity, is linked to Andrei Pavlovich, who previously acquired Volkswagen's Russian assets, according to AGR Automotive. The Auto dealer group Avilon, which supported Art-Finance in the Volkswagen deal, clarifies that it is not connected to Art-Finance and AGR Automotive. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hyundai's Strategic Exit: Korean carmaker to sell Russian plant for token amount amid market shifts

The Kremlin on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that currently there was no basis for peace talks with Ukraine over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and that such negotiations were 'not relevant' currently. Kremlin also dismissed the peace plan Ukraine had proposed saying it was absurd.

"We really consider that the topic of negotiations is not relevant right now," said Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as he interacted with reporters.

Peskov accused the UK of sinking chances of a peace in 2022 when it pressured Ukraine to refuse to agree to a draft deal which was drawn up shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine.

"After that, there were no prerequisites for negotiations - and there were even fewer prerequisites after Ukraine actually legally prohibited any negotiations with the Russian side," Peskov said.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Fatigue builds among Kyiv allies

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Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. In October last year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree making Ukraine talks with Russia "impossible". The decree was signed after Russian President Vladimir Putin annexed four regions in eastern and southern Ukraine.&nbsp;

Peskov on Wednesday said that Zelensky's "peace formula" had flaws as it was seeking peace without participation from Russia.

"To say the least, this is an absurd process," Peskov said.

Zelensky has proposed 10-point peace plan which calls for cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of Russian soldiers from Ukraine and restoration of Ukraine's borders with Russia.

<h2>'Foreign' elements are destabilising Russia: Putin</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that foreign agents were helping Ukraine to destabilise Russia. He has called for "severe" response to such attempts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-completely-abandon-us-dollar-in-bilateral-trade-says-russian-pm-671667">Russia, China completely abandon US dollar in bilateral trade, says Russian PM</a>

"The Kyiv regime with direct support of foreign special services has taken the path of terrorist methods, practically state terrorism," Putin said in a video address.&nbsp;

"These are acts of sabotage against civilian sites, transport and energy infrastructure, attacks against civilians and representatives of authority," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-says-trump-presidency-could-have-strong-impact-on-war-671508">Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says Trump presidency could have 'strong impact' on war</a>

"The attempts by foreign special agents to destabilise the political and social situation in Russia must be severely stopped," Putin said in his address on security agency workers' day.

"Security services have no easy task. But you have all the necessary potential, all the possibilities in order to ensure the security of the state, of society and our citizens."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Kremlin on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that currently there was no basis for peace talks with Ukraine over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and that such negotiations were 'not relevant' currently.

The Kremlin on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that currently there was no basis for peace talks with Ukraine over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and that such negotiations were 'not relevant' currently. Kremlin also dismissed the peace plan Ukraine had proposed saying it was absurd. "We really consider that the topic of negotiations is not relevant right now," said Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as he interacted with reporters. Peskov accused the UK of sinking chances of a peace in 2022 when it pressured Ukraine to refuse to agree to a draft deal which was drawn up shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine. "After that, there were no prerequisites for negotiations - and there were even fewer prerequisites after Ukraine actually legally prohibited any negotiations with the Russian side," Peskov said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Fatigue builds among Kyiv allies × Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. In October last year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree making Ukraine talks with Russia "impossible". The decree was signed after Russian President Vladimir Putin annexed four regions in eastern and southern Ukraine. Peskov on Wednesday said that Zelensky's "peace formula" had flaws as it was seeking peace without participation from Russia. "To say the least, this is an absurd process," Peskov said. Zelensky has proposed 10-point peace plan which calls for cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of Russian soldiers from Ukraine and restoration of Ukraine's borders with Russia. 'Foreign' elements are destabilising Russia: Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that foreign agents were helping Ukraine to destabilise Russia. He has called for "severe" response to such attempts. Also Read | Russia, China completely abandon US dollar in bilateral trade, says Russian PM "The Kyiv regime with direct support of foreign special services has taken the path of terrorist methods, practically state terrorism," Putin said in a video address. "These are acts of sabotage against civilian sites, transport and energy infrastructure, attacks against civilians and representatives of authority," he said. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says Trump presidency could have 'strong impact' on war "The attempts by foreign special agents to destabilise the political and social situation in Russia must be severely stopped," Putin said in his address on security agency workers' day. "Security services have no easy task. But you have all the necessary potential, all the possibilities in order to ensure the security of the state, of society and our citizens." (With inputs from agencies)

Peace talks with Ukraine ‘not relevant’, says Kremlin on Zelensky’s 10-point proposal

Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal. In other news, the death toll due to the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that jolted the northwest part of China had risen to 126, as of the last update.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-upgrading-nuclear-arsenal-amid-hybrid-war-with-west-671399">Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid 'hybrid war' with West</a>

Vladimir Putin told the conference of senior defence officials on Tuesday (Dec 19) that Russia is upgrading its nuclear arsenal amid its ongoing war against Ukraine and Western fears of nuclear conflict.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/08/398022-russian-president-vladimir-putin.png?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-to-israels-netanyahu-urges-for-early-restoration-of-peace-671389">PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace'</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace".

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/38535-modi-netanyahu-20180115012736-20180116102434.JPG?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-more-than-110-people-have-been-killed-after-earthquake-in-gansu-province-671082">China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province</a>

At least 126&nbsp;people have been killed after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19).

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400150-wion-images-2023-12-19t140511683.png?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iceland-volcano-is-ejecting-enough-lava-to-fill-olympic-swimming-pool-in-20-seconds-671351">Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds</a>

A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky.&nbsp;The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400024-new-wion-22.jpg?imwidth=3840" /> 
 
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Under the new guidance released by the UK&nbsp;Department of Education, teachers in the country have been told they do not have to address students by their chosen pronouns.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/04/377475-untitled-image-30.png?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-to-cough-700mn-as-part-of-antitrust-settlement-week-after-defeat-against-epic-games-671324">Google to cough up $700mn as part of Play Store antitrust settlement, week after defeat against Epic Games</a>

Tech giant Google's parent company Alphabet has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an antitrust case with US states and consumers filed in federal court on Monday (Dec 18).

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/08/397968-untitled-design-2023-12-08t124532478.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
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The air quality in Australia's East Coast city of Sydney plummeted to levels comparable to New Delhi, the Indian capital and one of the world's most polluted metropolises.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400186-untitled-design-7.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maharashtra-greenlights-new-city-called-third-mumbai-671386">India: Maharashtra greenlights new city called 'Third Mumbai': Report</a>

The government of the western Indian state of Maharashtra has given a go-ahead for a broad proposal to create a new city, 'Third Mumbai'. Mumbai, state capital of Maharashtra, has been a major financial centre in the peninsula for over a century.&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400225-navi-mumbai.jpg?imwidth=3840" /> 
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After Pat Cummins broke the bank and went for a whopping INR 20.50 crore&nbsp;in IPL 2024 auction, in Dubai on Tuesday (Dec 19), his compatriot Mitchell Starc bettered the record as he was swooped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400180-mixcollage-19-dec-2023-03-50-pm-7721.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-and-delhis-air-quality-on-par-after-duck-creek-pilliga-forest-bushfire-671326">Marvel at crossroads: What's the future plans after Jonathan Majors' exit</a>

Marvel Studios has severed ties with Jonathan Majors following his conviction for assaulting and harassing Grace Jabbari, his former girlfriend. The actor, renowned for portraying the supervillain&nbsp;Kang the Conqueror&nbsp;in the Disney+ series&nbsp;Loki, had been a key figure in Marvel's Phase Five plans.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400228-jonathan-majors-mcu.png?imwidth=3840" />

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&nbsp;

Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal.

Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal. In other news, the death toll due to the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that jolted the northwest part of China had risen to 126, as of the last update. Click on headlines to read more: Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid 'hybrid war' with West Vladimir Putin told the conference of senior defence officials on Tuesday (Dec 19) that Russia is upgrading its nuclear arsenal amid its ongoing war against Ukraine and Western fears of nuclear conflict. PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace". China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province At least 126 people have been killed after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19). Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky. The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks. Teachers in UK don't have to address students by their preferred pronouns under new guidance Under the new guidance released by the UK Department of Education, teachers in the country have been told they do not have to address students by their chosen pronouns. Google to cough up $700mn as part of Play Store antitrust settlement, week after defeat against Epic Games Tech giant Google's parent company Alphabet has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an antitrust case with US states and consumers filed in federal court on Monday (Dec 18). Sydney and Delhi’s air quality on par after Duck Creek, Pilliga Forest bushfire The air quality in Australia's East Coast city of Sydney plummeted to levels comparable to New Delhi, the Indian capital and one of the world's most polluted metropolises. India: Maharashtra greenlights new city called 'Third Mumbai': Report The government of the western Indian state of Maharashtra has given a go-ahead for a broad proposal to create a new city, 'Third Mumbai'. Mumbai, state capital of Maharashtra, has been a major financial centre in the peninsula for over a century. IPL 2024 Auction: UNIMAGINABLE! Australia pacer Mitchell Starc goes to KKR for a MAMMOTH INR 24.75 crore After Pat Cummins broke the bank and went for a whopping INR 20.50 crore in IPL 2024 auction, in Dubai on Tuesday (Dec 19), his compatriot Mitchell Starc bettered the record as he was swooped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Marvel at crossroads: What's the future plans after Jonathan Majors' exit Marvel Studios has severed ties with Jonathan Majors following his conviction for assaulting and harassing Grace Jabbari, his former girlfriend. The actor, renowned for portraying the supervillain Kang the Conqueror in the Disney+ series Loki, had been a key figure in Marvel's Phase Five plans. Watch | US judge criticises Trump's expert witness, charged $1350 per hour on the case ×

Top 10 world news: Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal, China earthquake death toll mounts, and more

India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, is set to embark on a key diplomatic visit to Russia later this week, aiming to bolster the strategic partnership between the two nations. The visit is anticipated to commence during the weekend and extend through the Christmas period. The last visit of EAM Jaishankar to Russia was in November 2022, during which he engaged in discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov.

The upcoming talks between Jaishankar and Lavrov are anticipated to cover a range of bilateral and multilateral issues. India and Russia, both key members of international forums such as the United Nations, G20, BRICS, and SCO, have consistently collaborated closely on global platforms. Notably, this year witnessed a series of high-level visits from Russian dignitaries to India, coinciding with India’s presidency of the SCO and G20.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-clears-the-air-on-diplomatic-rows-in-us-canada-slams-un-security-council-as-old-club-670623">Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada, slams UN Security Council as ‘old club’</a>

India’s presidency of the G20 saw several visits from Russia, including Foreign Minister Lavrov and Head of the Federation Council (Upper House of Russian Parliament) Valentina Matvienko. Russia’s delegation to SCO meetings featured key figures, including Foreign Minister Lavrov, Secretary of the Russian Security Council Nikolai Patrushev, Minister of Emergency Situations Alexander Kurenkov, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

The extensive engagement between the two nations extends beyond diplomatic discussions to encompass economic, scientific, technological, and cultural cooperation. The India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission (IRIGC) plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration. The IRIGC has two divisions — the Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) led by EAM Jaishankar and Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, and the Military &amp; Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&amp;MTC) headed by the respective Defense Ministers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omans-sultan-fascinated-by-indias-space-project-interested-in-india-made-drones-says-jaishankar-670579">Oman's Sultan fascinated by India's space project, interested in India-made drones, says Jaishankar</a>

In December 2021, both countries elevated their bilateral cooperation with the inaugural 2+2 Dialogue, where the foreign and defence ministers of India and Russia engaged in discussions alongside the summit-level talks between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, is set to embark on a key diplomatic visit to Russia later this week, aiming to bolster the strategic partnership between the two nations.

India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, is set to embark on a key diplomatic visit to Russia later this week, aiming to bolster the strategic partnership between the two nations. The visit is anticipated to commence during the weekend and extend through the Christmas period. The last visit of EAM Jaishankar to Russia was in November 2022, during which he engaged in discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. The upcoming talks between Jaishankar and Lavrov are anticipated to cover a range of bilateral and multilateral issues. India and Russia, both key members of international forums such as the United Nations, G20, BRICS, and SCO, have consistently collaborated closely on global platforms. Notably, this year witnessed a series of high-level visits from Russian dignitaries to India, coinciding with India’s presidency of the SCO and G20. ALSO READ | Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada, slams UN Security Council as ‘old club’ India’s presidency of the G20 saw several visits from Russia, including Foreign Minister Lavrov and Head of the Federation Council (Upper House of Russian Parliament) Valentina Matvienko. Russia’s delegation to SCO meetings featured key figures, including Foreign Minister Lavrov, Secretary of the Russian Security Council Nikolai Patrushev, Minister of Emergency Situations Alexander Kurenkov, and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. The extensive engagement between the two nations extends beyond diplomatic discussions to encompass economic, scientific, technological, and cultural cooperation. The India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission (IRIGC) plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration. The IRIGC has two divisions — the Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) led by EAM Jaishankar and Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, and the Military & Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) headed by the respective Defense Ministers. ALSO READ | Oman's Sultan fascinated by India's space project, interested in India-made drones, says Jaishankar In December 2021, both countries elevated their bilateral cooperation with the inaugural 2+2 Dialogue, where the foreign and defence ministers of India and Russia engaged in discussions alongside the summit-level talks between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to travel to Russia later this week

In a major victory for India on the international stage, its candidate, Uma Sekhar, secured a resounding win in the elections for the governing council of the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT). The achievement becomes even more remarkable as candidates from Russia, the USA and China failed to win any positions on the governing council.

The announcement of her win has not only elevated India's standing in the world of international law but also marked a historic moment as Uma Sekhar became the first Indian woman to secure a position on the Governing Council of the prestigious Rome-based organization.&nbsp;

The highly anticipated elections featured 32 contestants from a number of nations, including the USA, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and France. Uma Sekhar's victory, with an impressive 45 out of 59 votes in the first round, underscored the overwhelming support she garnered from member nations.

The required threshold for securing a position on the Governing Council was 21 votes, highlighting the substantial mandate and confidence placed in India's candidate. India will be a member of the Governing Council for the period 2024-28.

The UNIDROIT, an independent intergovernmental organisation headquartered in Rome, Italy, focuses on promoting uniformity in commercial law globally.

In a major victory for India on the international stage, its candidate, Uma Sekhar, secured a resounding win in the elections for the governing council of the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT).

In a major victory for India on the international stage, its candidate, Uma Sekhar, secured a resounding win in the elections for the governing council of the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT). The achievement becomes even more remarkable as candidates from Russia, the USA and China failed to win any positions on the governing council. The announcement of her win has not only elevated India's standing in the world of international law but also marked a historic moment as Uma Sekhar became the first Indian woman to secure a position on the Governing Council of the prestigious Rome-based organization. The highly anticipated elections featured 32 contestants from a number of nations, including the USA, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and France. Uma Sekhar's victory, with an impressive 45 out of 59 votes in the first round, underscored the overwhelming support she garnered from member nations. The required threshold for securing a position on the Governing Council was 21 votes, highlighting the substantial mandate and confidence placed in India's candidate. India will be a member of the Governing Council for the period 2024-28. The UNIDROIT, an independent intergovernmental organisation headquartered in Rome, Italy, focuses on promoting uniformity in commercial law globally.

India's Uma Sekhar triumphs over US, Russia, China candidates in UNIDROIT election

Austria is making a diplomatic move to have Raiffeisen Bank International, the largest Western bank in Russia, removed from a Ukrainian blacklist in exchange for endorsing new European Union sanctions against Russia, Reuters reported.<o:p></o:p>

The manoeuvre highlights Austria's economic connections with Russia, the bank's determination to sustain its lucrative business in the country, and a diminishing Western effort to isolate Moscow.<o:p></o:p>

Austria and Raiffeisen are pushing for the bank's removal from a Ukrainian list termed "international sponsors of war," which aims to publicly shame companies engaged in business with Russia, implicating support for the war effort through activities like tax payments. Despite Austria's public support for Ukraine, several officials express reluctance to sever decades-old ties with Russia, believing in the possibility of restoring relations.<o:p></o:p>

In October, Austria's Foreign Minister, Alexander Schallenberg, openly criticised the blacklist as arbitrary during a European ministers' meeting in Kyiv, as reported by a person briefed on the discussions. Raiffeisen remains the sole Austrian company on the contentious list. Austrian officials have conveyed their concerns about the list in Brussels, raising the issue at meetings with EU officials and diplomats in recent weeks.<o:p></o:p>

Bank representatives have engaged with Ukraine's National Agency of Corruption Prevention, responsible for the list, to explore avenues for Raiffeisen's removal. While some companies, like Hungary's OTP Bank, have been successfully delisted due to government intervention, this move has displeased Austrian officials and Raiffeisen.<o:p></o:p>

A Raiffeisen spokesperson expressed dissatisfaction, stating, "We find it unfair that we are on the list." The Austrian chancellery acknowledged the presentation of legal documents related to EU sanctions but refrained from providing further comments.<o:p></o:p>

Raiffeisen's presence in Russia underscores the deep economic ties between Austria and Russia, facilitated by Russian gas pipelines and financial connections. Austria's lobbying efforts, echoing Hungary's actions, risk undermining Europe's unity on the Ukrainian issue.<o:p></o:p>

While the Ukrainian blacklist lacks legal standing, its symbolic importance adds pressure on Raiffeisen to withdraw from Russia. The bank has expressed willingness to exit Russia, but concrete actions are yet to materialise. Raiffeisen had planned to spin off its Russian business, facing international regulatory pressure. Despite internal divisions within Raiffeisen's management and among the controlling Landesbanks, key Austrian officials are staunchly supporting the bank, integral to the country's economy.<o:p></o:p>

Raiffeisen, with approximately 2,600 corporate customers, 4 million local account holders, and 10,000 staff in Russia, has become a litmus test for Western resolve to sever ties with Russia. Russian authorities have signalled a desire for Raiffeisen to stay, citing its role in facilitating international payments.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

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Austria is making a diplomatic move to have Raiffeisen Bank International, the largest Western bank in Russia, removed from a Ukrainian blacklist in exchange for endorsing new European Union sanctions against Russia, Reuters reported.

Austria is making a diplomatic move to have Raiffeisen Bank International, the largest Western bank in Russia, removed from a Ukrainian blacklist in exchange for endorsing new European Union sanctions against Russia, Reuters reported. The manoeuvre highlights Austria's economic connections with Russia, the bank's determination to sustain its lucrative business in the country, and a diminishing Western effort to isolate Moscow. Austria and Raiffeisen are pushing for the bank's removal from a Ukrainian list termed "international sponsors of war," which aims to publicly shame companies engaged in business with Russia, implicating support for the war effort through activities like tax payments. Despite Austria's public support for Ukraine, several officials express reluctance to sever decades-old ties with Russia, believing in the possibility of restoring relations. In October, Austria's Foreign Minister, Alexander Schallenberg, openly criticised the blacklist as arbitrary during a European ministers' meeting in Kyiv, as reported by a person briefed on the discussions. Raiffeisen remains the sole Austrian company on the contentious list. Austrian officials have conveyed their concerns about the list in Brussels, raising the issue at meetings with EU officials and diplomats in recent weeks. Bank representatives have engaged with Ukraine's National Agency of Corruption Prevention, responsible for the list, to explore avenues for Raiffeisen's removal. While some companies, like Hungary's OTP Bank, have been successfully delisted due to government intervention, this move has displeased Austrian officials and Raiffeisen. A Raiffeisen spokesperson expressed dissatisfaction, stating, "We find it unfair that we are on the list." The Austrian chancellery acknowledged the presentation of legal documents related to EU sanctions but refrained from providing further comments. Raiffeisen's presence in Russia underscores the deep economic ties between Austria and Russia, facilitated by Russian gas pipelines and financial connections. Austria's lobbying efforts, echoing Hungary's actions, risk undermining Europe's unity on the Ukrainian issue. While the Ukrainian blacklist lacks legal standing, its symbolic importance adds pressure on Raiffeisen to withdraw from Russia. The bank has expressed willingness to exit Russia, but concrete actions are yet to materialise. Raiffeisen had planned to spin off its Russian business, facing international regulatory pressure. Despite internal divisions within Raiffeisen's management and among the controlling Landesbanks, key Austrian officials are staunchly supporting the bank, integral to the country's economy. Raiffeisen, with approximately 2,600 corporate customers, 4 million local account holders, and 10,000 staff in Russia, has become a litmus test for Western resolve to sever ties with Russia. Russian authorities have signalled a desire for Raiffeisen to stay, citing its role in facilitating international payments. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Austria challenges Ukrainian blacklist to safeguard business ties with Russia

The usage 'Putin vs Putin' may, for some, reflect the fierce nature of general competition to become Russia's president, but such a situation in a literal sense, albeit in non-political context, was witnessed by those who were present for the Putin's annual news conference in Moscow.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was asked a question by his own AI-generated version. The question was about Putin's body doubles, or if there were any.

President Putin (the real one) took about a dozen questions&nbsp;via video link from callers across the country during the conference. Putin answered these questions in front of a live audience with a moderator leading the proceedings.

Those present were amused when the AI-generated Putin appeared on the screen and started talking with the real one.

"Vladimir Vladimirovich, hello, I am a student at St Petersburg State University. I want to ask, is it true you have a lot of doubles?" asked the AI Putin.

"And also: How do you view the dangers that artificial intelligence and neural networks bring into our lives?"

The questions prompted laughter from the audience who was&nbsp;amused because of this unique situation.

The Russian president, who is usually quick with words appeared to take a considerable pause before answering the question from his AI self, apparently trying to decide how to answer.

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Putin has just asked himself a question about AI and body doubles. 
 
This conference is insane. <a href="https://t.co/q8SflP07kZ">pic.twitter.com/q8SflP07kZ</a>
— Tom Watling (@TomAWatling) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomAWatling/status/1735275600074432847?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"I see you may resemble me and speak with my voice. But I have thought about it and decided that only one person must be like me and speak with my voice, and that will be me," he eventually said.

Watch | Gravitas: What Happened to 'Putin Critic' Alexei Navalny?

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Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-is-confident-over-victory-in-war-says-goals-have-not-changed-in-ukraine-669620">Vladimir Putin is confident of victory in war, says goals have not changed in Ukraine</a>

<h2>The body double speculation</h2>

There has been intense speculation around the world, particularly in the Western camp about whether the Russian president has body doubles who cover for him during public appearances. There is also talk about the Russian president's worsening health, which, it is speculated, may have caused him to hire body doubles.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-of-its-kind-chatgpt-to-pay-politico-business-insider-for-content-access-to-let-summarise-articles-669577">‘First of its kind’: ChatGPT to pay Politico, Business Insider for content access, summarising articles</a>

The Kremlin has regularly denied claims about Putin's health and has maintained that the president is in excellent condition.

(With inputs from agencies)

The usage 'Putin vs Putin' may, for some, reflect the fierce nature of general competition to become Russia's president, but such a situation in a literal sense, albeit in non-political context, was witnessed by those who were present for the Putin's annual news conference in Moscow.

The usage 'Putin vs Putin' may, for some, reflect the fierce nature of general competition to become Russia's president, but such a situation in a literal sense, albeit in non-political context, was witnessed by those who were present for the Putin's annual news conference in Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin was asked a question by his own AI-generated version. The question was about Putin's body doubles, or if there were any. President Putin (the real one) took about a dozen questions via video link from callers across the country during the conference. Putin answered these questions in front of a live audience with a moderator leading the proceedings. Those present were amused when the AI-generated Putin appeared on the screen and started talking with the real one. "Vladimir Vladimirovich, hello, I am a student at St Petersburg State University. I want to ask, is it true you have a lot of doubles?" asked the AI Putin. "And also: How do you view the dangers that artificial intelligence and neural networks bring into our lives?" The questions prompted laughter from the audience who was amused because of this unique situation. The Russian president, who is usually quick with words appeared to take a considerable pause before answering the question from his AI self, apparently trying to decide how to answer. Putin has just asked himself a question about AI and body doubles. This conference is insane. pic.twitter.com/q8SflP07kZ — Tom Watling (@TomAWatling) December 14, 2023 × "I see you may resemble me and speak with my voice. But I have thought about it and decided that only one person must be like me and speak with my voice, and that will be me," he eventually said. Watch | Gravitas: What Happened to 'Putin Critic' Alexei Navalny? × Also Read | Vladimir Putin is confident of victory in war, says goals have not changed in Ukraine The body double speculation There has been intense speculation around the world, particularly in the Western camp about whether the Russian president has body doubles who cover for him during public appearances. There is also talk about the Russian president's worsening health, which, it is speculated, may have caused him to hire body doubles. Also Read | ‘First of its kind’: ChatGPT to pay Politico, Business Insider for content access, summarising articles The Kremlin has regularly denied claims about Putin's health and has maintained that the president is in excellent condition. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin vs Putin: AI-generated self of Russian president asks him about body doubles

At least one civilian has been killed and 11 others were injured after Russia overnight launched 42 drones and six missiles at Ukraine’s southern regions, said the Ukrainian military, on Thursday (Dec 14). Kyiv’s forces claimed to have shot down 41 out of 42 drones during the attack on the southern Ukrainian region of Odesa. &nbsp;

The attack also comes a day after 10 ballistic&nbsp;missiles were fired at the Ukrainian capital, according to the Ukrainian military. Kyiv’s mayor said at least 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus.

<h2>Drone and missile attacks in southern Ukraine</h2>

“The defenders of the sky managed to shoot down 41 out of 42 Shahed-136/131 attack drones. The vast majority of them were shot down in Odesa region,” said the Ukrainian Air Force, in a post on Telegram.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-missile-attack-rocks-kyiv-cyberattack-leaves-millions-without-internet-669098">Russia-Ukraine war: Missile attack rocks Kyiv, cyberattack leaves millions without internet</a>

According to the Ukrainian forces, Russia also launched six S-300 anti-aircraft-guided missiles from the occupied Kherson region.&nbsp;

The wreckage from the downed drones damaged more than a dozen buildings in the southern city of Odesa and 11 civilians, including three children, were injured, said the Ukrainian military.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in the neighbouring Kherson region, one person was killed following an overnight missile strike, reported Reuters citing emergency services. A medical facility, private house and garage were also destroyed, according to the news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia’s attack on Kyiv</h2>

At least 53 people, including six children, were injured after the Ukrainian capital came under attack, on Wednesday (Dec 13), according to officials in Kyiv.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown</a>

Ukrainian air defence systems downed all 10 ballistic missiles that targeted the capital at about 3:00 am (local time), said Ukraine’s air force on Telegram.&nbsp;

In a social media post, the Ukrainian police said some 18 people had been hospitalised after the attack.&nbsp;

The missile strike also caused major damage to the infrastructure in Kyiv, including homes and a children’s hospital. According to Reuters, windows of residential apartment blocks were blown out and frightened residents streamed out onto the street to assess the damage.&nbsp;

The debris from the missiles also reportedly blew a large crater in the ground and destroyed parked cars.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-has-cost-russia-nearly-90-of-its-troops-claims-us-intelligence-report-669163">Ukraine war has cost Russia nearly 90% of its troops, claims US intelligence report</a>

“There was no air raid siren. At around 4 a.m. (0200 GMT), I heard an explosion. We fled to the corridor, (the explosion wave) threw me into the doors,” Olena Ustinova, 45, a local administration clerk, told Reuters.&nbsp;

“I regained consciousness and started to shake the doors but they were blocked. I shouted for help from my balcony and emergency workers came to help me.”

(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.

At least one civilian has been killed and 11 others were injured after Russia overnight launched 42 drones and six missiles at Ukraine’s southern regions, said the Ukrainian military, on Thursday (Dec 14).

At least one civilian has been killed and 11 others were injured after Russia overnight launched 42 drones and six missiles at Ukraine’s southern regions, said the Ukrainian military, on Thursday (Dec 14). Kyiv’s forces claimed to have shot down 41 out of 42 drones during the attack on the southern Ukrainian region of Odesa. The attack also comes a day after 10 ballistic missiles were fired at the Ukrainian capital, according to the Ukrainian military. Kyiv’s mayor said at least 53 people were injured in the “enemy attack,” the second offensive in a week after a long hiatus. Drone and missile attacks in southern Ukraine “The defenders of the sky managed to shoot down 41 out of 42 Shahed-136/131 attack drones. The vast majority of them were shot down in Odesa region,” said the Ukrainian Air Force, in a post on Telegram. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Missile attack rocks Kyiv, cyberattack leaves millions without internet According to the Ukrainian forces, Russia also launched six S-300 anti-aircraft-guided missiles from the occupied Kherson region. The wreckage from the downed drones damaged more than a dozen buildings in the southern city of Odesa and 11 civilians, including three children, were injured, said the Ukrainian military. Meanwhile, in the neighbouring Kherson region, one person was killed following an overnight missile strike, reported Reuters citing emergency services. A medical facility, private house and garage were also destroyed, according to the news agency. Russia’s attack on Kyiv At least 53 people, including six children, were injured after the Ukrainian capital came under attack, on Wednesday (Dec 13), according to officials in Kyiv. ALSO READ | Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown Ukrainian air defence systems downed all 10 ballistic missiles that targeted the capital at about 3:00 am (local time), said Ukraine’s air force on Telegram. In a social media post, the Ukrainian police said some 18 people had been hospitalised after the attack. The missile strike also caused major damage to the infrastructure in Kyiv, including homes and a children’s hospital. According to Reuters, windows of residential apartment blocks were blown out and frightened residents streamed out onto the street to assess the damage. The debris from the missiles also reportedly blew a large crater in the ground and destroyed parked cars. ALSO READ | Ukraine war has cost Russia nearly 90% of its troops, claims US intelligence report “There was no air raid siren. At around 4 a.m. (0200 GMT), I heard an explosion. We fled to the corridor, (the explosion wave) threw me into the doors,” Olena Ustinova, 45, a local administration clerk, told Reuters. “I regained consciousness and started to shake the doors but they were blocked. I shouted for help from my balcony and emergency workers came to help me.” (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.

At least one civilian killed, 11 injured after Russian drone, missile attacks in southern Ukraine: Kyiv

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status.

It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business.

"Here we are talking about one prisoner who, according to the law, was found guilty and is serving his sentence, and here we consider any intervention by anyone, including the United States of America, unacceptable and impossible," The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a press briefing.

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday had said that Washington was very much concerned about Navalny's wellbeing and that the Russian authorities were responsible for his disappearance.

Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown.

Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokesperson, said that staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo had told Navalny's lawyer waiting outside that he was no longer among its inmates.

"Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — &nbsp;two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is," Yarmysh said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-leader-alexey-navalny-goes-missing-from-prison-668638">Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison: Lawyers</a>

"Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she added.

On Tuesday, Yarmysh took to social media platform X and wrote, "Today Alexei was again not brought to court to appear by video link, but now nobody is talking nonsense about an 'electricity accident'. An employee of penal colony-6 stated that Alexei had left their colony, but that he allegedly did not know where he had been transferred to."

<h2>Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says aide Volkov</h2>

Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin."

He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard."

Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.”

He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added.

Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status. It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status. It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business. "Here we are talking about one prisoner who, according to the law, was found guilty and is serving his sentence, and here we consider any intervention by anyone, including the United States of America, unacceptable and impossible," The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a press briefing. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday had said that Washington was very much concerned about Navalny's wellbeing and that the Russian authorities were responsible for his disappearance. Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown. Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokesperson, said that staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo had told Navalny's lawyer waiting outside that he was no longer among its inmates. "Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is," Yarmysh said. Also read: Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison: Lawyers "Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she added. On Tuesday, Yarmysh took to social media platform X and wrote, "Today Alexei was again not brought to court to appear by video link, but now nobody is talking nonsense about an 'electricity accident'. An employee of penal colony-6 stated that Alexei had left their colony, but that he allegedly did not know where he had been transferred to." Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says aide Volkov Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin." He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard." Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.” He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added. Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin says unaware of Navalny's whereabouts, rebuffs US concerns over his 'disappearance'

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States. The report also comes as the Ukrainian president is in the midst of a visit to Washington and made a last-ditch plea for more military aid to US lawmakers on Capitol Hill.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia suffers heavy losses</h2>

A report by Reuters citing a source familiar with the intelligence, on Tuesday (Dec 12) said that Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with 360,000 personnel.&nbsp;

Since then, according to the report at least 315,000 Russian troops, or about 87 per cent of the total number of troops have been killed or injured.&nbsp;

The report has attributed this staggering loss to the relaxed recruitment standards for deployment in Ukraine, the source told Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>

“The scale of losses has forced Russia to take extraordinary measures to sustain its ability to fight. Russia declared a partial mobilization of 300,000 personnel in late 2022, and has relaxed standards to allow recruitment of convicts and older civilians,” the source told the news agency.&nbsp;

However, these losses have not stopped Russian President Vladimir Putin who is determined to push forward as the war approaches its second anniversary early next year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has warned American lawmakers about handing a victory to Russia and reaffirmed support for the war-torn country.&nbsp;

So far, the US has sent more than $100 billion in aid to Ukraine, and Republicans are sceptical about sending more aid to Kyiv.&nbsp;

“The idea that Ukraine was going to throw Russia back to the 1991 borders was preposterous,” JD Vance, a Republican senator from the US state of Ohio said on CNN’s State of the Union over the weekend, suggesting that Kyiv may have to cede land to Russia to end the invasion.

“So what we’re saying to the president and really to the entire world is, you need to articulate what the ambition is. What is $61 billion going to accomplish that $100 billion hasn’t?” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-republican-block-ukraine-israel-aid-bill-over-immigration-row-667007">US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over immigration row</a>

The Republican senator was referring to Biden’s broader $106 billion emergency spending package – which is pending approval from Congress – out of which $61 billion is allocated for military funds for Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Russia lost thousands of tanks, armoured vehicles</h2>

The Russian army reportedly has lost two-thirds of its pre-invasion tanks, going as far as dipping into Soviet-era stockpiles of older equipment to keep up. The Russian army began the war with 3,100 tanks out of which they have lost 2,200, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Moscow also has had to “backfill” that force with T62 tanks produced in the 1970s, leaving only 1,300 tanks on the battlefield, according to US intelligence. Meanwhile, CNN citing the assessment said that the war has “sharply set back 15 years of Russian effort to modernize its ground force.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-14-billion-aid-package-for-israel-without-ukraine-to-be-rejected-by-senate-654562">US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine</a>

The American media outlet citing a previously declassified report said Russia seemingly believes that the military deadlock will last through winter and “drain” the Western support for Ukraine and “ultimately give Russia the advantage” despite heavy losses. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

However, since neither Russia nor Ukraine released official figures, they could be far from accurate. Russian officials have previously dismissed&nbsp;Western estimates of Russian death tolls in the war and called them&nbsp;vastly exaggerated.

(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;

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States.

Russia has lost nearly 90 per cent of its total number of active-duty ground troops which it had before launching its invasion of Ukraine, reported the American media citing a declassified intelligence report by the United States. The report also comes as the Ukrainian president is in the midst of a visit to Washington and made a last-ditch plea for more military aid to US lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Russia suffers heavy losses A report by Reuters citing a source familiar with the intelligence, on Tuesday (Dec 12) said that Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 with 360,000 personnel. Since then, according to the report at least 315,000 Russian troops, or about 87 per cent of the total number of troops have been killed or injured. The report has attributed this staggering loss to the relaxed recruitment standards for deployment in Ukraine, the source told Reuters. ALSO READ | Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown “The scale of losses has forced Russia to take extraordinary measures to sustain its ability to fight. Russia declared a partial mobilization of 300,000 personnel in late 2022, and has relaxed standards to allow recruitment of convicts and older civilians,” the source told the news agency. However, these losses have not stopped Russian President Vladimir Putin who is determined to push forward as the war approaches its second anniversary early next year. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has warned American lawmakers about handing a victory to Russia and reaffirmed support for the war-torn country. So far, the US has sent more than $100 billion in aid to Ukraine, and Republicans are sceptical about sending more aid to Kyiv. “The idea that Ukraine was going to throw Russia back to the 1991 borders was preposterous,” JD Vance, a Republican senator from the US state of Ohio said on CNN’s State of the Union over the weekend, suggesting that Kyiv may have to cede land to Russia to end the invasion. “So what we’re saying to the president and really to the entire world is, you need to articulate what the ambition is. What is $61 billion going to accomplish that $100 billion hasn’t?” he added. ALSO READ | US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over immigration row The Republican senator was referring to Biden’s broader $106 billion emergency spending package – which is pending approval from Congress – out of which $61 billion is allocated for military funds for Ukraine. Russia lost thousands of tanks, armoured vehicles The Russian army reportedly has lost two-thirds of its pre-invasion tanks, going as far as dipping into Soviet-era stockpiles of older equipment to keep up. The Russian army began the war with 3,100 tanks out of which they have lost 2,200, reported Reuters. Moscow also has had to “backfill” that force with T62 tanks produced in the 1970s, leaving only 1,300 tanks on the battlefield, according to US intelligence. Meanwhile, CNN citing the assessment said that the war has “sharply set back 15 years of Russian effort to modernize its ground force.” ALSO READ | US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine The American media outlet citing a previously declassified report said Russia seemingly believes that the military deadlock will last through winter and “drain” the Western support for Ukraine and “ultimately give Russia the advantage” despite heavy losses. However, since neither Russia nor Ukraine released official figures, they could be far from accurate. Russian officials have previously dismissed Western estimates of Russian death tolls in the war and called them vastly exaggerated. (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 war has cost Russia nearly 90% of its troops, claims US intelligence report

Alexey Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown.

Navalny's lawyers made several attempts to get access to two penal colonies near Moscow where he was believed to be but they were informed that the 47-year-old was neither at IK-6 nor at IK-7.

Spokesperson Kira Yarmysh took to social media platform X and said, "Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — &nbsp;two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is."

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Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey <a href="https://twitter.com/navalny?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@navalny</a> might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. 
 
We still don't know where Alexey is.
— Кира Ярмыш (@Kira_Yarmysh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kira_Yarmysh/status/1734206839581995171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Yarmysh said staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo, 235 km (145 miles) east of Moscow, had told his lawyer waiting outside that the opposition leader was no longer among its inmates.

"Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she said on social media platform X.

<h2>Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says&nbsp;aide Volkov</h2>

Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin."

He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard."

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Судя по всему, Алексея Навального нет во Владимирской области (с поправкой на то, что верить ФСИН на слово безоговорочно не стоит). 
Это значит, что он может быть где угодно. 
Что хуже всего — может несколько недель быть на этапе. 
Разумеется, то, что это происходит именно сейчас…
— Leonid Volkov (@leonidvolkov) <a href="https://twitter.com/leonidvolkov/status/1734212927639416877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.”

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-hold-presidential-vote-in-four-occupied-ukrainian-regions-668598">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-hold-presidential-vote-in-four-occupied-ukrainian-regions-668598">Russia to hold presidential vote in four occupied Ukrainian regions</a>

He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added.

Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany.&nbsp;

Since then, he has been handed three prison terms.

In August, the Kremlin critic was given an extra 19 years in prison in addition to a sentence of 11.5 years he had been already serving. His political movement has been outlawed and declared "extremist."

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Alexey Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown. Navalny's lawyers made several attempts to get access to two penal colonies near Moscow where he was believed to be but they were informed that the 47-year-old was neither at IK-6 nor at IK-7.

Alexey Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown. Navalny's lawyers made several attempts to get access to two penal colonies near Moscow where he was believed to be but they were informed that the 47-year-old was neither at IK-6 nor at IK-7. Spokesperson Kira Yarmysh took to social media platform X and said, "Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is." Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey @navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is. — Кира Ярмыш (@Kira_Yarmysh) December 11, 2023 × Yarmysh said staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo, 235 km (145 miles) east of Moscow, had told his lawyer waiting outside that the opposition leader was no longer among its inmates. "Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she said on social media platform X. Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says aide Volkov Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin." He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard." Судя по всему, Алексея Навального нет во Владимирской области (с поправкой на то, что верить ФСИН на слово безоговорочно не стоит). Это значит, что он может быть где угодно. Что хуже всего — может несколько недель быть на этапе. Разумеется, то, что это происходит именно сейчас… — Leonid Volkov (@leonidvolkov) December 11, 2023 × Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.” Also read: Russia to hold presidential vote in four occupied Ukrainian regions He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added. Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany. Since then, he has been handed three prison terms. In August, the Kremlin critic was given an extra 19 years in prison in addition to a sentence of 11.5 years he had been already serving. His political movement has been outlawed and declared "extremist." (With inputs from agencies)

Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison: Lawyers

The voting for Russian presidential elections, which is scheduled to be held in March 2024, is set to be conducted also in the four Ukrainian regions that Russia claims to have annexed last year, Moscow said in a statement on Monday (Dec 11).

The Central Elections Commission said that the voting in March would be given a go-ahead in Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, the Ukrainian regions where Russia still doesn't have complete military control.

"The decision was adopted unanimously," commission vice-president Nikolay Bulayev said, according to the state-run news agency TASS.

The elections are set to be conducted over three days from March 15 to 17.

Earlier, Ukraine had urged the international community to "resolutely condemn Russia's intention to hold presidential elections in the occupied Ukrainian territories".

Kyiv had also called on the West to sanction individuals responsible.

Russia had previously also conducted elections in occupied regions of Ukraine. The polling was condemned by Kyiv and the West and was dubbed as null and void.

In the month of September, Moscow had also held ballots for local officials in the four Ukrainian regions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-injured-after-russian-strike-on-kyiv-biden-to-host-zelensky-at-white-house-amid-deadlock-on-aid-668361">At least 4 injured after airstrike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at W. House</a>

A year earlier, it had held a "referendum" to annex the territories.&nbsp;

Both the votes were denounced by Kyiv and the West.

<h2>Putin to run again in presidential polls</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to take part in the upcoming presidential vote, giving him a chance to extend his decades-long grip on power.&nbsp;

As per state-run news agencies, Putin told Lieutenant Colonel Artyom Zhoga, a Russian military officer, about this decision following an awards ceremony for army personnel at the Kremlin.&nbsp;

This came after Russian lawmakers on Thursday moved Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office by setting the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17, which was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly.&nbsp;

Valentina Matviyenko, the head of the chamber, had said "With this decision, we are effectively launching the start of the election campaign."&nbsp;

She said, "By choosing a head of state together, we fully share the common responsibility and common destiny of our fatherland."&nbsp;

Even though five major parties have been allowed to submit a candidate for the vote, Putin is likely to win the elections as most of his critics, who could challenge him, are either in jail or in exile.

(With inputs from agencies)

The voting for Russian presidential elections, which is scheduled to be held in March 2024, is set to be conducted also in the four Ukrainian regions that Russia claims to have annexed last year, Moscow said in a statement on Monday (Dec 11).

The voting for Russian presidential elections, which is scheduled to be held in March 2024, is set to be conducted also in the four Ukrainian regions that Russia claims to have annexed last year, Moscow said in a statement on Monday (Dec 11). The Central Elections Commission said that the voting in March would be given a go-ahead in Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, the Ukrainian regions where Russia still doesn't have complete military control. "The decision was adopted unanimously," commission vice-president Nikolay Bulayev said, according to the state-run news agency TASS. The elections are set to be conducted over three days from March 15 to 17. Earlier, Ukraine had urged the international community to "resolutely condemn Russia's intention to hold presidential elections in the occupied Ukrainian territories". Kyiv had also called on the West to sanction individuals responsible. Russia had previously also conducted elections in occupied regions of Ukraine. The polling was condemned by Kyiv and the West and was dubbed as null and void. In the month of September, Moscow had also held ballots for local officials in the four Ukrainian regions. Also read: At least 4 injured after airstrike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at W. House A year earlier, it had held a "referendum" to annex the territories. Both the votes were denounced by Kyiv and the West. Putin to run again in presidential polls Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to take part in the upcoming presidential vote, giving him a chance to extend his decades-long grip on power. As per state-run news agencies, Putin told Lieutenant Colonel Artyom Zhoga, a Russian military officer, about this decision following an awards ceremony for army personnel at the Kremlin. This came after Russian lawmakers on Thursday moved Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office by setting the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17, which was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly. Valentina Matviyenko, the head of the chamber, had said "With this decision, we are effectively launching the start of the election campaign." She said, "By choosing a head of state together, we fully share the common responsibility and common destiny of our fatherland." Even though five major parties have been allowed to submit a candidate for the vote, Putin is likely to win the elections as most of his critics, who could challenge him, are either in jail or in exile. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to hold presidential vote in four occupied Ukrainian regions

Russia's Federal Security Bureau (FSB) said on Monday (Dec 11) that it had detected and cracked a network of Ukrainian agents in Russia-occupied Crimea who were&nbsp;attempting&nbsp;to assassinate pro-Russian figures. The intelligence service, which is the main successor to the Soviet era spy agency KGB, said that targets of the Ukrainian network included Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-appointed head of Crimea and also Oleg Tsaryov, a former pro-Russian member of Ukrainian parliament.

In October this year, Tsaryiv was shot twice but survived. The attack took place in Crimea that was occupied by Russia&nbsp;from Ukraine in 2014. Reuters has reported citing a source in Ukraine's SBU intelligence agency that this was an SBU operation.

Watch | Ukraine's Zelensky to meet President Biden as war funding against Russia is decreasing

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The FSB said on Monday that the Ukrainian network it cracked, had in the past, also targeted railway and energy infrastructure in Crimea. The FSB said that it has found arms and explosives and had also detained 18 "agents and accomplices of the Ukrainian special services".

<h2>Shot down eight missiles fired towards Kyiv, says Ukraine</h2>

Meanwhile on Monday, Ukraine said that it had shot down eight Russian missiles that were fired towards the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Ukraine's air force said that in addition to these missiles 18 attack drones were shot down across Ukraine.

Ukraine says as winter sets in, Russia had again begun to hit Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

Kyiv officials said that the country's air defences shot down the Russian missiles around 4 am local time (0200 GMT). Falling debris injured four people in Darnyatski district.

"Medics provided them with help at the scene," said Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko on social media.

"Also, a missile fragment was found on the territory of a warehouse in Darnytskyi district. There was no fire or damage to the building."&nbsp;

Ukrainian air force said that the drones that were shot down were launched by Russia from Crimean peninsula.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-injured-after-russian-strike-on-kyiv-biden-to-host-zelensky-at-white-house-amid-deadlock-on-aid-668361">At least 4 injured after Russian strike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at White House amid deadlock on aid</a>

Russia targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure in winter last year as well. The missile strike left millions of Ukrainians without electricity for long period.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-putins-moscow-is-west-asias-dear-friend-668274">The Capitals: Putin's Moscow is West Asia's 'dear friend'</a>

Ukraine has since strengthened its air defence system using military help from the West. However, it says it needs more to protect more regions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's Federal Security Bureau (FSB) said on Monday (Dec 11) that it had detected and cracked a network of Ukrainian agents in Russia-occupied Crimea who were attempting to assassinate pro-Russian figures.

Russia's Federal Security Bureau (FSB) said on Monday (Dec 11) that it had detected and cracked a network of Ukrainian agents in Russia-occupied Crimea who were attempting to assassinate pro-Russian figures. The intelligence service, which is the main successor to the Soviet era spy agency KGB, said that targets of the Ukrainian network included Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-appointed head of Crimea and also Oleg Tsaryov, a former pro-Russian member of Ukrainian parliament. In October this year, Tsaryiv was shot twice but survived. The attack took place in Crimea that was occupied by Russia from Ukraine in 2014. Reuters has reported citing a source in Ukraine's SBU intelligence agency that this was an SBU operation. Watch | Ukraine's Zelensky to meet President Biden as war funding against Russia is decreasing × The FSB said on Monday that the Ukrainian network it cracked, had in the past, also targeted railway and energy infrastructure in Crimea. The FSB said that it has found arms and explosives and had also detained 18 "agents and accomplices of the Ukrainian special services". Shot down eight missiles fired towards Kyiv, says Ukraine Meanwhile on Monday, Ukraine said that it had shot down eight Russian missiles that were fired towards the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Ukraine's air force said that in addition to these missiles 18 attack drones were shot down across Ukraine. Ukraine says as winter sets in, Russia had again begun to hit Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Kyiv officials said that the country's air defences shot down the Russian missiles around 4 am local time (0200 GMT). Falling debris injured four people in Darnyatski district. "Medics provided them with help at the scene," said Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko on social media. "Also, a missile fragment was found on the territory of a warehouse in Darnytskyi district. There was no fire or damage to the building." Ukrainian air force said that the drones that were shot down were launched by Russia from Crimean peninsula. Also Read | At least 4 injured after Russian strike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at White House amid deadlock on aid Russia targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure in winter last year as well. The missile strike left millions of Ukrainians without electricity for long period. Also Read | The Capitals: Putin's Moscow is West Asia's 'dear friend' Ukraine has since strengthened its air defence system using military help from the West. However, it says it needs more to protect more regions. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian intelligence says cracked network of Ukrainian agents in Crimea

Vladimir Putin has decided to run in Russian presidential elections next March, news agencies reported Friday (Dec 8). The decision will allow Putin to extend his decades-long grip on power.&nbsp;

State-run news agencies reported that Putin told Lieutenant Colonel Artyom Zhoga, a Russian military officer, about his decision to participate in the upcoming vote following an awards ceremony for army personnel at the Kremlin.&nbsp;

This comes after Russian lawmakers on Thursday moved Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office by setting the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17, which was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-putin-praises-india-says-pm-modi-guarantor-of-stronger-moscow-delhi-ties-667297">Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties</a>&nbsp;

Valentina Matviyenko, the head of the chamber, had said "With this decision, we are effectively launching the start of the election campaign."&nbsp;

Matviyenko further added that residents of the parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine, which were annexed by Russia, would take part in the vote for the first time.&nbsp;

She said, "By choosing a head of state together, we fully share the common responsibility and common destiny of our fatherland."&nbsp;

Notably, in 2020, Putin made sure that he remains eligible to seek two more six-year terms after some constitutional reforms, which allowed him to remain in power until 2036.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/russias-11-bn-end-run-around-western-oil-sanctions-shadow-fleet-and-deals-unearthed-667518">Decoding Russia's $11 bn end run around Western oil sanctions</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Will Putin win?&nbsp;</h2>

In the upcoming election, five major parties have been allowed to submit a candidate but Putin's victory is assured as he has established tight control over Russia's political system, with some of his critics, who could challenge him, are either in jail or living abroad. Most of the independent media have been banned in the country.&nbsp;

Two people have announced plans to run for the post. Former lawmaker Boris Nadezhdin and Yekaterina Duntsova. Nadezhdin holds a seat on a municipal council in the Moscow region and Duntsova is a journalist and lawyer from the Tver region north of Moscow.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russian President Putin hosts Iran's Raisi as Russia looks east

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<h2>Putin's rise to power&nbsp;</h2>

Putin became acting president of Russia on December 31, 1999, and has led the nation since the turn of the century, emerging as one of the most prominent global figures.&nbsp;

When former Russian president Boris Yeltsin suddenly resigned on December 31, 1999, he picked Putin, who is a former KGB official, as his successor.&nbsp;

Putin didn't have much experience in politics, and just a few anticipated that he would be in power 20 years later.&nbsp;

He won four presidential elections. He even briefly served as prime minister of the country in a system where opposition has become virtually non-existent.

Putin's selection was not done through fair elections, he was hand-picked. During his tenure, the Kremlin waged a sweeping crackdown on dissent that rights groups have likened to the Soviet era, especially since Russia launched its full-scale assault on Ukraine last February.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Vladimir Putin has decided to run in Russian presidential elections next March, news agencies reported Friday (Dec 8). The decision will allow Putin to extend his decades-long grip on power.

Vladimir Putin has decided to run in Russian presidential elections next March, news agencies reported Friday (Dec 8). The decision will allow Putin to extend his decades-long grip on power. State-run news agencies reported that Putin told Lieutenant Colonel Artyom Zhoga, a Russian military officer, about his decision to participate in the upcoming vote following an awards ceremony for army personnel at the Kremlin. This comes after Russian lawmakers on Thursday moved Putin a step closer to a fifth term in office by setting the date of the country's 2024 presidential election for March 17, which was voted unanimously by the members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly. Also read: Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties Valentina Matviyenko, the head of the chamber, had said "With this decision, we are effectively launching the start of the election campaign." Matviyenko further added that residents of the parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine, which were annexed by Russia, would take part in the vote for the first time. She said, "By choosing a head of state together, we fully share the common responsibility and common destiny of our fatherland." Notably, in 2020, Putin made sure that he remains eligible to seek two more six-year terms after some constitutional reforms, which allowed him to remain in power until 2036. Also read: Decoding Russia's $11 bn end run around Western oil sanctions Will Putin win? In the upcoming election, five major parties have been allowed to submit a candidate but Putin's victory is assured as he has established tight control over Russia's political system, with some of his critics, who could challenge him, are either in jail or living abroad. Most of the independent media have been banned in the country. Two people have announced plans to run for the post. Former lawmaker Boris Nadezhdin and Yekaterina Duntsova. Nadezhdin holds a seat on a municipal council in the Moscow region and Duntsova is a journalist and lawyer from the Tver region north of Moscow. Watch: Russian President Putin hosts Iran's Raisi as Russia looks east × Putin's rise to power Putin became acting president of Russia on December 31, 1999, and has led the nation since the turn of the century, emerging as one of the most prominent global figures. When former Russian president Boris Yeltsin suddenly resigned on December 31, 1999, he picked Putin, who is a former KGB official, as his successor. Putin didn't have much experience in politics, and just a few anticipated that he would be in power 20 years later. He won four presidential elections. He even briefly served as prime minister of the country in a system where opposition has become virtually non-existent. Putin's selection was not done through fair elections, he was hand-picked. During his tenure, the Kremlin waged a sweeping crackdown on dissent that rights groups have likened to the Soviet era, especially since Russia launched its full-scale assault on Ukraine last February. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin will run again in Russian presidential elections next March

A former pro-Russian member of the Ukrainian parliament was shot dead near Moscow, the responsibility for the alleged assassination, according to media reports, has been claimed by Kyiv. Notably, Kyiv, since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion, is reportedly said to be behind several assassinations and attacks on pro-war Russian and former Ukrainian officials who have backed Russia’s “special military operation”.

<h2>What happened to the former Ukrainian lawmaker?</h2>

The former Ukrainian lawmaker identified as Illia Kyva was shot dead in a park in the Odintsovo region southwest of Moscow. News agencies, AFP and Reuters citing sources have said that the attack was orchestrated by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) after he defected to Moscow when Russia invaded last year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian investigators said they have opened an investigation into the incident and will hunt for the suspect. “An unknown person fired shots at the victim from an unidentified weapon."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zaporizhzhia-plants-power-cut-carried-risk-of-nuclear-accident-ukraine-665458">Zaporizhzhia plant's power cut carried risk of nuclear 'accident': Ukraine</a>

“The man died on the spot from his injuries,” said Russia’s Investigative Committee, in a statement. A report by Russian news agency TASS citing a police officer said that the investigation is being treated as a “Ukrainian plot” and a search for the killer is underway.&nbsp;

Ukraine’s military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov also seemingly hinted that Kyva was assassinated. “We can confirm that Kyva is done. Such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the (Russian President Vladimir) Putin regime,"&nbsp;Yusov said.

He also went on to call Kyva “one of the biggest scumbags, traitors and collaborators” and said his death was “justice,” as quoted by CBS News.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Soaked in Nazism’</h2>

Kyva, who was a member of the Ukrainian parliament before the Russian invasion, has been in Moscow throughout the war and often criticised officials in Kyiv online. The former lawmaker has been sentenced in absentia by a Ukrainian court to 14 years in prison for charges, including treason and incitement to violence.

As per AFP, before Russia began its “special military operation” in Ukraine, Kyva said the country has been “soaked by Nazism” and needed “liberating” by Moscow – echoing talking points which have regularly been used by Russian media, officials, even the country’s president in his speech since before launching the attack on Kyiv.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-kremlin-writer-suffers-injuries-in-car-bombing-one-killed-589703">Russia blames Ukraine, West for pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin’s car bombing</a>

Kyva had reportedly also written to Putin requesting Russian citizenship and fled to Moscow before the beginning of the war in February 2022. The next month, Kyva was officially expelled from the Ukrainian parliament and charged with high treason for colluding with Russia.&nbsp;

<h2>Another assassination by Kyiv?</h2>

In a separate incident, which also took place on Wednesday (Dec 6), a proxy lawmaker in Ukraine’s eastern Lugansk region was killed in a car bombing attack, according to Russian investigators.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-leaders-agree-to-impose-ban-on-russian-diamonds-in-show-of-solidarity-with-ukraine-667001">G7 leaders agree to impose ban on Russian diamonds in show of solidarity with Ukraine</a>

The lawmaker identified as Oleg Popov, who served as a deputy in the pro-Moscow Lugansk regional parliament, was killed after the “detonation of an unidentified device in a car”, said Russia’s Investigative Committee without giving any further details about the incident.&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

A former pro-Russian member of the Ukrainian parliament was shot dead near Moscow, the responsibility for the alleged assassination, according to media reports, has been claimed by Kyiv.

A former pro-Russian member of the Ukrainian parliament was shot dead near Moscow, the responsibility for the alleged assassination, according to media reports, has been claimed by Kyiv. Notably, Kyiv, since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion, is reportedly said to be behind several assassinations and attacks on pro-war Russian and former Ukrainian officials who have backed Russia’s “special military operation”. What happened to the former Ukrainian lawmaker? The former Ukrainian lawmaker identified as Illia Kyva was shot dead in a park in the Odintsovo region southwest of Moscow. News agencies, AFP and Reuters citing sources have said that the attack was orchestrated by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) after he defected to Moscow when Russia invaded last year. Meanwhile, Russian investigators said they have opened an investigation into the incident and will hunt for the suspect. “An unknown person fired shots at the victim from an unidentified weapon." ALSO READ | Zaporizhzhia plant's power cut carried risk of nuclear 'accident': Ukraine “The man died on the spot from his injuries,” said Russia’s Investigative Committee, in a statement. A report by Russian news agency TASS citing a police officer said that the investigation is being treated as a “Ukrainian plot” and a search for the killer is underway. Ukraine’s military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov also seemingly hinted that Kyva was assassinated. “We can confirm that Kyva is done. Such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the (Russian President Vladimir) Putin regime," Yusov said. He also went on to call Kyva “one of the biggest scumbags, traitors and collaborators” and said his death was “justice,” as quoted by CBS News. ‘Soaked in Nazism’ Kyva, who was a member of the Ukrainian parliament before the Russian invasion, has been in Moscow throughout the war and often criticised officials in Kyiv online. The former lawmaker has been sentenced in absentia by a Ukrainian court to 14 years in prison for charges, including treason and incitement to violence. As per AFP, before Russia began its “special military operation” in Ukraine, Kyva said the country has been “soaked by Nazism” and needed “liberating” by Moscow – echoing talking points which have regularly been used by Russian media, officials, even the country’s president in his speech since before launching the attack on Kyiv. ALSO READ | Russia blames Ukraine, West for pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin’s car bombing Kyva had reportedly also written to Putin requesting Russian citizenship and fled to Moscow before the beginning of the war in February 2022. The next month, Kyva was officially expelled from the Ukrainian parliament and charged with high treason for colluding with Russia. Another assassination by Kyiv? In a separate incident, which also took place on Wednesday (Dec 6), a proxy lawmaker in Ukraine’s eastern Lugansk region was killed in a car bombing attack, according to Russian investigators. ALSO READ | G7 leaders agree to impose ban on Russian diamonds in show of solidarity with Ukraine The lawmaker identified as Oleg Popov, who served as a deputy in the pro-Moscow Lugansk regional parliament, was killed after the “detonation of an unidentified device in a car”, said Russia’s Investigative Committee without giving any further details about the incident. (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

Kyiv assassinates pro-Russian former Ukrainian politician near Moscow: Reports

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