US President Joe Biden issued a strong warning to Russia on Tuesday, stating that unleashing a nuclear weapon in the conflict with Ukraine would be a horrible mistake on its part.&nbsp;

As reporters questioned Biden about his belief that Russia is planning a "dirty bomb" attack that it would later attribute to Ukraine, he responded, "Russia would be making an incredibly serious mistake were it to use a tactical nuclear weapon."

Russia has frequently cautioned Ukraine not to use a "dirty bomb" on its own soil.

A 'dirty bomb' uses dynamite or other explosives to scatter radioactive dust, smoke, or other material to cause radioactive contamination&nbsp;after explosion.&nbsp;

The US and its allies fear that Russia may launch a "false flag" strike using a dirty bomb in order to justify the use of conventional nuclear weapons as Moscow finds itself in a precarious position in eastern and southern Ukraine.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kherson-to-be-ground-for-heaviest-of-battles-between-russia-and-ukraine-528395">Kherson to be ground for 'heaviest of battles' between Russia and Ukraine</a>

Biden stated: "I'm not guaranteeing that it's a false flag operation yet. We don't know."

According to the Pentagon, Russia would suffer consequences if it used such technology.&nbsp;

"If Russia were to employ nuclear weapons or a dirty bomb, there would be consequences," Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Pat Ryder warned without going into further details, while talking to reporters.

(with inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden issued a strong warning to Russia on Tuesday, stating that unleashing a nuclear weapon in the conflict with Ukraine would be a horrible mistake on its part.

US President Joe Biden issued a strong warning to Russia on Tuesday, stating that unleashing a nuclear weapon in the conflict with Ukraine would be a horrible mistake on its part. As reporters questioned Biden about his belief that Russia is planning a "dirty bomb" attack that it would later attribute to Ukraine, he responded, "Russia would be making an incredibly serious mistake were it to use a tactical nuclear weapon." Russia has frequently cautioned Ukraine not to use a "dirty bomb" on its own soil. A 'dirty bomb' uses dynamite or other explosives to scatter radioactive dust, smoke, or other material to cause radioactive contamination after explosion. The US and its allies fear that Russia may launch a "false flag" strike using a dirty bomb in order to justify the use of conventional nuclear weapons as Moscow finds itself in a precarious position in eastern and southern Ukraine. Also Read: Kherson to be ground for 'heaviest of battles' between Russia and Ukraine Biden stated: "I'm not guaranteeing that it's a false flag operation yet. We don't know." According to the Pentagon, Russia would suffer consequences if it used such technology. "If Russia were to employ nuclear weapons or a dirty bomb, there would be consequences," Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Pat Ryder warned without going into further details, while talking to reporters. (with inputs from agencies)

Biden warns Russia against using nukes, says it would be 'incredibly serious mistake'

Russia on Tuesday informed the US about its annual nuclear exercise. The prior information is expected to reduce the chance of 'escalation' as the nuclear threat remains at an all-time high.

Russia on Tuesday informed the US about its annual nuclear exercise. The prior information is expected to reduce the chance of 'escalation' as the nuclear threat remains at an all-time high. While the exercise has begun, Russia will fire nuclear-capable missiles from today i.e Wednesday. "The US was notified, and, as we've highlighted before, this is a routine annual exercise by Russia," said the Pentagon in a statement. "Russia is complying with its arms control obligations and its transparency commitments to make those notifications," it added. Russia is obliged to inform about such missile launches under the new START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty). The treaty is the last remaining arms reduction pact between the former cold war rivals which limits the nuclear warheads to 1,550. Read more: US-Russia nuclear weapons inspection must as per New START Treaty, says US Russia's exercise coincides wth NATO's nuclear exercise called 'Steadfast Noon' which has been going on from October 17 and will conclude on October 30. Belgium is the host of this year's exercise. When quizzed about Russia's nuclear exercise, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said they will monitor it and "remain vigilant not least in light of the veiled nuclear threats and the dangerous nuclear rhetoric we have seen from the Russian side." The same day as Pentagon released a statement about Russia's intentions, US President Joe Biden issued a strong warning to Russia, stating that unleashing a nuclear weapon in the conflict with Ukraine would be a horrible mistake. Read more: Biden warns Russia against using nukes, says would be 'incredibly serious mistake' The US and its allies fear that Russia may launch a "false flag" strike using a dirty bomb in order to justify the use of conventional nuclear weapons as Moscow finds itself in a precarious position in eastern and southern Ukraine. Interestingly, the last time Russia held a nuclear exercise was in February, the same month it invaded Ukraine. Read more: Footage shows Russia's nuclear 'armageddon' convoy on the move: Report (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia notifies US of the annual nuclear exercise it has started

A Russian court on Tuesday dismissed U.S. WNBA basketball star Brittney Griner's appeal against a nine-year sentence for possessing and smuggling vape cartridges containing cannabis oil.

Griner and her lawyers had asked for acquittal or at least a reduction in her sentence, which they said was disproportionate to the offence and at odds with Russian judicial practice.

After retiring for no more than 30 minutes to consider the appeal, the presiding judge said the original verdict was upheld "without changes" except for the counting of time served in pre-trial detention as part of the sentence.

Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, was arrested on Feb. 17 at a Moscow airport, a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, and her case has inevitably been viewed in the context of the ensuing crisis in U.S.-Russian relations.

Washington was quick to respond to the verdict.

"We are aware of the news out of Russia that Brittney Griner will continue to be wrongfully detained under intolerable circumstances after having to undergo another sham judicial proceeding today," White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement

He said the United States would "continue to engage with Russia" to bring her home.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketballer-brittney-griner-urges-russian-court-to-reduce-her-sentence-issues-apology-528250">Basketballer Brittney Griner urges Russian court to reduce her sentence, issues apology</a>

The state prosecutor had said Griner's Aug. 4 sentence of nine years in a penal colony was "fair", but Alexander Boykov, one of her lawyers, had told the three-judge panel sitting in Krasnogorsk, on the outskirts of Moscow:

"No judge, hand on heart, will honestly say that Griner's nine-year sentence is in line with Russian criminal law."

He listed a series of what he said were procedural flaws in Griner's conviction and requested an acquittal, but asked that "if the court wants to punish her, [it should] give her a new, 'fair' verdict and mitigate the punishment".

"The severity and cruelty of the sentence applied to Griner shocks people around the world," he said.

Permitted to make a final statement by live video link from her detention centre in the town of Novoye Grishino, just outside Moscow, Griner said how stressful her eight-month detention and two trials had been.

"I was barely over the significant amount [of cannabis oil] ... People with more severe crimes have gotten less than what I was given," she said.

Griner apologised for what she said was an honest mistake, as she had at her original trial, saying: "I did not intend to do this", and asking the court to take into account the fact that she had pleaded guilty.

She has said she used medical cannabis to relieve the pain from a series of sports injuries. Both recreational and medicinal uses are prohibited in Russia.

Wearing a black and red lumberjack shirt over a black hooded top, the 32-year-old alternately sat or stood in her cell, sometimes with head lowered, sometimes leaning against the white bars.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-some-positive-signs-but-unofficially-novak-djokovic-on-playing-2023-australian-open-528195">'There are some positive signs, but unofficially' - Novak Djokovic on playing 2023 Australian Open</a>

When asked if she had understood the verdict, she merely replied "Yes" before being led away. U.S. President Joe Biden had called the original verdict "unacceptable".

U.S. State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Monday that Washington was working to free Griner and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan, serving 16 years in jail after being convicted of spying, and that there had been "active discussions, including in recent days".

"We have not weighed in on the various judicial proceedings and judicial steps because as we’ve made clear, we believe that these proceedings have been largely shambolic," Price told reporters.

U.S. Chargee d'Affaires Elizabeth Rood, the ranking U.S. diplomat in Moscow, told media waiting outside the court that she had not been allowed to speak to Griner before or after the hearing.

But Griner's lawyers said in a statement: "Brittney’s biggest fear is that she is not exchanged and will have to serve the whole sentence in Russia. She had hopes for today as each month, each day away from her family and friends matters to her."

They said it would be some time before Griner was moved to a prison colony, and that they had not yet decided whether to try to launch another appeal.

"We generally think we must use all the available legal tools, especially given the harsh and unprecedented nature of her verdict," the statement said.

A Russian court on Tuesday dismissed U.S. WNBA basketball star Brittney Griner's appeal against a nine-year sentence for possessing and smuggling vape cartridges containing cannabis oil.

A Russian court on Tuesday dismissed U.S. WNBA basketball star Brittney Griner's appeal against a nine-year sentence for possessing and smuggling vape cartridges containing cannabis oil. Griner and her lawyers had asked for acquittal or at least a reduction in her sentence, which they said was disproportionate to the offence and at odds with Russian judicial practice. After retiring for no more than 30 minutes to consider the appeal, the presiding judge said the original verdict was upheld "without changes" except for the counting of time served in pre-trial detention as part of the sentence. Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, was arrested on Feb. 17 at a Moscow airport, a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, and her case has inevitably been viewed in the context of the ensuing crisis in U.S.-Russian relations. Washington was quick to respond to the verdict. "We are aware of the news out of Russia that Brittney Griner will continue to be wrongfully detained under intolerable circumstances after having to undergo another sham judicial proceeding today," White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement He said the United States would "continue to engage with Russia" to bring her home. Also Read: Basketballer Brittney Griner urges Russian court to reduce her sentence, issues apology The state prosecutor had said Griner's Aug. 4 sentence of nine years in a penal colony was "fair", but Alexander Boykov, one of her lawyers, had told the three-judge panel sitting in Krasnogorsk, on the outskirts of Moscow: "No judge, hand on heart, will honestly say that Griner's nine-year sentence is in line with Russian criminal law." He listed a series of what he said were procedural flaws in Griner's conviction and requested an acquittal, but asked that "if the court wants to punish her, [it should] give her a new, 'fair' verdict and mitigate the punishment". "The severity and cruelty of the sentence applied to Griner shocks people around the world," he said. Permitted to make a final statement by live video link from her detention centre in the town of Novoye Grishino, just outside Moscow, Griner said how stressful her eight-month detention and two trials had been. "I was barely over the significant amount [of cannabis oil] ... People with more severe crimes have gotten less than what I was given," she said. Griner apologised for what she said was an honest mistake, as she had at her original trial, saying: "I did not intend to do this", and asking the court to take into account the fact that she had pleaded guilty. She has said she used medical cannabis to relieve the pain from a series of sports injuries. Both recreational and medicinal uses are prohibited in Russia. Wearing a black and red lumberjack shirt over a black hooded top, the 32-year-old alternately sat or stood in her cell, sometimes with head lowered, sometimes leaning against the white bars. Also Read: 'There are some positive signs, but unofficially' - Novak Djokovic on playing 2023 Australian Open When asked if she had understood the verdict, she merely replied "Yes" before being led away. U.S. President Joe Biden had called the original verdict "unacceptable". U.S. State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Monday that Washington was working to free Griner and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan, serving 16 years in jail after being convicted of spying, and that there had been "active discussions, including in recent days". "We have not weighed in on the various judicial proceedings and judicial steps because as we’ve made clear, we believe that these proceedings have been largely shambolic," Price told reporters. U.S. Chargee d'Affaires Elizabeth Rood, the ranking U.S. diplomat in Moscow, told media waiting outside the court that she had not been allowed to speak to Griner before or after the hearing. But Griner's lawyers said in a statement: "Brittney’s biggest fear is that she is not exchanged and will have to serve the whole sentence in Russia. She had hopes for today as each month, each day away from her family and friends matters to her." They said it would be some time before Griner was moved to a prison colony, and that they had not yet decided whether to try to launch another appeal. "We generally think we must use all the available legal tools, especially given the harsh and unprecedented nature of her verdict," the statement said.

Russian court upholds US basketball star Brittney Griner's 9-year drug sentence

After being pushed back by the Ukrainian troops for the better part of the last few weeks, Russia is gearing up for a comeback. Reportedly, Moscow on Sunday bombarded missiles and drones in the southern Ukrainian municipality of Mykolaiv, per a report by Reuters, destroying numerous apartment blocks in the process.

After being pushed back by the Ukrainian troops for the better part of the last few weeks, Russia is gearing up for a comeback. Reportedly, Moscow on Sunday bombarded missiles and drones in the southern Ukrainian municipality of Mykolaiv, per a report by Reuters, destroying numerous apartment blocks in the process. "After the first blast, I tried to get out, but the door was stuck. After a minute or two, there was a second loud blast. Our door was blown into the corridor," a local was quoted as saying by the publication. Kremlin simultaneously issued a statement saying the war was heading towards an 'uncontrolled escalation'. According to the Russian defence ministry, Sergei Shoigu, the defence minister spoke to his French, British and Turkish counterparts and discussed the 'rapidly deteriorating situation'. Shoigu said Ukraine could escalate the situation with a "dirty bomb," a type of "radiological dispersal device" that combines a conventional explosive, such as dynamite, with radioactive material. Read more: Russia's defence minister calls up US, UK counterparts, raises escalation concerns in Ukraine Ukraine, meanwhile said it shot down 14 Russian 'kamikaze' drones that were fired in the city's direction. "Everyone understands full well. They understand who is the source of all the dirty things imaginable in this war," said President Volodymyr Zelensky in his nightly message. The pounding of missiles, especially in the southern part of Ukraine comes in the backdrop of Russia evacuating its civilians from the Moscow-controlled region of Kherson in southern Ukraine. As reported by WION, Russian news agencies stated last week that an organised movement of civilians had started. "In Kherson, the organised movement of residents to the other side of the Dnieper has begun," said local media reports Russia's military commander for Ukraine operations admitted last Tuesday that the situation in the Kherson regions is "difficult" and Russian forces were planning a "safe evacuation". Read more: Kremlin-installed officials begin evacuating civilians from Kherson region of Ukraine However, this is not the first time that Russia has resorted to missile attacks on Ukraine. After the Kerch bridge was destroyed connecting Russia with Crimea, Putin's troops pounded Ukrainian cities with indiscriminate missiles. Such was the situation that Zelensky was forced to plead with the international community for days, requesting the quick delivery of air defence systems. Read more: France to deliver air-defence systems to Ukraine in the coming weeks: Macron (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia warns of 'uncontrolled escalation' after fresh bout of missile, drone strikes on Ukraine

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday (October 23) called up his counterparts in the US, UK, France and Turkiye on Sunday (October 23) and discussed the situation in Ukraine.&nbsp; 
Shoigu&nbsp;discussed the situation in Ukraine&nbsp;on a phone call with Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin, said Russian defence ministry. This was the second call in three days between the US&nbsp;and Russian defence ministers.

"The heads of defence departments discussed the situation in Ukraine," the ministry said in a statement on social media.

Prior to his call to Austin, Shoigu also spoke with his counterparts in UK, Turkiye and France.

UK's Ministry of Defence tweeted a statement.

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A statement on Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's call with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu: <a href="https://t.co/BbQ9muxKeC">pic.twitter.com/BbQ9muxKeC</a>
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1584200202948612096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In a statement from Russian foreign ministry, Shoigu said Ukraine could escalate the situation with a "dirty bomb," a type of "radiological dispersal device" that combines a conventional explosive, such as dynamite, with radioactive material.&nbsp;

UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace on Sunday "refuted" claims by Moscow that Western countries were facilitating a planned escalation of the war in Ukraine. 
 
"The defence secretary refuted these claims and cautioned that such allegations should not be used as a pretext for greater escalation," Britain's Ministry of Defence said in a statement, noting Moscow had requested the conversation. 
 
The rare call between Russian defence minister and his western counterparts&nbsp;came on a day when Russian missile attack on Mykolaiv in Ukraine destroyed an apartment block on Sunday (October 23). Mykolaiv is roughly 35 km northwest from Kherson. Ukrainian forces have targetted the Russian-annexed Kherson region in a major counteroffensive.&nbsp;

Russian missile attack on Mykolaiv wiped out the top floor of an apartment block. The missile blasts propelled shrapnels and debris into neighbouring buildings. Reuters said that there were no fatalities.

Mykolaiv regional governor Vitaliy Kim said on Telegram that Ukraine shot down 14 Russian "kamikaze" drones over Mykolaiv overnight. 
 
The sudden hightened communications have raised suspicions of some brewing trouble as Russian authorities have been telling people in Kherson region to evacuate and save their lives, alleging a 'terrorist' attack from Ukraine.&nbsp; 
 
On the other hand, Ukraine has been accusing Russia of mining the Kakhovka dam on the Dnieper river saying it would cause massive devastation.&nbsp; 
 
On Sunday, Russia told people in occupied Kherson to flee for their lives as more residents joined an exodus to escape an anticipated Ukrainian counter-offensive. 
Russia's proxies in the southern region are trying to evacuate up to 60,000 people who live on the western bank of the Dnipro river. 
 
Reuters reported the Russian education minister Sergei Kravtsov saying in a video message, "The situation today is difficult. It's vital to save your lives. It won't be for long. You will definitely return." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday (October 23) called up his counterparts in the US, UK, France and Turkiye on Sunday (October 23) and discussed the situation in Ukraine.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday (October 23) called up his counterparts in the US, UK, France and Turkiye on Sunday (October 23) and discussed the situation in Ukraine. Shoigu discussed the situation in Ukraine on a phone call with Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin, said Russian defence ministry. This was the second call in three days between the US and Russian defence ministers. "The heads of defence departments discussed the situation in Ukraine," the ministry said in a statement on social media. Prior to his call to Austin, Shoigu also spoke with his counterparts in UK, Turkiye and France. UK's Ministry of Defence tweeted a statement. A statement on Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's call with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu: pic.twitter.com/BbQ9muxKeC — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) October 23, 2022 × In a statement from Russian foreign ministry, Shoigu said Ukraine could escalate the situation with a "dirty bomb," a type of "radiological dispersal device" that combines a conventional explosive, such as dynamite, with radioactive material. UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace on Sunday "refuted" claims by Moscow that Western countries were facilitating a planned escalation of the war in Ukraine. "The defence secretary refuted these claims and cautioned that such allegations should not be used as a pretext for greater escalation," Britain's Ministry of Defence said in a statement, noting Moscow had requested the conversation. The rare call between Russian defence minister and his western counterparts came on a day when Russian missile attack on Mykolaiv in Ukraine destroyed an apartment block on Sunday (October 23). Mykolaiv is roughly 35 km northwest from Kherson. Ukrainian forces have targetted the Russian-annexed Kherson region in a major counteroffensive. Russian missile attack on Mykolaiv wiped out the top floor of an apartment block. The missile blasts propelled shrapnels and debris into neighbouring buildings. Reuters said that there were no fatalities. Mykolaiv regional governor Vitaliy Kim said on Telegram that Ukraine shot down 14 Russian "kamikaze" drones over Mykolaiv overnight. The sudden hightened communications have raised suspicions of some brewing trouble as Russian authorities have been telling people in Kherson region to evacuate and save their lives, alleging a 'terrorist' attack from Ukraine. On the other hand, Ukraine has been accusing Russia of mining the Kakhovka dam on the Dnieper river saying it would cause massive devastation. On Sunday, Russia told people in occupied Kherson to flee for their lives as more residents joined an exodus to escape an anticipated Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russia's proxies in the southern region are trying to evacuate up to 60,000 people who live on the western bank of the Dnipro river. Reuters reported the Russian education minister Sergei Kravtsov saying in a video message, "The situation today is difficult. It's vital to save your lives. It won't be for long. You will definitely return." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia's defence minister calls up US, UK counterparts, raises escalation concerns in Ukraine

Two Russian pilots were killed when their fighter plane crashed in Siberian city of Irkutsk on Sunday (October 23). The plane crashed into a residential building. The information of the crash was released by Irkutsk governor Igor Kobzev.

In a post on Telegram, the governor said that the plane crashed into a two-storey house. There were no other casualties than those of pilots.

It was the second such incident in six days. Last Monday, a Sukhoi Su-34 fighter plane crashed into an apartment block in the southern city of Yeysk, near Ukraine, and at least 15 people were killed.

Russian news agencies said the plane in Sunday's incident was an Su-30. In a statement, the emergencies ministry said the plane crashed during a test flight.

Footage shared on social media showed what appeared to be several buildings on fire and dense black smoke rising into the sky.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two Russian pilots were killed when their fighter plane crashed in Siberian city of Irkutsk on Sunday (October 23). The plane crashed into a residential building.

Two Russian pilots were killed when their fighter plane crashed in Siberian city of Irkutsk on Sunday (October 23). The plane crashed into a residential building. The information of the crash was released by Irkutsk governor Igor Kobzev. In a post on Telegram, the governor said that the plane crashed into a two-storey house. There were no other casualties than those of pilots. It was the second such incident in six days. Last Monday, a Sukhoi Su-34 fighter plane crashed into an apartment block in the southern city of Yeysk, near Ukraine, and at least 15 people were killed. Russian news agencies said the plane in Sunday's incident was an Su-30. In a statement, the emergencies ministry said the plane crashed during a test flight. Footage shared on social media showed what appeared to be several buildings on fire and dense black smoke rising into the sky. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian fighter plane crashes in Siberia, two pilots dead

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, reports have indicated that Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of planning to blow up the Kakhovka hydroelectric dam on the Dnipro river. The dam is in the eastern Kherson region which is currently under Russian occupation.&nbsp;

The Kakhovka dam was built in 1956 on the Dnipro river as part of a hydroelectric power plant. It is 30 metres tall and 3.2 km long. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent address, the hydroelectric power plant holds a volume of about 18 million cubic metres of water.&nbsp;

The dam is also responsible for at least 85 per cent&nbsp;of the water supply to Crimea which was annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant which is also occupied by Moscow. Reports suggest that blowing up this dam would lead to catastrophic floods in Kherson and surrounding areas, affecting hundreds and thousands of people.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-reported-from-ukraines-kharkiv-zaporizhzhia-no-casualties-reported-yet-527295">Moscow says Ukrainian shelling killed four during Kherson evacuations</a>

In his overnight address&nbsp;on Thursday, Ukraine’s Zelensky alleged that the dam on the Dnipro river has been mined by Russia, while Moscow had previously accused Kyiv of firing missiles at the Kakhovka dam. According to Zelensky, if the dam is destroyed it could affect the water supply to much of southern Ukraine and also stop the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant’s supply of cooling water.&nbsp;

“If Russian terrorists blow up this dam, more than 80 settlements, including Kherson, will be in the zone of rapid flooding. Hundreds of thousands of people could be affected,” said Zelensky during the address. Reportedly, he also told the European leaders that after Russia blows up the dam it will blame Ukraine for it.&nbsp;

On the other hand, earlier on Thursday, Vladimir Leontyev, a Kremlin-installed official in Ukraine told Russian TV that Ukraine has fired five missiles against the Kakhovka dam as well as the power station and if it is destroyed it would sever the crucial canal providing water to Crimea.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-tells-eu-that-russia-is-turning-ukraine-power-grid-into-battlefield-527223">Zelensky tells EU that Russia is turning Ukraine power grid into 'battlefield'</a>

This comes after, the commander of Russian forces in Ukraine, Sergei Surovikin, on Tuesday said, “We have information on the possibility of the Kyiv regime using prohibited methods of war in the area of the city of Kherson, on the preparation by Kyiv of a massive missile strike on the Kakhovka hydro-electric dam.” Meanwhile, another Kremlin-installed deputy head of the annexed Kherson region has reportedly said that Ukraine’s claims that Russia has mined the dam are false.&nbsp;

According to media reports, Ukraine’s presidential adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, on Thursday said, “Russia is preparing a manmade catastrophe.” He alleged that Russia had mined the dam as well as the transformers to flood the lower Dnieper River, and reportedly called it the “Surovikin plan” which involves flooding the territory to stop Ukraine’s counter-offence in the region.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, reports have indicated that Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of planning to blow up the Kakhovka hydroelectric dam on the Dnipro river. The dam is in the eastern Kherson region which is currently under Russian occupation. The Kakhovka dam was built in 1956 on the Dnipro river as part of a hydroelectric power plant. It is 30 metres tall and 3.2 km long. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent address, the hydroelectric power plant holds a volume of about 18 million cubic metres of water. The dam is also responsible for at least 85 per cent of the water supply to Crimea which was annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant which is also occupied by Moscow. Reports suggest that blowing up this dam would lead to catastrophic floods in Kherson and surrounding areas, affecting hundreds and thousands of people. ALSO READ: Moscow says Ukrainian shelling killed four during Kherson evacuations In his overnight address on Thursday, Ukraine’s Zelensky alleged that the dam on the Dnipro river has been mined by Russia, while Moscow had previously accused Kyiv of firing missiles at the Kakhovka dam. According to Zelensky, if the dam is destroyed it could affect the water supply to much of southern Ukraine and also stop the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant’s supply of cooling water. “If Russian terrorists blow up this dam, more than 80 settlements, including Kherson, will be in the zone of rapid flooding. Hundreds of thousands of people could be affected,” said Zelensky during the address. Reportedly, he also told the European leaders that after Russia blows up the dam it will blame Ukraine for it. On the other hand, earlier on Thursday, Vladimir Leontyev, a Kremlin-installed official in Ukraine told Russian TV that Ukraine has fired five missiles against the Kakhovka dam as well as the power station and if it is destroyed it would sever the crucial canal providing water to Crimea. ALSO READ: Zelensky tells EU that Russia is turning Ukraine power grid into 'battlefield' This comes after, the commander of Russian forces in Ukraine, Sergei Surovikin, on Tuesday said, “We have information on the possibility of the Kyiv regime using prohibited methods of war in the area of the city of Kherson, on the preparation by Kyiv of a massive missile strike on the Kakhovka hydro-electric dam.” Meanwhile, another Kremlin-installed deputy head of the annexed Kherson region has reportedly said that Ukraine’s claims that Russia has mined the dam are false. According to media reports, Ukraine’s presidential adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, on Thursday said, “Russia is preparing a manmade catastrophe.” He alleged that Russia had mined the dam as well as the transformers to flood the lower Dnieper River, and reportedly called it the “Surovikin plan” which involves flooding the territory to stop Ukraine’s counter-offence in the region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of planning to destroy Kakhovka dam: Reports

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (October 19) made an appeal to Ukrainians for moderate use of power as restrictions on electricity supply were due to kick-in on Thursday (October 20).&nbsp;

"Tomorrow it is very important that the consumption is as conscious as possible, then the schedules of stabilisation outages will be shortened," he said.&nbsp;

Government officials and the grid operator Ukrenergo have said that electricity supply will be restricted in the country between 7 am and 11 pm. Street lighting in cities will be limited, a presidential aide said on the Telegram messaging app, adding that if electricity use was not minimised, there would be temporary blackouts.

Zelensky said that Russia has destroyed three Ukrainian energy facilities in last 24 hours. He added that third of his country's power stations have been hit by Russian strikes.

Zelensky said on Wednesday (October 19) that he will never get used to the war that is raging in his country. He was speaking with Canadian broadcaster CTV in an interview. Zelensky said he doesn't allow himself to get used to the pain and killing.

"I'm not ready to get used to us suffering to get used to war… (it) motivates me every day to advance towards the victory. And therefore, I want to remain human, " he said.

Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24. After sustained territorial gain in first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive.&nbsp;

This week, Russia has carried out intense missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's power and water infrastructure. This has been termed by Ukraine and the West a campaign to intimidate civilians as the winter months approach.

When asked whether he will consider ceding territory to Russia in order to reach a peace deal, Zelensky said that this was not an option.

"Well, the issue is that you can not trade in what’s not yours. That's what Russia cannot understand... All of our land belongs to the citizens of Ukraine," said the Ukrainian president.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-confers-the-sakharov-prize-2022-to-brave-people-of-ukraine-526923">EU confers the Sakharov Prize 2022 to ‘brave people’ of Ukraine</a>

Zelensky said he did not care about the fate of Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom the West has accused of warcrimes. But Zelensky added. &nbsp;

"People have to take responsibility for their actions no matter what, no matter when."

"Peace is not enough."

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (October 19) made an appeal to Ukrainians for moderate use of power as restrictions on electricity supply were due to kick-in on Thursday (October 20).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (October 19) made an appeal to Ukrainians for moderate use of power as restrictions on electricity supply were due to kick-in on Thursday (October 20). "Tomorrow it is very important that the consumption is as conscious as possible, then the schedules of stabilisation outages will be shortened," he said. Government officials and the grid operator Ukrenergo have said that electricity supply will be restricted in the country between 7 am and 11 pm. Street lighting in cities will be limited, a presidential aide said on the Telegram messaging app, adding that if electricity use was not minimised, there would be temporary blackouts. Zelensky said that Russia has destroyed three Ukrainian energy facilities in last 24 hours. He added that third of his country's power stations have been hit by Russian strikes. Zelensky said on Wednesday (October 19) that he will never get used to the war that is raging in his country. He was speaking with Canadian broadcaster CTV in an interview. Zelensky said he doesn't allow himself to get used to the pain and killing. "I'm not ready to get used to us suffering to get used to war… (it) motivates me every day to advance towards the victory. And therefore, I want to remain human, " he said. Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24. After sustained territorial gain in first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counter-offensive. This week, Russia has carried out intense missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's power and water infrastructure. This has been termed by Ukraine and the West a campaign to intimidate civilians as the winter months approach. When asked whether he will consider ceding territory to Russia in order to reach a peace deal, Zelensky said that this was not an option. "Well, the issue is that you can not trade in what’s not yours. That's what Russia cannot understand... All of our land belongs to the citizens of Ukraine," said the Ukrainian president. Also Read | EU confers the Sakharov Prize 2022 to ‘brave people’ of Ukraine Zelensky said he did not care about the fate of Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom the West has accused of warcrimes. But Zelensky added. "People have to take responsibility for their actions no matter what, no matter when." "Peace is not enough." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Zelensky appeals for moderate use as electricity restrictions kick in

Israel on Wednesday (October 19) offered to help Ukraine develop air attack alerts to save civilian population but Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz categorically said that the country won't provide weapons to Ukraine.

"Our policy vis-a-vis Ukraine will not change -- we will continue to support and stand with the West, we will not provide weapon systems," Gantz told a briefing of European Union ambassadors, according to a statement from his office.&nbsp;

Israel has walked a tightrope ever since Russia invaded Ukraine. Israel has sought to preserve relations with the West as well as with Russia.

Israel needs Russian cooperation to continue its campaign of air strikes in neighbouring Syria, where Russian forces are present and where Israel frequently hits what it calls Iranian-linked targets.

Israeli officials have already stressed that&nbsp;

Russia has large number of Jew population and Israeli officials have previously stressed the need to safeguard relations with Russia. In Soviet times, Jews in USSR were largely cut-off from Israel.

Israeli stance in the initial months of the conflict has infuriated Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-never-get-used-to-war-says-zelensky-526949">Zelensky appeals for moderate use as electricity restrictions kick-in</a>

President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is Jewish, has on several occasions blasted Israel for failing to firmly oppose Russian aggression.

The Israeli position has however evolved over recent months, from near neutrality to more forceful condemnations of Russia.&nbsp;

Gantz said Wednesday that Israel would continue providing "humanitarian aid" to Ukraine, including "life-saving defensive equipment" and was likely to approve "an additional package" soon.&nbsp;

But weapons supplies were off the table, "due to a variety of operational considerations," the defence minister added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel on Wednesday (October 19) offered to help Ukraine develop air attack alerts to save civilian population but Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz categorically said that the country won't provide weapons to Ukraine.

Israel on Wednesday (October 19) offered to help Ukraine develop air attack alerts to save civilian population but Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz categorically said that the country won't provide weapons to Ukraine. "Our policy vis-a-vis Ukraine will not change -- we will continue to support and stand with the West, we will not provide weapon systems," Gantz told a briefing of European Union ambassadors, according to a statement from his office. Israel has walked a tightrope ever since Russia invaded Ukraine. Israel has sought to preserve relations with the West as well as with Russia. Israel needs Russian cooperation to continue its campaign of air strikes in neighbouring Syria, where Russian forces are present and where Israel frequently hits what it calls Iranian-linked targets. Israeli officials have already stressed that Russia has large number of Jew population and Israeli officials have previously stressed the need to safeguard relations with Russia. In Soviet times, Jews in USSR were largely cut-off from Israel. Israeli stance in the initial months of the conflict has infuriated Ukraine. Also Read | Zelensky appeals for moderate use as electricity restrictions kick-in President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is Jewish, has on several occasions blasted Israel for failing to firmly oppose Russian aggression. The Israeli position has however evolved over recent months, from near neutrality to more forceful condemnations of Russia. Gantz said Wednesday that Israel would continue providing "humanitarian aid" to Ukraine, including "life-saving defensive equipment" and was likely to approve "an additional package" soon. But weapons supplies were off the table, "due to a variety of operational considerations," the defence minister added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Will not' provide weapons to Ukraine, says Israeli defence minister

Authorities in the US indicted five Russians on Wednesday (October 19) for smuggling American electronic components to arm makers in Russia. Some of these components have been found on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Separately, three Latvians and a Ukrainian were charged for attempting to send a US-made high-precision industrial grinder to Russia. US Justice Department said that the grinder can be used by arms makers or in a nuclear weapons programme.

The department said the two smuggling networks involved front companies in multiple countries including Dubai and Germany. The networks were designed to evade US and global sanctions on Russia.

The first scheme involved buying sensitive technologies from US manufacturers like advanced semiconductors and microprocessors that are used in fighter aircraft, missile systems, smart munition, radar and satellites.

The Justice Department said Dubai-based Russian Yury Orekhov, Artem Uss, the son of a regional Russian governor, and the three others used a Hamburg, Germany-based firm for the operation, shipping some of the technology to Russian defence companies that are under US sanctions.

It said, for example, that Orekhov had travelled to the United States in 2019 to source parts that were used in the Russian-made Sukhoi fighter aircraft.

"Some of the types of electronic components obtained through the criminal scheme have been found in Russian weapons platforms seized on the battlefield in Ukraine," the Justice Department said.

In the second instance, the four arranged the purchase of a jig grinder made in the US state of Connecticut ostensibly for the European market, but sought to ship it to Russia. The grinder was intercepted by Latvian authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in the US indicted five Russians on Wednesday (October 19) for smuggling American electronic components to arm makers in Russia. Some of these components have been found on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Authorities in the US indicted five Russians on Wednesday (October 19) for smuggling American electronic components to arm makers in Russia. Some of these components have been found on the battlefield in Ukraine. Separately, three Latvians and a Ukrainian were charged for attempting to send a US-made high-precision industrial grinder to Russia. US Justice Department said that the grinder can be used by arms makers or in a nuclear weapons programme. The department said the two smuggling networks involved front companies in multiple countries including Dubai and Germany. The networks were designed to evade US and global sanctions on Russia. The first scheme involved buying sensitive technologies from US manufacturers like advanced semiconductors and microprocessors that are used in fighter aircraft, missile systems, smart munition, radar and satellites. The Justice Department said Dubai-based Russian Yury Orekhov, Artem Uss, the son of a regional Russian governor, and the three others used a Hamburg, Germany-based firm for the operation, shipping some of the technology to Russian defence companies that are under US sanctions. It said, for example, that Orekhov had travelled to the United States in 2019 to source parts that were used in the Russian-made Sukhoi fighter aircraft. "Some of the types of electronic components obtained through the criminal scheme have been found in Russian weapons platforms seized on the battlefield in Ukraine," the Justice Department said. In the second instance, the four arranged the purchase of a jig grinder made in the US state of Connecticut ostensibly for the European market, but sought to ship it to Russia. The grinder was intercepted by Latvian authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US indicts 5 Russians for smuggling American electronic components to arm makers in Russia

Weeks after annexing the Ukrainian territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia through a series of referendums, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday announced he was imposing martial law in the regions.

Weeks after annexing the Ukrainian territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia through a series of referendums, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday announced he was imposing martial law in the regions. Putin made the announcement in a televised correspondence to his Security Council whilst directing the government to simultaneously set up a special coordinating council chaired by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. Read more: Russia-Ukraine war LIVE updates | Putin declares martial law in Ukraine regions annexed by Russia The council is expected to strengthen Russia's war effort in Ukraine which has faced several setbacks at the hands of Ukraine in recent months. According to Putin, the order by him will increase the stability of the economy and the industry which will eventually contribute to the 'special military operation' ordered by him in Ukraine. "We are working on solving very complex, large-scale tasks to ensure a reliable future for Russia, the future of our people," he said. The move of imposing martial law comes a day after Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov said all four annexed regions are under the protection of its nuclear arsenal. "All these territories are inalienable parts of the Russian Federation and they are all protected. Their security is provided for at the same level as [it is for] the rest of Russia's territory," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the reporters. Read more: Annexed Ukrainian regions under nuclear protection as rest of Russia, says Kremlin As reported by WION, Russia annexed the four regions earlier this month after conducting referendums. In his post-annexation speech, Putin told the West that the annexation was irreversible and called on Ukraine's army to give up and negotiate a surrender. "We call on the Kyiv regime to immediately stop fighting and stop all hostilities... and return to the negotiating table," the Russian leader said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin declares martial law in the four annexed Ukrainian territories

Earlier today, Germany’s Interior Ministry indicated that the head of the country’s national cybersecurity agency, Arne Schoenbohm, has been sacked. This comes after media reports alleged that a member company of the group co-founded by Schoenbohm, was created by a former Russian intelligence agent.&nbsp;

The decision announced by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser followed allegations in German media which “damaged the necessary confidence of the public in the neutrality and impartiality” of his management.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-refuses-a-joint-investigation-team-with-germany-and-denmark-to-probe-nord-stream-explosions-525697">Sweden refuses joint investigation team with Germany, Denmark to probe Nord Stream explosions</a>

The German government had said over a week ago that they will investigate the reports comprehensively in light of these allegations.

Schoenbohm, who has been sacked as head of the country’s President of the&nbsp;Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), told German media he was unaware of “what the ministry has examined and what the concrete allegations against me look like.”&nbsp;

According to reports, nearly a decade ago, Schoenbohm had co-founded a cybersecurity group which brings together experts from public and private institutions. German media reported that one of its members was a company that was founded by a former Russian agent. However, the group said that they had removed the company last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rail-traffic-halted-in-germany-authorities-say-malicious-and-targeted-sabotage-523623">Rail network cables cut, traffic stalled in Germany; termed ‘malicious, targeted’ sabotage</a>

The interior ministry said Faeser’s decision would not only be beneficial for the 1,500 employees of the agency but Schoenbohm himself, saying that they would now be able to work without any speculations about the personal issue, said the report.&nbsp;

Schoenbohm has been the head of the BSI since 2016. The ministry has not said who would take over after him. This comes amid growing concerns about attacks against Germany’s critical infrastructure by Moscow given Berlin’s support for Ukraine in the ongoing Russian invasion of the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Earlier today, Germany’s Interior Ministry indicated that the head of the country’s national cybersecurity agency, Arne Schoenbohm, has been sacked. This comes after media reports alleged that a member company of the group co-founded by Schoenbohm, was created by a former Russian intelligence agent.

Earlier today, Germany’s Interior Ministry indicated that the head of the country’s national cybersecurity agency, Arne Schoenbohm, has been sacked. This comes after media reports alleged that a member company of the group co-founded by Schoenbohm, was created by a former Russian intelligence agent. The decision announced by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser followed allegations in German media which “damaged the necessary confidence of the public in the neutrality and impartiality” of his management. ALSO READ: Sweden refuses joint investigation team with Germany, Denmark to probe Nord Stream explosions The German government had said over a week ago that they will investigate the reports comprehensively in light of these allegations. Schoenbohm, who has been sacked as head of the country’s President of the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), told German media he was unaware of “what the ministry has examined and what the concrete allegations against me look like.” According to reports, nearly a decade ago, Schoenbohm had co-founded a cybersecurity group which brings together experts from public and private institutions. German media reported that one of its members was a company that was founded by a former Russian agent. However, the group said that they had removed the company last week. ALSO READ: Rail network cables cut, traffic stalled in Germany; termed ‘malicious, targeted’ sabotage The interior ministry said Faeser’s decision would not only be beneficial for the 1,500 employees of the agency but Schoenbohm himself, saying that they would now be able to work without any speculations about the personal issue, said the report. Schoenbohm has been the head of the BSI since 2016. The ministry has not said who would take over after him. This comes amid growing concerns about attacks against Germany’s critical infrastructure by Moscow given Berlin’s support for Ukraine in the ongoing Russian invasion of the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany: Cybersecurity chief dismissed following media reports of ties with Russia

Just hours after Russia attacked Ukrainian cities with drones, the White House, on Monday, said that US will hold Russia accountable for "war crimes". One of these drone attacks killed at least four people in an apartment building in Kyiv.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his Monday evening video address, said there had been more attacks. "Right now, there is a new Russian drone attack. There are (drones) that have been shot down."

According to Interfax Ukraine news agency, blasts were reported in Fastiv, a town just outside Kyiv. Blasts were also reported in southern port of Odesa.

In its second wave of air strikes in a week, Russian forces have also targetted infrastructure across Ukraine.

Ukrainian soldiers fired into the air trying to shoot down the drones after blasts rocked the capital Kyiv on Monday morning. An anti-aircraft rocket could be seen streaking into the morning sky, followed by an explosion and orange flames, as residents raced for shelter.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opens-criminal-case-into-fighter-plane-crash-526266">Russia opens criminal case into fighter plane crash</a>

US President Joe Biden's press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that the White House "strongly condemns Russia’s missile strikes today" and said the attack "continues to demonstrate (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s brutality".

She mentioned a new, USD 725 million military aid package for Ukraine which was announced last Friday

&nbsp;“We will continue to stand with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes," she said.

“... We will continue to impose costs on Russia, hold them accountable for its war crimes."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just hours after Russia attacked Ukrainian cities with drones, the White House, on Monday, said that US will hold Russia accountable for "war crimes". One of these drone attacks killed at least four people in an apartment building in Kyiv.

Just hours after Russia attacked Ukrainian cities with drones, the White House, on Monday, said that US will hold Russia accountable for "war crimes". One of these drone attacks killed at least four people in an apartment building in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his Monday evening video address, said there had been more attacks. "Right now, there is a new Russian drone attack. There are (drones) that have been shot down." According to Interfax Ukraine news agency, blasts were reported in Fastiv, a town just outside Kyiv. Blasts were also reported in southern port of Odesa. In its second wave of air strikes in a week, Russian forces have also targetted infrastructure across Ukraine. Ukrainian soldiers fired into the air trying to shoot down the drones after blasts rocked the capital Kyiv on Monday morning. An anti-aircraft rocket could be seen streaking into the morning sky, followed by an explosion and orange flames, as residents raced for shelter. Also Read | Russia opens criminal case into fighter plane crash US President Joe Biden's press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that the White House "strongly condemns Russia’s missile strikes today" and said the attack "continues to demonstrate (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s brutality". She mentioned a new, USD 725 million military aid package for Ukraine which was announced last Friday “We will continue to stand with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes," she said. “... We will continue to impose costs on Russia, hold them accountable for its war crimes." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Will hold Russia accountable for 'war crimes,' says White House

Russia's state investigation committee has opened a criminal case into the fighter plane crash that took place in the southern city of Yeysk. The crash engulfed apartments in a huge fireball. As per officials, four people were killed while six were missing. The committee has released a video of investigators inspecting the scene.

Regional governor Veniamin Kondratyev also released video of firefighters extinguishing fire in a nine-storey building.

Yeysk is separated from occupied Russian territory in southern Ukraine by a narrow stretch of the Sea of Azov.

Russian state-owned RIA agency said that the crash took place during a training flight from a military airfield

Russian President Vladimir Putin was informed of the fire and ordered "all necessary assistance be given to casualties from the military plane incident," the Kremlin told the state-run news agency TASS.

"On October 17, 2022, while taking off to carry out a training flight from the military airfield of the Southern Military District, an Su-34 aircraft crashed," said Russian defence ministry.

Its statement said the military jet had malfunctioned after "one of its the engines caught fire during take-off".

"At the site of the Sukhoi Su-34 crash, in the courtyard of a residential area, the aircraft's fuel caught fire," the ministry said. 
Images on social media showed a Soviet-era residence block engulfed by flames.

Russian state-run agencies quoted emergency services who said that the fire reached five out of nine floors of the residential building.

The blaze spread over 2,000 square metres (21,500 square feet), the services added.

Around 600 people usually live in the building, the local Krasnodar administration said on Telegram.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia's state investigation committee has opened a criminal case into the fighter plane crash that took place in the southern city of Yeysk. The crash engulfed apartments in a huge fireball.

Russia's state investigation committee has opened a criminal case into the fighter plane crash that took place in the southern city of Yeysk. The crash engulfed apartments in a huge fireball. As per officials, four people were killed while six were missing. The committee has released a video of investigators inspecting the scene. Regional governor Veniamin Kondratyev also released video of firefighters extinguishing fire in a nine-storey building. Yeysk is separated from occupied Russian territory in southern Ukraine by a narrow stretch of the Sea of Azov. Russian state-owned RIA agency said that the crash took place during a training flight from a military airfield Russian President Vladimir Putin was informed of the fire and ordered "all necessary assistance be given to casualties from the military plane incident," the Kremlin told the state-run news agency TASS. "On October 17, 2022, while taking off to carry out a training flight from the military airfield of the Southern Military District, an Su-34 aircraft crashed," said Russian defence ministry. Its statement said the military jet had malfunctioned after "one of its the engines caught fire during take-off". "At the site of the Sukhoi Su-34 crash, in the courtyard of a residential area, the aircraft's fuel caught fire," the ministry said. Images on social media showed a Soviet-era residence block engulfed by flames. Russian state-run agencies quoted emergency services who said that the fire reached five out of nine floors of the residential building. The blaze spread over 2,000 square metres (21,500 square feet), the services added. Around 600 people usually live in the building, the local Krasnodar administration said on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia opens criminal case into fighter plane crash

As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its eighth month, the former is looking for supplies to fill its depleted arsenal. To fill the gap, Iran has reportedly entered the fray and is expected to deliver short-range ballistic missiles viz.

As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its eighth month, the former is looking for supplies to fill its depleted arsenal. To fill the gap, Iran has reportedly entered the fray and is expected to deliver short-range ballistic missiles viz. Fateh-110 and its advanced version such as Zolfaghar to Kremlin, per a report by the Washington Post. The report quoted US and allied security officials as its source and added that not only will Iran be sending the missiles, but it will also be delivering attack drones. While the report claims that Russia will be receiving the secret delivery, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian couple of days ago made it clear that it will not be sending any weapons. "We believe that the arming of each side of the crisis will prolong the war. We have not considered and do not consider war to be the right path either in Ukraine or in Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen," said Amir-Abdollahian "We have defence cooperation with Russia, but our policy regarding the war in Ukraine is not sending weapons to the conflicting parties, but stopping the war and ending the displacement of people." Read more: Russia-Ukraine war: German foreign minister warns Moscow could use 'people as weapons' What is Fateh missile? Fateh or Fateh-110 missile is a road-mobile, solid-propellant, short-range ballistic missile that weighs almost 3,450 kilogrammes. It is known for its extreme precision and has a range of 300 kilometres which makes it all the more suitable for Russian operations. Some reports state that the missile is a modified version of the unguided Zelzal-2 but with better control and guidance systems. The Fateh missile has two variants, designated Fateh 2 (A-11A) and Fateh 3 (A-110B) Iran reportedly started developing the missile in 1995. However, the first flight took place six years later in 2001. A year later, the missile entered into production and reached operating capability in 2004. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards successfully tested the missile in 2007 and according to some rumours, it is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead as well. Iran has used the missile in its military operation since 2017, targeting Iraq on multiple occasions. Read more: Multiple blasts rock Ukrainian cities, Zelensky says Russia 'wants to wipe us from face of Earth' (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What is the Fateh missile that Iran is rumored to deliver to Russia?

Russian defence ministry said that a 'terrorist' attack on a military training ground in Russia left at least 11 dead and 15 wounded, reported Russian news agencies. The attack took place in Belgorod, a Russian region near Ukrainian border. Russian defence ministry said that two citizens from a former Soviet Union state carried out the attack.

"On October 15, two citizens of a CIS country committed an act of terror at the training range of the Western military district in the Belgorod region," the defence ministry was quoted as saying.

Watch: World at War | Episode 24: Russia says no need for massive new strikes on Ukraine

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The CIS, or Commonwealth of Independent States, was formed between republics that were part of the Soviet Union. Ukraine was formerly a Soviet state.

As per the Russian ministry, the attack took place during a training session for volunteers joining Russian forces.

"In the attack, 11 people were fatally wounded. Another 15 people suffered injuries of varying gravity and were taken to medical facilities," news agencies said.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-german-foreign-minister-warns-moscow-could-use-people-as-weapons-525723">Russia-Ukraine war: German foreign minister warns Moscow could use 'people as weapons'</a>

This attack has come days after a truck bomb resulted in damage to Kerch bridge, a key link between the Russia-annexed Crimea and Russia. Though Ukraine did not formally accept responsibility, Russian President Vladimir Putin had held Ukraine responsible.

The blast on the bridge has hit traffic movement considerably.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian defence ministry said that a 'terrorist' attack on a military training ground in Russia left at least 11 dead and 15 wounded, reported Russian news agencies.

Russian defence ministry said that a 'terrorist' attack on a military training ground in Russia left at least 11 dead and 15 wounded, reported Russian news agencies. The attack took place in Belgorod, a Russian region near Ukrainian border. Russian defence ministry said that two citizens from a former Soviet Union state carried out the attack. "On October 15, two citizens of a CIS country committed an act of terror at the training range of the Western military district in the Belgorod region," the defence ministry was quoted as saying. Watch: World at War | Episode 24: Russia says no need for massive new strikes on Ukraine × The CIS, or Commonwealth of Independent States, was formed between republics that were part of the Soviet Union. Ukraine was formerly a Soviet state. As per the Russian ministry, the attack took place during a training session for volunteers joining Russian forces. "In the attack, 11 people were fatally wounded. Another 15 people suffered injuries of varying gravity and were taken to medical facilities," news agencies said. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: German foreign minister warns Moscow could use 'people as weapons' This attack has come days after a truck bomb resulted in damage to Kerch bridge, a key link between the Russia-annexed Crimea and Russia. Though Ukraine did not formally accept responsibility, Russian President Vladimir Putin had held Ukraine responsible. The blast on the bridge has hit traffic movement considerably. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Terrorist' attack on military site near Ukraine border killed 11, says Russian defence ministry

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky promised victory over Russia as he marked Ukraine's Defenders Day holiday on Friday (October 14). He delivered a video address on hills outside Ukraine's capital Kyiv. During the address, Zelensky thanked Ukrainian armed forces for the defence of the country. Zelensky said that everything that had been taken from Ukraine would be returned.

"It seems that the current enemy in its evil unites all the enemies of our statehood that we faced before," Zelensky said on the wooded hills outside the village of Vitachyv, site of an historic military outpost overlooking the Dnipro River.

"By defeating this enemy, we will respond to all enemies who encroached on Ukraine - on those who lived, who live and who will live on our land. This will be a victory for all our people. This will be a victory for the Armed Forces of Ukraine."

Watch | 'Our aim is not to destroy Ukraine,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin

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Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24. After sustained territorial gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. Ukrainian forces have been able to retake swathes of territory&nbsp;they had lost to Russia.

The conflict has till date, killed thousands, displaced millions, heavily damaged cities and has even had impact on global economy.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-sees-no-need-for-talks-with-joe-biden-amid-growing-tensions-between-the-two-525508">Putin sees 'no need' for talks with Biden amid growing tensions between Russia and US</a>

Ukrainian forces have made advances in recent weeks, but Russia has carried out heavy air strikes that hit energy facilities as well as apartment blocks this week.

"The world sees that Ukrainians do not lose their humanity under any circumstances. The enemy can strike at our cities, but never at our dignity," Zelensky, who was dressed in khaki, said in his video address marking the Oct. 14 public holiday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky promised victory over Russia as he marked Ukraine's Defenders Day holiday on Friday (October 14). He delivered a video address on hills outside Ukraine's capital Kyiv.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky promised victory over Russia as he marked Ukraine's Defenders Day holiday on Friday (October 14). He delivered a video address on hills outside Ukraine's capital Kyiv. During the address, Zelensky thanked Ukrainian armed forces for the defence of the country. Zelensky said that everything that had been taken from Ukraine would be returned. "It seems that the current enemy in its evil unites all the enemies of our statehood that we faced before," Zelensky said on the wooded hills outside the village of Vitachyv, site of an historic military outpost overlooking the Dnipro River. "By defeating this enemy, we will respond to all enemies who encroached on Ukraine - on those who lived, who live and who will live on our land. This will be a victory for all our people. This will be a victory for the Armed Forces of Ukraine." Watch | 'Our aim is not to destroy Ukraine,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin × Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24. After sustained territorial gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. Ukrainian forces have been able to retake swathes of territory they had lost to Russia. The conflict has till date, killed thousands, displaced millions, heavily damaged cities and has even had impact on global economy. Also Read | Putin sees 'no need' for talks with Biden amid growing tensions between Russia and US Ukrainian forces have made advances in recent weeks, but Russia has carried out heavy air strikes that hit energy facilities as well as apartment blocks this week. "The world sees that Ukrainians do not lose their humanity under any circumstances. The enemy can strike at our cities, but never at our dignity," Zelensky, who was dressed in khaki, said in his video address marking the Oct. 14 public holiday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Zelensky promises 'victory' over Russia on Ukraine's Defenders Day

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday (October 14) asked Russia, in no uncertain terms, to stop the war in Ukraine.

"Stop the war... Wouldn't you be thinking that this is a more straightforward way to get the world economy in better shape?" IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva asked at the Friday press briefing.&nbsp;

Watch | 'Our aim is not to destroy Ukraine,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin

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The IMF drew attention to the fact that Russia's war in Ukraine has been the "single most important element" that has caused slowing of global economic growth. The comment from Nadia Calvino, chair of a key IMF committee came as finance ministers and central bankers gathered in Washington for the IMF and World Bank annual meetings, which focused on the war, soaring inflation and the climate crisis.&nbsp;

Calvino said that there was a "very strong call" for Russia to stop the war. She is chair of the International Monetary and Financial Committee and also Spain's economy minister.&nbsp;

"The war is the single most important element slowing down growth and generating inflation, volatility, energy and food insecurity and uncertainty," she told a press conference, describing peace as a key economic policy tool.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-sees-no-need-for-talks-with-joe-biden-amid-growing-tensions-between-the-two-525508">Putin sees 'no need' for talks with Biden amid growing tensions between Russia and US</a>

Russia is involved in the committee. It failed to reach agreement on communique as Russia blocked a consensus. Calvino hence issued a chair's statement that recognized that the pandemic and Ukraine war were "weighing heavily on economic activity".

IMF has said this week that more than a third of the global economy is headed for contraction either this year or the next.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday (October 14) asked Russia, in no uncertain terms, to stop the war in Ukraine. "Stop the war... Wouldn't you be thinking that this is a more straightforward way to get the world economy in better shape?

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday (October 14) asked Russia, in no uncertain terms, to stop the war in Ukraine. "Stop the war... Wouldn't you be thinking that this is a more straightforward way to get the world economy in better shape?" IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva asked at the Friday press briefing. Watch | 'Our aim is not to destroy Ukraine,' says Russian President Vladimir Putin × The IMF drew attention to the fact that Russia's war in Ukraine has been the "single most important element" that has caused slowing of global economic growth. The comment from Nadia Calvino, chair of a key IMF committee came as finance ministers and central bankers gathered in Washington for the IMF and World Bank annual meetings, which focused on the war, soaring inflation and the climate crisis. Calvino said that there was a "very strong call" for Russia to stop the war. She is chair of the International Monetary and Financial Committee and also Spain's economy minister. "The war is the single most important element slowing down growth and generating inflation, volatility, energy and food insecurity and uncertainty," she told a press conference, describing peace as a key economic policy tool. Also Read | Putin sees 'no need' for talks with Biden amid growing tensions between Russia and US Russia is involved in the committee. It failed to reach agreement on communique as Russia blocked a consensus. Calvino hence issued a chair's statement that recognized that the pandemic and Ukraine war were "weighing heavily on economic activity". IMF has said this week that more than a third of the global economy is headed for contraction either this year or the next. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Stop the war in Ukraine, it's weighing heavily on economy': IMF tells Russia

In one of the biggest signs of Russia losing grip on territory in Ukraine, the Russian-installed governor of southern Kherson region suggested residents leave for Russian regions. He has advised that the resident take their children. As per Russia's TASS news agency, first group of civilians escaping from Kherson will arrive in Russia's Rostov region by Friday&nbsp;

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After initial months of gaining territory, the Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of&nbsp;counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian forces have recaptured swathes of territory including those Russia claimed were annexed and would remain Russian 'forever'.&nbsp;

"Every day, the cities of Kherson region are subjected to missile attacks," Russian-installed Kherson administration chief Vladimir Saldo said in a video message.

"As such, the leadership of Kherson administration has decided to provide Kherson families with the option to travel to other regions of the Russian Federation to rest and study," he said.

"We suggested that all residents of the Kherson region, if they wish, to protect themselves from the consequences of missile strikes, ... go to other regions," he said. People should "leave with their children".

The prompt to go applied foremost to residents on the west bank of the Dnipro River, he said. That includes the regional capital, the only major Ukrainian city Russia has captured intact since invading in February.

Russia has claimed that it has annexed Kherson region. The region is strategically important. It controls land route to Crimea as well as mouth of the Dnipro river. Russia has annexed Crimea in 2014.

Since the start of October, Ukrainian forces have burst through Russia's front lines there in their biggest advance in the south since the war began. They have since been advancing rapidly along the west bank, aiming to cut off thousands of Russian troops from supply lines and potential escape routes across it.

Russia has concentrated many of its best-trained troops to defend its grip on Kherson's west bank. But that force can only be supplied across the river, which is several kilometres wide and has few crossings.

(With inputs from agencies)

In one of the biggest signs of Russia losing grip on territory in Ukraine, the Russian-installed governor of southern Kherson region suggested residents leave for Russian regions.

In one of the biggest signs of Russia losing grip on territory in Ukraine, the Russian-installed governor of southern Kherson region suggested residents leave for Russian regions. He has advised that the resident take their children. As per Russia's TASS news agency, first group of civilians escaping from Kherson will arrive in Russia's Rostov region by Friday Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After initial months of gaining territory, the Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian forces have recaptured swathes of territory including those Russia claimed were annexed and would remain Russian 'forever'. "Every day, the cities of Kherson region are subjected to missile attacks," Russian-installed Kherson administration chief Vladimir Saldo said in a video message. "As such, the leadership of Kherson administration has decided to provide Kherson families with the option to travel to other regions of the Russian Federation to rest and study," he said. "We suggested that all residents of the Kherson region, if they wish, to protect themselves from the consequences of missile strikes, ... go to other regions," he said. People should "leave with their children". The prompt to go applied foremost to residents on the west bank of the Dnipro River, he said. That includes the regional capital, the only major Ukrainian city Russia has captured intact since invading in February. Russia has claimed that it has annexed Kherson region. The region is strategically important. It controls land route to Crimea as well as mouth of the Dnipro river. Russia has annexed Crimea in 2014. Since the start of October, Ukrainian forces have burst through Russia's front lines there in their biggest advance in the south since the war began. They have since been advancing rapidly along the west bank, aiming to cut off thousands of Russian troops from supply lines and potential escape routes across it. Russia has concentrated many of its best-trained troops to defend its grip on Kherson's west bank. But that force can only be supplied across the river, which is several kilometres wide and has few crossings. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia begins evacuation of civilians from Kherson in Ukraine

North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (October 13) struck a defiant note&nbsp;as he said that the alliance will not be intimidated by Russia's nuclear threats.

"We will not be intimidated," he said "Russia's nuclear rhetoric is dangerous, reckless, and they know that if they use (a) nuclear weapon against Ukraine, it will have severe consequences."

Stoltenberg was speaking with reporters after two-day meeting of the alliance's defence ministers. The meet was NATO's first large gathering since Russia declared annexation of several Ukrainian regions.&nbsp;

Watch | Ukraine PM: Ukraine receives additional emergency aid from IMF

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Russia's nuclear threats have been classified by NATO as a clear escalation of the war. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24.

After sustained gains in first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. It is because of this there are fears that Russian President Vladmir Putin would follow through on his threat of using a nuclear weapon.

Stoltenberg said NATO would monitor Russia's annual nuclear drills very closely, as it has done for decades, and remain vigilant "not least in light of the veiled nuclear threats and the dangerous rhetoric we have seen from the Russian side".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-offers-to-redirect-nord-stream-gas-flows-through-hub-in-turkiye-525126">Vladimir Putin offers to redirect Nord Stream gas flows through 'hub' in Türkiye</a>

The NATO chief was apparently referring to Russia's annual Grom exercise that normally takes place in late October and in which Russia tests its nuclear-capable bombers, submarines and missiles.

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&nbsp;

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North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (October 13) struck a defiant note as he said that the alliance will not be intimidated by Russia's nuclear threats.

North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday (October 13) struck a defiant note as he said that the alliance will not be intimidated by Russia's nuclear threats. "We will not be intimidated," he said "Russia's nuclear rhetoric is dangerous, reckless, and they know that if they use (a) nuclear weapon against Ukraine, it will have severe consequences." Stoltenberg was speaking with reporters after two-day meeting of the alliance's defence ministers. The meet was NATO's first large gathering since Russia declared annexation of several Ukrainian regions. Watch | Ukraine PM: Ukraine receives additional emergency aid from IMF × Russia's nuclear threats have been classified by NATO as a clear escalation of the war. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. After sustained gains in first few months of the war, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. It is because of this there are fears that Russian President Vladmir Putin would follow through on his threat of using a nuclear weapon. Stoltenberg said NATO would monitor Russia's annual nuclear drills very closely, as it has done for decades, and remain vigilant "not least in light of the veiled nuclear threats and the dangerous rhetoric we have seen from the Russian side". Also Read | Vladimir Putin offers to redirect Nord Stream gas flows through 'hub' in Türkiye The NATO chief was apparently referring to Russia's annual Grom exercise that normally takes place in late October and in which Russia tests its nuclear-capable bombers, submarines and missiles. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NATO is not intimidated by Russian nuclear threats, says secretary-general

Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns, officials said on Thursday, after a U.N. General Assembly resolution called Moscow's annexation of Ukrainian territory "illegal" and Ukraine's allies committed more military aid.

Russia repeated its position that the West, by helping Ukraine, indicated that "they are a direct party to the conflict" and warned the admission of Ukraine to NATO could trigger World War Three.

"Kyiv is well aware that such a step would mean a guaranteed escalation to a World War Three," deputy secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Alexander Venediktov, told the state TASS news agency on Thursday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;announced a surprise bid for fast-track membership of the NATO military alliance at the end of September after Russian President Vladimir Putin held a ceremony in Moscow to proclaim four partially occupied regions as annexed Russian land.

In the past 24 hours, Russian missiles hit more than 40 settlements, while Ukraine's air force carried out 32 strikes on 25 Russian targets, Ukraine's Armed Forces General Staff said.

Mayor of the port city of Mykolaiv, Oleksandr Senkevich, said in a social media post that the southern city was "massively shelled".

"A five-storey residential building was hit, the two upper floors were completely destroyed, the rest – under rubble. Rescuers are working on the site,” he said.

A shipbuilding centre and a port on the Southern Bug river off the Black Sea, Mykolaiv has suffered heavy Russian bombardments throughout the war.

Russia also targeted a settlement in the region of Ukraine's capital Kyiv using explosive drones early on Thursday, the region's administration said on the Telegram messaging app.

Governor of the Kyiv region, Oleksiy Kuleba, said, based on preliminary information, the strikes were caused by Iranian-made loitering munitions. These are often known as "kamikaze drones".

Critical infrastructure facilities were hit by the drones, said Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of Zelenskyy's office.

Missiles struck more than 30 multi-storey and private houses, gas pipelines and power lines in the city of Nikopol in the Dnipropetrovsk region, and more than 2,000 families were left without electricity, Dnipropetrovsk Governor Valentyn Reznichenko wrote on Telegram.

Reuters was not able to immediately verify the report.

NATO's secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg, said Russia's missile attacks were a sign of weakness. "Russia is actually losing on the battlefield," Stoltenberg said.

As his forces have lost ground since September, Putin has intensified the conflict, ordering the call-up of hundreds of thousands of reservists, proclaiming the annexation of occupied Ukrainian territory and repeatedly threatening to use nuclear weapons to protect Russia.

Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons to protect Russian soil, which he says includes the four regions he declared annexed last month.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he doubted Putin would resort to nuclear weapons. A senior NATO official said a Russian nuclear strike would almost certainly trigger a "physical response"from Ukraine's allies and potentially NATO.

UN condemns Russia

In New York, three-quarters of the 193-member General Assembly - 143 countries - voted on Wednesday in favour of a resolution condemning Russia's "attempted illegal annexation" of the four partially occupied regions.

Only four countries joined Russia in voting against the resolution - Syria, Nicaragua, North Korea and Belarus. Thirty-five countries abstained from the vote, including Russia's strategic partner China, while the rest did not vote.

Moscow in September proclaimed its annexation of four partially occupied regions in Ukraine - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - after staging what it called referendums.

Zelenskyy said on Twitter he was "grateful to 143 states that supported the historic #UNGA resolution ...(Russia's) attempt at annexation is worthless."

In Brussels, more than 50 Western countries met to pledge more military aid to Ukraine, especially air defence weapons, on the heels of heavy retaliatory strikes this week ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to an explosion on a bridge in Crimea.

Pledges from allies included an announcement by Francethat it would deliver radar and air defence systems to Ukraine in the coming weeks. Britainpledged air defence missiles, and Canada saidit would provide artillery rounds among other supplies.

At the meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russia's latest attacks laid bare its "malice and cruelty" since invading Ukraine on Feb. 24. At least 26 people have been killed since Monday in Russian missile attacks across Ukraine.

Ukraine had shifted momentum since September with extraordinary gains, but would need more help, he said. "... We're going to do everything we can to make sure that they have what's required to be effective," Austin told reporters.

Since Monday's attacks, Germany has sent the first of four IRIS-T SLM air defence systems, while Washington said it would speed up delivery of a promised NASAMS air defence system.

"The more assistance Ukraine gets now, the sooner we'll come to an end to the Russian war," Zelenskyy said by video to a forum during International Monetary Fund and World Bank annual meetings in Washington.

Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the General Assembly ahead of the vote that the resolution was "politicised and openly provocative," adding that it could "destroy" efforts to reach a diplomatic solution.

Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns, officials said on Thursday, after a U.N. General Assembly resolution called Moscow's annexation of Ukrainian territory "illegal" and Ukraine's allies committed more military aid.

Russian missiles pounded more than 40 Ukrainian cities and towns, officials said on Thursday, after a U.N. General Assembly resolution called Moscow's annexation of Ukrainian territory "illegal" and Ukraine's allies committed more military aid. Russia repeated its position that the West, by helping Ukraine, indicated that "they are a direct party to the conflict" and warned the admission of Ukraine to NATO could trigger World War Three. "Kyiv is well aware that such a step would mean a guaranteed escalation to a World War Three," deputy secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Alexander Venediktov, told the state TASS news agency on Thursday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a surprise bid for fast-track membership of the NATO military alliance at the end of September after Russian President Vladimir Putin held a ceremony in Moscow to proclaim four partially occupied regions as annexed Russian land. In the past 24 hours, Russian missiles hit more than 40 settlements, while Ukraine's air force carried out 32 strikes on 25 Russian targets, Ukraine's Armed Forces General Staff said. Mayor of the port city of Mykolaiv, Oleksandr Senkevich, said in a social media post that the southern city was "massively shelled". "A five-storey residential building was hit, the two upper floors were completely destroyed, the rest – under rubble. Rescuers are working on the site,” he said. A shipbuilding centre and a port on the Southern Bug river off the Black Sea, Mykolaiv has suffered heavy Russian bombardments throughout the war. Russia also targeted a settlement in the region of Ukraine's capital Kyiv using explosive drones early on Thursday, the region's administration said on the Telegram messaging app. Governor of the Kyiv region, Oleksiy Kuleba, said, based on preliminary information, the strikes were caused by Iranian-made loitering munitions. These are often known as "kamikaze drones". Critical infrastructure facilities were hit by the drones, said Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of Zelenskyy's office. Missiles struck more than 30 multi-storey and private houses, gas pipelines and power lines in the city of Nikopol in the Dnipropetrovsk region, and more than 2,000 families were left without electricity, Dnipropetrovsk Governor Valentyn Reznichenko wrote on Telegram. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the report. NATO's secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg, said Russia's missile attacks were a sign of weakness. "Russia is actually losing on the battlefield," Stoltenberg said. As his forces have lost ground since September, Putin has intensified the conflict, ordering the call-up of hundreds of thousands of reservists, proclaiming the annexation of occupied Ukrainian territory and repeatedly threatening to use nuclear weapons to protect Russia. Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons to protect Russian soil, which he says includes the four regions he declared annexed last month. U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he doubted Putin would resort to nuclear weapons. A senior NATO official said a Russian nuclear strike would almost certainly trigger a "physical response"from Ukraine's allies and potentially NATO. UN condemns Russia In New York, three-quarters of the 193-member General Assembly - 143 countries - voted on Wednesday in favour of a resolution condemning Russia's "attempted illegal annexation" of the four partially occupied regions. Only four countries joined Russia in voting against the resolution - Syria, Nicaragua, North Korea and Belarus. Thirty-five countries abstained from the vote, including Russia's strategic partner China, while the rest did not vote. Moscow in September proclaimed its annexation of four partially occupied regions in Ukraine - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - after staging what it called referendums. Zelenskyy said on Twitter he was "grateful to 143 states that supported the historic #UNGA resolution ...(Russia's) attempt at annexation is worthless." In Brussels, more than 50 Western countries met to pledge more military aid to Ukraine, especially air defence weapons, on the heels of heavy retaliatory strikes this week ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to an explosion on a bridge in Crimea. Pledges from allies included an announcement by Francethat it would deliver radar and air defence systems to Ukraine in the coming weeks. Britainpledged air defence missiles, and Canada saidit would provide artillery rounds among other supplies. At the meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said Russia's latest attacks laid bare its "malice and cruelty" since invading Ukraine on Feb. 24. At least 26 people have been killed since Monday in Russian missile attacks across Ukraine. Ukraine had shifted momentum since September with extraordinary gains, but would need more help, he said. "... We're going to do everything we can to make sure that they have what's required to be effective," Austin told reporters. Since Monday's attacks, Germany has sent the first of four IRIS-T SLM air defence systems, while Washington said it would speed up delivery of a promised NASAMS air defence system. "The more assistance Ukraine gets now, the sooner we'll come to an end to the Russian war," Zelenskyy said by video to a forum during International Monetary Fund and World Bank annual meetings in Washington. Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the General Assembly ahead of the vote that the resolution was "politicised and openly provocative," adding that it could "destroy" efforts to reach a diplomatic solution.

Russian missiles target more than 40 Ukraine cities, towns

Saudi Arabia on Thursday (October 13) rejected accusations that decision taken by OPEC (Organisation of Oil Producing Countries) and its allies to cut oil production was aimed against the United States. The kingdom said that such accusations were baseless. The decision to cut output was taken despite US pressure to increase it. US is trying to isolate Russia whose main exports are energy products. Cutting oil production may send prices surging which in turn would help Russia fill. at least in theory, its coffers to fund its war efforts in Ukraine.

The decision to cut production by two million barrels a day from November infuriated the White House, with President Joe Biden promising "consequences" for OPEC's top producer Saudi Arabia.

"Saudi Arabia has viewed the statements... which have described the decision as the kingdom taking sides in international conflicts and that it was politically motivated against the United States," the Saudi foreign ministry said in a statement.

Watch | Ukraine PM: Ukraine receives additional emergency aid from IMF

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Saudi Arabia would "like to express its total rejection of these statements that are not based on facts and which are based on portraying the OPEC+ decision out of its economic context," it added.

The kingdom insisted that decisions by OPEC+ were taken with only economic considerations in mind.

"The government of the kingdom clarified through its continuous consultation with the US administration that all economic analyses indicate that postponing the OPEC+ decision for a month... would have had negative economic consequences," the ministry said.

"Resolving economic challenges requires the establishment of a non-politicised constructive dialogue and to wisely and rationally consider what serves the interests of all countries."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-offers-to-redirect-nord-stream-gas-flows-through-hub-in-turkiye-525126">Vladimir Putin offers to redirect Nord Stream gas flows through 'hub' in Türkiye</a>

In the immediate aftermath of the output cut, US had alleged that OPEC+ was siding with Russia. Saudi Arabia denied this and said that on Ukraine war, the kingdom has maintained a "principled position" in support of international law.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Saudi Arabia on Thursday (October 13) rejected accusations that decision taken by OPEC (Organisation of Oil Producing Countries) and its allies to cut oil production was aimed against the United States.

Saudi Arabia on Thursday (October 13) rejected accusations that decision taken by OPEC (Organisation of Oil Producing Countries) and its allies to cut oil production was aimed against the United States. The kingdom said that such accusations were baseless. The decision to cut output was taken despite US pressure to increase it. US is trying to isolate Russia whose main exports are energy products. Cutting oil production may send prices surging which in turn would help Russia fill. at least in theory, its coffers to fund its war efforts in Ukraine. The decision to cut production by two million barrels a day from November infuriated the White House, with President Joe Biden promising "consequences" for OPEC's top producer Saudi Arabia. "Saudi Arabia has viewed the statements... which have described the decision as the kingdom taking sides in international conflicts and that it was politically motivated against the United States," the Saudi foreign ministry said in a statement. Watch | Ukraine PM: Ukraine receives additional emergency aid from IMF × Saudi Arabia would "like to express its total rejection of these statements that are not based on facts and which are based on portraying the OPEC+ decision out of its economic context," it added. The kingdom insisted that decisions by OPEC+ were taken with only economic considerations in mind. "The government of the kingdom clarified through its continuous consultation with the US administration that all economic analyses indicate that postponing the OPEC+ decision for a month... would have had negative economic consequences," the ministry said. "Resolving economic challenges requires the establishment of a non-politicised constructive dialogue and to wisely and rationally consider what serves the interests of all countries." Also Read | Vladimir Putin offers to redirect Nord Stream gas flows through 'hub' in Türkiye In the immediate aftermath of the output cut, US had alleged that OPEC+ was siding with Russia. Saudi Arabia denied this and said that on Ukraine war, the kingdom has maintained a "principled position" in support of international law. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

OPEC decision of output cut not aimed against US, says Saudi Arabia

Britain on Wednesday joined the list of countries to have come forward in the last few days and pledged to donate air defence systems to Ukraine in the wake of incessant Russian missile attacks.

Britain on Wednesday joined the list of countries to have come forward in the last few days and pledged to donate air defence systems to Ukraine in the wake of incessant Russian missile attacks. Reportedly, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace informed about the decision saying the UK will provide Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) to Kyiv, ahead of a key NATO meeting scheduled to take place today. "Russia's latest indiscriminate strikes on civilian areas in Ukraine warrant further support to those seeking to defend their nation. So today I have authorised the supply of AMRAAM anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine." Read more: US, Germany promise to rush air defence systems to Ukraine as Russia pounds missiles Wallace said that the defence equipment will be delivered in the coming weeks and that AMRAAM can be used with the NASAMS air defence systems, reportedly, pledged by the United States. He added that other air defence missiles alongside aerial drones and a further 18 howitzer artillery guns will be sent. As reported extensively by WION, Russia has pounded Ukrainian cities with countless missiles in the aftermath of the Kerch bridge explosion. Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened 'severe' attacks on Ukraine if the 'terrorist' activities don't cease. "Let there be no doubt," Putin said, "if attempts at terrorist attacks continue, the response from Russia will be severe." Read more: Putin warns of more 'severe' attacks as Russian missiles pound Ukraine With Ukraine caught in a tough spot, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has pleaded with the West to provide arms and ammunition, especially the air defence systems. So far, the US, France, and Germany have pledged to deliver the systems. On Wednesday, Germany's Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht said it had sent the first of four IRIS-T air defence systems to Kyiv. Read more: France to deliver air-defence systems to Ukraine in the coming weeks: Macron However, Ukraine needs the deliveries on a much more urgent basis. Since Monday, the Russian air attacks have killed 26 people while more than 100 have been injured. Cities and towns across the country have plunged into darkness as power supplies have been hit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK will send air defence missiles to Kyiv, announces defence secretary ahead of NATO meet

On Thursday, the Swedish furniture giant Ikea after reporting a 6.5% increase in their full-year sales, calling it a “challenging” year lays off 10,000 employees in Russia as it makes its exit from the country, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Sources indicated that they shut down stores in Russia back in March following its invasion of Ukraine and said that it would sell its factories and close its offices in the country at the time. This also led to the reduction of its 15,000 people workforce in Moscow, said a different report. However, they had previously indicated that they would pay employees till the end of August.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ikea-to-scale-down-russia-belarus-operations-over-ukraine-war-488491">Ikea to 'scale down' Russia, Belarus operations over Ukraine war</a>

Jesper Brodin, CEO of the holding company Ingka which oversees most of the Ikea stores in Moscow told the French news agency that they had to lay off around 10,000 of its 12,000 retail employees in Moscow. On the other hand, despite supply chain issues, shrinking customer confidence and their exit from Russia, Ikea announced record-high annual sales on October 13.&nbsp;

Inter Ikea, its holding company, in a statement, said, “Sales for FY22 were impacted by inflation and supply chain problems, which increased costs and raised prices. Thus, although sales have increased in dollar terms, they have not increased proportionately.” However, they added that supply chain issues made it challenging to keep the stores running.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/in-2022-ikea-to-hike-prices-by-9-per-cent-due-to-supply-chain-woes-441527">In 2022, Ikea to hike prices by 9 per cent due to supply chain woes</a>

The company claims that the high rate of inflation forced the furniture giant to end its policy of price stability, said media reports. Reportedly, despite setting another sales record Ikea’s growth has been attributed to the increase in the price as opposed to the volume of goods sold due to supply chain issues.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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On Thursday, the Swedish furniture giant Ikea after reporting a 6.5% increase in their full-year sales, calling it a “challenging” year lays off 10,000 employees in Russia as it makes its exit from the country, reported AFP.

On Thursday, the Swedish furniture giant Ikea after reporting a 6.5% increase in their full-year sales, calling it a “challenging” year lays off 10,000 employees in Russia as it makes its exit from the country, reported AFP. Sources indicated that they shut down stores in Russia back in March following its invasion of Ukraine and said that it would sell its factories and close its offices in the country at the time. This also led to the reduction of its 15,000 people workforce in Moscow, said a different report. However, they had previously indicated that they would pay employees till the end of August. ALSO READ: Ikea to 'scale down' Russia, Belarus operations over Ukraine war Jesper Brodin, CEO of the holding company Ingka which oversees most of the Ikea stores in Moscow told the French news agency that they had to lay off around 10,000 of its 12,000 retail employees in Moscow. On the other hand, despite supply chain issues, shrinking customer confidence and their exit from Russia, Ikea announced record-high annual sales on October 13. Inter Ikea, its holding company, in a statement, said, “Sales for FY22 were impacted by inflation and supply chain problems, which increased costs and raised prices. Thus, although sales have increased in dollar terms, they have not increased proportionately.” However, they added that supply chain issues made it challenging to keep the stores running. ALSO READ: In 2022, Ikea to hike prices by 9 per cent due to supply chain woes The company claims that the high rate of inflation forced the furniture giant to end its policy of price stability, said media reports. Reportedly, despite setting another sales record Ikea’s growth has been attributed to the increase in the price as opposed to the volume of goods sold due to supply chain issues. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Report: Ikea lays off 10,000 employees in Russia, calling it a ‘challenging’ year

President Vladimir Putin has said that he's prepared to resume gas supplies to Europe via a link of the Germany-bound Nord Stream 2 pipeline under the Baltic Sea. He added that&nbsp; "international terrorism" was to blame for leaks on the Nord Stream pipelines connecting Russia and Europe, which would be advantageous to the United States, Poland, and Ukraine.

"Russia is ready for the start of deliveries. The ball is in the EU's court. If they want to, then the taps can be turned on, and that's that," Putin said.&nbsp;

There is no doubt that this is an act of international terrorism... the geopolitical significance of the remaining gas systems is increasing -- they pass through Poland... Ukraine... and the United States, of course, which can now supply energy resources via high prices," Putin said in&nbsp;a televised address to representatives of Russia's energy sector on Wednesday.Following the Nord Stream leaks, NATO declared the occurrences an act of "sabotage" on Tuesday and said it has increased naval deployments to safeguard its infrastructure in the Baltic and North Seas.&nbsp;

The G7 leaders expressed their "deeply&nbsp;trouble" over the Nord Stream leaks in a statement on Tuesday, adding that they "strongly condemn any deliberate disruption of critical infrastructure."&nbsp;

On Monday, Sweden said it would not let Russia participate in a current investigation into breaches in the Nord Stream gas pipeline, but noted that Moscow might conduct its own checks.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-breathtaking-images-from-wildlife-photographer-of-the-year-2022-524779">In pics: Breathtaking images from wildlife photographer of the year 2022</a>

Geopolitical concerns have been centred on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, which link Russia to Germany. Russia stopped gas supplies to Europe in what is believed to be retribution for Western sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The pipes were carrying gas before they were apparently sabotaged, but they are not now in use. The Baltic Sea is home to all four leaks, which were found two weeks ago and are all located close to the Danish island of Bornholm.&nbsp;

Swedish&nbsp;Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson made her comments following demands from Russia to be included in investigations into the suspected sabotage.

(with inputs from agencies)

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President Vladimir Putin has said that he's prepared to resume gas supplies to Europe via a link of the Germany-bound Nord Stream 2 pipeline under the Baltic Sea.

President Vladimir Putin has said that he's prepared to resume gas supplies to Europe via a link of the Germany-bound Nord Stream 2 pipeline under the Baltic Sea. He added that "international terrorism" was to blame for leaks on the Nord Stream pipelines connecting Russia and Europe, which would be advantageous to the United States, Poland, and Ukraine. "Russia is ready for the start of deliveries. The ball is in the EU's court. If they want to, then the taps can be turned on, and that's that," Putin said. There is no doubt that this is an act of international terrorism... the geopolitical significance of the remaining gas systems is increasing -- they pass through Poland... Ukraine... and the United States, of course, which can now supply energy resources via high prices," Putin said in a televised address to representatives of Russia's energy sector on Wednesday.Following the Nord Stream leaks, NATO declared the occurrences an act of "sabotage" on Tuesday and said it has increased naval deployments to safeguard its infrastructure in the Baltic and North Seas. The G7 leaders expressed their "deeply trouble" over the Nord Stream leaks in a statement on Tuesday, adding that they "strongly condemn any deliberate disruption of critical infrastructure." On Monday, Sweden said it would not let Russia participate in a current investigation into breaches in the Nord Stream gas pipeline, but noted that Moscow might conduct its own checks. Also Read: In pics: Breathtaking images from wildlife photographer of the year 2022 Geopolitical concerns have been centred on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, which link Russia to Germany. Russia stopped gas supplies to Europe in what is believed to be retribution for Western sanctions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. The pipes were carrying gas before they were apparently sabotaged, but they are not now in use. The Baltic Sea is home to all four leaks, which were found two weeks ago and are all located close to the Danish island of Bornholm. Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson made her comments following demands from Russia to be included in investigations into the suspected sabotage. (with inputs from agencies)

Putin says he is ready to resume gas supplies, blames 'international terrorism' for Nord Stream leaks

A Kremlin adviser said on Wednesday that Moscow hopes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would "formally" offer to facilitate talks with Ukraine at an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"The Turks are offering their mediation. If any talks take place, then most likely they will be on their territory: in Istanbul or Ankara," Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters in Moscow.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Erdogan "will probably propose something officially," he continued, at their Thursday discussions in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. 
&nbsp; 
Turkey, a NATO member that has maintained its neutral stance throughout the Ukrainian war, enjoys cordial ties with both of its Black Sea neighbours, Russia and Ukraine, and has abstained from supporting Western sanctions on Moscow.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"Turkey on principle does not join the illegal sanctions of the West. And this position of Turkey gives an additional impetus for the expansion of trade and economic cooperation," Ushakov said. 
&nbsp; 
In March, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov and his Ukrainian colleague Dmytro Kuleba met in person for the first high-level discussions to take place since Moscow pushed soldiers into Ukraine. Turkey has previously served as the venue for negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv. 
&nbsp; 
Peace talks have subsequently stopped, and when the Kremlin said that it had seized four Ukrainian provinces, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine declared he would not have discussions with Putin.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intensifies-security-ahead-of-20th-ccp-congress-arrests-over-14-million-criminals-524783">China intensifies security ahead of 20th CCP congress, arrests over 1.4 million ‘criminals’</a> 
&nbsp; 
Ushakov told reporters when asked about Zelensky's promise, "I would like to tell him: never say never."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
With Moscow and Kyiv, Turkey and the UN-mediated a historic agreement that set aside three ports for Ukraine to deliver desperately needed food supplies over a Russian embargo.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
However, Russia has criticised the agreement, stating that its own exports had suffered and asserting without supporting data that the majority of supply was made to Europe rather than to developing nations where grain was most needed. 
&nbsp; 
(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A Kremlin adviser said on Wednesday that Moscow hopes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would "formally" offer to facilitate talks with Ukraine at an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan.

A Kremlin adviser said on Wednesday that Moscow hopes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would "formally" offer to facilitate talks with Ukraine at an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazakhstan. "The Turks are offering their mediation. If any talks take place, then most likely they will be on their territory: in Istanbul or Ankara," Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters in Moscow. Erdogan "will probably propose something officially," he continued, at their Thursday discussions in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. Turkey, a NATO member that has maintained its neutral stance throughout the Ukrainian war, enjoys cordial ties with both of its Black Sea neighbours, Russia and Ukraine, and has abstained from supporting Western sanctions on Moscow. "Turkey on principle does not join the illegal sanctions of the West. And this position of Turkey gives an additional impetus for the expansion of trade and economic cooperation," Ushakov said. In March, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov and his Ukrainian colleague Dmytro Kuleba met in person for the first high-level discussions to take place since Moscow pushed soldiers into Ukraine. Turkey has previously served as the venue for negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv. Peace talks have subsequently stopped, and when the Kremlin said that it had seized four Ukrainian provinces, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine declared he would not have discussions with Putin. Also Read: China intensifies security ahead of 20th CCP congress, arrests over 1.4 million ‘criminals’ Ushakov told reporters when asked about Zelensky's promise, "I would like to tell him: never say never." With Moscow and Kyiv, Turkey and the UN-mediated a historic agreement that set aside three ports for Ukraine to deliver desperately needed food supplies over a Russian embargo. However, Russia has criticised the agreement, stating that its own exports had suffered and asserting without supporting data that the majority of supply was made to Europe rather than to developing nations where grain was most needed. (with inputs from agencies)

Moscow believes Turkish president Erdogan will 'officially' offer Ukraine mediation

With only a few days left for the 20th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the security officials have intensified crackdown on unscrupulous elements and turned Beijing into a virtual fortress.&nbsp;In other news, a&nbsp;report indicates&nbsp;that Intel’s divisions like sales and marketing could see cuts, affecting at least 20% of the staff.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intensifies-security-ahead-of-20th-ccp-congress-arrests-over-14-million-criminals-524783">China intensifies security ahead of 20th CCP congress, arrests over 1.4 million ‘criminals’</a>
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This year’s CCP meeting, which is scheduled to take place on October 16, is significant for China, as President Xi Jinping is all set to be elected for an unprecedented third five-year term—a feat only achieved by modern China’s founder Mao Zedong.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/report-intel-plans-to-layoff-thousands-in-workforce-amid-pc-market-slowdown-524809">Report: Intel plans to layoff thousands in workforce amid PC market slowdown</a>
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According to a Bloomberg report, published earlier today, Intel Corp is planning a major reduction in workforce to cope with the slowdown in the personal computer market. The layoffs may be announced within this month around the time of its third-quarter earnings report on October 27, claimed the report citing people with knowledge on the matter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-commission-recommends-candidate-status-for-bosnia-and-herzegovina-524848">EU Commission recommends candidate status for Bosnia and Herzegovina</a>
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The European Commission said on Wednesday that it has recommended granting European Union candidate member status to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The news came amid controversies relating to the governance in the nation, but the EU has said that the membership depends on future reforms.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leak-detected-in-polish-part-of-druzhba-pipeline-between-russia-and-germany-524684">Leak in Russia-Europe Druzhba pipeline, looks like ‘accident’, says Polish operator</a>
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A leak has been detected on Tuesday evening by Polish pipeline operator PERN in one line of the Druzhba pipeline, which carries oil from Russia to Europe, the operator said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-nord-stream-leaks-result-of-international-terrorism-524829">Putin says Nord Stream leaks result of 'international terrorism'</a>
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On Wednesday, President Vladimir Putin said that "international terrorism" was to blame for leaks on the Nord Stream pipelines connecting Russia and Europe, which would be advantageous to the United States, Poland, and Ukraine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-liberal-leader-wang-yang-seen-as-top-contender-to-be-next-premier-524792">China: 'Liberal' leader Wang Yang seen as top contender to be next premier</a>
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The man currently seen as a leading contender to become China's next premier, Wang Yang, had a liberal tendency when he was the Chinese Communist Party leader of economic powerhouse Guangdong province, but it has been less apparent since Xi Jinping entered office.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-humanoid-robot-ai-da-addresses-house-of-lords-in-uk-524802">Watch: Humanoid robot 'Ai-Da' addresses House of Lords in UK</a>
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On Tuesday, a distinguished speaker addressed the UK Parliament. Ai-Da, a humanoid robot, spoke before the House of Lords about whether artificial intelligence (AI) threatens the creative sector. According to a Daily Mail article, the robot encountered a technical issue and had to be restarted after dozing off.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-reclaims-five-settlements-in-russia-annexed-kherson-region-524839">Ukraine reclaims five settlements in Russia-annexed Kherson region</a>
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Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-orders-pharma-firm-to-stop-production-after-gambia-infant-deaths-524787">India orders pharma firm to stop production after Gambia infant deaths</a>
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Anil Vij, the minister of health for Haryana, announced on Wednesday that the state has decided to "completely stop" Maiden Pharmaceuticals Limited of Sonipat from producing any further drugs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-alaskas-fat-bear-week-contest-emerges-from-voting-scandal-announces-the-winner-524766">US: Alaska’s Fat Bear Week contest emerges from voting scandal, announces the winner</a>
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A contest held by the Katmai National Park to determine the fattest bear in southern Alaska, during Fat Bear Week was rocked by a scandal when over the weekend organisers saw voting irregularities during the online ballot.&nbsp;

With only a few days left for the 20th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the security officials have intensified crackdown on unscrupulous elements and turned Beijing into a virtual fortress.

With only a few days left for the 20th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the security officials have intensified crackdown on unscrupulous elements and turned Beijing into a virtual fortress. In other news, a report indicates that Intel’s divisions like sales and marketing could see cuts, affecting at least 20% of the staff. Click on the headlines to read more: China intensifies security ahead of 20th CCP congress, arrests over 1.4 million ‘criminals’ This year’s CCP meeting, which is scheduled to take place on October 16, is significant for China, as President Xi Jinping is all set to be elected for an unprecedented third five-year term—a feat only achieved by modern China’s founder Mao Zedong. Report: Intel plans to layoff thousands in workforce amid PC market slowdown According to a Bloomberg report, published earlier today, Intel Corp is planning a major reduction in workforce to cope with the slowdown in the personal computer market. The layoffs may be announced within this month around the time of its third-quarter earnings report on October 27, claimed the report citing people with knowledge on the matter. EU Commission recommends candidate status for Bosnia and Herzegovina The European Commission said on Wednesday that it has recommended granting European Union candidate member status to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The news came amid controversies relating to the governance in the nation, but the EU has said that the membership depends on future reforms. Leak in Russia-Europe Druzhba pipeline, looks like ‘accident’, says Polish operator A leak has been detected on Tuesday evening by Polish pipeline operator PERN in one line of the Druzhba pipeline, which carries oil from Russia to Europe, the operator said on Wednesday. Putin says Nord Stream leaks result of 'international terrorism' On Wednesday, President Vladimir Putin said that "international terrorism" was to blame for leaks on the Nord Stream pipelines connecting Russia and Europe, which would be advantageous to the United States, Poland, and Ukraine. China: 'Liberal' leader Wang Yang seen as top contender to be next premier The man currently seen as a leading contender to become China's next premier, Wang Yang, had a liberal tendency when he was the Chinese Communist Party leader of economic powerhouse Guangdong province, but it has been less apparent since Xi Jinping entered office. Watch: Humanoid robot 'Ai-Da' addresses House of Lords in UK On Tuesday, a distinguished speaker addressed the UK Parliament. Ai-Da, a humanoid robot, spoke before the House of Lords about whether artificial intelligence (AI) threatens the creative sector. According to a Daily Mail article, the robot encountered a technical issue and had to be restarted after dozing off. Ukraine reclaims five settlements in Russia-annexed Kherson region Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces. India orders pharma firm to stop production after Gambia infant deaths Anil Vij, the minister of health for Haryana, announced on Wednesday that the state has decided to "completely stop" Maiden Pharmaceuticals Limited of Sonipat from producing any further drugs. US: Alaska’s Fat Bear Week contest emerges from voting scandal, announces the winner A contest held by the Katmai National Park to determine the fattest bear in southern Alaska, during Fat Bear Week was rocked by a scandal when over the weekend organisers saw voting irregularities during the online ballot.

Top 10 world news: China arrests 1.4 mn 'criminals' ahead of Congress, Intel to lay off thousands, & more

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Media reports have suggested that Tesla CEO Elon Musk spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin before tweeting his 'peace plan', last week. The billionaire,&nbsp;however, denied the media reports saying, he spoke to the Russian president 18 months ago.

The alleged conversation between Musk and Putin was reported by&nbsp;Ian Bremmer in an email sent to Eurasia Group subscribers. Bremmer claims that he met Musk two weeks ago and that the&nbsp;Tesla boss told him that Putin would accomplish his goals 'no matter what'.

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elon musk told me he had spoken with putin and the kremlin directly about ukraine. he also told me what the kremlin’s red lines were.
— ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianbremmer/status/1579941475613229056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Musk apparently added that Putin was 'prepared to negotiate' if Ukraine recognised&nbsp;Moscow’s annexation of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. However, if Kyiv refused, a nuclear strike was on the card to which Musk allegedly replied,&nbsp;“everything needed to be done to avoid that outcome.” No, it is not. I have spoken to Putin only once and that was about 18 months ago. The subject matter was space," Musk replied to a netizen's question if the report was true.&nbsp;

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No, it is not. I have spoken to Putin only once and that was about 18 months ago. The subject matter was space.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1579879154463690752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As reported by WION, in a Twitter poll last week, Musk listed conditions that he believed can end the war in Ukraine and then asked the people in the four regions of Ukraine, where the annexation referendums were held, to vote on their feelings towards the voting process.

Musk tweeted a list of conditions for bringing “peace” in Ukraine which included – “redoing the elections in regions recently annexed by Russia under United Nations supervision, recognising Russia's annexation of Crimea, assuring water supply to Crimea, and ensuring Ukrainian neutrality.”

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Ukraine-Russia Peace: 
 
- Redo elections of annexed regions under UN supervision. Russia leaves if that is will of the people. 
 
- Crimea formally part of Russia, as it has been since 1783 (until Khrushchev’s mistake). 
 
- Water supply to Crimea assured. 
 
- Ukraine remains neutral.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1576969255031296000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-faces-criticism-after-twitter-poll-on-how-the-russia-war-should-end-522197">Read more:&nbsp;Twitter war: Musk holds poll on how Russia-Ukraine conflict should end, Zelensky retorts</a>

The post was met with severe criticism across the board with&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky leading the charge. He took to Twitter and conducted a poll of his own.&nbsp;

“Which @elonmusk do you like more? one who supports Ukraine, or supports Russia," Zelensky tweeted.

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Which <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> do you like more?
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1577006943499350016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Similarly,&nbsp;Ukraine's ambassador to Germany, Andrij Melnyk gave a rather 'diplomatic' reply to Musk.&nbsp;

"F**k off is my very diplomatic reply to you," Melnyk tweeted.

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Fuck off is my very diplomatic reply to you <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>
— Andrij Melnyk (@MelnykAndrij) <a href="https://twitter.com/MelnykAndrij/status/1576977000178208768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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After Musk's opinion, Moscow came out with a statement and praised Musk for his ideas.&nbsp;

"It is very positive that somebody like Elon Musk is looking for a peaceful way out of this situation," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-lauds-elon-musk-after-his-twitter-poll-on-ukraine-522442">Read more: Moscow lauds Elon Musk after his Twitter poll on Ukraine</a>

"Compared to many professional diplomats, Musk is still searching for ways to achieve peace. And achieving peace without fulfilling Russia's conditions is absolutely impossible," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Media reports have suggested that Tesla CEO Elon Musk spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin before tweeting his 'peace plan', last week. The billionaire, however, denied the media reports saying, he spoke to the Russian president 18 months ago. The alleged conversation between Musk and Putin was reported by Ian Bremmer in an email sent to Eurasia Group subscribers. Bremmer claims that he met Musk two weeks ago and that the Tesla boss told him that Putin would accomplish his goals 'no matter what'. elon musk told me he had spoken with putin and the kremlin directly about ukraine. he also told me what the kremlin’s red lines were. — ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) October 11, 2022 × Musk apparently added that Putin was 'prepared to negotiate' if Ukraine recognised Moscow’s annexation of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. However, if Kyiv refused, a nuclear strike was on the card to which Musk allegedly replied, “everything needed to be done to avoid that outcome.” No, it is not. I have spoken to Putin only once and that was about 18 months ago. The subject matter was space," Musk replied to a netizen's question if the report was true. No, it is not. I have spoken to Putin only once and that was about 18 months ago. The subject matter was space. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 11, 2022 × As reported by WION, in a Twitter poll last week, Musk listed conditions that he believed can end the war in Ukraine and then asked the people in the four regions of Ukraine, where the annexation referendums were held, to vote on their feelings towards the voting process. Musk tweeted a list of conditions for bringing “peace” in Ukraine which included – “redoing the elections in regions recently annexed by Russia under United Nations supervision, recognising Russia's annexation of Crimea, assuring water supply to Crimea, and ensuring Ukrainian neutrality.” Ukraine-Russia Peace: - Redo elections of annexed regions under UN supervision. Russia leaves if that is will of the people. - Crimea formally part of Russia, as it has been since 1783 (until Khrushchev’s mistake). - Water supply to Crimea assured. - Ukraine remains neutral. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 3, 2022 × Read more: Twitter war: Musk holds poll on how Russia-Ukraine conflict should end, Zelensky retorts The post was met with severe criticism across the board with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky leading the charge. He took to Twitter and conducted a poll of his own. “Which @elonmusk do you like more? one who supports Ukraine, or supports Russia," Zelensky tweeted. Which @elonmusk do you like more? — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) October 3, 2022 × Similarly, Ukraine's ambassador to Germany, Andrij Melnyk gave a rather 'diplomatic' reply to Musk. "F**k off is my very diplomatic reply to you," Melnyk tweeted. Fuck off is my very diplomatic reply to you @elonmusk — Andrij Melnyk (@MelnykAndrij) October 3, 2022 × After Musk's opinion, Moscow came out with a statement and praised Musk for his ideas. "It is very positive that somebody like Elon Musk is looking for a peaceful way out of this situation," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Read more: Moscow lauds Elon Musk after his Twitter poll on Ukraine "Compared to many professional diplomats, Musk is still searching for ways to achieve peace. And achieving peace without fulfilling Russia's conditions is absolutely impossible," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Elon Musk denies reports alleging that he spoke to Vladimir Putin before tweeting his peace plan

On Tuesday, the Japanese car manufacturing company, Nissan Motor Co Ltd said that they sold their business in Russia, Nissan Manufacturing Russia LLC to state-owned entity NAMI for one euro ($0.97), incurring a loss of at least $687 million.&nbsp;

This comes months after the company was forced to shut down production in Moscow following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade indicated that the Japanese company will transfer its shares to the state-owned entity and the deal allows the Japanese car manufacturing company to have the right to buy the business back within six years.

This move adds Nissan to the long list of companies that exited Moscow amid the ongoing invasion.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-nissan-executive-greg-kelly-found-guilty-of-underreporting-ghosns-pay-gets-six-months-in-prison-458524">Ex-Nissan executive Greg Kelly found guilty of underreporting Ghosn's pay, gets six months in prison</a>

The sale to NAMI also includes Nissan’s production and research facilities based in St Petersburg as well as the sales and marketing centre in Moscow, said the report by Reuters. This deal was “of great significance for the industry,” said the Russian trade minister Denis Manturov in a statement.

According to Nissan, the production in the St Petersburg plant was halted in March itself due to supply chain issues but the local unit had since continued to monitor the situation. However, there was “no visibility” of change in the external environment which prompted the company’s exit, they added.&nbsp;

The Japanese car manufacturing company also said it expected a loss of at least 100 billion yen ($687 million) but reportedly did not change its earnings forecast for the financial year ending in March, said the report. However, Renault which owns nearly 43% of Nissan said that this decision would lead to a hit of at least 331 million euros to its net income in the second half of 2022.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nissan-wants-partner-renault-to-cut-down-its-stake-523487">Nissan wants partner Renault to cut down its stake</a>

This is also being compared to Nissan’s top shareholder, the French automaker, Renault’s move which also sold a majority of its stake to the Russian carmaker Avtovaz, earlier this year, in May. Notably, this also comes as the two companies, on Monday, said that Nissan was considering investing in the new electric vehicle venture by Renault.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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On Tuesday, the Japanese car manufacturing company, Nissan Motor Co Ltd said that they sold their business in Russia, Nissan Manufacturing Russia LLC to state-owned entity NAMI for one euro ($0.

On Tuesday, the Japanese car manufacturing company, Nissan Motor Co Ltd said that they sold their business in Russia, Nissan Manufacturing Russia LLC to state-owned entity NAMI for one euro ($0.97), incurring a loss of at least $687 million. This comes months after the company was forced to shut down production in Moscow following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. On the other hand, Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade indicated that the Japanese company will transfer its shares to the state-owned entity and the deal allows the Japanese car manufacturing company to have the right to buy the business back within six years. This move adds Nissan to the long list of companies that exited Moscow amid the ongoing invasion. ALSO READ: Ex-Nissan executive Greg Kelly found guilty of underreporting Ghosn's pay, gets six months in prison The sale to NAMI also includes Nissan’s production and research facilities based in St Petersburg as well as the sales and marketing centre in Moscow, said the report by Reuters. This deal was “of great significance for the industry,” said the Russian trade minister Denis Manturov in a statement. According to Nissan, the production in the St Petersburg plant was halted in March itself due to supply chain issues but the local unit had since continued to monitor the situation. However, there was “no visibility” of change in the external environment which prompted the company’s exit, they added. The Japanese car manufacturing company also said it expected a loss of at least 100 billion yen ($687 million) but reportedly did not change its earnings forecast for the financial year ending in March, said the report. However, Renault which owns nearly 43% of Nissan said that this decision would lead to a hit of at least 331 million euros to its net income in the second half of 2022. ALSO READ: Nissan wants partner Renault to cut down its stake This is also being compared to Nissan’s top shareholder, the French automaker, Renault’s move which also sold a majority of its stake to the Russian carmaker Avtovaz, earlier this year, in May. Notably, this also comes as the two companies, on Monday, said that Nissan was considering investing in the new electric vehicle venture by Renault. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese automaker Nissan sells its Russian assets for less than a dollar

Number of major airports in the US briefly took their websites offline on Monday (October 10) after a cyberattack suspected to have been promoted by pro-Russian hacker groups.

The distributed denial of service (DDOS) attacks hit the airport websites of several major US cities including Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Phoenix and St Louis.

Such a cyberattack involves flooding a website with traffic and knocking it offline.

The airport websites were targeted after the pro-Russian hacking group known as "KillNet" published a list of sites and encouraged its followers to attack them.

The DDOS attacks only affected the public-facing websites of the airports, which supply flight and services information and do not have any impact on operations.

Most of the airport websites targeted appeared to be functioning normally after being temporarily knocked offline.

Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport said its website is "up and running after an incident early this morning that made it inaccessible to the public."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Number of major airports in the US briefly took their websites offline on Monday (October 10) after a cyberattack suspected to have been promoted by pro-Russian hacker groups.

Number of major airports in the US briefly took their websites offline on Monday (October 10) after a cyberattack suspected to have been promoted by pro-Russian hacker groups. The distributed denial of service (DDOS) attacks hit the airport websites of several major US cities including Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Phoenix and St Louis. Such a cyberattack involves flooding a website with traffic and knocking it offline. The airport websites were targeted after the pro-Russian hacking group known as "KillNet" published a list of sites and encouraged its followers to attack them. The DDOS attacks only affected the public-facing websites of the airports, which supply flight and services information and do not have any impact on operations. Most of the airport websites targeted appeared to be functioning normally after being temporarily knocked offline. Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport said its website is "up and running after an incident early this morning that made it inaccessible to the public." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: Websites of major airports hit by suspected pro-Russian cyberattacks

On Monday, Senate Foreign Relations Chair Robert Menendez urged to freeze all US cooperation including weapons sales and security with Saudi Arabia in response to their continued support for Russia. This also comes after last week when OPEC+ decided to reduce its oil production by two million barrels a day, the largest supply cut in the past two years.&nbsp;

According to a National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, President Joe Biden will work with Congress to adjust its policies with Saudi Arabia amid the outrage over the OPEC+ decision in which Saudi Arabia plays a leading role. Kirby spoke in an interview with CNN, about growing calls from United States Congress, to cut off weapons sales and security cooperation to Riyadh.&nbsp;

He indicated that Biden was willing to discuss these plans and proposals with lawmakers, “This is a relationship that we need to continue to re-evaluate, that we need to be willing to revisit. And certainly, in light of the OPEC+ decision, I think that’s where he is,” he said during the interview, indicated the media reports.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-west-asia-post-us-accuses-opec-of-aligning-with-russia-524195">The West Asia Post | US accuses OPEC of 'aligning with Russia'</a>

These remarks are made a day after Democratic Senator Menendez said that Saudi Arabia's crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman has decided to “help underwrite '' Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine, “through the OPEC+ cartel”. Since Russia is both a major oil producer and also a part of OPEC+.&nbsp;

He added, “There simply is no room to play both sides of this conflict…either you support the rest of the free world in trying to stop a war criminal from violently wiping off an entire country off of the map, or you support him,” Menendez also warned that choosing the latter will be a “terrible decision driven by economic self-interest.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

“I will not green-light any cooperation with Riyadh until the Kingdom reassesses its position with respect to the war in Ukraine. Enough is enough,” said the Democratic senator regarding the recent increase in Russian missile attacks in several cities across Ukraine. This was also condemned by president Biden earlier.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-looking-for-alternatives-after-opec-disappointment-may-ease-venezuela-sanctions-523120">US looking for 'alternatives' after OPEC 'disappointment', may ease Venezuela sanctions</a>

However, it is not just Menendez, as members of Congress, Richard Blumenthal and Ro Khanna echoed a similar sentiment in their opinion piece they wrote for Politico, which indicated that the OPEC+ oil cut was a “pointed blow to the US”. They also opined how Washington can retaliate by immediately holding back the “massive transfer of American warfare technology into the eager hands of the Saudis.”

Saudi Arabia once played a key role in US’s policy in the middle east, but following the OPEC+ decision, members from both Democrat and Republican parties in the US are pushing for measures and punishments against the Kingdom. Previously Saudi Arabia has purchased billions of dollars worth of weapons from Washington and has promised to buy more. Notably, members of congress have to be notified of every sale even though the review process is largely a formality.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Monday, Senate Foreign Relations Chair Robert Menendez urged to freeze all US cooperation including weapons sales and security with Saudi Arabia in response to their continued support for Russia.

On Monday, Senate Foreign Relations Chair Robert Menendez urged to freeze all US cooperation including weapons sales and security with Saudi Arabia in response to their continued support for Russia. This also comes after last week when OPEC+ decided to reduce its oil production by two million barrels a day, the largest supply cut in the past two years. According to a National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, President Joe Biden will work with Congress to adjust its policies with Saudi Arabia amid the outrage over the OPEC+ decision in which Saudi Arabia plays a leading role. Kirby spoke in an interview with CNN, about growing calls from United States Congress, to cut off weapons sales and security cooperation to Riyadh. He indicated that Biden was willing to discuss these plans and proposals with lawmakers, “This is a relationship that we need to continue to re-evaluate, that we need to be willing to revisit. And certainly, in light of the OPEC+ decision, I think that’s where he is,” he said during the interview, indicated the media reports. ALSO WATCH: The West Asia Post | US accuses OPEC of 'aligning with Russia' These remarks are made a day after Democratic Senator Menendez said that Saudi Arabia's crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman has decided to “help underwrite '' Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine, “through the OPEC+ cartel”. Since Russia is both a major oil producer and also a part of OPEC+. He added, “There simply is no room to play both sides of this conflict…either you support the rest of the free world in trying to stop a war criminal from violently wiping off an entire country off of the map, or you support him,” Menendez also warned that choosing the latter will be a “terrible decision driven by economic self-interest.” “I will not green-light any cooperation with Riyadh until the Kingdom reassesses its position with respect to the war in Ukraine. Enough is enough,” said the Democratic senator regarding the recent increase in Russian missile attacks in several cities across Ukraine. This was also condemned by president Biden earlier. ALSO READ: US looking for 'alternatives' after OPEC 'disappointment', may ease Venezuela sanctions However, it is not just Menendez, as members of Congress, Richard Blumenthal and Ro Khanna echoed a similar sentiment in their opinion piece they wrote for Politico, which indicated that the OPEC+ oil cut was a “pointed blow to the US”. They also opined how Washington can retaliate by immediately holding back the “massive transfer of American warfare technology into the eager hands of the Saudis.” Saudi Arabia once played a key role in US’s policy in the middle east, but following the OPEC+ decision, members from both Democrat and Republican parties in the US are pushing for measures and punishments against the Kingdom. Previously Saudi Arabia has purchased billions of dollars worth of weapons from Washington and has promised to buy more. Notably, members of congress have to be notified of every sale even though the review process is largely a formality. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

President Biden ‘re-evaluating’ US-Saudi ties for siding with Russia on OPEC oil cut

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