Russia's Gazprom has told customers in Europe it cannot guarantee gas supplies because of 'extraordinary' circumstances, according to a letter seen by Reuters, upping the ante in an economic tit-for-tat with the West over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Dated July 14, the letter from the Russian state gas monopoly, said it was declaring force majeure on supplies, starting from June 14.

Known as an 'act of God' clause, force majeure is standard in business contracts and spells out extreme circumstances that excuse a party from their legal obligations.

Gazprom's had no immediate comment.

Uniper, Germany's biggest importer of Russian gas, was among the customers who said they had received a letter, and that it had formally rejected the claim as unjustified.

RWE Germany's largest power producer and another importer of Russian gas, also said it has received a force majeure notice.

"Please understand that we cannot comment on its details or our legal opinion," the company said.

A trading source, asking not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the issue, said the force majeure concerned supplies through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, a major supply route to Germany and beyond.

Flows through the pipeline are at zero as the link undergoes annual maintenance that began on July 11 and is meant to conclude on Thursday.&nbsp;

Europe fears Moscow could keep the pipeline mothballed in retaliation for sanctions imposed on Russia over the war in Ukraine, heightening an energy crisis that risks tipping the region in recession.

TURBINE DELAY

Already on June 14, Gazprom had cut the pipeline's capacity to 40%, citing the delay of a turbine being maintained in Canada by equipment supplier Siemens Energy.

Canada sent the turbine for the Nord Stream gas pipeline to Germany by plane on July 17 after repair work had been completed, Kommersant newspaper reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the situation.

Provided there are no problems with logistics and customs, it will take another five to seven days for the turbine to reach Russia, the report said.

Germany's economy ministry said on Monday it could not provide details of the turbine's whereabouts.

But a spokesperson for the ministry said it was a replacement part that was meant to be used only from September, meaning its absence could not be the real reason for the fall-off in gas flows prior to the maintenance.

"This sounds like a first hint that the gas supplies via NS1 will possibly not resume after the 10-day maintenance has ended," said Hans van Cleef, senior energy economist at ABN Amro.

"Depending on what ‘extraordinary’ circumstances have in mind in order to declare the force majeure, and whether these issues are technical or more political, it could mean the next step in escalation between Russia and Europe/Germany," he added.

Austrian oil and gas group OMV, however, said on Monday it expected gas deliveries from Russia through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline to resume as planned after the outage.

Russian gas supplies have been declining via major routes for some months, including via Ukraine and Belarus as well as through Nord Stream 1 under the Baltic Sea.

The European Union, which has imposed sanctions on Moscow, aims to stop using Russian fossil fuels by 2027 but wants supplies to continue for now as it develops alternative sources.

For Moscow and for Gazprom, the energy flows are a vital revenue stream when Western sanctions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which the Kremlin terms a "special military operation", have strained Russian finances.

According to the Russian Finance Ministry, the federal budget received 6.4 trillion roubles ($115.32 billion) from oil and gas sales in the first half of the year. This is compared to planned 9.5 trillion roubles for the whole 2022.

The grace period for payments on two of Gazprom's international bonds expires on July 19, and if foreign creditors are not paid by then the company will technically be in default. 
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Russia's Gazprom has told customers in Europe it cannot guarantee gas supplies because of 'extraordinary' circumstances, according to a letter seen by Reuters, upping the ante in an economic tit-for-tat with the West over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia's Gazprom has told customers in Europe it cannot guarantee gas supplies because of 'extraordinary' circumstances, according to a letter seen by Reuters, upping the ante in an economic tit-for-tat with the West over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Dated July 14, the letter from the Russian state gas monopoly, said it was declaring force majeure on supplies, starting from June 14. Known as an 'act of God' clause, force majeure is standard in business contracts and spells out extreme circumstances that excuse a party from their legal obligations. Gazprom's had no immediate comment. Uniper, Germany's biggest importer of Russian gas, was among the customers who said they had received a letter, and that it had formally rejected the claim as unjustified. RWE Germany's largest power producer and another importer of Russian gas, also said it has received a force majeure notice. "Please understand that we cannot comment on its details or our legal opinion," the company said. A trading source, asking not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the issue, said the force majeure concerned supplies through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, a major supply route to Germany and beyond. Flows through the pipeline are at zero as the link undergoes annual maintenance that began on July 11 and is meant to conclude on Thursday. Europe fears Moscow could keep the pipeline mothballed in retaliation for sanctions imposed on Russia over the war in Ukraine, heightening an energy crisis that risks tipping the region in recession. TURBINE DELAY Already on June 14, Gazprom had cut the pipeline's capacity to 40%, citing the delay of a turbine being maintained in Canada by equipment supplier Siemens Energy. Canada sent the turbine for the Nord Stream gas pipeline to Germany by plane on July 17 after repair work had been completed, Kommersant newspaper reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the situation. Provided there are no problems with logistics and customs, it will take another five to seven days for the turbine to reach Russia, the report said. Germany's economy ministry said on Monday it could not provide details of the turbine's whereabouts. But a spokesperson for the ministry said it was a replacement part that was meant to be used only from September, meaning its absence could not be the real reason for the fall-off in gas flows prior to the maintenance. "This sounds like a first hint that the gas supplies via NS1 will possibly not resume after the 10-day maintenance has ended," said Hans van Cleef, senior energy economist at ABN Amro. "Depending on what ‘extraordinary’ circumstances have in mind in order to declare the force majeure, and whether these issues are technical or more political, it could mean the next step in escalation between Russia and Europe/Germany," he added. Austrian oil and gas group OMV, however, said on Monday it expected gas deliveries from Russia through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline to resume as planned after the outage. Russian gas supplies have been declining via major routes for some months, including via Ukraine and Belarus as well as through Nord Stream 1 under the Baltic Sea. The European Union, which has imposed sanctions on Moscow, aims to stop using Russian fossil fuels by 2027 but wants supplies to continue for now as it develops alternative sources. For Moscow and for Gazprom, the energy flows are a vital revenue stream when Western sanctions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which the Kremlin terms a "special military operation", have strained Russian finances. According to the Russian Finance Ministry, the federal budget received 6.4 trillion roubles ($115.32 billion) from oil and gas sales in the first half of the year. This is compared to planned 9.5 trillion roubles for the whole 2022. The grace period for payments on two of Gazprom's international bonds expires on July 19, and if foreign creditors are not paid by then the company will technically be in default. 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's Gazprom tells Europe gas halt beyond its control

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi is due to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran on Tuesday (July 19). The meeting of the three leaders has a shadow of Russian invasion of Ukraine over it. The three-way summit is first hosted by Iran's president since he took office ion 2021. As for Putin, this is his second trip abroad since invasion of Ukraine.

The three leaders are meeting on the heels of US President Joe Biden's Middle East visit during which he visited Israel and Saudi Arabia, both regional foes of Iran.

But the trilateral summit is ostensibly centred on Syria, as part of the so-called Astana peace process to end more than 11 years of conflict in the Arab country.

Iran, Turkey and Russia are involved in Syria conflict. Iran and Russia are supporting President Bashar al-Assad's regime while Turkey backs the rebel forces which are fighting against the regime.

Last year, Erdogan threatened to launch a new offensive in Syria against Kurdish militants. Iran has already warned that any Turkish military action in Syria could "destabilise the region".

This is Erdogan's first meeting with Putin since the start of conflict in Ukraine. Erdogan has for months offered to meet Putin in order to help resolve tensions over Ukraine war.

Turkey has launched waves of attacks on Syria since 2016, targeting Kurdish militias as well as Islamic State group jihadists and forces loyal to Assad.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran President Ebrahim Raisi is due to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran on Tuesday (July 19). The meeting of the three leaders has a shadow of Russian invasion of Ukraine over it.

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi is due to host Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Tehran on Tuesday (July 19). The meeting of the three leaders has a shadow of Russian invasion of Ukraine over it. The three-way summit is first hosted by Iran's president since he took office ion 2021. As for Putin, this is his second trip abroad since invasion of Ukraine. The three leaders are meeting on the heels of US President Joe Biden's Middle East visit during which he visited Israel and Saudi Arabia, both regional foes of Iran. But the trilateral summit is ostensibly centred on Syria, as part of the so-called Astana peace process to end more than 11 years of conflict in the Arab country. Iran, Turkey and Russia are involved in Syria conflict. Iran and Russia are supporting President Bashar al-Assad's regime while Turkey backs the rebel forces which are fighting against the regime. Last year, Erdogan threatened to launch a new offensive in Syria against Kurdish militants. Iran has already warned that any Turkish military action in Syria could "destabilise the region". This is Erdogan's first meeting with Putin since the start of conflict in Ukraine. Erdogan has for months offered to meet Putin in order to help resolve tensions over Ukraine war. Turkey has launched waves of attacks on Syria since 2016, targeting Kurdish militias as well as Islamic State group jihadists and forces loyal to Assad. (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 ×

Iran-Russia-Turkiye to soon go in huddle in Tehran today

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a major move, sacked country's two top officials citing hundreds of cases of alleged treason and collusion with Russia. Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova and chief of Ukraine's domestic security Ivan Bakanov are the officials who have been sacked. The prosecutor general has in recent past led Ukrainian efforts to prosecute alleged Russian war crimes. Zelensky said that 60 officials from SBU security service and prosecutor's office were working against Ukraine.

"Such an array of crimes against the foundations of thenational security of the state ... pose very serious questionsto the relevant leaders," Zelensky said. "Each of these questions will receive a proper answer.

Watch |&nbsp;Russian-Ukraine war: Zelensky fires top security chief, prosecutor over suspected cases of treason

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Zelensky made the declaration in his speech to the nation at the night of July 17.

Referring to Bakanov, Zelensky said that "Sufficient evidence" had been gathered against him.&nbsp;

"All his criminal activities are documented," he said.

Reuters said that though Russia controlled large swathes of Ukrainian land, deliveries of Western weapons have started showing results on the battlefield.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-is-war-but-lunch-must-be-served-on-time-says-ukrainian-sushi-chef-498291">'War is war, but lunch must be served on time,' says Ukrainian sushi chef</a>

Ukrainian strikes are causing havoc with Russian supply lines and have significantly reduced Russia's offensive capability, according to Ukraine's defence ministry.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday ordered military units to intensify operations to prevent Ukrainian strikes on areas held by Russia, according to a statement from the ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a major move, sacked country's two top officials citing hundreds of cases of alleged treason and collusion with Russia. Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova and chief of Ukraine's domestic security Ivan Bakanov are the officials who have been sacked.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a major move, sacked country's two top officials citing hundreds of cases of alleged treason and collusion with Russia. Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova and chief of Ukraine's domestic security Ivan Bakanov are the officials who have been sacked. The prosecutor general has in recent past led Ukrainian efforts to prosecute alleged Russian war crimes. Zelensky said that 60 officials from SBU security service and prosecutor's office were working against Ukraine. "Such an array of crimes against the foundations of thenational security of the state ... pose very serious questionsto the relevant leaders," Zelensky said. "Each of these questions will receive a proper answer. Watch | Russian-Ukraine war: Zelensky fires top security chief, prosecutor over suspected cases of treason × Zelensky made the declaration in his speech to the nation at the night of July 17. Referring to Bakanov, Zelensky said that "Sufficient evidence" had been gathered against him. "All his criminal activities are documented," he said. Reuters said that though Russia controlled large swathes of Ukrainian land, deliveries of Western weapons have started showing results on the battlefield. Also Read | 'War is war, but lunch must be served on time,' says Ukrainian sushi chef Ukrainian strikes are causing havoc with Russian supply lines and have significantly reduced Russia's offensive capability, according to Ukraine's defence ministry. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday ordered military units to intensify operations to prevent Ukrainian strikes on areas held by Russia, according to a statement from the ministry. (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 ×

Ukraine President sacks two top officials citing treason cases

The European Union on Friday (July 15) formally proposed latest package of sanctions that includes an import ban on Russian gold. European Commission said in a statement that new measures are considered ""a maintenance and alignment package"

Reuters said that officials privately referred to it as a "sixth-and-a-half" set of sanctions. This was in reference to its limited scope. Six previous rounds of sanctions hit Russian oil or coal.

Some measures could still have a serious impact on the affected sectors.

"We do want to make sure that the war finishes as quickly as possible so that the economic price that Russia has to pay becomes ever higher - the price it has to pay for its aggression," EU Commission Vice-President Maros Sefcovic told a news conference before the sanctions were announced.

In order for these measures to become law, EU countries must now agree on this measures. Europeam diplomats said that the measures were uncontroversial and should pass through easily.

According to Russian customs data, Britain is the largest buyer of Russian gold with 290 tonnes in 2020 worth $16.9 billion.

But a senior EU official insisted that the EU's decision will not be merely symbolic as "it will cut off another tap of funding for Putin's war in Ukraine".

(With inputs from agencies)

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The European Union on Friday (July 15) formally proposed latest package of sanctions that includes an import ban on Russian gold. European Commission said in a statement that new measures are considered ""a maintenance and alignment package" Reuters said that officials privately referred to it as a "sixth-and-a-half" set of sanctions.

The European Union on Friday (July 15) formally proposed latest package of sanctions that includes an import ban on Russian gold. European Commission said in a statement that new measures are considered ""a maintenance and alignment package" Reuters said that officials privately referred to it as a "sixth-and-a-half" set of sanctions. This was in reference to its limited scope. Six previous rounds of sanctions hit Russian oil or coal. Some measures could still have a serious impact on the affected sectors. "We do want to make sure that the war finishes as quickly as possible so that the economic price that Russia has to pay becomes ever higher - the price it has to pay for its aggression," EU Commission Vice-President Maros Sefcovic told a news conference before the sanctions were announced. In order for these measures to become law, EU countries must now agree on this measures. Europeam diplomats said that the measures were uncontroversial and should pass through easily. According to Russian customs data, Britain is the largest buyer of Russian gold with 290 tonnes in 2020 worth $16.9 billion. But a senior EU official insisted that the EU's decision will not be merely symbolic as "it will cut off another tap of funding for Putin's war in Ukraine". (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 ×

EU plans to ban new gold import from Russia

A British man detained by Russian-backed separatists in Ukraine has died, said an official in self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). The death of Paul Urey (45) has been confirmed by a British charity. Urey was accused of being a mercenary but tyhe charity where he worked as a humanitarian worker said that he did not have military background.

Urey was captured in southeast Ukraine in late April, said Presidium Network. He was trying to help a woman who had been given permission to travel to leave Russian-controlled territory.

Urey was stopped at a checkpoint before being detained and was later charged with "mercenary activities" by DPR separatists.

Presidium Network said Britain's Foreign Office had informed Urey's family of his death.&nbsp;

Reuters quoted spokesperson of the British Foreign Office who said that office was "urgently seeking clarification from the Russian government on media reports that a British aid worker has died in Ukraine."

Asked about Urey, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "They're clearly alarming reports and our thoughts are with his family and friends."

Daria Morozova, who has the title of human rights ombudsman in the DPR, said on social media that Urey had been suffering from diabetes and respiratory, kidney and cardiovascular issues.

"On our part, despite the severity of the alleged crime, Paul Urey was provided with appropriate medical assistance. However, given the diagnoses and stress, he passed away on July 10," she said.

Urey and another Briton, Dylan Healy, were detained at a checkpoint controlled by separatist forces in late April.

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A British man detained by Russian-backed separatists in Ukraine has died, said an official in self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). The death of Paul Urey (45) has been confirmed by a British charity.

A British man detained by Russian-backed separatists in Ukraine has died, said an official in self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). The death of Paul Urey (45) has been confirmed by a British charity. Urey was accused of being a mercenary but tyhe charity where he worked as a humanitarian worker said that he did not have military background. Urey was captured in southeast Ukraine in late April, said Presidium Network. He was trying to help a woman who had been given permission to travel to leave Russian-controlled territory. Urey was stopped at a checkpoint before being detained and was later charged with "mercenary activities" by DPR separatists. Presidium Network said Britain's Foreign Office had informed Urey's family of his death. Reuters quoted spokesperson of the British Foreign Office who said that office was "urgently seeking clarification from the Russian government on media reports that a British aid worker has died in Ukraine." Asked about Urey, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "They're clearly alarming reports and our thoughts are with his family and friends." Daria Morozova, who has the title of human rights ombudsman in the DPR, said on social media that Urey had been suffering from diabetes and respiratory, kidney and cardiovascular issues. "On our part, despite the severity of the alleged crime, Paul Urey was provided with appropriate medical assistance. However, given the diagnoses and stress, he passed away on July 10," she said. Urey and another Briton, Dylan Healy, were detained at a checkpoint controlled by separatist forces in late April. 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 ×

British man held by Russia-backed separatists in Ukraine dies in detention 

Turkiye said that it has managed to broker a deal with Ukraine, Russia and the UN to resume exports of Ukrainian grains after it was blocked by Russia in the wake of invasion. The move is expected to bring major relief to world economies whose grain imports were largely dependent on Kyiv.

On Wednesday, Turkiye’s defence minister Hulusi Akar said that all the parties would meet again next week to work out the modalities like joint controls for checking grains in ports and Ankara ensuring the safety of Black Sea export routes for Ukrainian grain, The Guardian reported.

He added that Turkey would also set up a coordination centre with Ukraine, Russia and the UN for grain exports.

Much of Ukrainian grains are exported through the country’s Black Sea ports. But they have been blockaded by Russia, including the crucial hub of Odesa, following the invasion.

Confirming the development, Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, on Twitter said, “Its task will be to carry out general monitoring and coordination of safe navigation in the Black Sea.”

In his daily address, Ukraine’s president Zelensky was quoted as saying, “We are indeed making significant efforts to restore the supply of food to the world market. And I am grateful to the United Nations and Turkey for their respective efforts.”

Lauding the three countries for their coordination for their efforts toward restoring grain supplies, UN Secretary-General&nbsp;António Guterres said that a “critical step forward” had been taken to allow the “safe and secure export” of millions of tonnes of grain via the Black Sea.

He, however, emphasised that no formal agreement has yet been signed between Russia and Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-casualty-of-russia-ukraine-war-esa-roscosmoss-mars-life-finding-mission-497185" hreflang="en">Another casualty of Russia-Ukraine war: ESA-ROSCOSMOS's Mars life-hunting mission</a>

“In a world darkened by global crises, today, at last, we have a ray of hope,” said Guterres, briefing correspondents at UN Headquarters in New York.

“A ray of hope to ease human suffering and alleviate hunger around the world. A ray of hope to support developing countries and the most vulnerable people.&nbsp;A ray of hope to bring a measure of much-needed stability to the global food system.”

For several weeks, the Türkiye government has been working with the UN to arrive at a deal for weeks, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, which triggered the price rise of several major commodities like grains, cooking oils, fuel and fertilizer.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkiye said that it has managed to broker a deal with Ukraine, Russia and the UN to resume exports of Ukrainian grains after it was blocked by Russia in the wake of invasion.

Turkiye said that it has managed to broker a deal with Ukraine, Russia and the UN to resume exports of Ukrainian grains after it was blocked by Russia in the wake of invasion. The move is expected to bring major relief to world economies whose grain imports were largely dependent on Kyiv. On Wednesday, Turkiye’s defence minister Hulusi Akar said that all the parties would meet again next week to work out the modalities like joint controls for checking grains in ports and Ankara ensuring the safety of Black Sea export routes for Ukrainian grain, The Guardian reported. He added that Turkey would also set up a coordination centre with Ukraine, Russia and the UN for grain exports. Much of Ukrainian grains are exported through the country’s Black Sea ports. But they have been blockaded by Russia, including the crucial hub of Odesa, following the invasion. Confirming the development, Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, on Twitter said, “Its task will be to carry out general monitoring and coordination of safe navigation in the Black Sea.” In his daily address, Ukraine’s president Zelensky was quoted as saying, “We are indeed making significant efforts to restore the supply of food to the world market. And I am grateful to the United Nations and Turkey for their respective efforts.” Lauding the three countries for their coordination for their efforts toward restoring grain supplies, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that a “critical step forward” had been taken to allow the “safe and secure export” of millions of tonnes of grain via the Black Sea. He, however, emphasised that no formal agreement has yet been signed between Russia and Ukraine. Also read | Another casualty of Russia-Ukraine war: ESA-ROSCOSMOS's Mars life-hunting mission “In a world darkened by global crises, today, at last, we have a ray of hope,” said Guterres, briefing correspondents at UN Headquarters in New York. “A ray of hope to ease human suffering and alleviate hunger around the world. A ray of hope to support developing countries and the most vulnerable people. A ray of hope to bring a measure of much-needed stability to the global food system.” For several weeks, the Türkiye government has been working with the UN to arrive at a deal for weeks, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, which triggered the price rise of several major commodities like grains, cooking oils, fuel and fertilizer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkiye brokers deal with Ukraine, Russia and UN to resume grain exports

A Russian missile strike on the city of Vinnytsia in central Ukraine has killed at least 12 people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has termed the attack "an open act of terrorism". As per Ukrainian emergency services, there were 12 dead, including one baby. The attack has injured 25. Dozens of rescue workers were fighting to douse a large fired caused by the strikes. The missile strike has taken place ahead of the meet of European Union foreign and justice ministers in The Hague. The conference is on alleged Russian war crimes.

Zelensky is due to address the meeting via video call while Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is set to attend.

"Every day, Russia kills civilians, kills Ukrainian children, carries out missile attacks on the civilian facilities where there is no military target. What is this, if not an open act of terrorism?" the Ukraine leader said in a statement on social media.

Zelensky has repeatedly accused Russia of war crimes and he has vowed to hold Moscow to account. Zelensky has called for special war crimes tribunal set up in the Netherlands.&nbsp;

An investigation into possible war crimes was opened by the International Criminal Court in The Hague just days after Russia invaded Ukraine. Russia started its 'special military operation' in Ukraine on February 24.&nbsp;

In recent weeks, Russian strikes in central Ukraine away from frontlines in the east and the south have become relatively rare.

But the war has raged around cities like Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine near the Black Sea which the presidency said was hit by a "massive missile strike" earlier on Thursday.

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A Russian missile strike on the city of Vinnytsia in central Ukraine has killed at least 12 people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has termed the attack "an open act of terrorism".

A Russian missile strike on the city of Vinnytsia in central Ukraine has killed at least 12 people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has termed the attack "an open act of terrorism". As per Ukrainian emergency services, there were 12 dead, including one baby. The attack has injured 25. Dozens of rescue workers were fighting to douse a large fired caused by the strikes. The missile strike has taken place ahead of the meet of European Union foreign and justice ministers in The Hague. The conference is on alleged Russian war crimes. Zelensky is due to address the meeting via video call while Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is set to attend. "Every day, Russia kills civilians, kills Ukrainian children, carries out missile attacks on the civilian facilities where there is no military target. What is this, if not an open act of terrorism?" the Ukraine leader said in a statement on social media. Zelensky has repeatedly accused Russia of war crimes and he has vowed to hold Moscow to account. Zelensky has called for special war crimes tribunal set up in the Netherlands. An investigation into possible war crimes was opened by the International Criminal Court in The Hague just days after Russia invaded Ukraine. Russia started its 'special military operation' in Ukraine on February 24. In recent weeks, Russian strikes in central Ukraine away from frontlines in the east and the south have become relatively rare. But the war has raged around cities like Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine near the Black Sea which the presidency said was hit by a "massive missile strike" earlier on Thursday. 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 missile strike in central Ukraine kills at least 12

Russia on Tuesday said it had detected the first case of monkeypox in the country in a man who returned from a trip to several European nations.&nbsp;

"The infection was found in a young man who came back from a trip through European countries and went to a medical facility with a characteristic rash," health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said in a statement.&nbsp;

It said the man has been isolated in hospital and that he has a "mild" form of the disease.&nbsp;

"Contact persons have been established, they are being monitored by doctors," the statement said.&nbsp;

It added that the man's illness was established quickly and "helped prevent further spread of the infection".&nbsp;

The surge of monkeypox infections has been reported since early May outside the West and Central African countries where the disease has long been endemic.&nbsp;

There are confirmed cases in Britain, Spain and Germany.&nbsp;

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Russia on Tuesday said it had detected the first case of monkeypox in the country in a man who returned from a trip to several European nations. "The infection was found in a young man who came back from a trip through European countries and went to a medical facility with a characteristic rash," health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said in a statement.

Russia on Tuesday said it had detected the first case of monkeypox in the country in a man who returned from a trip to several European nations. "The infection was found in a young man who came back from a trip through European countries and went to a medical facility with a characteristic rash," health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said in a statement. It said the man has been isolated in hospital and that he has a "mild" form of the disease. "Contact persons have been established, they are being monitored by doctors," the statement said. It added that the man's illness was established quickly and "helped prevent further spread of the infection". The surge of monkeypox infections has been reported since early May outside the West and Central African countries where the disease has long been endemic. There are confirmed cases in Britain, Spain and Germany. 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 reports first case of monkeypox

Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 13) that Russia had shot down three Ukrainian fighter jets. As per details released during the daily briefing, the defence ministry said Su-25 and Su-24 fighter jets being used by Ukrainian air force were shot down over Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. Third Ukrainian fighter jet was MiG-29, which the ministry said was shot down in the Mykolaiv region in the southern Ukraine. All these fighter jets are Soviet-designed planes being used by Ukrainian air force.

There was no immediate reaction from Ukraine.

Amid hostilities between Ukraine and Russia, both countries are also holding dialogue to break deadlock over grain exports from Ukraine often called 'bread basket of Europe'. Officials from both countries met United Nations and Turkish officials on Wednesday to discuss.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-says-russia-doesnt-have-the-courage-to-admit-defeat-496843">Ukrainian President Zelensky says Russia 'doesn't have the courage' to admit defeat</a>

This is the first face-to-face meeting between Russian and Ukrainian officials since another meeting that took place in Istanbul on March 29.

Ukraine is an important exporter of wheat, barley and maize. It has also supplied nearly half of all the sunflower oil traded on global markets. However, shipments across the Black Sea remain blocked by Russian warships along with mines laid by Ukraine to prevent an amphibious Russian assault.

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Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 13) that Russia had shot down three Ukrainian fighter jets. As per details released during the daily briefing, the defence ministry said Su-25 and Su-24 fighter jets being used by Ukrainian air force were shot down over Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday (July 13) that Russia had shot down three Ukrainian fighter jets. As per details released during the daily briefing, the defence ministry said Su-25 and Su-24 fighter jets being used by Ukrainian air force were shot down over Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. Third Ukrainian fighter jet was MiG-29, which the ministry said was shot down in the Mykolaiv region in the southern Ukraine. All these fighter jets are Soviet-designed planes being used by Ukrainian air force. There was no immediate reaction from Ukraine. Amid hostilities between Ukraine and Russia, both countries are also holding dialogue to break deadlock over grain exports from Ukraine often called 'bread basket of Europe'. Officials from both countries met United Nations and Turkish officials on Wednesday to discuss. Also Read | Ukrainian President Zelensky says Russia 'doesn't have the courage' to admit defeat This is the first face-to-face meeting between Russian and Ukrainian officials since another meeting that took place in Istanbul on March 29. Ukraine is an important exporter of wheat, barley and maize. It has also supplied nearly half of all the sunflower oil traded on global markets. However, shipments across the Black Sea remain blocked by Russian warships along with mines laid by Ukraine to prevent an amphibious Russian assault. 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 shot down three Ukrainian fighter jets, says Russian defence ministry

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (July 11) expanded fast-track route to Russian citizenship and made it available for all Ukrainians. Putin signed a decree to this effect. Till recently, only residents of Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk&nbsp;regions and residents of southern Zaporizhzhia and the Kherson regions were eligible for the fast-track route. Now, Putin's decree has made the mechanism available to all Ukrainians. There was no immediate reaction from Ukrainian officials on this development.

Between 2019, when the procedure was first introduced for the residents of Donetsk and Luhansk, and this year, more than 720,000 residents of the rebel-held areas in the two regions "about 18% of the population" have received Russian passports.

Watch | Russian rockets destroy school and children's health centre in Kharkiv

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In the month of May, this fast-track route was&nbsp;also offered to residents of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. First Russian passports were reportedly handed out in these regions a month ago.

The move from Putin has come even as Russian shelling killed at least three and injured 31 others in shelling on Ukraine's second-largest city. Hours earlier, Russian troops launched three missile strikes on Kharkiv which the official described as "absolute terrorism".

Oleh Syniehubov, regional governor of Kharkiv, said on Telegram that shelling came from multiple rocket launchers. He added that those hospitalised include children aged 4 and 16.

"Only civilian structures a shopping centre and houses of peaceful Kharkiv residents came under the fire of the Russians. Several shells hit the yards of private houses. Garages and cars were also destroyed, several fires broke out," Syniehubov wrote.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/34-airstrikes-in-the-past-24-hours-zelensky-says-there-is-no-pause-in-russian-attacks-496227">Russia-Ukraine war: '34 airstrikes in past 24 hours', Zelensky says there is no 'pause' in Moscow's attacks</a>

He said earlier that one of the missiles Russian forces launched on Kharkiv during the night destroyed school another hit a residential building, while the third landed near warehouse facilities.

"All (three were launched) exclusively on civilian objects, this is absolute terrorism!" Syniehubov said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (July 11) expanded fast-track route to Russian citizenship and made it available for all Ukrainians. Putin signed a decree to this effect.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday (July 11) expanded fast-track route to Russian citizenship and made it available for all Ukrainians. Putin signed a decree to this effect. Till recently, only residents of Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk regions and residents of southern Zaporizhzhia and the Kherson regions were eligible for the fast-track route. Now, Putin's decree has made the mechanism available to all Ukrainians. There was no immediate reaction from Ukrainian officials on this development. Between 2019, when the procedure was first introduced for the residents of Donetsk and Luhansk, and this year, more than 720,000 residents of the rebel-held areas in the two regions "about 18% of the population" have received Russian passports. Watch | Russian rockets destroy school and children's health centre in Kharkiv × In the month of May, this fast-track route was also offered to residents of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. First Russian passports were reportedly handed out in these regions a month ago. The move from Putin has come even as Russian shelling killed at least three and injured 31 others in shelling on Ukraine's second-largest city. Hours earlier, Russian troops launched three missile strikes on Kharkiv which the official described as "absolute terrorism". Oleh Syniehubov, regional governor of Kharkiv, said on Telegram that shelling came from multiple rocket launchers. He added that those hospitalised include children aged 4 and 16. "Only civilian structures a shopping centre and houses of peaceful Kharkiv residents came under the fire of the Russians. Several shells hit the yards of private houses. Garages and cars were also destroyed, several fires broke out," Syniehubov wrote. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: '34 airstrikes in past 24 hours', Zelensky says there is no 'pause' in Moscow's attacks He said earlier that one of the missiles Russian forces launched on Kharkiv during the night destroyed school another hit a residential building, while the third landed near warehouse facilities. "All (three were launched) exclusively on civilian objects, this is absolute terrorism!" Syniehubov said. (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 ×

Putin signs decree giving all Ukrainians path to Russian citizenship

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny on Monday (July 11) launched an international anti-corruption organisation. The Russian opposition leader has taken the step a year after his Russian Anti-Corruption Foundation (ACF) was outlawed as extremist. Navalny sends messages on his Telegram channel. The messages are carried from him by his lawyers who are allowed to contact him in the jail. The Telegram channel said that fund's advisory board would include former Belgian prime minister Guy Verhofstadt, political scientist Francis Fukuyama, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and historian Anne Applebaum, and Navalny's wife, Yulia Navalnaya.

Alexei Navalny, a long-time critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin had cataloged wealth of senior Russian officials using his foundation. He had made a series of&nbsp;caustic and widely watched videos

Last year, court ruling outlawed Navalny's older Foundation and in effect prohibitted his allies from running in elections. The ruling also gave authorities power to jail ACF acitivists and freeze their bank accounts.

On Monday, Navalny's social media feed said that his new foundation (Anti-Corruption Foundation International) will be&nbsp; "completely transparent and understandable". It was said that first funds for the foundation would come from 50,000 euro Sakharov Prize that Navalny received from European Parliament&nbsp;last year.

"As always, we are counting on your help and support, and we promise that we will work well," Navalny was quoted as saying.

In 2020, Navalny was jailed for violating bail conditions. At that time, he had returned from Germany, He was recovering from near-fatal poisoning with a Soviet-era toxin. He was allegedly poisoned when in Russia.

He was handed a fresh nine-year sentence this year for fraud and contempt of court. He maintains that the charges against him were fabricated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny on Monday (July 11) launched an international anti-corruption organisation. The Russian opposition leader has taken the step a year after his Russian Anti-Corruption Foundation (ACF) was outlawed as extremist.

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny on Monday (July 11) launched an international anti-corruption organisation. The Russian opposition leader has taken the step a year after his Russian Anti-Corruption Foundation (ACF) was outlawed as extremist. Navalny sends messages on his Telegram channel. The messages are carried from him by his lawyers who are allowed to contact him in the jail. The Telegram channel said that fund's advisory board would include former Belgian prime minister Guy Verhofstadt, political scientist Francis Fukuyama, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and historian Anne Applebaum, and Navalny's wife, Yulia Navalnaya. Alexei Navalny, a long-time critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin had cataloged wealth of senior Russian officials using his foundation. He had made a series of caustic and widely watched videos Last year, court ruling outlawed Navalny's older Foundation and in effect prohibitted his allies from running in elections. The ruling also gave authorities power to jail ACF acitivists and freeze their bank accounts. On Monday, Navalny's social media feed said that his new foundation (Anti-Corruption Foundation International) will be "completely transparent and understandable". It was said that first funds for the foundation would come from 50,000 euro Sakharov Prize that Navalny received from European Parliament last year. "As always, we are counting on your help and support, and we promise that we will work well," Navalny was quoted as saying. In 2020, Navalny was jailed for violating bail conditions. At that time, he had returned from Germany, He was recovering from near-fatal poisoning with a Soviet-era toxin. He was allegedly poisoned when in Russia. He was handed a fresh nine-year sentence this year for fraud and contempt of court. He maintains that the charges against him were fabricated. (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 ×

Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny launches new anti-corruption fund

US national security adviser Jake Sullivan didn't provide any details that can prove whether Iran had delivered any of the drones to Russia yet, but&nbsp;the United States said that it believes Iran is preparing to provide Russia with up to several hundred drones, including some that are weapons-capable. In another, the stunning image&nbsp;taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope&nbsp;showed the 4.6 billion-year-old galaxy cluster named SMACS 0723, whose combined mass acts as a "gravitational lens," distorting space to greatly magnify the light coming from more distant galaxies behind it.&nbsp;The NASA chief further said that the thousands of galaxies were captured in a tiny patch of the sky roughly the size of a grain of sand held at arm's length by someone standing on Earth.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-says-iran-planning-to-supply-russians-with-uavs-for-ukraine-was-496518">Russia-Ukraine war: US says Iran planning to supply Russians with drones</a>
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Amid the ongoing war, the United States said that it believes Iran is preparing to provide Russia with up to several hundred drones, including some that are weapons-capable.&nbsp;During a briefing at the White House, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters on Monday (July 11) that the unmanned aerial vehicles could be delivered on an expedited timeline which includes training sessions to use such vehicles as soon as early July.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-joe-biden-reveals-first-image-from-james-webb-space-telescope-and-its-stunning-496510">James Webb telescope's first image: A never-before-seen view of the universe</a>
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United States President Joe Biden unveiled a stunning image taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. The powerful telescope has revealed the "deepest and sharpest infrared image of the early universe" ever taken, looking back more than 13 billion years.&nbsp;The image is filled with thousands of galaxies and features the faintest objects ever observed.&nbsp;NASA chief Bill Nelson said that at least one of the faint, older specs of light appearing in the "background" of the photo - a composite of images of different wavelengths of light - dates back more than 13 billion years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-economic-crisis-parliament-to-elect-new-president-on-july-20-496508">Sri Lanka economic crisis: Parliament to elect new president on July 20</a>
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Sri Lankan parliamentary speaker said on Monday (July 11) that the country's parliament will reconvene on July 15 and a new president will be elected on July 20. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is planning to resign on Wednesday as the South Asian nation continues to face its worse economic crisis.&nbsp;In a statement, speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena said that the nominations for the next president will be presented to parliament on 19 July. On 20 July parliament will vote to elect a new president.&nbsp;

United States: Biden heckled during a White House event by Parkland shooting victim's father

&nbsp;

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South Asia Diary | Bhutan increasing daily tax on tourists

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US national security adviser Jake Sullivan didn't provide any details that can prove whether Iran had delivered any of the drones to Russia yet, but the United States said that it believes Iran is preparing to provide Russia with up to several hundred drones, including some that are weapons-capable.

US national security adviser Jake Sullivan didn't provide any details that can prove whether Iran had delivered any of the drones to Russia yet, but the United States said that it believes Iran is preparing to provide Russia with up to several hundred drones, including some that are weapons-capable. In another, the stunning image taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope showed the 4.6 billion-year-old galaxy cluster named SMACS 0723, whose combined mass acts as a "gravitational lens," distorting space to greatly magnify the light coming from more distant galaxies behind it. The NASA chief further said that the thousands of galaxies were captured in a tiny patch of the sky roughly the size of a grain of sand held at arm's length by someone standing on Earth. Click on headlines to read more: Russia-Ukraine war: US says Iran planning to supply Russians with drones Amid the ongoing war, the United States said that it believes Iran is preparing to provide Russia with up to several hundred drones, including some that are weapons-capable. During a briefing at the White House, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters on Monday (July 11) that the unmanned aerial vehicles could be delivered on an expedited timeline which includes training sessions to use such vehicles as soon as early July. James Webb telescope's first image: A never-before-seen view of the universe United States President Joe Biden unveiled a stunning image taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. The powerful telescope has revealed the "deepest and sharpest infrared image of the early universe" ever taken, looking back more than 13 billion years. The image is filled with thousands of galaxies and features the faintest objects ever observed. NASA chief Bill Nelson said that at least one of the faint, older specs of light appearing in the "background" of the photo - a composite of images of different wavelengths of light - dates back more than 13 billion years. Sri Lanka economic crisis: Parliament to elect new president on July 20 Sri Lankan parliamentary speaker said on Monday (July 11) that the country's parliament will reconvene on July 15 and a new president will be elected on July 20. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is planning to resign on Wednesday as the South Asian nation continues to face its worse economic crisis. In a statement, speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena said that the nominations for the next president will be presented to parliament on 19 July. On 20 July parliament will vote to elect a new president. United States: Biden heckled during a White House event by Parkland shooting victim's father × South Asia Diary | Bhutan increasing daily tax on tourists ×

Morning news brief: US on Iranian drones to Russia, NASA's images of early Universe, and more

Russian state news agency TASS said that at least seven people were dead in an attack carried out by Ukrainian armed forces on Monday (July 12). As per the report, the attack took place in Russian-held town of Nova Kakhovka in Ukraine's southern Kherson region.

"There are already seven dead for sure and about 60 wounded," TASS quoted Vladimir Leontyev, head of the Russia-installed Kakhovka District military-civilian administration in the Kherson region.

"There are still many people under the rubble - the injured are being taken to the hospital, but many people are blocked in their apartments and houses," Leontyev added.

TASS said that the attack damaged buildings and also led to explosions at fertiliser warehouses in the region.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-says-iran-planning-to-supply-russians-with-uavs-for-ukraine-was-496518">Ukraine war: US says Iran planning to supply Russians with drones</a>

The site contained various goods, including grain, fertilisers, food stuffs and saltpetre, RIA Novosti quotes Leontyev as saying.

Reuters said that it could not immediately verify the reports.

Ukrainian officials said their forces had destroyed an ammunition depot in Nova Kakhovka. Serhiy Bratchuk, Odesa administration spokesperson, wrote on his Telegram channel that Nova Kakhovka was now "minus" its ammunition warehouse.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. Russian President Vladmir Putin calls the invasion a "special military operation'. It said that it wanted to demilitarise Ukraine and get rid of dangerous nationalist elements. Ukraine and the West regards the invasion as an imperial land grab.

Ukraine says Russian forces have targeted civilians since the start of what Moscow calls its "special military operation" leaving cities, towns and villages in ruins, but Moscow rejects the charge and in turn says Ukrainians are responsible for civilians' deaths.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian state news agency TASS said that at least seven people were dead in an attack carried out by Ukrainian armed forces on Monday (July 12). As per the report, the attack took place in Russian-held town of Nova Kakhovka in Ukraine's southern Kherson region.

Russian state news agency TASS said that at least seven people were dead in an attack carried out by Ukrainian armed forces on Monday (July 12). As per the report, the attack took place in Russian-held town of Nova Kakhovka in Ukraine's southern Kherson region. "There are already seven dead for sure and about 60 wounded," TASS quoted Vladimir Leontyev, head of the Russia-installed Kakhovka District military-civilian administration in the Kherson region. "There are still many people under the rubble - the injured are being taken to the hospital, but many people are blocked in their apartments and houses," Leontyev added. TASS said that the attack damaged buildings and also led to explosions at fertiliser warehouses in the region. Also Read | Ukraine war: US says Iran planning to supply Russians with drones The site contained various goods, including grain, fertilisers, food stuffs and saltpetre, RIA Novosti quotes Leontyev as saying. Reuters said that it could not immediately verify the reports. Ukrainian officials said their forces had destroyed an ammunition depot in Nova Kakhovka. Serhiy Bratchuk, Odesa administration spokesperson, wrote on his Telegram channel that Nova Kakhovka was now "minus" its ammunition warehouse. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24. Russian President Vladmir Putin calls the invasion a "special military operation'. It said that it wanted to demilitarise Ukraine and get rid of dangerous nationalist elements. Ukraine and the West regards the invasion as an imperial land grab. Ukraine says Russian forces have targeted civilians since the start of what Moscow calls its "special military operation" leaving cities, towns and villages in ruins, but Moscow rejects the charge and in turn says Ukrainians are responsible for civilians' deaths. (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 ×

Ukraine strike on Russian-held town kills seven: Russian news agency

Athletes from Russia and Belarus may not be allowed to compete at the Paris 2024 Games over Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Craig Reedie said. The IOC issued guidance to sports governing bodies in February to remove the two countries` athletes from competition. Belarus has been used as a staging ground for Russia`s invasion, which Moscow calls a "special military operation".

"A decision is going to have to be taken on what happens to each of these two countries, and my guess is that the general feeling would be that they should not qualify," former IOC vice-president Reedie told British media.

"Most people are struggling with how we could achieve some degree of representation, but at the moment, there is no clear way to do it. Therefore, you maintain the status quo."

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-i-need-roger-federer-hints-at-calling-it-quits-after-skipping-wimbledon-2022-496682">&nbsp;'Don't think I need....' - Roger Federer hints at calling it quits after skipping Wimbledon 2022</a>

Athletes will miss qualification events for Paris as a result of the measures, and IOC President Thomas Bach said in May that Russia`s participation was unclear. It has, however, not sanctioned or banned Russian members who sit on the IOC from taking part in Olympic meetings and has also not sanctioned the Russian Olympic Committee.

Of the sports on the Olympic programme, only cycling, tennis and judo have allowed Russians and Belarusians to continue to compete but Reedie said he doubted even athletes from those sports would be permitted to participate in qualifying events.

Reedie, former president of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), said it would be unrealistic to allow athletes to enter qualifying competitions once they have begun.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-should-be-ashamed-vettel-hamilton-slam-racist-crowd-after-fans-face-abuse-during-austrian-gp-496644">'They should be ashamed': Vettel, Hamilton slam racist crowd after fans face abuse during Austrian GP</a>

"It`s quite difficult halfway through to say, `All of you who have now qualified we`ve changed the rules`," Reedie said.

"So there`s a real issue for the federations, who have a clear instruction which they`ve agreed to that they won`t invite Russians and Belarusians to take part in events.

"On the face of it, it`s unlikely that anybody would qualify other than those three sports which don`t do it that way. And will they be able to qualify (from those three sports)? I`m not sure."

A Russian doping scandal, involving revelations of a state-backed system across many sports, following the Sochi 2014 Olympics led to Russian athletes competing as neutrals at the Games as part of IOC sanctions.

Athletes from Russia and Belarus may not be allowed to compete at the Paris 2024 Games over Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Craig Reedie said.

Athletes from Russia and Belarus may not be allowed to compete at the Paris 2024 Games over Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Craig Reedie said. The IOC issued guidance to sports governing bodies in February to remove the two countries` athletes from competition. Belarus has been used as a staging ground for Russia`s invasion, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". "A decision is going to have to be taken on what happens to each of these two countries, and my guess is that the general feeling would be that they should not qualify," former IOC vice-president Reedie told British media. "Most people are struggling with how we could achieve some degree of representation, but at the moment, there is no clear way to do it. Therefore, you maintain the status quo." Also Read: 'Don't think I need....' - Roger Federer hints at calling it quits after skipping Wimbledon 2022 Athletes will miss qualification events for Paris as a result of the measures, and IOC President Thomas Bach said in May that Russia`s participation was unclear. It has, however, not sanctioned or banned Russian members who sit on the IOC from taking part in Olympic meetings and has also not sanctioned the Russian Olympic Committee. Of the sports on the Olympic programme, only cycling, tennis and judo have allowed Russians and Belarusians to continue to compete but Reedie said he doubted even athletes from those sports would be permitted to participate in qualifying events. Reedie, former president of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), said it would be unrealistic to allow athletes to enter qualifying competitions once they have begun. Also Read: 'They should be ashamed': Vettel, Hamilton slam racist crowd after fans face abuse during Austrian GP "It`s quite difficult halfway through to say, `All of you who have now qualified we`ve changed the rules`," Reedie said. "So there`s a real issue for the federations, who have a clear instruction which they`ve agreed to that they won`t invite Russians and Belarusians to take part in events. "On the face of it, it`s unlikely that anybody would qualify other than those three sports which don`t do it that way. And will they be able to qualify (from those three sports)? I`m not sure." A Russian doping scandal, involving revelations of a state-backed system across many sports, following the Sochi 2014 Olympics led to Russian athletes competing as neutrals at the Games as part of IOC sanctions.

Russia, Belarus athletes may face ban at Paris Olympics 2024, says IOC member Craig Reedie

Amid fears of gas shortages with Russia curbing capacity, Germany's two houses of Parliament have taken the "painful but necessary" decision to reactivate the country's coal-fired power plants in order to support electricity generation reports the Guardian. This is a major setback to Germany's plans to phase out carbon-intensive coal by 2030. Environmental campaigners argue that this move to use the highly polluting form of energy is a compromise too far, given that the country already rusks missing even the most basic climate targets it had set. Some argue that with&nbsp;Berlin hugely dependent on gas supplies from Russia what can the nation do, but restart the "mothballed" coal power plants.

Watch |&nbsp;Vladimir Putin signs a new decree as Russia takes over the Sakhalin gas project

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Since the Russian aggression on Ukraine started in February of this year, Gas has become an even more volatile commodity than before.&nbsp;Given the Western sanction on it, Russia is pushing back by reducing the flow of its exports. Germany, which is highly dependent on Moscow's supplies says it had to take this step to restart coal power plants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-european-countries-open-new-pipeline-to-achieve-energy-independence-495629" hreflang="en">Ukraine crisis: European countries open new pipeline to achieve energy independence</a>

By utilising coal to make power instead of gas, which must be saved for a variety of industrial activities, these steps intend to gradually wean Germany off Russian gas and reduce its vulnerability to blackmail. It&nbsp;also aims&nbsp;to keep energy supplies at a steady level before winter.

The government's environmentalist minister of economy, Robert Habeck, referred to the German parliament's action as "painful but necessary."&nbsp;&nbsp;The coalition government's leading&nbsp;Greens also&nbsp;support it, arguing that it is necessary as a short-term crisis management measure.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vetoes-united-nations-resolution-extending-cross-border-aid-to-syria-495707" hreflang="en">Russia vetoes United Nations resolution extending cross-border aid to Syria</a>

As per the Guardian report business leaders have applauded the action. The Federation of German Industries (BDI) referred to the decision as "better late than never" in a statement.

When the war started, Germany's gas storage tanks were only around one-third filled. After&nbsp;efforts to acquire supplies from other sources, and&nbsp;in spite of cost-cutting measures they on Friday stood at around 63 per cent capacity. However, they are still a long way from the 90 per cent target set for 1 November, which experts say should be enough to get Germany through the winter.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid fears of gas shortages with Russia curbing capacity, Germany's two houses of Parliament have taken the "painful but necessary" decision to reactivate the country's coal-fired power plants in order to support electricity generation reports the Guardian.

Amid fears of gas shortages with Russia curbing capacity, Germany's two houses of Parliament have taken the "painful but necessary" decision to reactivate the country's coal-fired power plants in order to support electricity generation reports the Guardian. This is a major setback to Germany's plans to phase out carbon-intensive coal by 2030. Environmental campaigners argue that this move to use the highly polluting form of energy is a compromise too far, given that the country already rusks missing even the most basic climate targets it had set. Some argue that with Berlin hugely dependent on gas supplies from Russia what can the nation do, but restart the "mothballed" coal power plants. Watch | Vladimir Putin signs a new decree as Russia takes over the Sakhalin gas project Since the Russian aggression on Ukraine started in February of this year, Gas has become an even more volatile commodity than before. Given the Western sanction on it, Russia is pushing back by reducing the flow of its exports. Germany, which is highly dependent on Moscow's supplies says it had to take this step to restart coal power plants. Also read | Ukraine crisis: European countries open new pipeline to achieve energy independence By utilising coal to make power instead of gas, which must be saved for a variety of industrial activities, these steps intend to gradually wean Germany off Russian gas and reduce its vulnerability to blackmail. It also aims to keep energy supplies at a steady level before winter. The government's environmentalist minister of economy, Robert Habeck, referred to the German parliament's action as "painful but necessary." The coalition government's leading Greens also support it, arguing that it is necessary as a short-term crisis management measure. Also read | Russia vetoes United Nations resolution extending cross-border aid to Syria As per the Guardian report business leaders have applauded the action. The Federation of German Industries (BDI) referred to the decision as "better late than never" in a statement. When the war started, Germany's gas storage tanks were only around one-third filled. After efforts to acquire supplies from other sources, and in spite of cost-cutting measures they on Friday stood at around 63 per cent capacity. However, they are still a long way from the 90 per cent target set for 1 November, which experts say should be enough to get Germany through the winter. (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.

A compromise too far? As Russia curbs gas flow, Germany restarts its coal power plants to avoid blackmail

Ukrainian defenders battled on Saturday to contain Russian forces along several fronts, officials said, as the United States pressed China to align itself with the West in opposing the invasion following an ill-tempered G20 meeting.

A missile strike on the northeastern city of Kharkiv wounded three civilians, its governor said, though Russia's main attacks appeared focused southeast of there in Luhansk and Donetsk.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pledges-to-send-400-million-in-weapons-to-ukraine-including-more-himars-systems-495716">US pledges to send $400 million in weapons to Ukraine, including more HIMARS systems</a>

The two provinces, swathes of which were already held by pro-Russian separatists before Russia's invasion in February, comprise the eastern industrial region of the Donbas.

Ukrainian officials reported strikes in both on Saturday, while Britain's Ministry of Defence said in a regular bulletin that Moscow was assembling reserve forces from across Russia near Ukraine.

Donetsk regional Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on the Telegram messaging service that a Russian missile had struck Druzhkivka, a town behind the front line, and reported shelling of other population centres.

Luhansk Governor Serhiy Gaidai said on Telegram that Russian forces were "firing along the entire front line", but later said a Ukrainian counter-attack had hit Russian weapons and ammunition stores and forced Moscow to halt its offensive.

Russia, which claimed control over all of Luhansk province last weekend, denies targeting civilians.

Watch |&nbsp;No end to the Ukraine-Russia war in sight as Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Dnipro

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On Friday, Ukraine had pleaded for more of the high-end weapons from the West that Kyiv said had thus far enabled it to slow Russia's advance.

Hours later, US&nbsp;President Joe Biden signed a new weapons package for Ukraine worth up to 400 million dollars, including four additional high mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS).&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for armaments he said were priority needs. "It is what helps us press on the enemy", he said on Twitter.

Commenting on the supply of weapons, the Russian embassy in Washington said the United States wanted to "prolong the conflict at all costs" and compensate for Ukrainian military losses.

<h2>"SANCTIONS MUST BE STEPPED UP"</h2>

On Saturday US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging the international community to condemn Russian aggression, said he had raised concerns with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, over Beijing's alignment with Moscow, during talks that lasted over five hours.

Blinken spoke to journalists from the Indonesian island of Bali after a gathering on Friday of G20 foreign ministers. Russia's Sergei Lavrov had walked out of a meeting there, denouncing the West for its "frenzied criticism".

Shortly before the Feb&nbsp;24 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Beijing and Moscow announced a "no limits" partnership, although US&nbsp;officials have said they have not seen China evade tough U.S.-led sanctions on Russia or provide it with military equipment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-signs-russia-ready-to-engage-after-g20-snub-says-us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-495891">'No signs' Russia ready to engage after G20 snub, says US Secretary of State Antony Blinken</a>

Oleh Synehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, said on Telegram that, as well as the missile strike on the city, fighters had repulsed two Russian attacks near Dementiivka, a town situated between the city and the border with Russia.

Russia's defence ministry said its forces hit two "bases of foreign mercenaries deployed near Kharkiv".

Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov also said two Ukrainian Su-25 aircraft had been shot down in the southern Mykolaiv region, and that it had destroyed five ammunition depots there and in the eastern regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk.

Russian-backed forces on the territory of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said three people died and 17 were wounded there in the past 24 hours. It said Ukrainian forces had shelled 10 locations in the region.

<h2>SANCTIONS PLEA</h2>

Following Friday's testy G20 meeting, President Vladimir Putin also signalled that the Kremlin was in no mood for compromise, saying sanctions against Russia risked causing "catastrophic" energy price rises.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Saturday that sanctions were working, and echoed calls for more deliveries of high-precision Western weapons.

"Russians desperately try to lift those sanctions which proves that they do hurt them. Therefore, sanctions must be stepped up until Putin drops his aggressive plans or simply loses resources to fill or execute them", he told a forum in Dubrovnik by videolink.

Russia's ambassador to Britain, Andrei Kelin, on Friday offered little prospect of a pullback from parts of Ukraine under Russian control and said Russian troops would capture the rest of Donbas.

Russia, which has also seized a big chunk of territory across Ukraine's south, says it wants to wrest control of the Donbas.

Since Russia started what it calls a special operation to demilitarize Ukraine, cities have been bombed to rubble, thousands have been killed, and millions displaced.

Ukraine and its Western allies say Russia is engaged in an unprovoked land grab.

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Ukrainian defenders battled on Saturday to contain Russian forces along several fronts, officials said, as the United States pressed China to align itself with the West in opposing the invasion following an ill-tempered G20 meeting.

Ukrainian defenders battled on Saturday to contain Russian forces along several fronts, officials said, as the United States pressed China to align itself with the West in opposing the invasion following an ill-tempered G20 meeting. A missile strike on the northeastern city of Kharkiv wounded three civilians, its governor said, though Russia's main attacks appeared focused southeast of there in Luhansk and Donetsk. Also read | US pledges to send $400 million in weapons to Ukraine, including more HIMARS systems The two provinces, swathes of which were already held by pro-Russian separatists before Russia's invasion in February, comprise the eastern industrial region of the Donbas. Ukrainian officials reported strikes in both on Saturday, while Britain's Ministry of Defence said in a regular bulletin that Moscow was assembling reserve forces from across Russia near Ukraine. Donetsk regional Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said on the Telegram messaging service that a Russian missile had struck Druzhkivka, a town behind the front line, and reported shelling of other population centres. Luhansk Governor Serhiy Gaidai said on Telegram that Russian forces were "firing along the entire front line", but later said a Ukrainian counter-attack had hit Russian weapons and ammunition stores and forced Moscow to halt its offensive. Russia, which claimed control over all of Luhansk province last weekend, denies targeting civilians. Watch | No end to the Ukraine-Russia war in sight as Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Dnipro On Friday, Ukraine had pleaded for more of the high-end weapons from the West that Kyiv said had thus far enabled it to slow Russia's advance. Hours later, US President Joe Biden signed a new weapons package for Ukraine worth up to 400 million dollars, including four additional high mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for armaments he said were priority needs. "It is what helps us press on the enemy", he said on Twitter. Commenting on the supply of weapons, the Russian embassy in Washington said the United States wanted to "prolong the conflict at all costs" and compensate for Ukrainian military losses. "SANCTIONS MUST BE STEPPED UP" On Saturday US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging the international community to condemn Russian aggression, said he had raised concerns with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, over Beijing's alignment with Moscow, during talks that lasted over five hours. Blinken spoke to journalists from the Indonesian island of Bali after a gathering on Friday of G20 foreign ministers. Russia's Sergei Lavrov had walked out of a meeting there, denouncing the West for its "frenzied criticism". Shortly before the Feb 24 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Beijing and Moscow announced a "no limits" partnership, although US officials have said they have not seen China evade tough U.S.-led sanctions on Russia or provide it with military equipment. Also read | 'No signs' Russia ready to engage after G20 snub, says US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Oleh Synehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, said on Telegram that, as well as the missile strike on the city, fighters had repulsed two Russian attacks near Dementiivka, a town situated between the city and the border with Russia. Russia's defence ministry said its forces hit two "bases of foreign mercenaries deployed near Kharkiv". Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov also said two Ukrainian Su-25 aircraft had been shot down in the southern Mykolaiv region, and that it had destroyed five ammunition depots there and in the eastern regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk. Russian-backed forces on the territory of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said three people died and 17 were wounded there in the past 24 hours. It said Ukrainian forces had shelled 10 locations in the region. SANCTIONS PLEA Following Friday's testy G20 meeting, President Vladimir Putin also signalled that the Kremlin was in no mood for compromise, saying sanctions against Russia risked causing "catastrophic" energy price rises. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Saturday that sanctions were working, and echoed calls for more deliveries of high-precision Western weapons. "Russians desperately try to lift those sanctions which proves that they do hurt them. Therefore, sanctions must be stepped up until Putin drops his aggressive plans or simply loses resources to fill or execute them", he told a forum in Dubrovnik by videolink. Russia's ambassador to Britain, Andrei Kelin, on Friday offered little prospect of a pullback from parts of Ukraine under Russian control and said Russian troops would capture the rest of Donbas. Russia, which has also seized a big chunk of territory across Ukraine's south, says it wants to wrest control of the Donbas. Since Russia started what it calls a special operation to demilitarize Ukraine, cities have been bombed to rubble, thousands have been killed, and millions displaced. Ukraine and its Western allies say Russia is engaged in an unprovoked land grab. 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 threatens broad Ukraine offensive as US presses China over war stance

A billboard saying "Alaska is Ours" has been spotted in Russia's Krasnoyarsk, a day after a key ally of President Putin said that the country could reclaim Alaska sold to the United States in 1867.&nbsp;

According to a report in Newsweek, the residents of Krasnoyarsk were surprised after spotting the billboards across the city on Thursday. But they do not appear to have been placed by the Russian government.

Dr Ian Garner, a Russian media watcher, tweets, “Alaska is Ours! As spotted in Krasnoyarsk. They’ve gone totally mad."

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“Alaska is Ours!” As spotted in Krasnoyarsk. They’ve gone totally mad. <a href="https://t.co/JoHCs5qZOO">pic.twitter.com/JoHCs5qZOO</a>
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&nbsp;

Alaska was once part of Russia. On March 30, 1867, the United States reached an agreement to purchase Alaska from Russia for a price of $7.2 million, according to the US Library of Congress.

The threatening billboards appear just a day after Mr Putin's ally and speaker of Russia's lower house of Parliament Duma Vyacheslav Volodin suggested that Moscow could "take back" Alaska in retaliation for economic sanctions imposed by the West following the country's invasion of Ukraine.

On Wednesday, Volodin and another top Russian official reportedly warned that sanctions imposed on Russia by the U.S. and other Western countries over the Ukraine war could lead to direct military conflicts including a potential invasion of Alaska.

State Department spokesman Ned Price said that Blinken would not meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of G20. Blinken last saw Lavrov in January in Geneva, where the top US diplomat warned Russia of massive consequences if it went ahead and invaded Ukraine.

Walking a tight rope as G20 host, Indonesia has not rescinded invitations to Russia, with President Vladimir Putin saying he will attend the summit in November -- but it has also invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

(with inputs from agencies)

A billboard saying "Alaska is Ours" has been spotted in Russia's Krasnoyarsk, a day after a key ally of President Putin said that the country could reclaim Alaska sold to the United States in 1867.

A billboard saying "Alaska is Ours" has been spotted in Russia's Krasnoyarsk, a day after a key ally of President Putin said that the country could reclaim Alaska sold to the United States in 1867. According to a report in Newsweek, the residents of Krasnoyarsk were surprised after spotting the billboards across the city on Thursday. But they do not appear to have been placed by the Russian government. Dr Ian Garner, a Russian media watcher, tweets, “Alaska is Ours! As spotted in Krasnoyarsk. They’ve gone totally mad." “Alaska is Ours!” As spotted in Krasnoyarsk. They’ve gone totally mad. pic.twitter.com/JoHCs5qZOO — Dr. Ian Garner (@irgarner) July 7, 2022 × Alaska was once part of Russia. On March 30, 1867, the United States reached an agreement to purchase Alaska from Russia for a price of $7.2 million, according to the US Library of Congress. The threatening billboards appear just a day after Mr Putin's ally and speaker of Russia's lower house of Parliament Duma Vyacheslav Volodin suggested that Moscow could "take back" Alaska in retaliation for economic sanctions imposed by the West following the country's invasion of Ukraine. On Wednesday, Volodin and another top Russian official reportedly warned that sanctions imposed on Russia by the U.S. and other Western countries over the Ukraine war could lead to direct military conflicts including a potential invasion of Alaska. State Department spokesman Ned Price said that Blinken would not meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of G20. Blinken last saw Lavrov in January in Geneva, where the top US diplomat warned Russia of massive consequences if it went ahead and invaded Ukraine. Walking a tight rope as G20 host, Indonesia has not rescinded invitations to Russia, with President Vladimir Putin saying he will attend the summit in November -- but it has also invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. (with inputs from agencies)

'Alaska is Ours' billboard spotted in Russia, here's what netizens had to say

Japan protested to China on Monday (July 4) over a Chinese Navy ship that was reportedly cruising close to certain disputed islands, according to a Japanese official. The Senkaku and Diaoyu islet in the East China Sea are the subject of a dispute between Japan and China. Tokyo refers to them as the Senkaku, while Beijing refers tot them as the Diaoyu. A Chinese navy vessel “was detected entering Japan’s contiguous waters” southwest of one of the Tokyo-controlled islands at roughly 7:44 am on same day, as per the official statement, reported by AFP.

Furthermore, as per Japanese media, a Russian navy vessel was also seen on Monday (July 4), in the disputed islands.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-controlling-global-media-and-no-one-is-noticing-494632">China is controlling global media and no one is noticing</a>

In conversation with reporters, deputy chief cabinet secretary Seiji Kihara said, “We expressed grave concerns and lodged our protest to the Chinese side through a diplomatic route, and urged them to prevent a repeat" similar instances. He further added that according to history, the Islands belong to Japan.

However, in response to Kihara’s statement, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said the Islands are “China’s inherent territory,” and the activities are “legitimate and legal.”

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: World's biggest drill to contain China

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Japan is developing hypersonic missiles and the Japanese defence ministry will conduct a flying test later this month so that it can dictate the chances of a warfare.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-issues-first-energy-shortage-warning-amid-soaring-temperatures-492553">Japan issues first 'energy shortage warning' amid soaring temperatures</a>

In May, Chinese and Russian fighter jets flew together over the East Asia nation while the leaders of Quad alliance, which consist of US, India, Australia, and Japan met in Tokyo. Despite the fact that the aircraft did not violate any territorial airspace Japan referred to the action as “proactive” because it took place during the leaders’ conference.&nbsp;

However, Beijing claimed that this was a part of the “annual military cooperation plan” between Russia and China.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Japan protested to China on Monday (July 4) over a Chinese Navy ship that was reportedly cruising close to certain disputed islands, according to a Japanese official.

Japan protested to China on Monday (July 4) over a Chinese Navy ship that was reportedly cruising close to certain disputed islands, according to a Japanese official. The Senkaku and Diaoyu islet in the East China Sea are the subject of a dispute between Japan and China. Tokyo refers to them as the Senkaku, while Beijing refers tot them as the Diaoyu. A Chinese navy vessel “was detected entering Japan’s contiguous waters” southwest of one of the Tokyo-controlled islands at roughly 7:44 am on same day, as per the official statement, reported by AFP. Furthermore, as per Japanese media, a Russian navy vessel was also seen on Monday (July 4), in the disputed islands. Also read | China is controlling global media and no one is noticing In conversation with reporters, deputy chief cabinet secretary Seiji Kihara said, “We expressed grave concerns and lodged our protest to the Chinese side through a diplomatic route, and urged them to prevent a repeat" similar instances. He further added that according to history, the Islands belong to Japan. However, in response to Kihara’s statement, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said the Islands are “China’s inherent territory,” and the activities are “legitimate and legal.” Watch | Gravitas: World's biggest drill to contain China Japan is developing hypersonic missiles and the Japanese defence ministry will conduct a flying test later this month so that it can dictate the chances of a warfare. Also read | Japan issues first 'energy shortage warning' amid soaring temperatures In May, Chinese and Russian fighter jets flew together over the East Asia nation while the leaders of Quad alliance, which consist of US, India, Australia, and Japan met in Tokyo. Despite the fact that the aircraft did not violate any territorial airspace Japan referred to the action as “proactive” because it took place during the leaders’ conference. However, Beijing claimed that this was a part of the “annual military cooperation plan” between Russia and China. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan opposes Chinese navy’s approach to the disputed islands

Russian parliament on Tuesday (July 5) gave their initial approval to two bills authorising the government to ask businesses in Russia to supply the military with goods. These bills may&nbsp;also make their employees work overtime to support Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 and has control over Luhansk region in Ukraine's east. Russia calls its invasion of Ukraine a "special military operation'. The invasion has resulted in Western countries imposing sanctions on Russia with an aim to cripple Russian economy.

One of the bills -- approved in a first reading by the State Duma, the lower house of parliament -- said the state could impose "special economic measures" during military operations, requiring firms to supply goods and services to the military at the demand of the Russian government.

Watch | Russian shelling continues in Kharkiv, Putin declares victory in Luhansk

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Attached to the bill is an explanatory note that says that Russian military needed new material and weapons repairs to pursue its Ukraine campaign

"The need to promptly meet these requirements, especially in the context of sanctions against Russia and Russian legal entities, will require us to temporarily focus our efforts on certain sectors of the economy (...) and organise the supply of resources through state defence procurement," the note said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fight-on-putin-tells-russian-troops-after-capture-of-luhansk-494427">Fight on, Vladimir Putin tells Russian troops after capture of Luhansk</a>

This could mean the government could compel employees of businesses providing goods to the military to work at night, on weekends and holidays, and without annual leave.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-military-raises-national-flag-in-snake-island-after-russian-retreat-494470">Ukrainian military raises national flag in Snake Island after Russian retreat</a>

Both bills were introduced to the State Duma by the Russian government. They still need to undergo second and third readings, be reviewed by the upper house of parliament and be signed by President Vladimir Putin to become law.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian parliament on Tuesday (July 5) gave their initial approval to two bills authorising the government to ask businesses in Russia to supply the military with goods.

Russian parliament on Tuesday (July 5) gave their initial approval to two bills authorising the government to ask businesses in Russia to supply the military with goods. These bills may also make their employees work overtime to support Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 and has control over Luhansk region in Ukraine's east. Russia calls its invasion of Ukraine a "special military operation'. The invasion has resulted in Western countries imposing sanctions on Russia with an aim to cripple Russian economy. One of the bills -- approved in a first reading by the State Duma, the lower house of parliament -- said the state could impose "special economic measures" during military operations, requiring firms to supply goods and services to the military at the demand of the Russian government. Watch | Russian shelling continues in Kharkiv, Putin declares victory in Luhansk × Attached to the bill is an explanatory note that says that Russian military needed new material and weapons repairs to pursue its Ukraine campaign "The need to promptly meet these requirements, especially in the context of sanctions against Russia and Russian legal entities, will require us to temporarily focus our efforts on certain sectors of the economy (...) and organise the supply of resources through state defence procurement," the note said. Also Read | Fight on, Vladimir Putin tells Russian troops after capture of Luhansk This could mean the government could compel employees of businesses providing goods to the military to work at night, on weekends and holidays, and without annual leave. Also Read | Ukrainian military raises national flag in Snake Island after Russian retreat Both bills were introduced to the State Duma by the Russian government. They still need to undergo second and third readings, be reviewed by the upper house of parliament and be signed by President Vladimir Putin to become 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 ×

Russian parliament gives initial approval to laws for a war economy

Are the sanctions against Russia useful? Yes, they are already hitting Vladimir Putin and his accomplices hard, and their effects on the Russian economy will increase over time. Since Russia deliberately violated international law by invading Ukraine, the EU has adopted six packages of sanctions against Moscow. Our measures now target nearly 1,200 individuals and 98 entities in Russia, as well as a significant number of sectors of the Russian economy. These sanctions were adopted in coordination with the G7 members. Their effectiveness is enhanced by the fact that over forty other countries (including traditionally neutral countries) have adopted them or taken similar measures.

By the end of 2022, we will have reduced our Russian oil imports by 90%, and we are rapidly reducing our gas imports as well. These decisions are gradually freeing us from a dependence that has long inhibited our political choices in the face of Vladimir Putin's aggressiveness. He probably believed that Europe would not dare to engage in sanctions because of its energy dependence. This is not the most insignificant of the Russian regime's many miscalculations during this conflict. Of course, weaning ourselves off Russian energy so rapidly also creates serious difficulties for many EU countries and for several economic sectors. But this is the price we have to pay for defending our democracies and international law, and we are taking the necessary steps to deal with these problems in full solidarity.&nbsp;

Some may ask, Do these sanctions really have an impact on the Russian economy? The simple answer is yes. Although Russia exports a lot of raw materials, it also has no choice but to import many high value-added products that it does not manufacture. For all advanced technologies, it is 45% dependent on Europe and 21% on the United States, compared with only 11% on China.

In the military field, which is crucial in the context of the war in Ukraine, the sanctions limit Russia's capacity to produce precision missiles such as the Iskander or the KH 101. Almost all foreign car manufacturers have also decided to withdraw from Russia, and the few cars produced by Russian manufacturers will be sold without airbags or automatic transmission.

The oil industry is suffering not only from the departure of foreign operators but also from the difficulty of accessing advanced technologies such as horizontal drilling. The ability of the Russian industry to bring new wells on stream is likely to be limited. Finally, in order to maintain air traffic, Russia will have to withdraw a majority of its aircraft from circulation in order to recover the spare parts needed to allow the others to fly. Added to this, there is also the loss of access to financial markets, being disconnected from major global research networks and a massive brain drain.

As for the alternative offered by China to the Russian economy, in reality, it remains limited, especially for high-tech products. To date, the Chinese government, which is very dependent on its exports to developed countries, has not assisted Russia in circumventing Western sanctions. Chinese exports to Russia have fallen in line with those of Western countries.

Will these significant and growing impacts lead Vladimir Putin to modify his strategic calculations? Probably not in the immediate future, since his actions are not guided primarily by economic logic. However, by forcing him to choose either butter or guns, the sanctions lock him in a vice that is gradually tightening.

Regarding the impact of these sanctions on third countries, particularly African countries, which depend on Russian and Ukrainian wheat and fertilisers, where responsibility lies in terms of the food crisis is clear. Our sanctions do not, in any shape or form, target Russian wheat or fertiliser exports while Ukraine is prevented from exporting its wheat by the Black Sea blockade and destruction caused by Russian aggression. If such issues linked to our sanctions were to arise, we are ready to put in place the appropriate mechanisms to address them. I have informed my African counterparts of this and asked them not to be fooled by the Russian authorities' untruths regarding our sanctions.

The real answer to the difficulties in the world energy and food markets is an end to the war. This cannot be achieved by accepting the Russian diktat, it can only be achieved by Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine. Respect for the territorial integrity of states and the non-use of force are not Western or European principles. They are the basis of all international law. Russia is blithely trampling on them. To accept such a violation would open the door to the law of the jungle on a global scale.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Contrary to what we thought rather naively just a few years ago, economic interdependence does not automatically imply a pacification of international relations. This is why the transition to a Europe as a power, which I have been calling for since the beginning of my mandate, is imperative. Faced with the invasion of Ukraine, we have begun to move from intention to action by showing that, when provoked, Europe can respond. Since we do not want to go to war with Russia, economic sanctions are now at the core of this response. They are already beginning to have an effect and will do so even more in the coming months.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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Are the sanctions against Russia useful? Yes, they are already hitting Vladimir Putin and his accomplices hard, and their effects on the Russian economy will increase over time.

Are the sanctions against Russia useful? Yes, they are already hitting Vladimir Putin and his accomplices hard, and their effects on the Russian economy will increase over time. Since Russia deliberately violated international law by invading Ukraine, the EU has adopted six packages of sanctions against Moscow. Our measures now target nearly 1,200 individuals and 98 entities in Russia, as well as a significant number of sectors of the Russian economy. These sanctions were adopted in coordination with the G7 members. Their effectiveness is enhanced by the fact that over forty other countries (including traditionally neutral countries) have adopted them or taken similar measures. By the end of 2022, we will have reduced our Russian oil imports by 90%, and we are rapidly reducing our gas imports as well. These decisions are gradually freeing us from a dependence that has long inhibited our political choices in the face of Vladimir Putin's aggressiveness. He probably believed that Europe would not dare to engage in sanctions because of its energy dependence. This is not the most insignificant of the Russian regime's many miscalculations during this conflict. Of course, weaning ourselves off Russian energy so rapidly also creates serious difficulties for many EU countries and for several economic sectors. But this is the price we have to pay for defending our democracies and international law, and we are taking the necessary steps to deal with these problems in full solidarity. Some may ask, Do these sanctions really have an impact on the Russian economy? The simple answer is yes. Although Russia exports a lot of raw materials, it also has no choice but to import many high value-added products that it does not manufacture. For all advanced technologies, it is 45% dependent on Europe and 21% on the United States, compared with only 11% on China. In the military field, which is crucial in the context of the war in Ukraine, the sanctions limit Russia's capacity to produce precision missiles such as the Iskander or the KH 101. Almost all foreign car manufacturers have also decided to withdraw from Russia, and the few cars produced by Russian manufacturers will be sold without airbags or automatic transmission. The oil industry is suffering not only from the departure of foreign operators but also from the difficulty of accessing advanced technologies such as horizontal drilling. The ability of the Russian industry to bring new wells on stream is likely to be limited. Finally, in order to maintain air traffic, Russia will have to withdraw a majority of its aircraft from circulation in order to recover the spare parts needed to allow the others to fly. Added to this, there is also the loss of access to financial markets, being disconnected from major global research networks and a massive brain drain. As for the alternative offered by China to the Russian economy, in reality, it remains limited, especially for high-tech products. To date, the Chinese government, which is very dependent on its exports to developed countries, has not assisted Russia in circumventing Western sanctions. Chinese exports to Russia have fallen in line with those of Western countries. Will these significant and growing impacts lead Vladimir Putin to modify his strategic calculations? Probably not in the immediate future, since his actions are not guided primarily by economic logic. However, by forcing him to choose either butter or guns, the sanctions lock him in a vice that is gradually tightening. Regarding the impact of these sanctions on third countries, particularly African countries, which depend on Russian and Ukrainian wheat and fertilisers, where responsibility lies in terms of the food crisis is clear. Our sanctions do not, in any shape or form, target Russian wheat or fertiliser exports while Ukraine is prevented from exporting its wheat by the Black Sea blockade and destruction caused by Russian aggression. If such issues linked to our sanctions were to arise, we are ready to put in place the appropriate mechanisms to address them. I have informed my African counterparts of this and asked them not to be fooled by the Russian authorities' untruths regarding our sanctions. The real answer to the difficulties in the world energy and food markets is an end to the war. This cannot be achieved by accepting the Russian diktat, it can only be achieved by Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine. Respect for the territorial integrity of states and the non-use of force are not Western or European principles. They are the basis of all international law. Russia is blithely trampling on them. To accept such a violation would open the door to the law of the jungle on a global scale. Contrary to what we thought rather naively just a few years ago, economic interdependence does not automatically imply a pacification of international relations. This is why the transition to a Europe as a power, which I have been calling for since the beginning of my mandate, is imperative. Faced with the invasion of Ukraine, we have begun to move from intention to action by showing that, when provoked, Europe can respond. Since we do not want to go to war with Russia, economic sanctions are now at the core of this response. They are already beginning to have an effect and will do so even more in the coming months. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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.

Moscow will have to choose either butter or guns, EU foreign policy chief writes for WION

Wimbledon organisers and Britain`s tennis authorities said on Monday they have appealed against fines handed to them by the women`s governing body, WTA, for excluding Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s grasscourt events.

The All England Club (AELTC), which organises the Grand Slam, and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) banned players from the two countries at tournaments in Britain following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`.

The WTA and its men`s counterpart ATP called the move discriminatory and decided to strip all ranking points from Wimbledon while warning the LTA of sanctions. As part of the penalties, the LTA was slapped with a fine of £620,000 (about $753,000) while the AELTC has been asked to pay £207,000 ($250,000), the Daily Mail reported.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-i-have-to-say-that-i-was-wrong-rafael-nadal-on-calling-lorenzo-sonego-to-net-494327">Wimbledon -&nbsp;'I have to say that I was wrong' - Rafael Nadal on calling Lorenzo Sonego to net</a>

"I think the first thing to say is that it is the subject of a legal process so I can`t comment specifically on that," AELTC CEO Sally Bolton told reporters at Wimbledon on Monday.

"We stand by the decision we made, we are deeply disappointed at the reactions of the tours to that decision and I probably can`t say anything more on that at this time, I`m afraid."

Bolton confirmed that the AELTC has appealed against the fine while an LTA source said it has done the same. 
The WTA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The world governing bodies of tennis have themselves banned Russia and Ukraine from team events but individual athletes are allowed to compete in tournaments as neutrals.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-hope-i-can-come-back-roger-federer-hints-at-wimbledon-return-on-surprise-visit-494190">'I hope I can come back': Roger Federer hints at Wimbledon return on surprise visit</a>

The AELTC stand on Russians and Belarussians was the first time players have been excluded on grounds of nationality since the immediate post-World War Two era when German and Japanese players were banned.

"It was an incredibly difficult and challenging decision to make," Bolton said. "It was not one we took lightly. We thought carefully about the ramifications of taking it.

"But it was absolutely the right decision for us. It was the only viable option in the context of the Government guidance in place and we stand by that decision. We accept that others will take a different view, but we absolutely stand by that decision."

Wimbledon organisers and Britain`s tennis authorities said on Monday they have appealed against fines handed to them by the women`s governing body, WTA, for excluding Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s grasscourt events.

Wimbledon organisers and Britain`s tennis authorities said on Monday they have appealed against fines handed to them by the women`s governing body, WTA, for excluding Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s grasscourt events. The All England Club (AELTC), which organises the Grand Slam, and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) banned players from the two countries at tournaments in Britain following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`. The WTA and its men`s counterpart ATP called the move discriminatory and decided to strip all ranking points from Wimbledon while warning the LTA of sanctions. As part of the penalties, the LTA was slapped with a fine of £620,000 (about $753,000) while the AELTC has been asked to pay £207,000 ($250,000), the Daily Mail reported. Also Read: Wimbledon - 'I have to say that I was wrong' - Rafael Nadal on calling Lorenzo Sonego to net "I think the first thing to say is that it is the subject of a legal process so I can`t comment specifically on that," AELTC CEO Sally Bolton told reporters at Wimbledon on Monday. "We stand by the decision we made, we are deeply disappointed at the reactions of the tours to that decision and I probably can`t say anything more on that at this time, I`m afraid." Bolton confirmed that the AELTC has appealed against the fine while an LTA source said it has done the same. The WTA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The world governing bodies of tennis have themselves banned Russia and Ukraine from team events but individual athletes are allowed to compete in tournaments as neutrals. Also Read: 'I hope I can come back': Roger Federer hints at Wimbledon return on surprise visit The AELTC stand on Russians and Belarussians was the first time players have been excluded on grounds of nationality since the immediate post-World War Two era when German and Japanese players were banned. "It was an incredibly difficult and challenging decision to make," Bolton said. "It was not one we took lightly. We thought carefully about the ramifications of taking it. "But it was absolutely the right decision for us. It was the only viable option in the context of the Government guidance in place and we stand by that decision. We accept that others will take a different view, but we absolutely stand by that decision."

Wimbledon, LTA appeal against WTA fines for exclusion of Russian players

Russian cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station celebrated Russia capture of Ukraine's Luhansk region. Control over the region is a significant event for Russia as it invades Ukraine. Russian space agency Roscosmos described capture of Luhansk as "a liberation day to celebrate both on Earth and in space."

The agency posted pictures of cosmonauts Oleg Artemyev, Denis Matveev and Sergei Korsakov smiling as they held up flags of Russia's proxies in eastern Ukraine, the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic and Donetsk People's Republic.

"This is a long-awaited day that the residents of the occupied areas of the Luhansk region had been waiting eight years for," Roscosmos wrote on the Telegram messaging app.

"We are convinced that July 3, 2022, will forever remain in the history of the (Luhansk People's) Republic."

Russia announced on Sunday (July 3) that it had gained full control over Luhansk region. Russia made the announcement after capturing Lysychansk, the last major city in the region previously in Ukrainian hands.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-troops-retreat-from-lysychansk-major-breakthrough-for-russia-494203">Ukraine troops retreat from Lysychansk, major breakthrough for Russia</a>

Soon after Russia's assertion, Ukrainian army said that it had ordered a retreat from the city. It said that this was done to ensure more lives are not lost. Ukraine has vowed to regain the lost territory. It has said that its troops would regroup and launch a counter-offensive with the help of Western long-range weapons.

After being repelled in its initial attempt to capture the capital Kyiv in February, Russia has focused on driving Ukrainian forces out of the eastern Luhansk and Donetsk regions where Moscow-backed separatists have been fighting Kyiv since Russia's first military intervention in Ukraine in 2014.

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Russian cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station celebrated Russia capture of Ukraine's Luhansk region. Control over the region is a significant event for Russia as it invades Ukraine.

Russian cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station celebrated Russia capture of Ukraine's Luhansk region. Control over the region is a significant event for Russia as it invades Ukraine. Russian space agency Roscosmos described capture of Luhansk as "a liberation day to celebrate both on Earth and in space." The agency posted pictures of cosmonauts Oleg Artemyev, Denis Matveev and Sergei Korsakov smiling as they held up flags of Russia's proxies in eastern Ukraine, the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic and Donetsk People's Republic. "This is a long-awaited day that the residents of the occupied areas of the Luhansk region had been waiting eight years for," Roscosmos wrote on the Telegram messaging app. "We are convinced that July 3, 2022, will forever remain in the history of the (Luhansk People's) Republic." Russia announced on Sunday (July 3) that it had gained full control over Luhansk region. Russia made the announcement after capturing Lysychansk, the last major city in the region previously in Ukrainian hands. Also Read | Ukraine troops retreat from Lysychansk, major breakthrough for Russia Soon after Russia's assertion, Ukrainian army said that it had ordered a retreat from the city. It said that this was done to ensure more lives are not lost. Ukraine has vowed to regain the lost territory. It has said that its troops would regroup and launch a counter-offensive with the help of Western long-range weapons. After being repelled in its initial attempt to capture the capital Kyiv in February, Russia has focused on driving Ukrainian forces out of the eastern Luhansk and Donetsk regions where Moscow-backed separatists have been fighting Kyiv since Russia's first military intervention in Ukraine in 2014. 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 cosmonauts celebrate fall of Luhansk in space

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday said that Russia has taken strategic Ukrainian city of Lysychansk and now has control over the entire Luhansk region. Fierce fighting was ongoing between Russia and Ukraine over the region in east Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Sergei Shoigu has informed the commander in chief of the Russian armed forces, Vladimir Putin, of the liberation of the People's Republic of Lugansk," the defence ministry said in a statement quoted by Russian news agencies.

Russian forces and their separatist allies have taken "full control of Lysychansk and other nearby towns, notably Belogorovka, Novodruzhesk, Maloryazantseve and Bila Hora," the statement said.

News agency AFP said that it was unable to independently verify the claims which were made through Russian news outlets.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President volodymyr Zelensky has denied Moscow's claim that Lysychansk had fallen.

"We cannot say today that Lysychansk is under (Russian) control. There is fighting on the outskirts," Zelensky told a press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.&nbsp;

Zelensky warned, however, of "risks" that the Luhansk region, where Lysychansk was the last major city in Ukrainian hands, "will be completely occupied" by Moscow.

A few minutes prior to the announcement, a spokesman for the Russian defence ministry had said that fighting was ongoing in Lysychansk and that Ukrainian forces were "completely" surrounded.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-being-provoked-belarus-intercepted-attempted-missile-strikes-by-ukraine-lukashenko-says-493973">'We are being provoked': Belarus intercepted attempted missile strikes by Ukraine, Lukashenko says</a>

An&nbsp;adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier admitted that the city could fall. Russia already controls Lysychank's sister city Severodonetsk.

Control of Lysychansk can be a shot in the arm for Russia as it attempts to solidify its hold on east Ukraine.

After the Russian invasion of Ukraine started on February 24, Russian forces tried to capture Ukrainian capital Kyiv but were repelled by Ukrainian forces. Russia has since then concentrated its firepower towards gaining control of Donbas region in east Ukraine.

Pro-Russian separatists in the Donbas region have long enjoyed support from Russia. With Lysychansk, list of Russia-controlled cities in Ukrain&nbsp;is steadily growing. Russia already has control on Mariupol and Severodonetsk.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday said that Russia has taken strategic Ukrainian city of Lysychansk and now has control over the entire Luhansk region.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday said that Russia has taken strategic Ukrainian city of Lysychansk and now has control over the entire Luhansk region. Fierce fighting was ongoing between Russia and Ukraine over the region in east Ukraine. "Sergei Shoigu has informed the commander in chief of the Russian armed forces, Vladimir Putin, of the liberation of the People's Republic of Lugansk," the defence ministry said in a statement quoted by Russian news agencies. Russian forces and their separatist allies have taken "full control of Lysychansk and other nearby towns, notably Belogorovka, Novodruzhesk, Maloryazantseve and Bila Hora," the statement said. News agency AFP said that it was unable to independently verify the claims which were made through Russian news outlets. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President volodymyr Zelensky has denied Moscow's claim that Lysychansk had fallen. "We cannot say today that Lysychansk is under (Russian) control. There is fighting on the outskirts," Zelensky told a press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Zelensky warned, however, of "risks" that the Luhansk region, where Lysychansk was the last major city in Ukrainian hands, "will be completely occupied" by Moscow. A few minutes prior to the announcement, a spokesman for the Russian defence ministry had said that fighting was ongoing in Lysychansk and that Ukrainian forces were "completely" surrounded. Also Read | 'We are being provoked': Belarus intercepted attempted missile strikes by Ukraine, Lukashenko says An adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier admitted that the city could fall. Russia already controls Lysychank's sister city Severodonetsk. Control of Lysychansk can be a shot in the arm for Russia as it attempts to solidify its hold on east Ukraine. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine started on February 24, Russian forces tried to capture Ukrainian capital Kyiv but were repelled by Ukrainian forces. Russia has since then concentrated its firepower towards gaining control of Donbas region in east Ukraine. Pro-Russian separatists in the Donbas region have long enjoyed support from Russia. With Lysychansk, list of Russia-controlled cities in Ukrain is steadily growing. Russia already has control on Mariupol and Severodonetsk. (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 says Lysychansk under its control, Zelensky denies claim

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday said that Russia has taken strategic Ukrainian city of Lysychansk and now has control over the entire Luhansk region. Fierce fighting was ongoing between Russia and Ukraine over the region in east Ukraine.&nbsp;The United States unveiled a five-year proposal for offshore oil and gas development on Friday focused almost entirely on the Gulf of Mexico, as it seeks to balance efforts to fight climate change with its legal requirement to hold drilling auctions.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-captured-lysychansk-has-control-over-luhansk-defence-minister-494076">Russia has captured Lysychansk, has control over Luhansk: Defence minister</a>
<img alt="1" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c856ab53-219a-406e-8851-84e0757ea328" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/254944-russ-4.jpg" />
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday said that Russia has taken strategic Ukrainian city of Lysychansk and now has control over the entire Luhansk region. Fierce fighting was ongoing between Russia and Ukraine over the region in east Ukraine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-proposes-gulf-of-mexico-offshore-oil-and-gas-drilling-plan-494101">Biden administration proposes Gulf of Mexico offshore oil and gas drilling plan</a>
<img alt="2" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="adcff88f-c3ce-4274-993e-0c87c8f581f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/276194-e74cjnmmljnctgqj6w57pbypcq.jpg" />
The United States unveiled a five-year proposal for offshore oil and gas development on Friday focused almost entirely on the Gulf of Mexico, as it seeks to balance efforts to fight climate change with its legal requirement to hold drilling auctions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-general-says-china-clearly-is-developing-a-capability-but-attack-on-taiwan-not-imminent-494118">Top US general says 'China clearly is developing a capability' but attack on Taiwan not imminent</a>
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A top US general has said that the United States is "very closely" watching the Chinese activities near Taiwan. While speaking to BBC, Gen Mark Milley added that an attack on Taiwan is not imminent, a report by the UK-based media outlet published Sunday (July 3).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-hong-kong-lawmaker-tests-positive-after-photo-with-xi-jinping-494097">Coronavirus: Hong Kong lawmaker tests positive after photo with Xi Jinping</a>
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A Hong Kong lawmaker has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19), news agency AFP reported on Sunday (July 3). The Covid result came to light after he posed for a group photo with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the leader's visit to Hong Kong for the 25th anniversary of the city’s handover. Concerns have been raised as strict measures were adopted to counter the spread of coronavirus during the occasion.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/long-queues-missing-baggage-halted-travel-plans-aviation-chaos-in-uk-us-and-europe-494030">Long queues, missing baggage, halted travel plans: Aviation chaos in US and Europe</a>
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Airlines cancelled several hundred United States flights Saturday at the start of a long and almost certainly messy holiday travel weekend as carriers struggled to staff their planes. At the same time, British holidaymakers are braced for fresh travel chaos across Europe this summer with staff at Ryanair on Saturday becoming the latest to threaten strike action. There is aviation chaos all over the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/property-firm-that-bought-prince-charles-eco-village-in-scotland-under-scanner-494087">Property firm that bought Prince Charles’ eco-village in Scotland under scanner</a>

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A property company in the UK is under scanner for buying bought homes on an Ayrshire estate from a subsidiary of the Prince Charles'&nbsp;foundation.

According to The Guardian, Havisham Properties purchased 11 properties on the Knockroon development in Scotland, which was originally acquired as a piece of farmland by Prince Charles&nbsp;when he bought the nearby mansion, Dumfries House.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/demonstrators-march-in-ohio-after-deadly-shooting-of-black-man-by-police-494072">Demonstrators march in Ohio after deadly shooting of Black man by police</a>
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Protesters marched through Akron,&nbsp;Ohio&nbsp;on Saturday (July 2) demanding justice for Jayland Walker, a Black man who was shot and killed by police, according to a lawyer for his family.

The protest, organized by a group of pastors, began at Akron’s Second Baptist Church and ended up on the steps of the Akron Justice Center.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-it-will-examin-bullet-that-killed-reporter-with-us-494151">Israel says it will examine bullet that killed reporter with US</a>
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Israeli army said on Sunday that a ballistic test will be carried out on the bullet that killed Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Alekh. This development has come a day after the Palestinian authority handed the bullet to US experts. The Palestinian Authority has given the green light for the US but not for Israel for examination of the bullet that killed the journalist during an Israeli&nbsp;raid in occupied West Bank. Israel Army spokesman Ran Kochav announced Israel's decision on army radio. A Palestinian official, who requested anonymity, told AFP the Israeli comment raised questions about whether the PA could "trust the Americans". Speaking to army radio, Kochav said: "The test won't be American, the test will be an Israeli test with an American presence.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-me-to-leave-cristiano-ronaldo-tells-manchester-united-he-wants-to-leave-this-summer-report-493947">'Time for me to leave': Cristiano Ronaldo tells Manchester United he wants to leave this summer - Report</a>
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Manchester United are yet to make their first signing in the ongoing transfer window despite enduring a horrific campaign last season where they failed to finish in the top four in the Premier League and also failed to make it to the knockout stages of the Champions League. United sacked Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as their manager last season before replacing him with Ralf Rangnick on an interim basis. The club also parted ways with Rangnick at the end of the season after the arrival of their new manager Erik Ten Hag.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/peter-brook-who-changed-theatre-forever-passed-away-at-age-of-97-494084">Peter Brook, who changed theatre forever &amp; introduced Mahabharata to world, dead at 97</a>
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Peter Brook, who has died aged 97, was among the most influential theatre directors of the 20th century, reinventing the art by paring it back to drama's most basic and powerful elements.

An almost mystical figure often mentioned in the same&nbsp;breath as Konstantin Stanislavsky, the Russian who revolutionised acting, Brook continued to work and challenge audiences well into his 90s.

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday said that Russia has taken strategic Ukrainian city of Lysychansk and now has control over the entire Luhansk region. Fierce fighting was ongoing between Russia and Ukraine over the region in east Ukraine. The United States unveiled a five-year proposal for offshore oil and gas development on Friday focused almost entirely on the Gulf of Mexico, as it seeks to balance efforts to fight climate change with its legal requirement to hold drilling auctions. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia has captured Lysychansk, has control over Luhansk: Defence minister Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday said that Russia has taken strategic Ukrainian city of Lysychansk and now has control over the entire Luhansk region. Fierce fighting was ongoing between Russia and Ukraine over the region in east Ukraine. Biden administration proposes Gulf of Mexico offshore oil and gas drilling plan The United States unveiled a five-year proposal for offshore oil and gas development on Friday focused almost entirely on the Gulf of Mexico, as it seeks to balance efforts to fight climate change with its legal requirement to hold drilling auctions. Top US general says 'China clearly is developing a capability' but attack on Taiwan not imminent A top US general has said that the United States is "very closely" watching the Chinese activities near Taiwan. While speaking to BBC, Gen Mark Milley added that an attack on Taiwan is not imminent, a report by the UK-based media outlet published Sunday (July 3). Coronavirus: Hong Kong lawmaker tests positive after photo with Xi Jinping A Hong Kong lawmaker has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19), news agency AFP reported on Sunday (July 3). The Covid result came to light after he posed for a group photo with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the leader's visit to Hong Kong for the 25th anniversary of the city’s handover. Concerns have been raised as strict measures were adopted to counter the spread of coronavirus during the occasion. Long queues, missing baggage, halted travel plans: Aviation chaos in US and Europe Airlines cancelled several hundred United States flights Saturday at the start of a long and almost certainly messy holiday travel weekend as carriers struggled to staff their planes. At the same time, British holidaymakers are braced for fresh travel chaos across Europe this summer with staff at Ryanair on Saturday becoming the latest to threaten strike action. There is aviation chaos all over the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe. Property firm that bought Prince Charles’ eco-village in Scotland under scanner A property company in the UK is under scanner for buying bought homes on an Ayrshire estate from a subsidiary of the Prince Charles' foundation. According to The Guardian, Havisham Properties purchased 11 properties on the Knockroon development in Scotland, which was originally acquired as a piece of farmland by Prince Charles when he bought the nearby mansion, Dumfries House. Demonstrators march in Ohio after deadly shooting of Black man by police Protesters marched through Akron, Ohio on Saturday (July 2) demanding justice for Jayland Walker, a Black man who was shot and killed by police, according to a lawyer for his family. The protest, organized by a group of pastors, began at Akron’s Second Baptist Church and ended up on the steps of the Akron Justice Center. Israel says it will examine bullet that killed reporter with US Israeli army said on Sunday that a ballistic test will be carried out on the bullet that killed Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Alekh. This development has come a day after the Palestinian authority handed the bullet to US experts. The Palestinian Authority has given the green light for the US but not for Israel for examination of the bullet that killed the journalist during an Israeli raid in occupied West Bank. Israel Army spokesman Ran Kochav announced Israel's decision on army radio. A Palestinian official, who requested anonymity, told AFP the Israeli comment raised questions about whether the PA could "trust the Americans". Speaking to army radio, Kochav said: "The test won't be American, the test will be an Israeli test with an American presence. 'Time for me to leave': Cristiano Ronaldo tells Manchester United he wants to leave this summer - Report Manchester United are yet to make their first signing in the ongoing transfer window despite enduring a horrific campaign last season where they failed to finish in the top four in the Premier League and also failed to make it to the knockout stages of the Champions League. United sacked Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as their manager last season before replacing him with Ralf Rangnick on an interim basis. The club also parted ways with Rangnick at the end of the season after the arrival of their new manager Erik Ten Hag. Peter Brook, who changed theatre forever & introduced Mahabharata to world, dead at 97 Peter Brook, who has died aged 97, was among the most influential theatre directors of the 20th century, reinventing the art by paring it back to drama's most basic and powerful elements. An almost mystical figure often mentioned in the same breath as Konstantin Stanislavsky, the Russian who revolutionised acting, Brook continued to work and challenge audiences well into his 90s.

Top 10 world news: Russia claims Lysychansk, US proposal for offshore drilling, and more

Pro-Russian authorities have started bus service between Russia-annexed Crimea and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine. Some of these buses were seen arriving at a bus station in Crimea. These authorities had declared a few days ago that bus and train services will be started between Crimea and Russian-held territories from July 1.

"Starting from July 1, regular bus and train services between Crimea and the regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia will be launched for the first time in eight years," Sergei Aksyonov, the pro-Moscow head of Crimea, said on messaging app Telegram on June 29.

Members of Russia's National Guard will ensure the safety of travel, he added.

The pro-Moscow administration of the Kherson region also announced the opening on Wednesday of a branch of Russian Pension Fund responsible for paying state pensions.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-iron-curtain-descending-between-russia-and-west-says-defence-minister-493684">New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister</a>

These self proclaimed authorities have also announced establishment of a Russian office to register births, deaths and marriages. Officials in some regions have also begun issuing Russian passports early last month.

The southern Ukrainian regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia have been largely under Russia's control since the first weeks of Moscow's military intervention, and are now being forcefully integrated into Russia's economy.&nbsp;

Russia annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

A growing chorus of Russian and pro-Moscow officials have indicated Moscow intends to remain in the Kherson region and large parts of Zaporizhzhia it controls.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pro-Russian authorities have started bus service between Russia-annexed Crimea and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine. Some of these buses were seen arriving at a bus station in Crimea.

Pro-Russian authorities have started bus service between Russia-annexed Crimea and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine. Some of these buses were seen arriving at a bus station in Crimea. These authorities had declared a few days ago that bus and train services will be started between Crimea and Russian-held territories from July 1. "Starting from July 1, regular bus and train services between Crimea and the regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia will be launched for the first time in eight years," Sergei Aksyonov, the pro-Moscow head of Crimea, said on messaging app Telegram on June 29. Members of Russia's National Guard will ensure the safety of travel, he added. The pro-Moscow administration of the Kherson region also announced the opening on Wednesday of a branch of Russian Pension Fund responsible for paying state pensions. Also Read | New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister These self proclaimed authorities have also announced establishment of a Russian office to register births, deaths and marriages. Officials in some regions have also begun issuing Russian passports early last month. The southern Ukrainian regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia have been largely under Russia's control since the first weeks of Moscow's military intervention, and are now being forcefully integrated into Russia's economy. Russia annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. A growing chorus of Russian and pro-Moscow officials have indicated Moscow intends to remain in the Kherson region and large parts of Zaporizhzhia it controls. (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 ×

First bus service between Crimea and Russian-held Ukraine territory starts

A day after Russian troops abandoned positions on a strategically important island in a major setback to the Kremlin's invasion, Ukrainian authorities reported that 21 people were killed and dozens injured early on Friday when Russian missiles struck an apartment building and a resort close to Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odessa.

According to Ukraine's Security Service, 38 other people were hospitalised with injuries, including six children and a pregnant lady. According to Ukrainian emergency officials, the apartment building included the majority of the victims.

With its combat forces concentrated in the industrial Donbass region of eastern Ukraine, Russia has increased the number of missile strikes across the nation by more than twofold over the previous two weeks, more than half of which have been launched by ineffective missiles from the Soviet period. 
 
"We came here to the site, assessed the situation together with emergency workers and locals, and together helped those who survived. And those who unfortunately died. We helped to carry them away," said Oleksandr Abramov, who lives nearby and had rushed to the scene when he heard the blast. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-iron-curtain-descending-between-russia-and-west-says-defence-minister-493684">New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister</a>

The Odesa regional administration's spokesman, Serhiy Bratchuk, reported that 21 persons had been confirmed dead, including a 12-year-old boy. An employee of the Children's Rehabilitation Center that Moldova, Ukraine's neighbour, established in the resort, perished.

The missiles, according to the regional governor, were launched toward the Black Sea.Targeting civilians was rejected by the Kremlin. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-calls-for-urgent-action-in-europe-to-contain-monkeypox-spread-493613" hreflang="en">WHO calls for 'urgent' action in Europe to contain monkeypox spread</a> 
 
"I would like to remind you of the president`s words that the Russian Armed Forces do not work with civilian targets," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said. 
 
LONG-RANGE ATTACKS INTENSIFY

In his evening video message on Friday, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the president of Ukraine, denounced the attack on the homes and beachside setting as "knowing, purposely targeted Russian terror and not some form of mistake or a chance missile strike."

Soon after Russia's troops left Snake Island, an important strategic outcrop located about 140 km (85 miles) southeast of Odesa that it had taken on the first day of the battle, they attacked Serhiivka.

Ukraine's chief of military staff, Valeriy Zaluzhny, accused Russia of breaching its pledge by remaining on Snake Island as a "gesture of good will." On his Telegram channel, Zaluzhny asserted that two Russian planes had taken out from a base in Crimea on Friday and hit targets on the island.

He published a video of the alleged attack. Reuters was unable to independently verify the footage or the Russian action. No immediate Russian response was given.

At least 19 people were killed earlier this week when Russia attacked a busy shopping centre in central Ukraine.

Moscow, according to Kyiv, has increased the number of long-range missile attacks that target civilian areas far from the combat lines. It claims to have been targeting at military installations.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, thousands of civilians have died. The invasion is described by Russia as a "special operation" to expel nationalists. According to Ukraine and its friends in the West, it is an unprovoked act of aggression.

The largest nuclear power facility in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, has been under Russian control since March in southern Ukraine. The operator of Ukraine's nuclear power plant announced on Friday that it has restored communication with the country's cut-off surveillance systems. The United Nations' nuclear watchdog wants to investigate the plant because communications have twice been disrupted since March. 
 
FOOD SUPPLY

Snake Island had been used by Russian forces to dominate the western Black Sea and establish a blockade on Ukraine, one of the greatest exporters of grains in the world.

Moscow disputes that the current food crisis is its fault, blaming it instead on Western sanctions that are harming its own exports.

Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, assured both major food importers that Russia will continue to be a significant grain provider when he met with the president of Indonesia on Thursday and spoke by phone with the prime minister of India on Friday.

Russia has been accused by Ukraine of stealing grain from the areas that its forces have occupied since their invasion.

The Zhibek Zholy, a cargo ship flying the Russian flag, was said to have sailed from the Russian-occupied port of Berdyansk with a load of Ukrainian grain. According to a Ukrainian official and a document seen by Reuters, Kiev asked Turkey to hold the ship.

On Thursday, a Russian-installed official announced that the first cargo ship had left Berdyansk harbour after a standstill of several months, albeit he omitted to mention the Zhibek Zholy.

In the past, the Kremlin has denied grain theft, and on Friday, it chose not to respond. 
 
NO GAS, ELECTRICITY, WATER 
 
Russia`s stepped up campaign of missile attacks on Ukrainian cities coincides with its forces grinding out success on the battlefield in the east, with the aim of forcing Ukraine to cede Luhansk and Donetsk provinces. 
 
Moscow has been on the verge of capturing Luhansk since taking the city of Sievierodonetsk last week after some of the heaviest fighting of the war. 
 
Ukraine`s last bastion in Luhansk is the city of Lysychansk across the Siverskyi Donets river, which is close to being encircled under Russian artillery barrages. 
 
In Russian-occupied Sievierodonetsk, residents emerged from basements to sift through the rubble of their city. 
 
"Almost all the city infrastructure is destroyed. We are living without gas, electricity, and water since May," Sergei Oleinik, 65, told Reuters. 
 
More weapons were needed in both eastern and southern Ukraine, said Zelenskiy, as the Pentagon announced the United States was sending two NASAMS surface-to-air missile systems, four additional counter-artillery radars and ammunition as part of its latest arms package. 
 
"We have worked very hard to have these supplied," Zelenskiy said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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A day after Russian troops abandoned positions on a strategically important island in a major setback to the Kremlin's invasion, Ukrainian authorities reported that 21 people were killed and dozens injured early on Friday when Russian missiles struck an apartment building and a resort close to Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odessa.

A day after Russian troops abandoned positions on a strategically important island in a major setback to the Kremlin's invasion, Ukrainian authorities reported that 21 people were killed and dozens injured early on Friday when Russian missiles struck an apartment building and a resort close to Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odessa. According to Ukraine's Security Service, 38 other people were hospitalised with injuries, including six children and a pregnant lady. According to Ukrainian emergency officials, the apartment building included the majority of the victims. With its combat forces concentrated in the industrial Donbass region of eastern Ukraine, Russia has increased the number of missile strikes across the nation by more than twofold over the previous two weeks, more than half of which have been launched by ineffective missiles from the Soviet period. "We came here to the site, assessed the situation together with emergency workers and locals, and together helped those who survived. And those who unfortunately died. We helped to carry them away," said Oleksandr Abramov, who lives nearby and had rushed to the scene when he heard the blast. Also read | New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister The Odesa regional administration's spokesman, Serhiy Bratchuk, reported that 21 persons had been confirmed dead, including a 12-year-old boy. An employee of the Children's Rehabilitation Center that Moldova, Ukraine's neighbour, established in the resort, perished. The missiles, according to the regional governor, were launched toward the Black Sea.Targeting civilians was rejected by the Kremlin. Also read | WHO calls for 'urgent' action in Europe to contain monkeypox spread "I would like to remind you of the president`s words that the Russian Armed Forces do not work with civilian targets," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said. LONG-RANGE ATTACKS INTENSIFY In his evening video message on Friday, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the president of Ukraine, denounced the attack on the homes and beachside setting as "knowing, purposely targeted Russian terror and not some form of mistake or a chance missile strike." Soon after Russia's troops left Snake Island, an important strategic outcrop located about 140 km (85 miles) southeast of Odesa that it had taken on the first day of the battle, they attacked Serhiivka. Ukraine's chief of military staff, Valeriy Zaluzhny, accused Russia of breaching its pledge by remaining on Snake Island as a "gesture of good will." On his Telegram channel, Zaluzhny asserted that two Russian planes had taken out from a base in Crimea on Friday and hit targets on the island. He published a video of the alleged attack. Reuters was unable to independently verify the footage or the Russian action. No immediate Russian response was given. At least 19 people were killed earlier this week when Russia attacked a busy shopping centre in central Ukraine. Moscow, according to Kyiv, has increased the number of long-range missile attacks that target civilian areas far from the combat lines. It claims to have been targeting at military installations. Since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, thousands of civilians have died. The invasion is described by Russia as a "special operation" to expel nationalists. According to Ukraine and its friends in the West, it is an unprovoked act of aggression. The largest nuclear power facility in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, has been under Russian control since March in southern Ukraine. The operator of Ukraine's nuclear power plant announced on Friday that it has restored communication with the country's cut-off surveillance systems. The United Nations' nuclear watchdog wants to investigate the plant because communications have twice been disrupted since March. FOOD SUPPLY Snake Island had been used by Russian forces to dominate the western Black Sea and establish a blockade on Ukraine, one of the greatest exporters of grains in the world. Moscow disputes that the current food crisis is its fault, blaming it instead on Western sanctions that are harming its own exports. Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, assured both major food importers that Russia will continue to be a significant grain provider when he met with the president of Indonesia on Thursday and spoke by phone with the prime minister of India on Friday. Russia has been accused by Ukraine of stealing grain from the areas that its forces have occupied since their invasion. The Zhibek Zholy, a cargo ship flying the Russian flag, was said to have sailed from the Russian-occupied port of Berdyansk with a load of Ukrainian grain. According to a Ukrainian official and a document seen by Reuters, Kiev asked Turkey to hold the ship. On Thursday, a Russian-installed official announced that the first cargo ship had left Berdyansk harbour after a standstill of several months, albeit he omitted to mention the Zhibek Zholy. In the past, the Kremlin has denied grain theft, and on Friday, it chose not to respond. NO GAS, ELECTRICITY, WATER Russia`s stepped up campaign of missile attacks on Ukrainian cities coincides with its forces grinding out success on the battlefield in the east, with the aim of forcing Ukraine to cede Luhansk and Donetsk provinces. Moscow has been on the verge of capturing Luhansk since taking the city of Sievierodonetsk last week after some of the heaviest fighting of the war. Ukraine`s last bastion in Luhansk is the city of Lysychansk across the Siverskyi Donets river, which is close to being encircled under Russian artillery barrages. In Russian-occupied Sievierodonetsk, residents emerged from basements to sift through the rubble of their city. "Almost all the city infrastructure is destroyed. We are living without gas, electricity, and water since May," Sergei Oleinik, 65, told Reuters. More weapons were needed in both eastern and southern Ukraine, said Zelenskiy, as the Pentagon announced the United States was sending two NASAMS surface-to-air missile systems, four additional counter-artillery radars and ammunition as part of its latest arms package. "We have worked very hard to have these supplied," Zelenskiy said. (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.

Russian missiles kill 21 near Ukraine's Odesa after Snake Island retreat

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the risk of the spread of Monkeypox in Europe, including Russia, is high.

"According to the WHO assessment, at the regional level, the risk in the WHO European Region is high over reports about the widespread outbreak which engulfed several previously untouched countries and some atypical cases," the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) Melita Vujnovic told Russian news agency Sputnik.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-symptoms-observed-in-uk-different-from-pervious-outbreaks-lancet-study-493831">&nbsp;Monkeypox symptoms observed in UK different from pervious outbreaks: Lancet study</a>

"The WHO recommends that all the countries should make every effort to register new cases and trace contacts to control this outbreak and prevent its further spread", Vujnovic added.

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that is usually transmitted to people from wild animals and is endemic in some African countries.

The disease can be transmitted through body fluids, respiratory droplets and other contaminated materials.

The illness usually results in fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes.

Watch |&nbsp;Analysts challenge Monkeypox definition as UK patients show different symptoms

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An outbreak of monkeypox began in May in non-endemic countries, with over 5,100 cases confirmed in humans in 51 nations from May 13 to July 1, according to the WHO.

Monkeypox cases in Europe have tripled in the last two weeks, the WHO`s Europe chief warned on Friday as he urged countries to do more to ensure the rare disease does not become entrenched on the continent.

"The WHO European Region represents almost 90 per cent of all laboratory-confirmed and globally reported cases since mid-May, and since my last statement on 15 June, six new countries and areas - taking the total to 31 - have reported monkeypox cases, with new cases tripling over the same period to over 4,500 laboratory-confirmed cases across the Region", said WHO Europe chief Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge.

He said most cases reported so far have been among people between 21 and 40 years of age, and 99 per cent have been male, with the majority of those for whom there was information being men who have sex with men.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeypox-virus-cdc-issues-sex-guidelines-on-monkeypox-why-india-should-get-battle-ready-for-monkeypox-490589">Monkeypox Virus: WHN declares Monkeypox a pandemic. Why India should get battle ready for Monkeypox</a>

The WHO official also stressed that there is simply no room for complacency -- especially right there in the European Region with its fast-moving outbreak that with every hour, day and week is extending its reach into previously unaffected areas.

"Compounding the challenge is the stigmatization of men who have sex with men in several countries. Many may simply choose not to present to health authorities, fearful of possible consequences. We know from our lessons in dealing with HIV how stigma further fuels outbreaks and epidemics, but allowing our fear of creating stigma to prevent us from acting may be just as damaging", he said.&nbsp;

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the risk of the spread of Monkeypox in Europe, including Russia, is high. "According to the WHO assessment, at the regional level, the risk in the WHO European Region is high over reports about the widespread outbreak which engulfed several previously untouched countries and some atypical cases," the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) Melita Vujnovic told Russian news agency Sputnik.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the risk of the spread of Monkeypox in Europe, including Russia, is high. "According to the WHO assessment, at the regional level, the risk in the WHO European Region is high over reports about the widespread outbreak which engulfed several previously untouched countries and some atypical cases," the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) Melita Vujnovic told Russian news agency Sputnik. Also read | Monkeypox symptoms observed in UK different from pervious outbreaks: Lancet study "The WHO recommends that all the countries should make every effort to register new cases and trace contacts to control this outbreak and prevent its further spread", Vujnovic added. Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that is usually transmitted to people from wild animals and is endemic in some African countries. The disease can be transmitted through body fluids, respiratory droplets and other contaminated materials. The illness usually results in fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes. Watch | Analysts challenge Monkeypox definition as UK patients show different symptoms An outbreak of monkeypox began in May in non-endemic countries, with over 5,100 cases confirmed in humans in 51 nations from May 13 to July 1, according to the WHO. Monkeypox cases in Europe have tripled in the last two weeks, the WHO`s Europe chief warned on Friday as he urged countries to do more to ensure the rare disease does not become entrenched on the continent. "The WHO European Region represents almost 90 per cent of all laboratory-confirmed and globally reported cases since mid-May, and since my last statement on 15 June, six new countries and areas - taking the total to 31 - have reported monkeypox cases, with new cases tripling over the same period to over 4,500 laboratory-confirmed cases across the Region", said WHO Europe chief Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge. He said most cases reported so far have been among people between 21 and 40 years of age, and 99 per cent have been male, with the majority of those for whom there was information being men who have sex with men. Also read | Monkeypox Virus: WHN declares Monkeypox a pandemic. Why India should get battle ready for Monkeypox The WHO official also stressed that there is simply no room for complacency -- especially right there in the European Region with its fast-moving outbreak that with every hour, day and week is extending its reach into previously unaffected areas. "Compounding the challenge is the stigmatization of men who have sex with men in several countries. Many may simply choose not to present to health authorities, fearful of possible consequences. We know from our lessons in dealing with HIV how stigma further fuels outbreaks and epidemics, but allowing our fear of creating stigma to prevent us from acting may be just as damaging", he said. 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.

WHO says risk of Monkeypox spread in Russia remains high

As Russia's military continues to pound Ukraine with missiles and other lethal weapons, Western nations have responded in part by targeting Russia's&nbsp;defence&nbsp;industry with sanctions. The latest round came on Tuesday, when the United States issued new sanctions on some arms makers and executives at the heart of what it dubbed Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine". 
 
But a Reuters examination of companies, executives and investors underpinning Russia's&nbsp;defence&nbsp;sector shows a sizable number of players have yet to pay a price: Nearly three dozen leaders of Russian weapons firms and at least 14&nbsp;defence&nbsp;companies have not been sanctioned by the United States, the European Union or the United Kingdom. In addition, sanctions on Russia's arms makers and tycoons have been applied inconsistently by these NATO allies, with some governments levying penalties and others not, the Reuters review showed. 
 
Among the weapons moguls who have not been sanctioned by any of those three authorities is Alan Lushnikov, the largest shareholder of Kalashnikov Concern JSC, the original manufacturer of the well-known AK-47 assault rifle. Lushnikov owns a 75 per cent&nbsp;stake in the firm, according to the most recent business records reviewed by Reuters. 
 
The company itself was sanctioned by the United States in 2014, the year Russia invaded and annexed the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea. The EU and UK&nbsp;levelled&nbsp;their own sanctions against Kalashnikov Concern this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-iron-curtain-descending-between-russia-and-west-says-defence-minister-493684">New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister</a> 
 
The company accounts for 95 per cent&nbsp;of Russia's production of machine guns, sniper rifles, pistols and other handheld firearms, and 98 per cent&nbsp;of its handheld military machine guns, according to its website and most recent annual report. Its weapons include the AK-12 assault rifle, an updated version of the AK-47, some of which have been captured from Russian forces by Ukrainian soldiers. The Kalashnikov Concern also produces missiles that can be fired from aircraft or on land. 
 
A former Russian deputy transport minister, Lushnikov once worked for commodities tycoon Gennady Timchenko, a longtime friend of Putin. The United States sanctioned Timchenko in 2014 following Russia’s invasion of Crimea, naming him as a member of the Kremlin’s “inner circle”. 
 
Neither Lushnikov, Timchenko or the Kalashnikov Concern responded to requests for comment. 
 
It’s the same pattern with Almaz-Antey Concern, a Moscow-based&nbsp;defence&nbsp;company&nbsp;specialising&nbsp;in missiles and anti-aircraft systems. The company has been sanctioned by the United States, EU and UK, but CEO Yan Novikov has not been punished. 
 
Almaz-Antey’s website displays the motto “Peaceful Sky is Our Profession”. The company makes Kalibr missiles, which Russia’s Ministry of&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;has credited with destroying Ukrainian military installations. In a statement last month, the ministry said Russia had fired long-range Kalibr missiles at a Ukrainian command post near the village of Shyroka Dacha in eastern Ukraine, killing what the ministry claimed were more than 50 generals and officers of the Ukrainian military. 
 
Neither Almaz-Antey nor CEO Novikov responded to requests for comment. 
 
In response to a list of questions submitted by Reuters about Western sanctions aimed at Russia, a Kremlin spokesperson said "the consistency and logic of imposing sanctions, as well as the legality of imposing such restrictions, is a question that should be put directly to the countries that introduced them". 
 
The Reuters findings come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said that current Western sanctions against Russia “are not enough” as Russian troops make gains in their assault on Ukraine’s eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk. 
 
The Ukrainian military has been outgunned by Russian artillery in places such as the industrial city of Sievierodonetsk, which it ceded to Russian forces last week after weeks of intense fighting. 
 
Putin has portrayed his military’s assault on Ukraine as a “special military operation” aimed at&nbsp;demilitarising&nbsp;and “denazifying” its democratic&nbsp;neighbour. On Tuesday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced it would bar Jill Biden and Ashley Biden, the wife and daughter of US&nbsp;President Joe Biden, from entering Russia indefinitely in what it said was a response to “constantly expanding US&nbsp;sanctions against Russian politicians and public figures”. 
 
US National Security advisor Jake Sullivan said on Tuesday that Russia's action was not surprising because "the Russian capacity for these kinds of cynical moves is basically bottomless". 
 
The Russian invasion has killed thousands of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, but the exact number is unknown. The United Nations human rights office said, as of Monday, that 4,731 civilians had been killed in Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began on Feb&nbsp;24, including more than 300 children, with another 5,900 civilians injured in the conflict. The agency said most of the casualties were caused by the use of “explosive weapons with a wide impact area, including shelling from heavy artillery and multiple launch rocket systems, and missile and air strikes”,&nbsp;and that the actual number of dead and wounded was likely far higher.

Watch |&nbsp;Vladimir Putin signs a new decree as Russia takes over the Sakhalin gas project

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The West has levied sanctions on a swath of Russia’s economy to punish Moscow, an effort that so far has done little to deter the Russian&nbsp;offencive. Like the bans on other Russian firms, sanctions on weapons companies are meant to hamper their ability to sell to foreign customers. These penalties limit their access to imported components and generally make it more costly and time-consuming to produce weaponry. Levying sanctions on the people behind those firms goes a step further to make the pain personal. It allows Western nations to go after any mansions, yachts and other offshore wealth of those who supply Russia’s military, and it limits where they can travel abroad. 
 
“You’re demonstrating that being a regime collaborator comes with a cost”,&nbsp;said Max Bergmann, a former State Department official during the Obama administration who worked on U.S. arms transfers and safeguarding US&nbsp;military technology. “They feel it very personally. You’re creating a disgruntled class of people that are tied to the Kremlin”, said Bergmann, now director of the Europe&nbsp;programme&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Centre&nbsp;for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based national security think tank.

<h2> 
Ammunition makers unscathed</h2>

Other companies in Russia’s&nbsp;defence&nbsp;industry identified by Reuters that have not been sanctioned by the United States, EU or UK include the VA&nbsp;Degtyarev Plant, a facility 165 miles northeast of Moscow that makes machine guns, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons that are sold to the Russian military. Its weapons include the Kalashnikov PKM and PKTM machine guns, as well as Kord rifles and machine guns, some of which are mounted on&nbsp;armoured&nbsp;vehicles. 
 
The Degtyarev Plant did not respond to a request for comment. 
 
Also not sanctioned is the Klimovsk&nbsp;Specialised&nbsp;Ammunition Plant, south of Moscow, where “world-famous cartridges” for pistols and Kalashnikov assault rifles are produced, according to an archived version of its website. Neither is the Novosibirsk Cartridge Plant, an ammunition manufacturer that calls itself “one of the leading engineering enterprises of the military-industrial complex of Russia”. 
 
Neither ammunition plant responded to requests for comment. 
 
Last month, Reuters sought comments from sanctions officials in the UK, EU and United States regarding the news agency’s findings that they had failed to punish a raft of Russian&nbsp;defence&nbsp;firms and tycoons&nbsp;fuelling&nbsp;Putin’s war effort. As part of that process, Reuters provided those Western authorities with a detailed list of more than 20 companies and more than three-dozen people that had escaped sanctions. 
 
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, which levies sanctions for Britain, said it could not comment on future sanctions. It added that London and its allies had levied "the largest and most severe economic sanctions that Russia has ever faced, to help cripple Putin’s war machine".&nbsp;Elizabeth Rosenberg, assistant secretary for terrorist financing and financial crimes at the Treasury Department, said in a statement that sanctions have "made it harder for Russia to obtain what it needs to procure and produce weapons". 
 
According to a report by Reuters, on Tuesday, in conjunction with a meeting of leaders of the G7 nations in the German Alps, the Treasury Department released a new round of&nbsp;defence-related sanctions that included eight of the weapons firms and two of the executives on the list provided earlier.

One of those newly sanctioned executives, Vladimir Artyakov, has played key roles in Russia’s weapons industry for decades, and serves as the No.&nbsp;2 executive at Rostec, a military-industrial giant with hundreds of subsidiaries employing more than half a million people, according to its website and annual reports. Artyakov is also the chairman of at least five Russian weapons firms, among them Russian Helicopters JSC, which builds several lines of military helicopters including the Ka-52 "Alligator", some of which have been shot down and documented in Ukraine. 
 
He has not been sanctioned by the EU or UK. 
 
Artyakov and Russian Helicopters did not respond to requests for comment. 
 
Rostec has been sanctioned by Washington since 2014. On Tuesday the United States targeted the company again, levying sanctions on more than 40 Rostec subsidiaries and affiliates. Among those hit was Avtomatika Concern, a company linked to cyber warfare. It was on the list of Russian&nbsp;defence&nbsp;firms that Reuters had submitted to the Treasury Department last month seeking an explanation as to why the companies had not been sanctioned. 
 
Rostec and Avtomatika Concern did not respond to requests for comment. 
 
Other firms on the list that were sanctioned just this week by the Treasury Department include PJSC Tupolev, a maker of fighter jets such as the Tu-22M3 bomber. The Ukrainian military said Tu-22M3 bombers were responsible for a missile strike at a crowded shopping&nbsp;centre&nbsp;in the central Ukrainian city of Kremenchuk on Monday, which killed at least 18 people and injured about 60.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-firing-phosphorus-bombs-on-snake-island-493706">Ukraine accuses Russia of firing phosphorus bombs on Snake Island</a> 
 
PJSC Tupolev and another firm on the list, JSC VNII Signal, have not been sanctioned by the EU or UK. JSC VNII Signal is a producer of mechanical and navigational systems that power Russian military tanks and some of the country’s most advanced missile systems. 
 
PJSC Tupolev and JSC VNII Signal did not respond to requests for comment.

<h2>Top brass untouched</h2>

Executives at a host of Russian weapons firms, meanwhile, have largely escaped sanctions from Western authorities. 
 
Nearly three months after a Tochka-U ballistic missile hit a train station in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk on April 8, Russian weapons executives linked to the company that makes those missiles have yet to pay a price. The strike killed more than 50 people, including children, and injured more than 100 others. 
 
The Russian firm JSC Research and Production Corporation Konstruktorskoye Byuro Mashynostroyeniya, known as KBM, has been the primary manufacturer of Tochka-U missiles, according to a US&nbsp;Army database of worldwide military equipment. Neither Washington, Brussels or London have sanctioned Sergey Pitikov, KBM’s chief executive. 
 
The three Western allies have likewise spared Alexander Denisov, the CEO of NPO High Precision Systems, KBM’s parent company. High Precision Systems oversees production of a wide range of missiles, artillery, grenade launchers and machine guns used by Russian troops and outfitted on military helicopters, aircraft, tanks and warships. 
 
Sanctions on Russia’s arms companies and tycoons have been applied inconsistently by the Western allies. The United States and EU have sanctioned High Precision Systems, for example, while the UK has not. The United States has sanctioned KBM, but the EU and UK have not. 
 
High Precision Systems, Pitikov and Denisov did not respond to requests for comment. KBM confirmed that Pitikov is its chief executive. 
 
Europe and the United States have failed to coordinate sanctions even on makers of banned weapons. 
 
Since the outset of Russia’s invasion in late February, Western governments and human rights groups have decried its use of cluster munitions: small bombs delivered by missiles or rockets, which scatter and explode over an area as large as a city block. A 2008 international treaty bans their use or production under any circumstances because of the devastating effects on civilians. 
 
Russia used a Uragan – which translates to “Hurricane” – rocket launcher system to fire cluster bombs in Kharkiv on March 24, killing eight civilians and injuring 15 others, according to the U.N. human rights office and Ukrainian officials. 
 
The Uragan is made by JSC Scientific and Production Association Splav, a Russian firm whose systems have been sold abroad to countries including India. The company has been sanctioned by the United States, but not by the UK or EU. Its CEO, Alexander Smirnov, has escaped sanctions altogether. 
 
Splav and Smirnov did not respond to requests for comment. 
 
It’s much the same for Splav’s parent company, NPK Techmash. The United States and the EU have sanctioned the firm, but the UK has not. Techmash CEO Alexander Kochkin has not been targeted by American or European authorities. 
 
Techmash and Kochkin did not respond to requests for comment. 
 
In a June 10 statement, the European Commission said there is an effort to align sanctions lists “as much as legally possible” among allies to achieve “the maximum cumulative effect of the sanctions with all our like-minded partners”. In cases where the lists do not align, the Commission statement said, people and companies not currently on the EU’s sanctions list could be added later if there is sufficient evidence. 
 
"Nothing is off the table", the statement said. 
&nbsp;

<h2>Western connections</h2>

One of the highest-profile Russian firms to escape Western sanctions is VSMPO-Avisma Corp, which is the world’s largest titanium supplier and 25 per cent&nbsp;owned by Rostec. It supplies Russia’s&nbsp;defence&nbsp;industry, but also counts major Western aerospace companies among its clients. 
 
Based in Verkhnyaya Salda, in central Russia, VSMPO-Avisma has subsidiaries with facilities in the United States, Switzerland and the UK, as well as sales and distribution staff in the United States, Europe and Asia, according to its website and annual reports. That’s no doubt a factor that has allowed the company to escape punishment, according to three sanctions and Russian&nbsp;defence&nbsp;experts who spoke with Reuters. 
 
VSMPO-Avisma’s vice chairman and majority shareholder, Russian billionaire Mikhail Shelkov, ranked by Forbes this year as Russia’s 59th-richest person, likewise has not been sanctioned. 
 
According to past press releases, VSMPO-Avisma has long-term contracts to supply titanium to United Aircraft Corp, a Rostec subsidiary that oversees production of Russian fighter jets such as the Su-34 that have been shot down in Ukraine. United Aircraft has been sanctioned by the United States, EU and UK. 
 
VSMPO-Avisma also sells to Europe’s Airbus, and it supplied US&nbsp;aerospace behemoth Boeing Co up until March, when the Arlington, Virginia-based company said it stopped purchasing titanium from Russia. Boeing had announced just months earlier, in November 2021, that VSMPO-Avisma would be its largest titanium supplier “for current and future Boeing commercial&nbsp;aeroplanes”. 
 
VSMPO-Avisma and shareholder Shelkov declined to comment. Boeing said in a statement that it has worked since 2014 to diversify its sources of titanium around the world, and that its current inventory and sources "provide sufficient supply for&nbsp;aeroplane&nbsp;production". 
 
Airbus did not answer specific questions about its relationship with VSMPO-Avisma. But in an emailed statement it said potential sanctions on Russian titanium “would massively damage the entire aerospace industry in Europe” while doing little to harm Russia because those sales are but a small portion of that nation's overall exports. 
 
In 2020, foreign sales accounted for about two-thirds of VSMPO-Avisma’s 1.25 billion dollars in revenue, according to the company’s most recent annual report. 
 
That puts Western officials in a tough spot, said Richard Connolly, director of Eastern Advisory Group, a UK consultancy that advises governments and businesses on the Russian economy and its&nbsp;defence&nbsp;industry. Slapping sanctions on VSMPO-Avisma would curtail its lucrative export trade, but it would also force major players in global aviation to switch suppliers or risk sanctions themselves. 
 
“That’s the classic sanctions conundrum: If you want to hurt somebody, you’re going to hurt yourself”, Connolly said.

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As Russia's military continues to pound Ukraine with missiles and other lethal weapons, Western nations have responded in part by targeting Russia's defence industry with sanctions.

As Russia's military continues to pound Ukraine with missiles and other lethal weapons, Western nations have responded in part by targeting Russia's defence industry with sanctions. The latest round came on Tuesday, when the United States issued new sanctions on some arms makers and executives at the heart of what it dubbed Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine". But a Reuters examination of companies, executives and investors underpinning Russia's defence sector shows a sizable number of players have yet to pay a price: Nearly three dozen leaders of Russian weapons firms and at least 14 defence companies have not been sanctioned by the United States, the European Union or the United Kingdom. In addition, sanctions on Russia's arms makers and tycoons have been applied inconsistently by these NATO allies, with some governments levying penalties and others not, the Reuters review showed. Among the weapons moguls who have not been sanctioned by any of those three authorities is Alan Lushnikov, the largest shareholder of Kalashnikov Concern JSC, the original manufacturer of the well-known AK-47 assault rifle. Lushnikov owns a 75 per cent stake in the firm, according to the most recent business records reviewed by Reuters. The company itself was sanctioned by the United States in 2014, the year Russia invaded and annexed the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea. The EU and UK levelled their own sanctions against Kalashnikov Concern this year. Also read | New ‘iron curtain’ descending between Russia and West, says defence minister The company accounts for 95 per cent of Russia's production of machine guns, sniper rifles, pistols and other handheld firearms, and 98 per cent of its handheld military machine guns, according to its website and most recent annual report. Its weapons include the AK-12 assault rifle, an updated version of the AK-47, some of which have been captured from Russian forces by Ukrainian soldiers. The Kalashnikov Concern also produces missiles that can be fired from aircraft or on land. A former Russian deputy transport minister, Lushnikov once worked for commodities tycoon Gennady Timchenko, a longtime friend of Putin. The United States sanctioned Timchenko in 2014 following Russia’s invasion of Crimea, naming him as a member of the Kremlin’s “inner circle”. Neither Lushnikov, Timchenko or the Kalashnikov Concern responded to requests for comment. It’s the same pattern with Almaz-Antey Concern, a Moscow-based defence company specialising in missiles and anti-aircraft systems. The company has been sanctioned by the United States, EU and UK, but CEO Yan Novikov has not been punished. Almaz-Antey’s website displays the motto “Peaceful Sky is Our Profession”. The company makes Kalibr missiles, which Russia’s Ministry of Defence has credited with destroying Ukrainian military installations. In a statement last month, the ministry said Russia had fired long-range Kalibr missiles at a Ukrainian command post near the village of Shyroka Dacha in eastern Ukraine, killing what the ministry claimed were more than 50 generals and officers of the Ukrainian military. Neither Almaz-Antey nor CEO Novikov responded to requests for comment. In response to a list of questions submitted by Reuters about Western sanctions aimed at Russia, a Kremlin spokesperson said "the consistency and logic of imposing sanctions, as well as the legality of imposing such restrictions, is a question that should be put directly to the countries that introduced them". The Reuters findings come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said that current Western sanctions against Russia “are not enough” as Russian troops make gains in their assault on Ukraine’s eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk. The Ukrainian military has been outgunned by Russian artillery in places such as the industrial city of Sievierodonetsk, which it ceded to Russian forces last week after weeks of intense fighting. Putin has portrayed his military’s assault on Ukraine as a “special military operation” aimed at demilitarising and “denazifying” its democratic neighbour. On Tuesday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced it would bar Jill Biden and Ashley Biden, the wife and daughter of US President Joe Biden, from entering Russia indefinitely in what it said was a response to “constantly expanding US sanctions against Russian politicians and public figures”. US National Security advisor Jake Sullivan said on Tuesday that Russia's action was not surprising because "the Russian capacity for these kinds of cynical moves is basically bottomless". The Russian invasion has killed thousands of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, but the exact number is unknown. The United Nations human rights office said, as of Monday, that 4,731 civilians had been killed in Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began on Feb 24, including more than 300 children, with another 5,900 civilians injured in the conflict. The agency said most of the casualties were caused by the use of “explosive weapons with a wide impact area, including shelling from heavy artillery and multiple launch rocket systems, and missile and air strikes”, and that the actual number of dead and wounded was likely far higher. Watch | Vladimir Putin signs a new decree as Russia takes over the Sakhalin gas project The West has levied sanctions on a swath of Russia’s economy to punish Moscow, an effort that so far has done little to deter the Russian offencive. Like the bans on other Russian firms, sanctions on weapons companies are meant to hamper their ability to sell to foreign customers. These penalties limit their access to imported components and generally make it more costly and time-consuming to produce weaponry. Levying sanctions on the people behind those firms goes a step further to make the pain personal. It allows Western nations to go after any mansions, yachts and other offshore wealth of those who supply Russia’s military, and it limits where they can travel abroad. “You’re demonstrating that being a regime collaborator comes with a cost”, said Max Bergmann, a former State Department official during the Obama administration who worked on U.S. arms transfers and safeguarding US military technology. “They feel it very personally. You’re creating a disgruntled class of people that are tied to the Kremlin”, said Bergmann, now director of the Europe programme at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based national security think tank. Ammunition makers unscathed Other companies in Russia’s defence industry identified by Reuters that have not been sanctioned by the United States, EU or UK include the VA Degtyarev Plant, a facility 165 miles northeast of Moscow that makes machine guns, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons that are sold to the Russian military. Its weapons include the Kalashnikov PKM and PKTM machine guns, as well as Kord rifles and machine guns, some of which are mounted on armoured vehicles. The Degtyarev Plant did not respond to a request for comment. Also not sanctioned is the Klimovsk Specialised Ammunition Plant, south of Moscow, where “world-famous cartridges” for pistols and Kalashnikov assault rifles are produced, according to an archived version of its website. Neither is the Novosibirsk Cartridge Plant, an ammunition manufacturer that calls itself “one of the leading engineering enterprises of the military-industrial complex of Russia”. Neither ammunition plant responded to requests for comment. Last month, Reuters sought comments from sanctions officials in the UK, EU and United States regarding the news agency’s findings that they had failed to punish a raft of Russian defence firms and tycoons fuelling Putin’s war effort. As part of that process, Reuters provided those Western authorities with a detailed list of more than 20 companies and more than three-dozen people that had escaped sanctions. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, which levies sanctions for Britain, said it could not comment on future sanctions. It added that London and its allies had levied "the largest and most severe economic sanctions that Russia has ever faced, to help cripple Putin’s war machine". Elizabeth Rosenberg, assistant secretary for terrorist financing and financial crimes at the Treasury Department, said in a statement that sanctions have "made it harder for Russia to obtain what it needs to procure and produce weapons". According to a report by Reuters, on Tuesday, in conjunction with a meeting of leaders of the G7 nations in the German Alps, the Treasury Department released a new round of defence-related sanctions that included eight of the weapons firms and two of the executives on the list provided earlier. One of those newly sanctioned executives, Vladimir Artyakov, has played key roles in Russia’s weapons industry for decades, and serves as the No. 2 executive at Rostec, a military-industrial giant with hundreds of subsidiaries employing more than half a million people, according to its website and annual reports. Artyakov is also the chairman of at least five Russian weapons firms, among them Russian Helicopters JSC, which builds several lines of military helicopters including the Ka-52 "Alligator", some of which have been shot down and documented in Ukraine. He has not been sanctioned by the EU or UK. Artyakov and Russian Helicopters did not respond to requests for comment. Rostec has been sanctioned by Washington since 2014. On Tuesday the United States targeted the company again, levying sanctions on more than 40 Rostec subsidiaries and affiliates. Among those hit was Avtomatika Concern, a company linked to cyber warfare. It was on the list of Russian defence firms that Reuters had submitted to the Treasury Department last month seeking an explanation as to why the companies had not been sanctioned. Rostec and Avtomatika Concern did not respond to requests for comment. Other firms on the list that were sanctioned just this week by the Treasury Department include PJSC Tupolev, a maker of fighter jets such as the Tu-22M3 bomber. The Ukrainian military said Tu-22M3 bombers were responsible for a missile strike at a crowded shopping centre in the central Ukrainian city of Kremenchuk on Monday, which killed at least 18 people and injured about 60. Also read | Ukraine accuses Russia of firing phosphorus bombs on Snake Island PJSC Tupolev and another firm on the list, JSC VNII Signal, have not been sanctioned by the EU or UK. JSC VNII Signal is a producer of mechanical and navigational systems that power Russian military tanks and some of the country’s most advanced missile systems. PJSC Tupolev and JSC VNII Signal did not respond to requests for comment. Top brass untouched Executives at a host of Russian weapons firms, meanwhile, have largely escaped sanctions from Western authorities. Nearly three months after a Tochka-U ballistic missile hit a train station in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk on April 8, Russian weapons executives linked to the company that makes those missiles have yet to pay a price. The strike killed more than 50 people, including children, and injured more than 100 others. The Russian firm JSC Research and Production Corporation Konstruktorskoye Byuro Mashynostroyeniya, known as KBM, has been the primary manufacturer of Tochka-U missiles, according to a US Army database of worldwide military equipment. Neither Washington, Brussels or London have sanctioned Sergey Pitikov, KBM’s chief executive. The three Western allies have likewise spared Alexander Denisov, the CEO of NPO High Precision Systems, KBM’s parent company. High Precision Systems oversees production of a wide range of missiles, artillery, grenade launchers and machine guns used by Russian troops and outfitted on military helicopters, aircraft, tanks and warships. Sanctions on Russia’s arms companies and tycoons have been applied inconsistently by the Western allies. The United States and EU have sanctioned High Precision Systems, for example, while the UK has not. The United States has sanctioned KBM, but the EU and UK have not. High Precision Systems, Pitikov and Denisov did not respond to requests for comment. KBM confirmed that Pitikov is its chief executive. Europe and the United States have failed to coordinate sanctions even on makers of banned weapons. Since the outset of Russia’s invasion in late February, Western governments and human rights groups have decried its use of cluster munitions: small bombs delivered by missiles or rockets, which scatter and explode over an area as large as a city block. A 2008 international treaty bans their use or production under any circumstances because of the devastating effects on civilians. Russia used a Uragan – which translates to “Hurricane” – rocket launcher system to fire cluster bombs in Kharkiv on March 24, killing eight civilians and injuring 15 others, according to the U.N. human rights office and Ukrainian officials. The Uragan is made by JSC Scientific and Production Association Splav, a Russian firm whose systems have been sold abroad to countries including India. The company has been sanctioned by the United States, but not by the UK or EU. Its CEO, Alexander Smirnov, has escaped sanctions altogether. Splav and Smirnov did not respond to requests for comment. It’s much the same for Splav’s parent company, NPK Techmash. The United States and the EU have sanctioned the firm, but the UK has not. Techmash CEO Alexander Kochkin has not been targeted by American or European authorities. Techmash and Kochkin did not respond to requests for comment. In a June 10 statement, the European Commission said there is an effort to align sanctions lists “as much as legally possible” among allies to achieve “the maximum cumulative effect of the sanctions with all our like-minded partners”. In cases where the lists do not align, the Commission statement said, people and companies not currently on the EU’s sanctions list could be added later if there is sufficient evidence. "Nothing is off the table", the statement said. Western connections One of the highest-profile Russian firms to escape Western sanctions is VSMPO-Avisma Corp, which is the world’s largest titanium supplier and 25 per cent owned by Rostec. It supplies Russia’s defence industry, but also counts major Western aerospace companies among its clients. Based in Verkhnyaya Salda, in central Russia, VSMPO-Avisma has subsidiaries with facilities in the United States, Switzerland and the UK, as well as sales and distribution staff in the United States, Europe and Asia, according to its website and annual reports. That’s no doubt a factor that has allowed the company to escape punishment, according to three sanctions and Russian defence experts who spoke with Reuters. VSMPO-Avisma’s vice chairman and majority shareholder, Russian billionaire Mikhail Shelkov, ranked by Forbes this year as Russia’s 59th-richest person, likewise has not been sanctioned. According to past press releases, VSMPO-Avisma has long-term contracts to supply titanium to United Aircraft Corp, a Rostec subsidiary that oversees production of Russian fighter jets such as the Su-34 that have been shot down in Ukraine. United Aircraft has been sanctioned by the United States, EU and UK. VSMPO-Avisma also sells to Europe’s Airbus, and it supplied US aerospace behemoth Boeing Co up until March, when the Arlington, Virginia-based company said it stopped purchasing titanium from Russia. Boeing had announced just months earlier, in November 2021, that VSMPO-Avisma would be its largest titanium supplier “for current and future Boeing commercial aeroplanes”. VSMPO-Avisma and shareholder Shelkov declined to comment. Boeing said in a statement that it has worked since 2014 to diversify its sources of titanium around the world, and that its current inventory and sources "provide sufficient supply for aeroplane production". Airbus did not answer specific questions about its relationship with VSMPO-Avisma. But in an emailed statement it said potential sanctions on Russian titanium “would massively damage the entire aerospace industry in Europe” while doing little to harm Russia because those sales are but a small portion of that nation's overall exports. In 2020, foreign sales accounted for about two-thirds of VSMPO-Avisma’s 1.25 billion dollars in revenue, according to the company’s most recent annual report. That puts Western officials in a tough spot, said Richard Connolly, director of Eastern Advisory Group, a UK consultancy that advises governments and businesses on the Russian economy and its defence industry. Slapping sanctions on VSMPO-Avisma would curtail its lucrative export trade, but it would also force major players in global aviation to switch suppliers or risk sanctions themselves. “That’s the classic sanctions conundrum: If you want to hurt somebody, you’re going to hurt yourself”, Connolly said. 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.

Dozens of Russian weapons tycoons have faced no Western sanctions

Soon after Vladimir Putin unleashed Russia’s onslaught on Ukraine on 24 February, Oleksandr Usyk, the IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight champion and his friend Vasiliy Lomachenko, another of the best boxers in the world, joined the military. But as he patrolled the streets, carrying a machine gun rather than boxing gloves, dread gripped Usyk.

As reported by The Guardian, Oleksandr said, “Every day I was there, I was praying and asking: ‘Please, God, don’t let anybody try to kill me. Please don’t let anybody shoot me. And please don’t make me shoot any other person.”

“My family is not in Ukraine but a lot of my close friends are still in the country. I’m in touch with them every day. I ask them because it’s very important for me, how are they feeling? Are they in a safe place? I want to live there and right after the fight I’m going back to Ukraine,” he added.

On being asked if he will return as a soldier? Usyk said that “nobody will let me go to the front line. But a lot of my close friends are on the front line. I’m supporting them and with this fight, I want to bring them some kind of joy in between what they do.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-move-to-legalise-cannabis-may-lead-to-cascading-effect-493649">Germany’s move to legalise cannabis may lead to cascading effect</a>

As reported by The Guardian, Usyk shrugs and concentrates instead on the propaganda that is being beamed into ordinary Russian homes. “I don’t believe what they are saying because they are not showing what is true in their country. They are bombing soldiers. They are bombing army battalions. But they are not showing the bombs landing on civilian houses or hospitals. Two days ago in Kyiv, a bomb landed on the house where civilians lived. Two days ago a rocket landed on a shopping mall in Kremenchuk where all the normal people were. Their soldiers are saying on their TV that [Ukrainians] are shooting each other. So I don’t trust what they say.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Soon after Vladimir Putin unleashed Russia’s onslaught on Ukraine on 24 February, Oleksandr Usyk, the IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight champion and his friend Vasiliy Lomachenko, another of the best boxers in the world, joined the military.

Soon after Vladimir Putin unleashed Russia’s onslaught on Ukraine on 24 February, Oleksandr Usyk, the IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight champion and his friend Vasiliy Lomachenko, another of the best boxers in the world, joined the military. But as he patrolled the streets, carrying a machine gun rather than boxing gloves, dread gripped Usyk. As reported by The Guardian, Oleksandr said, “Every day I was there, I was praying and asking: ‘Please, God, don’t let anybody try to kill me. Please don’t let anybody shoot me. And please don’t make me shoot any other person.” “My family is not in Ukraine but a lot of my close friends are still in the country. I’m in touch with them every day. I ask them because it’s very important for me, how are they feeling? Are they in a safe place? I want to live there and right after the fight I’m going back to Ukraine,” he added. On being asked if he will return as a soldier? Usyk said that “nobody will let me go to the front line. But a lot of my close friends are on the front line. I’m supporting them and with this fight, I want to bring them some kind of joy in between what they do.” Also Read: Germany’s move to legalise cannabis may lead to cascading effect As reported by The Guardian, Usyk shrugs and concentrates instead on the propaganda that is being beamed into ordinary Russian homes. “I don’t believe what they are saying because they are not showing what is true in their country. They are bombing soldiers. They are bombing army battalions. But they are not showing the bombs landing on civilian houses or hospitals. Two days ago in Kyiv, a bomb landed on the house where civilians lived. Two days ago a rocket landed on a shopping mall in Kremenchuk where all the normal people were. Their soldiers are saying on their TV that [Ukrainians] are shooting each other. So I don’t trust what they say. (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.

Every day I was praying ‘Please, god, don’t let anybody try to kill me': Boxer Oleksandr Usyk

The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks.&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday said that Hong Kong can’t afford to be destabilised while defending the “one country, two systems” form of governance in a rare visit to the Chinese territory amid a deepening authoritarian crackdown by Beijing.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-calls-for-urgent-action-in-europe-to-contain-monkeypox-spread-493613">WHO calls for 'urgent' action in Europe to contain monkeypox spread</a>
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The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missile-strike-in-odessa-kills-at-least-ten-people-says-ukraine-493401">Russian missile strike in Odessa kills at least ten people, says Ukraine</a>
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At least ten people were killed after a missile strike on an apartment building in the southern Ukrainian city of Odessa, a local official said on Friday.&nbsp;"The number of dead in the apartment building missile strike has risen to 10," said Odessa military administration spokesman Sergei Bratchuk according to AFP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cant-afford-to-be-destabilised-chinas-xi-defends-one-country-two-systems-governance-in-hong-kong-493440">‘Can’t afford to be destabilised’: China’s Xi defends ‘one country, two systems’ governance in Hong Kong</a>
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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday said that Hong Kong can’t afford to be destabilised while defending the “one country, two systems” form of governance in a rare visit to the Chinese territory amid a deepening authoritarian crackdown by Beijing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-gets-green-signal-from-supreme-court-to-end-remain-in-mexico-immigration-policy-493575">Joe Biden gets green signal from US Supreme Court to end ‘Remain in Mexico’ immigration policy</a>
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President Joe Biden has been given the go-ahead by the US Supreme Court to discontinue the contentious “Remain in Mexico” immigration policy that was implemented under the Trump administration. The Biden administration has worked to abolish the practise of returning certain non-Mexican immigrants who entered US to Mexico rather than holding them or releasing them while their immigration cases were being processed from the start of Biden’s presidency. The Migrant Protection Protocols may be terminated at any time as per the immigration law, according to the 5-4 ruling by the Supreme Court, CNN reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-tory-deputy-chief-whip-chris-pincher-resigns-after-allegedly-groping-men-493563">UK: Tory deputy chief whip Chris Pincher resigns after allegedly groping men</a>
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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fresh from 'partygate' scandal, may have new political headache as Conservative Party deputy chief whip resigned over allegations that he drunkely groped two men. In a letter to Johnson sent late Thursday, Tory MP Chris Pincher said he was quitting his post after he drank "far too much" and "embarrassed myself and other people" the previous evening. Numerous reports have said that Pincher groped two men in front of others at private members Carlton Club in London.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wall-street-stocks-fall-as-sp-500-concludes-worst-h1-class-shares-since-1970-493580">Wall Street stocks fall as S&amp;P 500 concludes worst H1 class shares since 1970</a>
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Wall Street stocks fell on Thursday, finishing solidly lower after US data showed persistently high inflation pinching consumer spending. The broad-based S&amp;P 500 finished at 3,785.38, down 0.9 per cent for the day and a loss of more than 16 per cent for the last six months, the worst first half of a year since 1970.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-president-putin-hold-telephonic-talks-discuss-trade-energy-food-security-493577">PM Modi, President Putin hold telephonic talks, discuss trade, energy, food security</a>
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladmir Putin on Friday (July 1) held a telephonic discussion about food security, energy and trade. The talks took place amid rising prices of food commodities globally. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is the major reason behind the price rise.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kentucky-florida-join-other-us-states-in-blocking-enforcement-of-abortion-ban-493541">Kentucky, Florida judges join other US states in blocking enforcement of abortion ban</a>
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Judges in US states of Florida and Kentucky have temporarily blocked these states from enforcing abortion ban, a week after the Supreme Court overruled the 1973 Wade decision that had given constitutional rights.&nbsp;Florida Circuit Court Judge John Cooper in Tallahassee granted a petition from abortion rights groups on Thursday to temporarily freeze a state law that would bar abortions after the 15th week of pregnancy, reports Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-ons-jabeur-frances-tiafoe-win-hard-fought-ties-heather-watson-enters-r4-at-43rd-attempt-493628">Wimbledon: Ons Jabeur, Frances Tiafoe win hard-fought ties, Heather Watson enters R4 at 43rd attempt</a>
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Ons Jabeur was kept on court for more than hour - but only just - as the speedy Tunisian dispatched former junior number one Diane Parry 6-2 6-3 on Friday to reach the fourth round at Wimbledon. The world number two has shown little mercy during her progress to the third round, spending less than two hours on court. Had she not been broken by Parry when serving for the first set at 5-0 up, she would have made it into the last 16 in less than three hours on court during the first five days of the grasscourt major.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rocketry-movie-review-r-madhavans-narrates-a-compelling-story-of-a-maverick-patriot-493444">'Rocketry' movie review: R Madhavan narrates a compelling story&nbsp;of a maverick patriot</a>
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Former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan's life makes for great cinema. He is faced the highest of highs and lowest of lows in his lifetime. Worked in his career with stalwarts and pioneers of space research in the world, a brilliant mind who was leading India's rocket program but was rudely removed from the mission slapped with espionage charges - Nambu Narayanan's life has been anything but ordinary. R Madhavan's directorial debut 'Rocketry: The Nambi Effect' not only talks in detail about Nayaranan's fight to get justice but also highlights the man's passion for science and his love for the nation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks.

The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks. Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday said that Hong Kong can’t afford to be destabilised while defending the “one country, two systems” form of governance in a rare visit to the Chinese territory amid a deepening authoritarian crackdown by Beijing. Click on the headlines to read more: WHO calls for 'urgent' action in Europe to contain monkeypox spread The World Health Oreganisation (WHO) on Friday (July 1) gave a call for 'urgent' action to prevent further spread of monkeypox in Europe. United Nation's global heath agency said that cases in the continent have tripled in past two weeks. Russian missile strike in Odessa kills at least ten people, says Ukraine At least ten people were killed after a missile strike on an apartment building in the southern Ukrainian city of Odessa, a local official said on Friday. "The number of dead in the apartment building missile strike has risen to 10," said Odessa military administration spokesman Sergei Bratchuk according to AFP. ‘Can’t afford to be destabilised’: China’s Xi defends ‘one country, two systems’ governance in Hong Kong Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday said that Hong Kong can’t afford to be destabilised while defending the “one country, two systems” form of governance in a rare visit to the Chinese territory amid a deepening authoritarian crackdown by Beijing. Joe Biden gets green signal from US Supreme Court to end ‘Remain in Mexico’ immigration policy President Joe Biden has been given the go-ahead by the US Supreme Court to discontinue the contentious “Remain in Mexico” immigration policy that was implemented under the Trump administration. The Biden administration has worked to abolish the practise of returning certain non-Mexican immigrants who entered US to Mexico rather than holding them or releasing them while their immigration cases were being processed from the start of Biden’s presidency. The Migrant Protection Protocols may be terminated at any time as per the immigration law, according to the 5-4 ruling by the Supreme Court, CNN reported. UK: Tory deputy chief whip Chris Pincher resigns after allegedly groping men British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fresh from 'partygate' scandal, may have new political headache as Conservative Party deputy chief whip resigned over allegations that he drunkely groped two men. In a letter to Johnson sent late Thursday, Tory MP Chris Pincher said he was quitting his post after he drank "far too much" and "embarrassed myself and other people" the previous evening. Numerous reports have said that Pincher groped two men in front of others at private members Carlton Club in London. Wall Street stocks fall as S&P 500 concludes worst H1 class shares since 1970 Wall Street stocks fell on Thursday, finishing solidly lower after US data showed persistently high inflation pinching consumer spending. The broad-based S&P 500 finished at 3,785.38, down 0.9 per cent for the day and a loss of more than 16 per cent for the last six months, the worst first half of a year since 1970. PM Modi, President Putin hold telephonic talks, discuss trade, energy, food security Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladmir Putin on Friday (July 1) held a telephonic discussion about food security, energy and trade. The talks took place amid rising prices of food commodities globally. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is the major reason behind the price rise. Kentucky, Florida judges join other US states in blocking enforcement of abortion ban Judges in US states of Florida and Kentucky have temporarily blocked these states from enforcing abortion ban, a week after the Supreme Court overruled the 1973 Wade decision that had given constitutional rights. Florida Circuit Court Judge John Cooper in Tallahassee granted a petition from abortion rights groups on Thursday to temporarily freeze a state law that would bar abortions after the 15th week of pregnancy, reports Reuters. Wimbledon: Ons Jabeur, Frances Tiafoe win hard-fought ties, Heather Watson enters R4 at 43rd attempt Ons Jabeur was kept on court for more than hour - but only just - as the speedy Tunisian dispatched former junior number one Diane Parry 6-2 6-3 on Friday to reach the fourth round at Wimbledon. The world number two has shown little mercy during her progress to the third round, spending less than two hours on court. Had she not been broken by Parry when serving for the first set at 5-0 up, she would have made it into the last 16 in less than three hours on court during the first five days of the grasscourt major. 'Rocketry' movie review: R Madhavan narrates a compelling story of a maverick patriot Former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan's life makes for great cinema. He is faced the highest of highs and lowest of lows in his lifetime. Worked in his career with stalwarts and pioneers of space research in the world, a brilliant mind who was leading India's rocket program but was rudely removed from the mission slapped with espionage charges - Nambu Narayanan's life has been anything but ordinary. R Madhavan's directorial debut 'Rocketry: The Nambi Effect' not only talks in detail about Nayaranan's fight to get justice but also highlights the man's passion for science and his love for the nation.

Top 10 world news: WHO on monkeypox, Xi defends governance in Hong Kong, and more

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner told U.S. Charge d`Affaires Elizabeth Rood at her trial in Moscow that she was "keeping the faith," Rood told reporters after attending the opening session of Griner`s trial on narcotics charges. Rood, who attended the session in the Moscow suburb of Xhimki, said she had been able to speak to the WNBA player, who was "as well as can be expected".

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner told U.S. Charge d`Affaires Elizabeth Rood at her trial in Moscow that she was "keeping the faith," Rood told reporters after attending the opening session of Griner`s trial on narcotics charges.