<p>The Russia and Ukraine conflict is raging. Russia is facing global isolation and an economic crisis with Western allies putting multiple sanctions on the country and big brands refusing to do business due to Russia's action during the Ukraine invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ongoing conflict has led to a massive loss of lives including children, with the death toll rising every day. The crisis also caused the destruction of property as Russia continues shelling and bombing Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US and other NATO allies are calling for a ceasefire and diplomatic dialogues. They are also putting sanctions on Russia and Russians, expecting that Russian President Vladimir Putin will end the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a report published by Sputnik stated that the UK National Crime Agency (NCA) will cooperate with the country's intelligence services to identify assets that are allegedly kept by Putin and his associates in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-iodine-tablets-for-nuclear-risk-why-is-europe-rushing-to-buy-this-tablet-462841">Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet?</a></strong></p>

<p>A report by Telegraph on Wednesday (March 16) noted citing NCA sources that personal assets of Putin worth millions of dollars are stashed in London and the agency will work with MI5, MI6 and GCHQ agencies to&nbsp;attempt to track it down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A source told the newspaper, "There are people working there now. This is what the 'kleptocracy' team will devote its time to. The unit will track down Putin's money and that of his cronies."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the paper, the probe into assets will not be simple and will also include Belarusian money in the UK. "We will use all legislative options and tactics available to the agency to prosecute corrupt elites who launder their assets in the UK," an NCA spokesperson said as quoted by the paper.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-refugee-crisis-raises-other-concerns-feeling-women-minors-may-be-targetted-for-trafficking-462747" hreflang="en">Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women &amp; minors may be targetted for trafficking</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>History books have noted that the growth of London as a centre for financial and professional services coincided with the collapse of the USSR and the rise of post-Soviet 'kleptocracies' in the 1990s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These states and their elites have since become a major source of clients for UK-based services firms and investors in UK assets.</p>

<p>After Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Britain imposed sanctions to freeze the assets of the Russian President and country's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the UK sanctions list, Lavrov was a key decision-maker in Russia's government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Maria Zakharova, who is Russia's Foreign Minister's spokeswoman said that neither Putin nor Lavrov had assets in the UK or anywhere else abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Does Putin really want to stop this war or not?</strong></p>

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The Russia and Ukraine conflict is raging. Russia is facing global isolation and an economic crisis with Western allies putting multiple sanctions on the country and big brands refusing to do business due to Russia's action during the Ukraine invasion.

The Russia and Ukraine conflict is raging. Russia is facing global isolation and an economic crisis with Western allies putting multiple sanctions on the country and big brands refusing to do business due to Russia's action during the Ukraine invasion. The ongoing conflict has led to a massive loss of lives including children, with the death toll rising every day. The crisis also caused the destruction of property as Russia continues shelling and bombing Ukrainian cities. The US and other NATO allies are calling for a ceasefire and diplomatic dialogues. They are also putting sanctions on Russia and Russians, expecting that Russian President Vladimir Putin will end the conflict. Meanwhile, a report published by Sputnik stated that the UK National Crime Agency (NCA) will cooperate with the country's intelligence services to identify assets that are allegedly kept by Putin and his associates in London. ALSO READ | Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet? A report by Telegraph on Wednesday (March 16) noted citing NCA sources that personal assets of Putin worth millions of dollars are stashed in London and the agency will work with MI5, MI6 and GCHQ agencies to attempt to track it down. A source told the newspaper, "There are people working there now. This is what the 'kleptocracy' team will devote its time to. The unit will track down Putin's money and that of his cronies." As per the paper, the probe into assets will not be simple and will also include Belarusian money in the UK. "We will use all legislative options and tactics available to the agency to prosecute corrupt elites who launder their assets in the UK," an NCA spokesperson said as quoted by the paper. IN PICS | Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking History books have noted that the growth of London as a centre for financial and professional services coincided with the collapse of the USSR and the rise of post-Soviet 'kleptocracies' in the 1990s. These states and their elites have since become a major source of clients for UK-based services firms and investors in UK assets. After Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Britain imposed sanctions to freeze the assets of the Russian President and country's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. According to the UK sanctions list, Lavrov was a key decision-maker in Russia's government. Meanwhile, Maria Zakharova, who is Russia's Foreign Minister's spokeswoman said that neither Putin nor Lavrov had assets in the UK or anywhere else abroad. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Does Putin really want to stop this war or not? ×

Kleptocracy hunt: UK to go after Putin's London assets worth millions of pounds

<p>Ukraine’s interior ministry advisor Vadym Denysenko said on Wednesday that around 20,000 civilians have successfully left the city of Mariupol in private cars. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p>The residents of the port city were trapped without electricity and running water for the past two weeks due to heavy shelling from the Russian forces and were in need of urgent evacuation, according to the Ukrainian officials.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>Of these cars, 570 have arrived in the city of Zaporizhzhia to the northwest, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's deputy chief of staff Kyrylo Tymoshenko said on Telegram.</p>

<p><o:p><strong>Also read |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/struggling-russia-deploying-more-reinforcements-from-across-country-into-ukraine-uk-intel-462861">&nbsp;</a></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/struggling-russia-deploying-more-reinforcements-from-across-country-into-ukraine-uk-intel-462861">‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements from across country into Ukraine: UK intel</a> <o:p></o:p></p>

<p>Those in the remaining cars were forced to spend the night along the route, Tymoshenko added.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>According to an AFP report, city officials believe that more than 2100 residents have been killed in Mariupol since the beginning of the Russian invasion and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that it was not able to deliver aid to the city amid the ‘dire situation’.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>"The bottom line is that hundreds of thousands of people are still suffering," the ICRC said.</p>

<p><o:p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fox-news-veteran-war-zone-photographer-ukrainian-journalist-killed-in-ukraine-462764">Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine</a></p>

<p>Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said that altogether, nearly 29,000 people managed to use humanitarian corridor to flee the city on Tuesday.</p>

<p><o:p></o:p>While Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the talks between the two nations regarding the conclusion of the conflict were becoming "more realistic", Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that there was “some hope for compromise” in his latest interview.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>"Neutral status is now being seriously discussed along, of course, with security guarantees," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said told RBC news. "Now this very thing is being discussed in negotiations - there are absolutely specific formulations which in my view are close to an agreement," he added.</p>

<p><o:p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></o:p><strong>Russia-Ukraine Conflict: First evacuees from Mariupol reach Zaporizhzhia</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>(With agency inputs)<o:p></o:p></p>


Ukraine’s interior ministry advisor Vadym Denysenko said on Wednesday that around 20,000 civilians have successfully left the city of Mariupol in private cars. The residents of the port city were trapped without electricity and running water for the past two weeks due to heavy shelling from the Russian forces and were in need of urgent evacuation, according to the Ukrainian officials.

Ukraine’s interior ministry advisor Vadym Denysenko said on Wednesday that around 20,000 civilians have successfully left the city of Mariupol in private cars. The residents of the port city were trapped without electricity and running water for the past two weeks due to heavy shelling from the Russian forces and were in need of urgent evacuation, according to the Ukrainian officials. Of these cars, 570 have arrived in the city of Zaporizhzhia to the northwest, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's deputy chief of staff Kyrylo Tymoshenko said on Telegram. Also read | ‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements from across country into Ukraine: UK intel Those in the remaining cars were forced to spend the night along the route, Tymoshenko added. According to an AFP report, city officials believe that more than 2100 residents have been killed in Mariupol since the beginning of the Russian invasion and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that it was not able to deliver aid to the city amid the ‘dire situation’. "The bottom line is that hundreds of thousands of people are still suffering," the ICRC said. Also read | Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said that altogether, nearly 29,000 people managed to use humanitarian corridor to flee the city on Tuesday. While Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the talks between the two nations regarding the conclusion of the conflict were becoming "more realistic", Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that there was “some hope for compromise” in his latest interview. "Neutral status is now being seriously discussed along, of course, with security guarantees," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said told RBC news. "Now this very thing is being discussed in negotiations - there are absolutely specific formulations which in my view are close to an agreement," he added. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: First evacuees from Mariupol reach Zaporizhzhia (With agency inputs)

20,000 civilians escape Mariupol through humanitarian corridor in private cars

<p>Ukraine's state-owned grid operator, Ukrenergo informed on Monday (March 14) that the Chernobyl nuclear power station has once again lost its electricity supply after external power supplies to the plant were damaged again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been further revealed that the power station, the site of the world's worst nuclear disaster in 1986, was relying on electricity from diesel generators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrenergo chief Volodymyr Kudrytskiy on national television said that the nearby town of Slavutych was without power for the same reason.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrenergo said on Facebook, "The power line that supplies the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Station and the town of Slavutych was damaged by the occupying forces."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On February 24, Russian forces seized the defunct Chernobyl plant. After that, the Russian forces had attacked and seized Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, which is Europe's largest nuclear power plant, on March 4.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The retired Chernobyl nuclear reactors lost power early last week but supply was restored Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The electricity supply to the power station is extremely vital as it is needed to power security systems including the cooling systems for the spent nuclear fuel storage facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrenergo said the power line had been damaged again "before the power supply had been fully restored" and that one of its repair crews will be going into "occupied territory" again for more repairs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The operator added that Chernobyl "cannot be left without a reliable energy supply" and the residents of the nearby town of Slavutych "depend" on it for electricity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'China to face consequences if it helps Russia,' US issues stern warning</strong></p>

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Ukraine's state-owned grid operator, Ukrenergo informed on Monday (March 14) that the Chernobyl nuclear power station has once again lost its electricity supply after external power supplies to the plant were damaged again.

Ukraine's state-owned grid operator, Ukrenergo informed on Monday (March 14) that the Chernobyl nuclear power station has once again lost its electricity supply after external power supplies to the plant were damaged again. It has been further revealed that the power station, the site of the world's worst nuclear disaster in 1986, was relying on electricity from diesel generators. Ukrenergo chief Volodymyr Kudrytskiy on national television said that the nearby town of Slavutych was without power for the same reason. Ukrenergo said on Facebook, "The power line that supplies the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Station and the town of Slavutych was damaged by the occupying forces." On February 24, Russian forces seized the defunct Chernobyl plant. After that, the Russian forces had attacked and seized Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, which is Europe's largest nuclear power plant, on March 4. The retired Chernobyl nuclear reactors lost power early last week but supply was restored Sunday. The electricity supply to the power station is extremely vital as it is needed to power security systems including the cooling systems for the spent nuclear fuel storage facility. Ukrenergo said the power line had been damaged again "before the power supply had been fully restored" and that one of its repair crews will be going into "occupied territory" again for more repairs. The operator added that Chernobyl "cannot be left without a reliable energy supply" and the residents of the nearby town of Slavutych "depend" on it for electricity. WATCH | 'China to face consequences if it helps Russia,' US issues stern warning ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Chernobyl nuclear plant loses power again

<p>The United States sanctioned Russian National Guard Director Viktor Zolotov, Military Technical Cooperation Director Dmitry Shugaev, and Rosoboronexport Director General Alexander Mikheev, along with eight deputy defense ministers, over the situation in Ukraine, the State Department said in a press release.</p>

<p>The Russian deputy defense ministers on the list include Aleksey Krivoruchko, Timur Ivanov, Yunus-bek Evkurov, Dmitry Bulgakov, Yuriy Sadovenko, Nikolay Pankov, Ruslan Tsalikov, and Gennady Zhidko.Last month, US President Joe Biden had announced "new strong sanctions and limitations" on Russia.</p>

<p>The sanctions include limiting Russia's ability to do business in dollars, euros, pounds, and yen to be part of the global economy, stopping the ability to finance and grow the Russian military, and impairing Russia`s ability to compete in a high-tech 21st-century economy.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the US sanctioned Russian banks that together hold around USD 1 trillion in assets.</p>

<p>Biden said that the United States is not doing this alone adding that the 27 EU members and G7 members will participate in these sanctions as well.</p>


The United States sanctioned Russian National Guard Director Viktor Zolotov, Military Technical Cooperation Director Dmitry Shugaev, and Rosoboronexport Director General Alexander Mikheev, along with eight deputy defense ministers, over the situation in Ukraine, the State Department said in a press release.

The United States sanctioned Russian National Guard Director Viktor Zolotov, Military Technical Cooperation Director Dmitry Shugaev, and Rosoboronexport Director General Alexander Mikheev, along with eight deputy defense ministers, over the situation in Ukraine, the State Department said in a press release. The Russian deputy defense ministers on the list include Aleksey Krivoruchko, Timur Ivanov, Yunus-bek Evkurov, Dmitry Bulgakov, Yuriy Sadovenko, Nikolay Pankov, Ruslan Tsalikov, and Gennady Zhidko.Last month, US President Joe Biden had announced "new strong sanctions and limitations" on Russia. The sanctions include limiting Russia's ability to do business in dollars, euros, pounds, and yen to be part of the global economy, stopping the ability to finance and grow the Russian military, and impairing Russia`s ability to compete in a high-tech 21st-century economy. Furthermore, the US sanctioned Russian banks that together hold around USD 1 trillion in assets. Biden said that the United States is not doing this alone adding that the 27 EU members and G7 members will participate in these sanctions as well.

US adds 11 members of Russia's Defense Enterprise to sanctions list

<p>The Russian Foreign Ministry said that 20 people have been killed while 28 were injured by a missile launched by the Ukrainian troops.</p>

<p>According to the military, the attack occurred in a residential neighborhood in Donetsk with a Tochka-U tactical missile.Ukrainian media reported that heavy fighting in Donbas continues.</p>

<p>According to Ukraine`s Armed Forces, 100 Russian soldiers were killed and six vehicles were destroyed, The Kyiv Independent reported.</p>

<p>Russia tried to break through Ukrainian defenses in Donetsk Oblast, it added.The Kyiv Independent reported that Russia hits Kharkiv with ballistic missiles.</p>

<p>Kharkiv Governor Oleh Synyehubov claimed that Kharkiv was hit by short-range Iskander ballistic missile systems stationed in Russia.</p>

<p>On February 24, Russia began a special military operation in Ukraine after the Donetsk and Luhansk people`s republics requested help in defending themselves.</p>

<p>The Russian Defense Ministry said the special operation is targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure only and the civilian population is not in danger.</p>

<p>The West however denies these claims by the Russians and in response, Western nations have imposed comprehensive sanctions on Moscow. In addition, they introduced sanctions on Belarus for supporting Russia`s operation in Ukraine.</p>


The Russian Foreign Ministry said that 20 people have been killed while 28 were injured by a missile launched by the Ukrainian troops. According to the military, the attack occurred in a residential neighborhood in Donetsk with a Tochka-U tactical missile.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said that 20 people have been killed while 28 were injured by a missile launched by the Ukrainian troops. According to the military, the attack occurred in a residential neighborhood in Donetsk with a Tochka-U tactical missile.Ukrainian media reported that heavy fighting in Donbas continues. According to Ukraine`s Armed Forces, 100 Russian soldiers were killed and six vehicles were destroyed, The Kyiv Independent reported. Russia tried to break through Ukrainian defenses in Donetsk Oblast, it added.The Kyiv Independent reported that Russia hits Kharkiv with ballistic missiles. Kharkiv Governor Oleh Synyehubov claimed that Kharkiv was hit by short-range Iskander ballistic missile systems stationed in Russia. On February 24, Russia began a special military operation in Ukraine after the Donetsk and Luhansk people`s republics requested help in defending themselves. The Russian Defense Ministry said the special operation is targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure only and the civilian population is not in danger. The West however denies these claims by the Russians and in response, Western nations have imposed comprehensive sanctions on Moscow. In addition, they introduced sanctions on Belarus for supporting Russia`s operation in Ukraine.

20 killed, 28 injured in missile strike by Ukraine, says Russia

<p>In a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (March 14) said that he had asked the government to ease tax pressure on small and medium-sized businesses because of the ongoing conflict between Russia and his country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that he had asked the officials to work out details on how to restore small and medium businesses so that the system works and the people know how and where they can work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The economic suppression of Ukraine is one of the war's aims," in a video address, Zelensky said adding that he had told the government "to relax taxes as much as possible, to remove all difficulties, absolutely everything".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-challenges-vladimir-putin-to-a-fight-for-ukraine-and-he-is-absolutely-serious-462250">Elon Musk challenges Vladimir Putin to a fight for Ukraine and he is 'absolutely serious'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Talking about the prospects after the conflict ends, the Ukrainian President said that the country needs a new tax system and new financial regulations to keep the economy going during wartime and to rebuild it after the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The weather is beautiful alas we hardly ever notice it anymore. The skies are clear but not above Kyiv. Not above Kyiv and other cities of our country," Zelensky said at the start of his address as he spoke from the outside presidential palace in Kyiv while referring to the morning bombardment of targets in the capital by the Russian forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies have reported quoting authorities that at least one person was killed when a Russian shell smashed into an apartment block in Kyiv on Monday (March 14).&nbsp;</p>

<p>A second person was killed by falling debris after a missile strike on another part of the Ukrainian capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-under-attack-kremlin-doesnt-rule-out-taking-full-control-of-major-ukraine-cities-462229">Ukraine under attack: Kremlin doesn't rule out taking 'full control' of major Ukraine cities</a></strong></p>

<p>Three Russian rockets also hit the Antonov aircraft factory in Kyiv. There were no immediate reports of any deaths at the factory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Zelensky is set to a virtual address to US Congress on Wednesday (March 16) as the western ally comes under intense shelling from Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>House leader Nancy Pelosi and her Senate counterpart Chuck Schumer said in a joint letter to lawmakers said, "We look forward to the privilege of welcoming President Zelensky's address to the House and Senate and to convey our support to the people of Ukraine as they bravely defend democracy."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russian troops inch closer to Ukrainian capital, Kyiv braces for more Russian strikes</strong></p>

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In a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (March 14) said that he had asked the government to ease tax pressure on small and medium-sized businesses because of the ongoing conflict between Russia and his country.

In a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday (March 14) said that he had asked the government to ease tax pressure on small and medium-sized businesses because of the ongoing conflict between Russia and his country. He said that he had asked the officials to work out details on how to restore small and medium businesses so that the system works and the people know how and where they can work. "The economic suppression of Ukraine is one of the war's aims," in a video address, Zelensky said adding that he had told the government "to relax taxes as much as possible, to remove all difficulties, absolutely everything". ALSO READ | Elon Musk challenges Vladimir Putin to a fight for Ukraine and he is 'absolutely serious' Talking about the prospects after the conflict ends, the Ukrainian President said that the country needs a new tax system and new financial regulations to keep the economy going during wartime and to rebuild it after the war. "The weather is beautiful alas we hardly ever notice it anymore. The skies are clear but not above Kyiv. Not above Kyiv and other cities of our country," Zelensky said at the start of his address as he spoke from the outside presidential palace in Kyiv while referring to the morning bombardment of targets in the capital by the Russian forces. News agencies have reported quoting authorities that at least one person was killed when a Russian shell smashed into an apartment block in Kyiv on Monday (March 14). A second person was killed by falling debris after a missile strike on another part of the Ukrainian capital. ALSO READ | Ukraine under attack: Kremlin doesn't rule out taking 'full control' of major Ukraine cities Three Russian rockets also hit the Antonov aircraft factory in Kyiv. There were no immediate reports of any deaths at the factory. Meanwhile, Zelensky is set to a virtual address to US Congress on Wednesday (March 16) as the western ally comes under intense shelling from Russia. House leader Nancy Pelosi and her Senate counterpart Chuck Schumer said in a joint letter to lawmakers said, "We look forward to the privilege of welcoming President Zelensky's address to the House and Senate and to convey our support to the people of Ukraine as they bravely defend democracy." WATCH | Russian troops inch closer to Ukrainian capital, Kyiv braces for more Russian strikes ×

'Economic suppression of Ukraine is one of the war's goals': Zelensky orders to restore businesses

<p>As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the Kremlin said on Monday (March 14) that it may still opt to take control of large cities in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies have reported that the Russian military is advancing steadily towards several major urban hubs in its pro-Western neighbour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "Putin gave orders to hold back on any immediate assault on large cities because the civilian losses would be large."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-85-children-killed-100-wounded-so-far-in-ukraine-says-attorney-general-462201">At least 85 children killed, 100 wounded so far in Ukraine, says attorney general</a></strong></p>

<p>Peskov added that the defence ministry, however, "does not rule out the possibility of putting large cities, which are already almost fully encircled, under its full control".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov said that exceptions would be made for areas "used for humanitarian evacuations. "US and EU leaders it seems are forcing Russia towards an assault of large Ukrainian cities to hold our country responsible for civilian deaths," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Peskov further denied reports that Russia has asked China for military aid. He said that Russia has the potential to conduct an operation in Ukraine, and has not asked for assistance from other countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-orthodox-church-announces-split-with-moscow-over-ukraine-invasion-462186">Russian Orthodox church announces split with Moscow over Ukraine invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>Financial Times newspaper cited US officials on Monday and claimed that Russia had asked China for military ​equipment to ​support its operation in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov told reporters, "Newspapers are now writing a lot, you should not take it as a primary source. Russia has an independent potential to continue the operation, as we said, it is developing according to the plan and will be completed on time and in full."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Two killed in Kyiv suburbs after being hit by artillery shelling</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agnencies)</em></p>


As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the Kremlin said on Monday (March 14) that it may still opt to take control of large cities in Ukraine. News agencies have reported that the Russian military is advancing steadily towards several major urban hubs in its pro-Western neighbour.

As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the Kremlin said on Monday (March 14) that it may still opt to take control of large cities in Ukraine. News agencies have reported that the Russian military is advancing steadily towards several major urban hubs in its pro-Western neighbour. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "Putin gave orders to hold back on any immediate assault on large cities because the civilian losses would be large." ALSO READ | At least 85 children killed, 100 wounded so far in Ukraine, says attorney general Peskov added that the defence ministry, however, "does not rule out the possibility of putting large cities, which are already almost fully encircled, under its full control". Peskov said that exceptions would be made for areas "used for humanitarian evacuations. "US and EU leaders it seems are forcing Russia towards an assault of large Ukrainian cities to hold our country responsible for civilian deaths," he added. Meanwhile, Peskov further denied reports that Russia has asked China for military aid. He said that Russia has the potential to conduct an operation in Ukraine, and has not asked for assistance from other countries. ALSO READ | Russian Orthodox church announces split with Moscow over Ukraine invasion Financial Times newspaper cited US officials on Monday and claimed that Russia had asked China for military equipment to support its operation in Ukraine. Peskov told reporters, "Newspapers are now writing a lot, you should not take it as a primary source. Russia has an independent potential to continue the operation, as we said, it is developing according to the plan and will be completed on time and in full." WATCH | Two killed in Kyiv suburbs after being hit by artillery shelling × (With inputs from agnencies)

Ukraine under attack: Kremlin doesn't rule out taking 'full control' of major Ukraine cities

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="10">As history has shown us, markets do rebound after a war. But the world hasn't learned from history how to forecast the conclusion of a conflict or its consequences.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="13">The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has caused global markets to tumble.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="14">Despite accounting for less than 2% of global trade, Russia and Ukraine dominate many commodities: the region supplies 37% of global palladium, 17% of natural gas, 13% of wheat, 12% of oil, and 9% of nickel.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-war-in-ukraine-is-a-crime-russian-pilot-tells-passengers-461786"><strong>Watch | War in Ukraine ‘is a crime’: Russian pilot tells passengers&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="15">As the European Union and the US impose punishing sanctions on Russian business and commerce, its desperate oil corporations are promising India substantial discounts in exchange for the government speedily approving a payment system to circumvent the SWIFT embargo.</p>

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<h5>Russia has asked India to increase its investments in the sanctioned country's oil and gas sector, as well as to develop Russian companies' sales networks in Asia's third-largest economy.</h5>
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<p>According to people acquainted with the situation, Russian oil producers are offering a 25-27% discount on dated Brent crude prices.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="17">Rosneft, a state-owned oil company, is already one of India's largest crude suppliers.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="18">Significantly, Rosneft and Indian Oil Corporation signed a contract for the supply of up to 2 million tonnes of oil to India through the port of Novorossiysk by the end of 2022 during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India in December last year. So that was just two months before Putin's forces invaded Ukraine.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="19">India has been attempting to diversify its oil import sources away from the Middle East by turning to Russia and the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="20">India is debating whether or not to accept Russia's offer of discounted crude oil, but there are many variables to consider.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="21">While cheap oil is a boon to India's economy at a time when global crude prices are at their highest since 2008, Western sanctions against Russia are likely to make it difficult to accept Moscow's offer.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="22">On Wednesday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said "a whole lot of factors" will decide on the import of Russian oil to India. The finance minister said Russia reached out to India to offer surplus oil at a discounted rate over the last two to three days.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="23">"There was an open offer over the last two-three days that Russia was giving it (crude oil) at some sort of discounted price, but we don’t know how it can be of effect because a whole lot of factors will have to be weighed in, we will have to get it from some port to ship it to India, and whether it is workable," Sitharaman said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="24">Russia is currently the world's second-largest crude oil producer, trailing only the US and Saudi Arabia, but this ranking can change at any time.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="25">And if it starts giving India cheaper petroleum, it will undoubtedly benefit the Indian economy.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="26">Discounted oil will clearly be a blessing for India's economy at a time when global crude prices have risen to their highest levels since 2008.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="27">The problem, though, is that the West's strong sanctions against Russia are likely to make it impossible for India to accept Moscow's proposition.<br />
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<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As history has shown us, markets do rebound after a war. But the world hasn't learned from history how to forecast the conclusion of a conflict or its consequences.

As history has shown us, markets do rebound after a war. But the world hasn't learned from history how to forecast the conclusion of a conflict or its consequences. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has caused global markets to tumble. Despite accounting for less than 2% of global trade, Russia and Ukraine dominate many commodities: the region supplies 37% of global palladium, 17% of natural gas, 13% of wheat, 12% of oil, and 9% of nickel. Watch | War in Ukraine ‘is a crime’: Russian pilot tells passengers As the European Union and the US impose punishing sanctions on Russian business and commerce, its desperate oil corporations are promising India substantial discounts in exchange for the government speedily approving a payment system to circumvent the SWIFT embargo. Russia has asked India to increase its investments in the sanctioned country's oil and gas sector, as well as to develop Russian companies' sales networks in Asia's third-largest economy. × According to people acquainted with the situation, Russian oil producers are offering a 25-27% discount on dated Brent crude prices. Rosneft, a state-owned oil company, is already one of India's largest crude suppliers. Significantly, Rosneft and Indian Oil Corporation signed a contract for the supply of up to 2 million tonnes of oil to India through the port of Novorossiysk by the end of 2022 during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India in December last year. So that was just two months before Putin's forces invaded Ukraine. India has been attempting to diversify its oil import sources away from the Middle East by turning to Russia and the US. India is debating whether or not to accept Russia's offer of discounted crude oil, but there are many variables to consider. While cheap oil is a boon to India's economy at a time when global crude prices are at their highest since 2008, Western sanctions against Russia are likely to make it difficult to accept Moscow's offer. On Wednesday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said "a whole lot of factors" will decide on the import of Russian oil to India. The finance minister said Russia reached out to India to offer surplus oil at a discounted rate over the last two to three days. "There was an open offer over the last two-three days that Russia was giving it (crude oil) at some sort of discounted price, but we don’t know how it can be of effect because a whole lot of factors will have to be weighed in, we will have to get it from some port to ship it to India, and whether it is workable," Sitharaman said. Russia is currently the world's second-largest crude oil producer, trailing only the US and Saudi Arabia, but this ranking can change at any time. And if it starts giving India cheaper petroleum, it will undoubtedly benefit the Indian economy. Discounted oil will clearly be a blessing for India's economy at a time when global crude prices have risen to their highest levels since 2008. The problem, though, is that the West's strong sanctions against Russia are likely to make it impossible for India to accept Moscow's proposition. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia needs a market for its oil and India could benefit, but...

<p>In order to help Ukraine defend against invading Russian forces, the United States on Saturday said it would send additional small arms, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons worth $200 million to the eastern European nation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian officials have been asking for more equipment to defend against heavy shelling by Russian forces. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On Saturday, US President Joe Biden authorised the additional security assistance, the White House said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-conflict-intensifies-ukrainian-defenders-claim-to-kill-russias-third-general-461614" hreflang="en">As conflict intensifies, Ukrainian defenders claim to kill Russia’s third general</a></strong></p>

<p>The move will initiate the "immediate" shipment of fresh military equipment to Ukraine, a senior administration official said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>With the announcement, the total US security aid provided to Ukraine has reached $1.2 billion since January 2021 and $3.2 billion since 2014, when Russia had annexed Crimea region of Ukraine, as per senior administration officials. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a memorandum to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Biden has directed that up to $200 million allocated through the Foreign Assistance Act be designated for Ukraine's defence. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-faces-flak-for-laughing-on-question-over-ukrainian-refugees-fate-461512" hreflang="en">US Vice-President Kamala Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate</a></strong></p>

<p>Blinken said he authorised a fourth drawdown of US defense stocks, in line with Biden's directive, "to help Ukraine meet the armored, airborne, and other threats it is facing" as the war entered a third week. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Blinken said, "The United States and our allies and partners stand in solidarity with the people and government of Ukraine in the face of the Kremlin’s aggression. The international community is united and determined to hold (Russian President Vladimir) Putin accountable." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In order to help Ukraine defend against invading Russian forces, the United States on Saturday said it would send additional small arms, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons worth $200 million to the eastern European nation.

In order to help Ukraine defend against invading Russian forces, the United States on Saturday said it would send additional small arms, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons worth $200 million to the eastern European nation. Ukrainian officials have been asking for more equipment to defend against heavy shelling by Russian forces. On Saturday, US President Joe Biden authorised the additional security assistance, the White House said. Also Read: As conflict intensifies, Ukrainian defenders claim to kill Russia’s third general The move will initiate the "immediate" shipment of fresh military equipment to Ukraine, a senior administration official said. With the announcement, the total US security aid provided to Ukraine has reached $1.2 billion since January 2021 and $3.2 billion since 2014, when Russia had annexed Crimea region of Ukraine, as per senior administration officials. In a memorandum to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Biden has directed that up to $200 million allocated through the Foreign Assistance Act be designated for Ukraine's defence. Also Read: US Vice-President Kamala Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate Blinken said he authorised a fourth drawdown of US defense stocks, in line with Biden's directive, "to help Ukraine meet the armored, airborne, and other threats it is facing" as the war entered a third week. In a statement, Blinken said, "The United States and our allies and partners stand in solidarity with the people and government of Ukraine in the face of the Kremlin’s aggression. The international community is united and determined to hold (Russian President Vladimir) Putin accountable." (With inputs from agencies)

US to send weapons worth $200 million to help Ukraine fight off Russia

<p>Russian engineers have arrived at Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's city in which Europe's biggest atomic power plant is located. Seizure of this nuclear plant has sparkd international outcry.</p>

<p>Its reactors appeared undamaged after the assault despite a fire that broke out there after tanks bombarded it.</p>

<p>Officials from Russia's nuclear firm Rosatom arrived at the site on Friday, the Ukrainian nuclear agency Energoatom said in a message on Telegram.</p>

<p>The Russians told Ukrainian personnel they were there "to evaluate the radiation level" and "help to repair the plant" which was hit by shells, Energoatom said.</p>

<p>At the time of the attack, Moscow's UN ambassador denied that Russia had shelled the plant.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian agency said that the Russians had come directly to the site because Ukrainian personnel had refused to collaborate with them.</p>

<p>It said one of the Russians who arrived at the plant had introduced himself as the new civil and military administrator of the area and declared the plant part of Russian territory, to be run by Rosatom.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Russian engineers have arrived at Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's city in which Europe's biggest atomic power plant is located. Seizure of this nuclear plant has sparkd international outcry.

Russian engineers have arrived at Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's city in which Europe's biggest atomic power plant is located. Seizure of this nuclear plant has sparkd international outcry. Its reactors appeared undamaged after the assault despite a fire that broke out there after tanks bombarded it. Officials from Russia's nuclear firm Rosatom arrived at the site on Friday, the Ukrainian nuclear agency Energoatom said in a message on Telegram. The Russians told Ukrainian personnel they were there "to evaluate the radiation level" and "help to repair the plant" which was hit by shells, Energoatom said. At the time of the attack, Moscow's UN ambassador denied that Russia had shelled the plant. The Ukrainian agency said that the Russians had come directly to the site because Ukrainian personnel had refused to collaborate with them. It said one of the Russians who arrived at the plant had introduced himself as the new civil and military administrator of the area and declared the plant part of Russian territory, to be run by Rosatom. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia engineers inspect seized nuclear plant, Europe's biggest

<p>Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia "launched an air strike on the International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security," the head of the Lviv regional administration, Maxim Kozitsky, said on his verified Facebook page.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, we have 9 dead. 57 people were injured," Lviv's mayor, Andriy Sadoviy, wrote on Telegram.<br />
Some of the injured have been taken to Lviv hospitals, he said.</p>

<p>The military base in Yavoriv, located some 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of the city, was a training centre for Ukrainian forces with foreign instructors, including from the United States and Canada.</p>

<p>It was also a hub for joint exercises of Ukrainians soldier with NATO allies.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said "foreign instructors work here," although it was unclear whether any were present during the attacks.</p>

<p>Foreign troops left Ukraine shortly before Russian launched an invasion of its pro-Western neighbour on February 24.</p>

<p>The United States said on February 12 that it withdrew 150 of its instructors from Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reznikov condemned the bombardment as a "new terrorist attack on peace &amp; security near the EU-NATO border", calling for the imposition of a no-fly zone.</p>

<p>"Action must be taken to stop this. Close the sky!" he wrote.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv.

Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv. Russia "launched an air strike on the International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security," the head of the Lviv regional administration, Maxim Kozitsky, said on his verified Facebook page. "Unfortunately, we have 9 dead. 57 people were injured," Lviv's mayor, Andriy Sadoviy, wrote on Telegram. Some of the injured have been taken to Lviv hospitals, he said. The military base in Yavoriv, located some 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of the city, was a training centre for Ukrainian forces with foreign instructors, including from the United States and Canada. It was also a hub for joint exercises of Ukrainians soldier with NATO allies. Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said "foreign instructors work here," although it was unclear whether any were present during the attacks. Foreign troops left Ukraine shortly before Russian launched an invasion of its pro-Western neighbour on February 24. The United States said on February 12 that it withdrew 150 of its instructors from Ukraine. Reznikov condemned the bombardment as a "new terrorist attack on peace & security near the EU-NATO border", calling for the imposition of a no-fly zone. "Action must be taken to stop this. Close the sky!" he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia conducts airstrike on Ukrainian military target near Poland, 9 dead

<p>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that Russia was sending fresh troops after Ukraine put 31 of Russian battalions out of action. He called this Russia's largest army loss in decades. Zelensky did not give details about this claim and it has not been independently verified.</p>

<p>Zelensky also said he had spoken to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron about pressuring Russia to release the mayor of the city of Melitopol, who Ukraine says was kidnapped on Friday (March 11) by Russian forces.</p>

<p>More than 2,000 residents of the southern city, which is now under Russian control, protested outside the city administration building to demand the release of the mayor, Ivan Fedorov, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president's office, said.</p>

<p>A call between Scholz, Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin was underway, the French presidency said. Russia has not commented on the fate of Fedorov, who Ukrainian officials said was kidnapped by Russian forces on false accusations of terrorism.</p>

<p>Zelenskiy said his country could not stop fighting but was upholding a ceasefire around an agreed humanitarian corridor out of the southern port of Mariupol, which has been under an almost two-week siege, and called on Russia to do the same.</p>

<p>Moscow has previously blamed Kyiv for failed evacuations.</p>

<p>Putin launched the invasion on Feb. 24 in an operation that has been near universally condemned around the world and that has drawn tough Western sanctions on Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong>. &nbsp;</em></p>


Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that Russia was sending fresh troops after Ukraine put 31 of Russian battalions out of action. He called this Russia's largest army loss in decades.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that Russia was sending fresh troops after Ukraine put 31 of Russian battalions out of action. He called this Russia's largest army loss in decades. Zelensky did not give details about this claim and it has not been independently verified. Zelensky also said he had spoken to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron about pressuring Russia to release the mayor of the city of Melitopol, who Ukraine says was kidnapped on Friday (March 11) by Russian forces. More than 2,000 residents of the southern city, which is now under Russian control, protested outside the city administration building to demand the release of the mayor, Ivan Fedorov, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president's office, said. A call between Scholz, Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin was underway, the French presidency said. Russia has not commented on the fate of Fedorov, who Ukrainian officials said was kidnapped by Russian forces on false accusations of terrorism. Zelenskiy said his country could not stop fighting but was upholding a ceasefire around an agreed humanitarian corridor out of the southern port of Mariupol, which has been under an almost two-week siege, and called on Russia to do the same. Moscow has previously blamed Kyiv for failed evacuations. Putin launched the invasion on Feb. 24 in an operation that has been near universally condemned around the world and that has drawn tough Western sanctions on Russia. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia sending fresh troops after heavy losses, claims Zelensky

<p>As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the latest reports from ground zero show the grim reality of the Ukrainian cities that are under attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Massive loss of life and property has been reported in Ukraine and the crisis has also triggered a refugee crisis, as people are fleeing the country to save their lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (March 12) urged the mothers of Russian soldiers to prevent their sons from being sent to Ukraine to fight.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ivan-fedorov-mayor-of-ukrainian-city-abducted-by-russian-troops-461462">Ivan Fedorov, mayor of Ukrainian city abducted by Russian troops</a></strong></p>

<p>In a video address released on Telegram, Zelensky said, "I want to say this once again to Russian mothers, especially mothers of conscripts. Do not send your children to war in a foreign country." &nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Check where your son is. And if you have the slightest suspicion that your son could be sent to war against Ukraine, act immediately" to prevent him being killed or captured."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyiv last week invited mothers of Russian soldiers captured on its territory to come and pick their children up. The Ukrainian defence ministry published phone numbers and an email through which they could obtain information about them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">From 'tank man' to snake island defenders: Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>On Friday (March 11), the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said that it remains "gravely concerned by the rising death toll and human suffering in Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Requesting an "immediate end to the attacks", spokesperson Liz Throssell said, "Civilians are being killed and maimed in what appear to be indiscriminate attacks, with Russian forces using explosive weapons with wide area effects in or near populated areas. These include missiles, heavy artillery shells and rockets, as well as airstrikes."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the OHCHR, 549 civilian deaths have been recorded and 957 injuries since the invasion began after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although, some of the officials have noted that the actual death toll could be much higher than reported ones.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Turkey taking advantage of war in Ukraine?</strong></p>

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As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the latest reports from ground zero show the grim reality of the Ukrainian cities that are under attack. Massive loss of life and property has been reported in Ukraine and the crisis has also triggered a refugee crisis, as people are fleeing the country to save their lives.

As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the latest reports from ground zero show the grim reality of the Ukrainian cities that are under attack. Massive loss of life and property has been reported in Ukraine and the crisis has also triggered a refugee crisis, as people are fleeing the country to save their lives. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (March 12) urged the mothers of Russian soldiers to prevent their sons from being sent to Ukraine to fight. WATCH | Ivan Fedorov, mayor of Ukrainian city abducted by Russian troops In a video address released on Telegram, Zelensky said, "I want to say this once again to Russian mothers, especially mothers of conscripts. Do not send your children to war in a foreign country." He said, "Check where your son is. And if you have the slightest suspicion that your son could be sent to war against Ukraine, act immediately" to prevent him being killed or captured." Kyiv last week invited mothers of Russian soldiers captured on its territory to come and pick their children up. The Ukrainian defence ministry published phone numbers and an email through which they could obtain information about them. IN PICS | From 'tank man' to snake island defenders: Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin On Friday (March 11), the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said that it remains "gravely concerned by the rising death toll and human suffering in Ukraine". Requesting an "immediate end to the attacks", spokesperson Liz Throssell said, "Civilians are being killed and maimed in what appear to be indiscriminate attacks, with Russian forces using explosive weapons with wide area effects in or near populated areas. These include missiles, heavy artillery shells and rockets, as well as airstrikes." As per the OHCHR, 549 civilian deaths have been recorded and 957 injuries since the invasion began after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation in Ukraine. Although, some of the officials have noted that the actual death toll could be much higher than reported ones. WATCH | Gravitas: Turkey taking advantage of war in Ukraine? ×

'Prevent him from being killed or captured': Zelensky appeals to mothers of Russian soldiers

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>Russian soldiers have kidnapped the mayor of southern Ukraine's Melitopol on Friday (March 11), the country's President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian officials said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The abduction of Ivan Fedorov, who is the mayor of the southeastern city of Melitopol, was captured in CCTV cameras as he was seen being led away by armed men from a government building on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video, posted by the deputy head of Ukraine's presidential administration, Kirillo Timoshenko, shows soldiers coming out of a building holding a man dressed in black, his head apparently covered with a black bag.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-world-war-iii-we-will-not-fight-a-war-against-russia-in-ukraine-says-biden-461437">'World War III': We will not fight a war against Russia in Ukraine, says Biden</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine's ministry of foreign affairs tweeted: "The armed aggression of the RF against #Ukraine is accompanied by gross violations of norms and principles of international law, including int’l humanitarian law. Among such gross violations was the abduction of Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov on March 11."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's parliament said on Twitter, "A group of 10 occupiers kidnapped the mayor of Melitopol Ivan Fedorov. He refused to cooperate with the enemy." It said the mayor was seized when he was at the city's crisis centre dealing with supply issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, Zelensky also confirmed the news. In a video message, he said, "This is obviously a sign of weakness of the invaders... They have moved to a new stage of terror in which they are trying to physically eliminate representatives of legitimate local Ukrainian authorities," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">From 'tank man' to snake island defenders: Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>He called Fedorov "a mayor who bravely defends Ukraine and the members of his community". He added, "The capture of the mayor of Melitopol is, therefore, a crime, not only against a particular person, against a particular community, and not only against Ukraine. It is a crime against democracy itself... The acts of the Russian invaders will be regarded like those of Islamic State terrorists."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</em></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video of abduction&nbsp;here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussianWarCrimes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussianWarCrimes</a><br />
Russian <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CrimesAgainstHumanity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CrimesAgainstHumanity</a><br />
⚡⚡⚡The mayor of occupied City of 🇺🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melitopol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melitopol</a> Ivan Fedorov, was abducted by a 🇷🇺group of occupiers today.<br />
Mayor Fedorov refused to cooperate with the 🇷🇺enemy. During the abduction, they put a plastic bag on his head. <a href="https://t.co/pc24n6Bxnj">pic.twitter.com/pc24n6Bxnj</a></p>
— Belarussische Diaspora in Österreich (@BelDiasporaAT) <a href="https://twitter.com/BelDiasporaAT/status/1502325353292959745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The armed aggression of the RF against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> is accompanied by gross violations of norms and principles of international law, including int’l humanitarian law.<br />
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Among such gross violations was the abduction of Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov on March 11. <a href="https://t.co/pSyJKi8VY8">https://t.co/pSyJKi8VY8</a> <a href="https://t.co/SdZVCW1xNx">pic.twitter.com/SdZVCW1xNx</a></p>
— MFA of Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@MFA_Ukraine) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_Ukraine/status/1502381583063474186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian soldiers have kidnapped the mayor of southern Ukraine's Melitopol on Friday (March 11), the country's President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian officials said. The abduction of Ivan Fedorov, who is the mayor of the southeastern city of Melitopol, was captured in CCTV cameras as he was seen being led away by armed men from a government building on Friday. The video, posted by the deputy head of Ukraine's presidential administration, Kirillo Timoshenko, shows soldiers coming out of a building holding a man dressed in black, his head apparently covered with a black bag. ALSO READ | 'World War III': We will not fight a war against Russia in Ukraine, says Biden Ukraine's ministry of foreign affairs tweeted: "The armed aggression of the RF against #Ukraine is accompanied by gross violations of norms and principles of international law, including int’l humanitarian law. Among such gross violations was the abduction of Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov on March 11." Ukraine's parliament said on Twitter, "A group of 10 occupiers kidnapped the mayor of Melitopol Ivan Fedorov. He refused to cooperate with the enemy." It said the mayor was seized when he was at the city's crisis centre dealing with supply issues. Later, Zelensky also confirmed the news. In a video message, he said, "This is obviously a sign of weakness of the invaders... They have moved to a new stage of terror in which they are trying to physically eliminate representatives of legitimate local Ukrainian authorities," he said. IN PICS | From 'tank man' to snake island defenders: Brave stories of resistance by Ukrainians against Vladimir Putin He called Fedorov "a mayor who bravely defends Ukraine and the members of his community". He added, "The capture of the mayor of Melitopol is, therefore, a crime, not only against a particular person, against a particular community, and not only against Ukraine. It is a crime against democracy itself... The acts of the Russian invaders will be regarded like those of Islamic State terrorists." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video of abduction here: #RussianWarCrimes Russian #CrimesAgainstHumanity ⚡⚡⚡The mayor of occupied City of 🇺🇦 #Melitopol Ivan Fedorov, was abducted by a 🇷🇺group of occupiers today. Mayor Fedorov refused to cooperate with the 🇷🇺enemy. During the abduction, they put a plastic bag on his head. pic.twitter.com/pc24n6Bxnj — Belarussische Diaspora in Österreich (@BelDiasporaAT) March 11, 2022 × The armed aggression of the RF against #Ukraine is accompanied by gross violations of norms and principles of international law, including int’l humanitarian law. Among such gross violations was the abduction of Melitopol Mayor Ivan Fedorov on March 11. https://t.co/pSyJKi8VY8 pic.twitter.com/SdZVCW1xNx — MFA of Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@MFA_Ukraine) March 11, 2022 ×

Watch: Ivan Fedorov, mayor of Ukrainian city abducted by Russian troops

<p>Finance police in Italy have seized a superyacht belonging to a Russian billionaire , as per Italian prime minister's office. The supeyacht belongs to Andrey Melnichenko. The action has come just a few days after the businessman was placed on European sanctions list.</p>

<p>The 143-metre (470-foot) Sailing Yacht A, which has a price tag of 530 million euros ($578 million), has been sequestered at the northern port of Trieste, the government said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-legalises-piracy-allows-patent-thefts-to-counter-west-sanctions-report-461502">Russia legalises piracy, allows patent thefts to counter West sanctions: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Designed by Philippe Starck and built by Nobiskrug in Germany, the vessel is the world's biggest sailing yacht, the government said.</p>

<p>Melnichenko owns major fertiliser producer EuroChem Group and coal company SUEK.</p>

<p>Last week Italian police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million euros from five high-profile Russians who have been placed on the sanctions list.</p>

<p>The police operations were part of a coordinated drive by Western states to penalise wealthy Russians linked to President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Finance police in Italy have seized a superyacht belonging to a Russian billionaire , as per Italian prime minister's office. The supeyacht belongs to Andrey Melnichenko.

Finance police in Italy have seized a superyacht belonging to a Russian billionaire , as per Italian prime minister's office. The supeyacht belongs to Andrey Melnichenko. The action has come just a few days after the businessman was placed on European sanctions list. The 143-metre (470-foot) Sailing Yacht A, which has a price tag of 530 million euros ($578 million), has been sequestered at the northern port of Trieste, the government said. Also Read | Russia legalises piracy, allows patent thefts to counter West sanctions: Report Designed by Philippe Starck and built by Nobiskrug in Germany, the vessel is the world's biggest sailing yacht, the government said. Melnichenko owns major fertiliser producer EuroChem Group and coal company SUEK. Last week Italian police seized villas and yachts worth 143 million euros from five high-profile Russians who have been placed on the sanctions list. The police operations were part of a coordinated drive by Western states to penalise wealthy Russians linked to President Vladimir Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian police seize superyacht belonging to Russian billionaire

<p>They poured the liquid out — blueberry-flavored, orange-flavored and the original, face-puckering unflavored version — tweeting #DumpRussianVodka and, at gay bars across the country, made do with Absolut and soda instead.</p>

<p>This was 2013, after President Vladimir Putin imposed harsh new measures aimed at LGBTQ Russians.</p>

<p>And now, as Russia’s aggression in Ukraine takes a horrific human toll, turning millions into refugees, the boycotts are back: U.S. consumers channeling outrage into ditching products they assume are produced by Russians in Russia, with ties, somehow, to Putin.</p>

<p>The problem with that logic is that Americans consume hardly any products that are truly Russian. That goes for vodka — and oil, too. Russian oil makes up 3% of what Americans consume on a daily basis.</p>

<p>This mistaken impression has led people to punish businesses that are really Russian in name only. Some states that recently placed a ban on Russian spirits discovered they were setting a policy that affected only two brands with a small footprint domestically — Russian Standard and Ustianochka. President Joe Biden announced a ban on all Russian liquor imports on Friday. But less than 1% of the vodka consumed here comes from Russia, a beverage industry trade group has noted.</p>

<p>The vodka most commonly but incorrectly associated with Russia, Stolichnaya, has again borne the brunt of the online calls for a boycott. It has been produced in Latvia since 2002, and the headquarters of its parent company, the Stoli Group, are in Luxembourg. Recently, the company formally rebranded its signature spirit as just Stoli after bar owners from Vermont to Michigan to Iowa declared they would no longer serve it and shared video of themselves dumping bottles of it down the drain.</p>

<p>In New York, the famous red banquettes in the Russian Tea Room aren’t as full of patrons these days. But the restaurant’s Russian heritage is a bit of a sleight of hand. It was opened in 1927 by a Polish immigrant who called it the Albertina Rasch Russian Tea Room — after a ballet dancer who was Viennese, even though many at the time assumed she was Russian.</p>

<p>In Chicago, a Russian-style bath house called Red Square has reported getting strange phone calls from people trying to pin down whether it has taken a side in the war. But Red Square is co-owned by a man who was born in Ukraine and said he still has family in the country.</p>

<p>In Washington, windows were broken and a door smashed at the Russia House restaurant near Dupont Circle. Its co-owner told local media that the business, which has been closed since the pandemic, has no connection with Russia. According to its website, which advertises caviar spreads as the kind of indulgence that many Americans associate with Russian decadence, one owner fought in the Gulf War and the other was born in Lithuania.</p>

<p>The misplaced anger of the backlash against Russia has been an instructive development for those who study consumer habits, highlighting the ways that boycotts are especially ineffective and often counterproductive as a tool of protest in the social media era. A staple of American political resistance since the Boston Tea Party, boycotts have played a vital role in shaping public opinion about demonstrations for social progress. The civil rights bus boycotts in the South and the grape boycotts in the 1960s and ’70s to protest conditions for agricultural workers helped spur meaningful change.</p>

<p>But that is not as true today, despite the exponential growth in the number of boycotts aimed at large corporations. One study conducted by a pair of scholars, Maurice Schweitzer of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and Joseph Gaspar of Quinnipiac University, found that calls for boycotts against Fortune 500 companies had nearly tripled since 2010. The study, which has not yet been published, also found that the most common trigger was politics.</p>

<p>Calls to boycott can be effective by creating bad publicity that tarnishes, temporarily at least, a company’s brand image. Sometimes they spur companies to change, as a backlash against SeaWorld over its treatment of orcas did. The company announced in 2016 that it was ending its breeding program, meaning the generation of killer whales now at its theme parks will be the last.</p>

<p>But more often, consumer boycotts fail to have much of an impact on the targeted company’s bottom line because they are either too hard to stick to, as people discovered when they tried to shun BP gas after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, or because they inspire a spirited response from consumers who want to support a company precisely because it’s under attack.</p>

<p>After the CEO of Chick-fil-A professed his opposition to same-sex marriage in 2012, mayors in liberal cities like San Francisco and Boston said the Southern fried chicken eatery should look elsewhere to open new restaurants. Conservatives like Mike Huckabee, a former Baptist preacher and two-time presidential candidate, rallied their followers to support the chain. Its nationwide expansion continued at a fast pace, and there are now Chick-fil-A restaurants from Brooklyn to Seattle.</p>

<p>“It either turns out to be too delicious or too convenient,” Schweitzer of the Wharton School said of shunning certain products. Another factor, he added, is the sheer volume of news that people find politically motivating. “There’s something to be outraged about on a weekly or monthly basis,” he said. “And in the moment the emotion feels raw and powerful, but we fail to appreciate how fleeting that is.”</p>

<p>One reason calls for boycotts keep growing despite their ineffectiveness is that many people appear to believe they are sticking to their guns when they aren’t.</p>

<p>A draft of a new study by scholars from Northwestern University, the University of Toronto and Harvard Business School examined the impact of several recent politically motivated calls for action, including the campaign to boycott or, conversely, “buycott” Starbucks after its announcement in 2017 that it would hire 10,000 refugees. The move came in response to former President Donald Trump’s order halting migration from seven mostly Muslim countries.</p>

<p>Researchers surveyed more than 1,000 consumers, obtained their actual spending at Starbucks over several months and asked whether they had changed their buying behavior because of the refugee announcement. They found that those who reported they had changed their habits — either in support of Starbucks by buying more or against it by boycotting — didn’t actually do anything differently.</p>

<p>Katy DeCelles, a professor of organizational behavior at the University of Toronto Rotman School of Management and one of the authors of the study, said the results showed that people of all political persuasions believed what they wanted to be true about their own behavior.</p>

<p>Finding that there was no measurable impact on spending with such an emotionally charged and highly publicized issue surprised the researchers.</p>

<p>“We thought if we were going to find an effect on people’s behavior it would be now,” DeCelles added.</p>

<p>As that research — and the current anti-Stoli sentiment — shows, the anger channeled into consumer boycotts often lacks consistent logic. Although some states like Pennsylvania and Oregon have not included Stoli in their Russian spirits ban, New Hampshire has. A spokesperson for the state’s liquor commission confirmed that because Gov. Chris Sununu’s order applies not only to Russian-made products but also to ones that are “Russian-branded,” Stoli would remain off the shelves at state-operated stores.</p>

<p>Damian McKinney, CEO of the Stoli Group, said in an interview that mistaken impressions about the brand had nearly led to major losses of business. He recalled a recent conversation with the head of one major retailer in Britain, who had informed him that Stoli was about to be pulled from its shelves.</p>

<p>“I said, ‘Do you know we’re Latvian?’ And there was a pause,” McKinney said, declining to name the retailer. As he spoke, the background for his Zoom screen was framed in the blue and yellow colors of the Ukrainian flag alongside the hashtag #StandWithUkraine. “I needed people to understand we’re on the good guys’ side. And this is about an evil man and a regime, not the Russian people,” he added, noting that Stoli employs Russians as well as Ukrainians.</p>

<p>Like many businesses, Stoli has no singular identity that is easy to delineate. Its recipe is Russian, as is its name. “Stolichnaya” translates roughly to “metropolitan.” The company founder, Yuri Shefler, fled Russia after a dispute with the government over control of the Stoli trademark. He lives in Switzerland. For years, Russia has fought Stoli in court over the rights to claim ownership of the name. The company makes its bottle caps and some of its bottles in Ukraine and recently evacuated five Ukrainian employees from the country to Cyprus and Luxembourg, McKinney said.</p>

<p>The Russian Tea Room, where during the pre-theater rush Friday only a handful of tables were occupied, has a similarly complicated lineage, despite the name. Its current owner is a New York real estate developer. But it started in 1927 as a popular hangout among Russians who emigrated to America and became citizens. A New York Times story from 1977 about the restaurant’s 50th anniversary noted that the restaurant was patronized early on by exiles who called themselves “White Russians,” to distinguish themselves from Lenin’s “red” Bolsheviks.</p>

<p>And nearly a century later, drawing those distinctions with the Moscow regime is as important as ever. On the restaurant’s website, a pop-up banner statement on the war in Ukraine greets visitors, noting its history as an institution “deeply rooted in speaking against communist dictatorship.” It adds, “We stand against Putin and with the people of Ukraine.”</p>


They poured the liquid out — blueberry-flavored, orange-flavored and the original, face-puckering unflavored version — tweeting #DumpRussianVodka and, at gay bars across the country, made do with Absolut and soda instead.

They poured the liquid out — blueberry-flavored, orange-flavored and the original, face-puckering unflavored version — tweeting #DumpRussianVodka and, at gay bars across the country, made do with Absolut and soda instead. This was 2013, after President Vladimir Putin imposed harsh new measures aimed at LGBTQ Russians. And now, as Russia’s aggression in Ukraine takes a horrific human toll, turning millions into refugees, the boycotts are back: U.S. consumers channeling outrage into ditching products they assume are produced by Russians in Russia, with ties, somehow, to Putin. The problem with that logic is that Americans consume hardly any products that are truly Russian. That goes for vodka — and oil, too. Russian oil makes up 3% of what Americans consume on a daily basis. This mistaken impression has led people to punish businesses that are really Russian in name only. Some states that recently placed a ban on Russian spirits discovered they were setting a policy that affected only two brands with a small footprint domestically — Russian Standard and Ustianochka. President Joe Biden announced a ban on all Russian liquor imports on Friday. But less than 1% of the vodka consumed here comes from Russia, a beverage industry trade group has noted. The vodka most commonly but incorrectly associated with Russia, Stolichnaya, has again borne the brunt of the online calls for a boycott. It has been produced in Latvia since 2002, and the headquarters of its parent company, the Stoli Group, are in Luxembourg. Recently, the company formally rebranded its signature spirit as just Stoli after bar owners from Vermont to Michigan to Iowa declared they would no longer serve it and shared video of themselves dumping bottles of it down the drain. In New York, the famous red banquettes in the Russian Tea Room aren’t as full of patrons these days. But the restaurant’s Russian heritage is a bit of a sleight of hand. It was opened in 1927 by a Polish immigrant who called it the Albertina Rasch Russian Tea Room — after a ballet dancer who was Viennese, even though many at the time assumed she was Russian. In Chicago, a Russian-style bath house called Red Square has reported getting strange phone calls from people trying to pin down whether it has taken a side in the war. But Red Square is co-owned by a man who was born in Ukraine and said he still has family in the country. In Washington, windows were broken and a door smashed at the Russia House restaurant near Dupont Circle. Its co-owner told local media that the business, which has been closed since the pandemic, has no connection with Russia. According to its website, which advertises caviar spreads as the kind of indulgence that many Americans associate with Russian decadence, one owner fought in the Gulf War and the other was born in Lithuania. The misplaced anger of the backlash against Russia has been an instructive development for those who study consumer habits, highlighting the ways that boycotts are especially ineffective and often counterproductive as a tool of protest in the social media era. A staple of American political resistance since the Boston Tea Party, boycotts have played a vital role in shaping public opinion about demonstrations for social progress. The civil rights bus boycotts in the South and the grape boycotts in the 1960s and ’70s to protest conditions for agricultural workers helped spur meaningful change. But that is not as true today, despite the exponential growth in the number of boycotts aimed at large corporations. One study conducted by a pair of scholars, Maurice Schweitzer of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and Joseph Gaspar of Quinnipiac University, found that calls for boycotts against Fortune 500 companies had nearly tripled since 2010. The study, which has not yet been published, also found that the most common trigger was politics. Calls to boycott can be effective by creating bad publicity that tarnishes, temporarily at least, a company’s brand image. Sometimes they spur companies to change, as a backlash against SeaWorld over its treatment of orcas did. The company announced in 2016 that it was ending its breeding program, meaning the generation of killer whales now at its theme parks will be the last. But more often, consumer boycotts fail to have much of an impact on the targeted company’s bottom line because they are either too hard to stick to, as people discovered when they tried to shun BP gas after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, or because they inspire a spirited response from consumers who want to support a company precisely because it’s under attack. After the CEO of Chick-fil-A professed his opposition to same-sex marriage in 2012, mayors in liberal cities like San Francisco and Boston said the Southern fried chicken eatery should look elsewhere to open new restaurants. Conservatives like Mike Huckabee, a former Baptist preacher and two-time presidential candidate, rallied their followers to support the chain. Its nationwide expansion continued at a fast pace, and there are now Chick-fil-A restaurants from Brooklyn to Seattle. “It either turns out to be too delicious or too convenient,” Schweitzer of the Wharton School said of shunning certain products. Another factor, he added, is the sheer volume of news that people find politically motivating. “There’s something to be outraged about on a weekly or monthly basis,” he said. “And in the moment the emotion feels raw and powerful, but we fail to appreciate how fleeting that is.” One reason calls for boycotts keep growing despite their ineffectiveness is that many people appear to believe they are sticking to their guns when they aren’t. A draft of a new study by scholars from Northwestern University, the University of Toronto and Harvard Business School examined the impact of several recent politically motivated calls for action, including the campaign to boycott or, conversely, “buycott” Starbucks after its announcement in 2017 that it would hire 10,000 refugees. The move came in response to former President Donald Trump’s order halting migration from seven mostly Muslim countries. Researchers surveyed more than 1,000 consumers, obtained their actual spending at Starbucks over several months and asked whether they had changed their buying behavior because of the refugee announcement. They found that those who reported they had changed their habits — either in support of Starbucks by buying more or against it by boycotting — didn’t actually do anything differently. Katy DeCelles, a professor of organizational behavior at the University of Toronto Rotman School of Management and one of the authors of the study, said the results showed that people of all political persuasions believed what they wanted to be true about their own behavior. Finding that there was no measurable impact on spending with such an emotionally charged and highly publicized issue surprised the researchers. “We thought if we were going to find an effect on people’s behavior it would be now,” DeCelles added. As that research — and the current anti-Stoli sentiment — shows, the anger channeled into consumer boycotts often lacks consistent logic. Although some states like Pennsylvania and Oregon have not included Stoli in their Russian spirits ban, New Hampshire has. A spokesperson for the state’s liquor commission confirmed that because Gov. Chris Sununu’s order applies not only to Russian-made products but also to ones that are “Russian-branded,” Stoli would remain off the shelves at state-operated stores. Damian McKinney, CEO of the Stoli Group, said in an interview that mistaken impressions about the brand had nearly led to major losses of business. He recalled a recent conversation with the head of one major retailer in Britain, who had informed him that Stoli was about to be pulled from its shelves. “I said, ‘Do you know we’re Latvian?’ And there was a pause,” McKinney said, declining to name the retailer. As he spoke, the background for his Zoom screen was framed in the blue and yellow colors of the Ukrainian flag alongside the hashtag #StandWithUkraine. “I needed people to understand we’re on the good guys’ side. And this is about an evil man and a regime, not the Russian people,” he added, noting that Stoli employs Russians as well as Ukrainians. Like many businesses, Stoli has no singular identity that is easy to delineate. Its recipe is Russian, as is its name. “Stolichnaya” translates roughly to “metropolitan.” The company founder, Yuri Shefler, fled Russia after a dispute with the government over control of the Stoli trademark. He lives in Switzerland. For years, Russia has fought Stoli in court over the rights to claim ownership of the name. The company makes its bottle caps and some of its bottles in Ukraine and recently evacuated five Ukrainian employees from the country to Cyprus and Luxembourg, McKinney said. The Russian Tea Room, where during the pre-theater rush Friday only a handful of tables were occupied, has a similarly complicated lineage, despite the name. Its current owner is a New York real estate developer. But it started in 1927 as a popular hangout among Russians who emigrated to America and became citizens. A New York Times story from 1977 about the restaurant’s 50th anniversary noted that the restaurant was patronized early on by exiles who called themselves “White Russians,” to distinguish themselves from Lenin’s “red” Bolsheviks. And nearly a century later, drawing those distinctions with the Moscow regime is as important as ever. On the restaurant’s website, a pop-up banner statement on the war in Ukraine greets visitors, noting its history as an institution “deeply rooted in speaking against communist dictatorship.” It adds, “We stand against Putin and with the people of Ukraine.”

That Russian business you’re boycotting isn’t actually Russian

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>A third top Russian general seems to have been killed by Ukrainian defenders, the Armed Forces of Ukraine claimed on Friday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been intensifying with every hour. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet, Ukraine's military said that they killed Russian Maj Gen Andrey Kolesnikov, who is believed to be the commander of the 29th Combined Arms Army. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-faces-flak-for-laughing-on-question-over-ukrainian-refugees-fate-461512">Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate</a></strong></p>

<p>While announcing the general's purported death, Ukraine's armed forces on Twitter, said, "The Russian invaders continue to lose their officers in the war against Ukraine." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="uk">Російські окупанти продовжують втрачати у війні проти України своїх офіцерів. ЗСУ вдалося ліквідувати генерал-майора Андрія Колеснікова, командувача Східного військового округу. <a href="https://t.co/CEBDneqslz">pic.twitter.com/CEBDneqslz</a></p>
— 🇺🇦Armed Forces (@ArmedForcesUkr) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArmedForcesUkr/status/1502294425992585225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Friday, several journalists also reported that anonymous Western officials have confirmed that a third Russian major general has been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, a Ukrainian sniper had reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals, said media reports. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-conflict-russia-violates-nuclear-safety-principles-in-ukraine-says-us-461477" hreflang="en">In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US</a></strong></p>

<p>In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. &nbsp;</p>

<p>One more Russian general was allegedly killed earlier by Ukrainian forces. The invasion began on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. A third top Russian general seems to have been killed by Ukrainian defenders, the Armed Forces of Ukraine claimed on Friday. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has been intensifying with every hour. In a tweet, Ukraine's military said that they killed Russian Maj Gen Andrey Kolesnikov, who is believed to be the commander of the 29th Combined Arms Army. Also Read: Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate While announcing the general's purported death, Ukraine's armed forces on Twitter, said, "The Russian invaders continue to lose their officers in the war against Ukraine." Російські окупанти продовжують втрачати у війні проти України своїх офіцерів. ЗСУ вдалося ліквідувати генерал-майора Андрія Колеснікова, командувача Східного військового округу. pic.twitter.com/CEBDneqslz — 🇺🇦Armed Forces (@ArmedForcesUkr) March 11, 2022 × On Friday, several journalists also reported that anonymous Western officials have confirmed that a third Russian major general has been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Earlier, a Ukrainian sniper had reportedly killed one of the Russia's top generals, said media reports. Also Read: In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US In an intense battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Maj Gen Andrey Sukhovetsky, deputy commander, 41st Combined Arms Army of Russia's Central Military District, was reportedly killed, as per a Daily Mail report. Sukhovetsky was killed "by a sniper," the report said citing a military source. One more Russian general was allegedly killed earlier by Ukrainian forces. The invasion began on February 24. (With inputs from agencies)

As conflict intensifies, Ukrainian defenders claim to kill Russia’s third general

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>With the conflict intensifying, the United States has accused Russia of violating nuclear safety principles in Ukraine on Friday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It has also demanded that Moscow’s invading forces stop firing on nuclear power plants. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the US has also added that there were no signs of any radiological release yet. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-biowarfare-labs-claim-russia-using-unsc-for-spreading-disinformation-says-us-461467">Russia using UNSC for 'spreading disinformation', says US</a></strong></p>

<p>In a Twitter post, US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said that radiation monitors in much of Ukraine were still functioning although the United States was concerned by lack of data from safeguards monitors at Chernobyl or Zaporizhzhia. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Although both the sites are under control of Russian forces, they are being operated by Ukrainian staff in conditions that endanger the safety of the facilities, as per the International Atomic Energy Agency. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We remain concerned about Russia’s reckless actions and violations of nuclear safety principles. We are monitoring reports of damage to a research facility in Kharkiv. Near-term safety risk is low, but the continued Russian firing on nuclear facilities must cease," Granholm said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-briefs-tiktokers-on-ukraine-as-information-war-against-russia-heats-up-461466">White House briefs TikTokers on Ukraine as information war heats up</a></strong></p>

<p>The US could not confirm reports about power being restored at Chernobyl, Granholm said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday, Russia’s energy ministry said that Belarusian specialists restored electricity supply at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. With the conflict intensifying, the United States has accused Russia of violating nuclear safety principles in Ukraine on Friday. It has also demanded that Moscow’s invading forces stop firing on nuclear power plants. But the US has also added that there were no signs of any radiological release yet. Also Read: Russia using UNSC for 'spreading disinformation', says US In a Twitter post, US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said that radiation monitors in much of Ukraine were still functioning although the United States was concerned by lack of data from safeguards monitors at Chernobyl or Zaporizhzhia. Although both the sites are under control of Russian forces, they are being operated by Ukrainian staff in conditions that endanger the safety of the facilities, as per the International Atomic Energy Agency. "We remain concerned about Russia’s reckless actions and violations of nuclear safety principles. We are monitoring reports of damage to a research facility in Kharkiv. Near-term safety risk is low, but the continued Russian firing on nuclear facilities must cease," Granholm said. Also Read: White House briefs TikTokers on Ukraine as information war heats up The US could not confirm reports about power being restored at Chernobyl, Granholm said. On Thursday, Russia’s energy ministry said that Belarusian specialists restored electricity supply at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. (With inputs from agencies)

In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US   

<p>The Russian Olympic Committee made an urgent appeal Friday to overturn a ban on its athletes competing at a European winter sports festival in Finland.</p>

<p>The Court of Arbitration for Sport said it was setting a timetable for the case ahead of the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival being held from March 20-25.</p>

<p>The ROC appeal challenges a March 2 decision by the executive committee of the European Olympic Committees to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes because of the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-wi-by-huge-155-runs-in-icc-womens-world-cup-461558">Women's World Cup 2022: Mandhana, Kaur hit tons as India register massive 155-run win over West Indies</a></p>

<p>In a separate Russian case at CAS, the national soccer federation has appealed against bans on national and club teams by FIFA and UEFA.</p>

<p>Those suspensions were imposed on March 1 within hours of the International Olympic Committee urging sports bodies to act to isolate Russia after the military invasion.</p>


The Russian Olympic Committee made an urgent appeal Friday to overturn a ban on its athletes competing at a European winter sports festival in Finland. The Court of Arbitration for Sport said it was setting a timetable for the case ahead of the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival being held from March 20-25.

The Russian Olympic Committee made an urgent appeal Friday to overturn a ban on its athletes competing at a European winter sports festival in Finland. The Court of Arbitration for Sport said it was setting a timetable for the case ahead of the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival being held from March 20-25. The ROC appeal challenges a March 2 decision by the executive committee of the European Olympic Committees to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes because of the war in Ukraine. ALSO READ: Women's World Cup 2022: Mandhana, Kaur hit tons as India register massive 155-run win over West Indies In a separate Russian case at CAS, the national soccer federation has appealed against bans on national and club teams by FIFA and UEFA. Those suspensions were imposed on March 1 within hours of the International Olympic Committee urging sports bodies to act to isolate Russia after the military invasion.

European winter sports festival: Russian Olympic Committee appeals to overturn ban on its athletes

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p>As the Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a civilian area has apparently been targeted by the Russian shelling in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (March 11).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The emergency services have said that this appeared to be the first direct attack on the city. Reports have emerged that at least one person has been killed. Identity has not been confirmed.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-crisis-satellite-images-show-russian-military-convoy-northwest-of-kyiv-has-dispersed-redeployed-461121">Satellite images show Russian military convoy northwest of Kyiv has 'dispersed, redeployed'</a></strong></p>

<p>In a statement, the emergency services noted: "There were three airstrikes on the city, namely hitting a kindergarten, an apartment building and a two-story shoe factory, starting a fire. One person died."</p>

<p>The strikes Ukraine had warned that Russia was mustering forces to encircle Dnipro, home to about one million people before the invasion started.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-tanks-or-40-ton-iron-freezers-freezing-temperatures-might-help-ukraine-to-resist-putins-army-460975">Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army</a></strong></p>

<p>The strikes came amid preparations by the United States, together with the Group of Seven nations and the European Union, to revoke Russia's "most favoured nation" status over its invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>As per news agencies, shelling was also reported Friday in Lutsk, a city in north-western Ukraine.&nbsp;Lutsk mayor Ihor Polishchuk wrote on Facebook,&nbsp;"Explosions at the airport side."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry said in a briefing on Friday that its troops targeted airports in Lutsk and Ivano-Frankivsk, another western Ukrainian city some 250 kilometres south of Lutsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Military airfields in Lutsk and Ivano-Frankivsk have been put out of order," ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia calls emergency UNSC meeting on biological weapons after claiming that the US is making it</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As the Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, a civilian area has apparently been targeted by the Russian shelling in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Friday (March 11). The emergency services have said that this appeared to be the first direct attack on the city. Reports have emerged that at least one person has been killed. Identity has not been confirmed. ALSO READ | Satellite images show Russian military convoy northwest of Kyiv has 'dispersed, redeployed' In a statement, the emergency services noted: "There were three airstrikes on the city, namely hitting a kindergarten, an apartment building and a two-story shoe factory, starting a fire. One person died." The strikes Ukraine had warned that Russia was mustering forces to encircle Dnipro, home to about one million people before the invasion started. ALSO READ | Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army The strikes came amid preparations by the United States, together with the Group of Seven nations and the European Union, to revoke Russia's "most favoured nation" status over its invasion of Ukraine. As per news agencies, shelling was also reported Friday in Lutsk, a city in north-western Ukraine. Lutsk mayor Ihor Polishchuk wrote on Facebook, "Explosions at the airport side." The Russian defence ministry said in a briefing on Friday that its troops targeted airports in Lutsk and Ivano-Frankivsk, another western Ukrainian city some 250 kilometres south of Lutsk. "Military airfields in Lutsk and Ivano-Frankivsk have been put out of order," ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said. WATCH | Russia calls emergency UNSC meeting on biological weapons after claiming that the US is making it ×

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Civilian targets hit in Ukraine's Dnipro, say officials

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>The latest satellite images, taken on Thursday (March 10), released by a private US company indicate that a large Russian military convoy, which was last seen northwest of Kyiv, has largely dispersed and redeployed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military convoy that stretched more than 64 kilometres was near Antonov airport, however, Maxar Technologies said that the images show armoured units manoeuvring in and through the surrounding towns close to the airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the US-based company, the images also show military convoy elements further north have repositioned near Lubyanka. The images also showed the military convoy with towed artillery howitzers in firing positions nearby.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-tanks-or-40-ton-iron-freezers-freezing-temperatures-might-help-ukraine-to-resist-putins-army-460975">Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army</a></strong></p>

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<p><em>Maxar satellite images show that some elements of the convoy have "repositioned" into forests. (Reuters).</em></p>

<p>On the other hand, the Russians have advanced more than 80 kilometres over the last five days on the north-eastern front and closing in on the Ukrainian capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in his latest address on Thursday (March 10), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that around 100,000 people had evacuated the country's cities in two days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath of the alleged airstrike on a children's hospital that killed at least three people including a young girl, Zelensky further accused Russian forces of targeting a humanitarian corridor in the city of Mariupol.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-tsar-bomba-worlds-most-powerful-nuclear-weapon-of-mass-destruction-460924">Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction</a></strong></p>

<p>Zelensky said that he decided to send a convoy of trucks into the besieged port city with food, water and medicine and other humanitarian aid. However, the Russian troops "launched a tank attack exactly where this corridor was supposed to be".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian leader said that, of the around 100,000 people who had been able to leave other Ukrainian cities via humanitarian corridors over the past two days, some 40,000 had fled on Thursday alone.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine?</strong></p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The latest satellite images, taken on Thursday (March 10), released by a private US company indicate that a large Russian military convoy, which was last seen northwest of Kyiv, has largely dispersed and redeployed. The military convoy that stretched more than 64 kilometres was near Antonov airport, however, Maxar Technologies said that the images show armoured units manoeuvring in and through the surrounding towns close to the airport. As per the US-based company, the images also show military convoy elements further north have repositioned near Lubyanka. The images also showed the military convoy with towed artillery howitzers in firing positions nearby. ALSO READ | Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army Maxar satellite images show that some elements of the convoy have "repositioned" into forests. (Reuters). On the other hand, the Russians have advanced more than 80 kilometres over the last five days on the north-eastern front and closing in on the Ukrainian capital. Meanwhile, in his latest address on Thursday (March 10), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that around 100,000 people had evacuated the country's cities in two days. In the aftermath of the alleged airstrike on a children's hospital that killed at least three people including a young girl, Zelensky further accused Russian forces of targeting a humanitarian corridor in the city of Mariupol. IN PICS | Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction Zelensky said that he decided to send a convoy of trucks into the besieged port city with food, water and medicine and other humanitarian aid. However, the Russian troops "launched a tank attack exactly where this corridor was supposed to be". The Ukrainian leader said that, of the around 100,000 people who had been able to leave other Ukrainian cities via humanitarian corridors over the past two days, some 40,000 had fled on Thursday alone. WATCH | Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine? × (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Satellite images show Russian military convoy northwest of Kyiv has 'dispersed, redeployed'

<p>The Chinese are considering purchasing or increasing stakes in Russian energy and commodities companies such as Gazprom and United Co Rusal International, according to sources.</p>

<p>There are reports that Beijing is in talks with its state-owned firms, including China National Petroleum, China Petrochemical, Aluminum Corporation of China, and China Minmetals Corporation, about possible investments in Russian companies or assets.</p>

<p>People familiar with the matter said China's agreement would not be to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine but to boost its imports as it focuses on energy and food security.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukrainians-try-to-protect-their-past-from-the-present-rush-to-save-cultural-heritage-from-russian-attacks-461198" hreflang="en">Ukrainians try to protect their 'past' from the 'present'; rush to save cultural heritage from Russian attacks</a></strong></p>

<p>Reports indicate that the discussions are still in an early stage and that no agreement is imminent. Separate sources report that talks have begun between Chinese and Russian energy companies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the price of energy, metals, and food soaring to unprecedented heights as a result of Russia's war in Ukraine, Beijing faces increased pressure to secure imports. Last week China's top officials ordered that commodities supply security be prioritized following a surge in prices, Bloomberg reported.</p>

<p>The Chinese government has promised to maintain normal trade relations with Russia despite a massive exodus of American and European companies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opening-pandoras-box-facebook-allows-calls-for-violence-and-death-against-russian-invaders-461123" hreflang="en">Opening Pandora's box? Facebook allows calls for violence and death against 'Russian invaders'</a></strong></p>

<p>As for China-Russia relations, Wang Yi said earlier this week they remained "rock solid," despite Beijing expressing concern about civilian casualties and calling for peace talks to end the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin signed a series of deals to boost Russian supplies of gas, oil, and wheat.</p>

<p>However, any investment in Russia carries risks that go beyond Beijing's geopolitical balancing act. Default risks have intensified as a result of sanctions that have wiped billions of dollars off Russian assets and bonds. Since the Russian economy has deteriorated rapidly, the nation has become almost uninvestable for global companies. As the yuan surges against the ruble, questions are raised about the two countries' strategic relationship.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Asian stocks extend a global slump amid growing tensions over the Russia-Ukraine conflict</strong></p>

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<p>China's investment could serve as a catalyst for Moscow to accelerate its "Pivot to Asia" with oil and gas supply deals. In the last five years, China has doubled its purchases of Russian energy products to nearly $60 billion.</p>

<p>As per a report by the Australian intelligence, a&nbsp;"troubling new strategic convergence" between Beijing and Moscow has developed and the risk of "major power conflict" had grown since&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;invaded Ukraine.</p>

<p>Director-general of the Office of National Intelligence, Andrew Shearer, said&nbsp;China's President Xi Jinping appears to be planning to dominate the Indo-Pacific region and use it as a base to overtake the United States as the world's leading power.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Chinese are considering purchasing or increasing stakes in Russian energy and commodities companies such as Gazprom and United Co Rusal International, according to sources.

The Chinese are considering purchasing or increasing stakes in Russian energy and commodities companies such as Gazprom and United Co Rusal International, according to sources. There are reports that Beijing is in talks with its state-owned firms, including China National Petroleum, China Petrochemical, Aluminum Corporation of China, and China Minmetals Corporation, about possible investments in Russian companies or assets. People familiar with the matter said China's agreement would not be to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine but to boost its imports as it focuses on energy and food security. Also read | Ukrainians try to protect their 'past' from the 'present'; rush to save cultural heritage from Russian attacks Reports indicate that the discussions are still in an early stage and that no agreement is imminent. Separate sources report that talks have begun between Chinese and Russian energy companies. With the price of energy, metals, and food soaring to unprecedented heights as a result of Russia's war in Ukraine, Beijing faces increased pressure to secure imports. Last week China's top officials ordered that commodities supply security be prioritized following a surge in prices, Bloomberg reported. The Chinese government has promised to maintain normal trade relations with Russia despite a massive exodus of American and European companies. Also read | Opening Pandora's box? Facebook allows calls for violence and death against 'Russian invaders' As for China-Russia relations, Wang Yi said earlier this week they remained "rock solid," despite Beijing expressing concern about civilian casualties and calling for peace talks to end the war. Last month, Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin signed a series of deals to boost Russian supplies of gas, oil, and wheat. However, any investment in Russia carries risks that go beyond Beijing's geopolitical balancing act. Default risks have intensified as a result of sanctions that have wiped billions of dollars off Russian assets and bonds. Since the Russian economy has deteriorated rapidly, the nation has become almost uninvestable for global companies. As the yuan surges against the ruble, questions are raised about the two countries' strategic relationship. Watch | Asian stocks extend a global slump amid growing tensions over the Russia-Ukraine conflict China's investment could serve as a catalyst for Moscow to accelerate its "Pivot to Asia" with oil and gas supply deals. In the last five years, China has doubled its purchases of Russian energy products to nearly $60 billion. As per a report by the Australian intelligence, a "troubling new strategic convergence" between Beijing and Moscow has developed and the risk of "major power conflict" had grown since Russia invaded Ukraine. Director-general of the Office of National Intelligence, Andrew Shearer, said China's President Xi Jinping appears to be planning to dominate the Indo-Pacific region and use it as a base to overtake the United States as the world's leading power. (With inputs from agencies)

A 'troubling new strategic convergence': China plans to invest more in Russian energy, commodity firms

<p>"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound."</p>

<p>These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy.</p>

<p>Indian authorities on Tuesday were able to evacuate over 500 Indian students from the besieged city of Sumy in Ukraine which was the most challenging of all evacuations under Operation Ganga. Under operation Ganga, India has been able to bring back over 18000 of its citizens from the war-torn country in special flights.</p>

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<p>Speaking to Indian students at Lviv railway station, the Indian envoy said, "what I wanted to share with you, it has been difficult for all of you, 7-8 days in the bunker, but it has been equally difficult for all of us, who have been trying to get you out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian students will now travel to Poland from where they will be brought back to India. Sharing a personal anecdote, envoy Satpathy said, "The only message I have, when I would feel really difficult, how to get my boys out, my daughter will call me and say, Papa, think that I am there with them. This believe me is the attitude all of us have worked in the embassy, we all believed our children are out there"</p>

<p>The Indian students in Sumy have been in dire conditions for days as the shelling of the city continued. Earlier this week, the Russians and the Ukrainians agreed on a humanitarian corridor that led to evacuation of Indian students. The Indian envoy had earlier met Governor of Lviv Maksym Kozytskyi and the Mayor of Lviv City Andriy Sadovyi.</p>

<p>During his address at the railway station, envoy lauded the role played by Ukrainian authorities and said, "I have just one request for all of you, this has been a very difficult time for people of Ukraine too. They have helped you, railways has helped you, the border point will help you. Please be patient, and appreciate what they have done".&nbsp;</p>

<p>India was in touch with both Kyiv and Moscow for safe evacuation of Indian nationals. The envoy also had a message for parents, in which he said, "We promised to bring every Indian back, this was the PM's direct objective. Get every Indian back. This is what we have done, and I am so happy you will be all with your parents."</p>


"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound." These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy.

"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound." These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy. Indian authorities on Tuesday were able to evacuate over 500 Indian students from the besieged city of Sumy in Ukraine which was the most challenging of all evacuations under Operation Ganga. Under operation Ganga, India has been able to bring back over 18000 of its citizens from the war-torn country in special flights. × Speaking to Indian students at Lviv railway station, the Indian envoy said, "what I wanted to share with you, it has been difficult for all of you, 7-8 days in the bunker, but it has been equally difficult for all of us, who have been trying to get you out." The Indian students will now travel to Poland from where they will be brought back to India. Sharing a personal anecdote, envoy Satpathy said, "The only message I have, when I would feel really difficult, how to get my boys out, my daughter will call me and say, Papa, think that I am there with them. This believe me is the attitude all of us have worked in the embassy, we all believed our children are out there" The Indian students in Sumy have been in dire conditions for days as the shelling of the city continued. Earlier this week, the Russians and the Ukrainians agreed on a humanitarian corridor that led to evacuation of Indian students. The Indian envoy had earlier met Governor of Lviv Maksym Kozytskyi and the Mayor of Lviv City Andriy Sadovyi. During his address at the railway station, envoy lauded the role played by Ukrainian authorities and said, "I have just one request for all of you, this has been a very difficult time for people of Ukraine too. They have helped you, railways has helped you, the border point will help you. Please be patient, and appreciate what they have done". India was in touch with both Kyiv and Moscow for safe evacuation of Indian nationals. The envoy also had a message for parents, in which he said, "We promised to bring every Indian back, this was the PM's direct objective. Get every Indian back. This is what we have done, and I am so happy you will be all with your parents."

'Happiest day of my life': Indian envoy in Ukraine Satpathy to evacuated students from Sumy

<p>Olena Zelenska, who is the First Lady of Ukraine, condemned death and mass destruction happening in the country ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military operation in eastern Ukraine on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an open letter written to global media on Tuesday, Zelenska has condemned the Kremlin's "mass murder" of civilians, including children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelenska wrote that Russia's invasion of Ukraine "was impossible to believe. On February 24th, we all woke up to the announcement of a Russian invasion."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tanks crossed the Ukrainian border, planes entered our airspace, missile launchers surrounded our cities. Despite assurances from Kremlin-backed propaganda outlets, who call this a 'special operation' -- it is, in fact, the mass murder of Ukrainian civilians."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-war-crimes-what-are-the-rules-of-war-460670">What are war crimes? What are the rules of war?</a></strong></p>

<p>She highlighted the challenges faced by children calling it "perhaps the most terrifying and devastating". She also named several kids who died.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her letter read: "Eight-year-old Alice... died on the streets of Okhtyrka while her grandfather tried to protect her," she said. "Polina from Kyiv... died in the shelling with her parents."</p>

<p>"14-year-old Arseniy was hit in the head by wreckage, and could not be saved because an ambulance could not get to him on time because of intense fires."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When Russia says that it is 'not waging war against civilians,' I call out the names of these murdered children first."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a></strong></p>

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<p>Zelenska stressed the suffering of civilians as a massive refugee crisis has been triggered after millions have fled their homes to escape the Russian military assault.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "This war is being waged against the civilian population, and not just through shelling. Our roads are flooded with refugees. Look into the eyes of these tired women and children who carry with them the pain and heartache of leaving loved ones and life as they knew it behind."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mentinong other problems related to vital medical treatment, she asked, "How easy is it to inject insulin in the basement? Or to get asthma medication under heavy fire?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Not to mention the thousands of cancer patients whose essential access to chemotherapy and radiation treatment has now been indefinitely delayed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Meet 8-year-old Dima Kasyanov, whose home in Kharkiv was shelled by Russia</strong></p>

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Olena Zelenska, who is the First Lady of Ukraine, condemned death and mass destruction happening in the country ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military operation in eastern Ukraine on February 24.

Olena Zelenska, who is the First Lady of Ukraine, condemned death and mass destruction happening in the country ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military operation in eastern Ukraine on February 24. In an open letter written to global media on Tuesday, Zelenska has condemned the Kremlin's "mass murder" of civilians, including children. Zelenska wrote that Russia's invasion of Ukraine "was impossible to believe. On February 24th, we all woke up to the announcement of a Russian invasion." "Tanks crossed the Ukrainian border, planes entered our airspace, missile launchers surrounded our cities. Despite assurances from Kremlin-backed propaganda outlets, who call this a 'special operation' -- it is, in fact, the mass murder of Ukrainian civilians." IN PICS | What are war crimes? What are the rules of war? She highlighted the challenges faced by children calling it "perhaps the most terrifying and devastating". She also named several kids who died. Her letter read: "Eight-year-old Alice... died on the streets of Okhtyrka while her grandfather tried to protect her," she said. "Polina from Kyiv... died in the shelling with her parents." "14-year-old Arseniy was hit in the head by wreckage, and could not be saved because an ambulance could not get to him on time because of intense fires." "When Russia says that it is 'not waging war against civilians,' I call out the names of these murdered children first." IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks View this post on Instagram A post shared by Olena Zelenska (@olenazelenska_official) × Zelenska stressed the suffering of civilians as a massive refugee crisis has been triggered after millions have fled their homes to escape the Russian military assault. She said, "This war is being waged against the civilian population, and not just through shelling. Our roads are flooded with refugees. Look into the eyes of these tired women and children who carry with them the pain and heartache of leaving loved ones and life as they knew it behind." Mentinong other problems related to vital medical treatment, she asked, "How easy is it to inject insulin in the basement? Or to get asthma medication under heavy fire?" "Not to mention the thousands of cancer patients whose essential access to chemotherapy and radiation treatment has now been indefinitely delayed." WATCH | Meet 8-year-old Dima Kasyanov, whose home in Kharkiv was shelled by Russia ×

Read Olena Zelenska's letter to the world: First Lady of Ukraine condemns 'mass murder' by Russia

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia and Belarus are some of the biggest suppliers of mineral fertilisers. If they continue to create problems for the financing and logistics of the delivery of our goods, then prices will rise and this will affect the final product, food products," Putin said at a televised government meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, western countries continue to put pressure on Russia. The European Union on Thursday (March 10) said that Russia's bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol was a 'war crime'.</p>

<p>"Mariupol is under siege. Russia's shelling of (a) maternity hospital is a heinous war crime," the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Strikes of residential areas from the air and blocks of access of aid convoys by the Russian forces must immediately stop. Safe passage is needed, now," he added. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maternity-hospital-occupied-by-azov-battalion-claims-russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-after-strike-460951">Maternity hospital occupied by Azov battalion, claims Russian foreign minister Lavrov after strike</a></strong></p>

<p>European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "inhumane, cruel and tragic".</p>

<p>"I am convinced that this can be a war crime. We need a full investigation," she tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-may-attack-ukraine-with-chemical-weapons-claims-white-house-460940">Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical weapons, claims White House</a></strong></p>

<p>The children's and maternity hospital in Mariupol was attacked on Wednesday in what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a Russian "war crime", and which sparked global outrage.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains. "Russia and Belarus are some of the biggest suppliers of mineral fertilisers. If they continue to create problems for the financing and logistics of the delivery of our goods, then prices will rise and this will affect the final product, food products," Putin said at a televised government meeting. Meanwhile, western countries continue to put pressure on Russia. The European Union on Thursday (March 10) said that Russia's bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol was a 'war crime'. "Mariupol is under siege. Russia's shelling of (a) maternity hospital is a heinous war crime," the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a tweet. "Strikes of residential areas from the air and blocks of access of aid convoys by the Russian forces must immediately stop. Safe passage is needed, now," he added. Also Read | Maternity hospital occupied by Azov battalion, claims Russian foreign minister Lavrov after strike European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "inhumane, cruel and tragic". "I am convinced that this can be a war crime. We need a full investigation," she tweeted. Also Read | Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical weapons, claims White House The children's and maternity hospital in Mariupol was attacked on Wednesday in what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a Russian "war crime", and which sparked global outrage. (With inputs from agencies)

Sanctions on Russia may increase global food prices, claims Putin

<p>The United States has condemned the airstrike at children's hospital in the southeastern city of Mariupol that has wounded at least 17 staff members on Wednesday (March 9). Calling it 'barbaric', the White House slammed the use of force against civilians after an apparent Russian airstrike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters when questioned about the strike, "It is horrifying to see the type of, the barbaric use of military force to go after innocent civilians in a sovereign country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a></strong></p>

<p>Authorities revealed that the attack injured women in labour and left children in the wreckage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also slammed the airstrike and described it as a "war crime". He accused Russia of carrying out genocide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised address, Zelensky said, "What kind of country is this, the Russian Federation, which is afraid of hospitals, is afraid of maternity hospitals, and destroys them?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have not done and would never do anything like this war crime in any of the cities of the Donetsk or Lugansk regions, or of any region... because we are people. But are you?" Zelensky asked.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-war-crimes-what-are-the-rules-of-war-460670">What are war crimes? What are the rules of war?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the Mariupol city council, the hospital had been hit several times. The officials said airstrikes that held on maternity and paediatric units, blew out windows, ripped down partition walls and set fire to cars parked outside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being inquired on the same, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Russian forces do not fire on civilian targets." Russia calls its incursion a "special operation" to disarm its neighbour and dislodge leaders it calls "neo-Nazis."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The US says Russia after Ukraine's bio-lab</strong></p>

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The United States has condemned the airstrike at children's hospital in the southeastern city of Mariupol that has wounded at least 17 staff members on Wednesday (March 9).

The United States has condemned the airstrike at children's hospital in the southeastern city of Mariupol that has wounded at least 17 staff members on Wednesday (March 9). Calling it 'barbaric', the White House slammed the use of force against civilians after an apparent Russian airstrike. Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters when questioned about the strike, "It is horrifying to see the type of, the barbaric use of military force to go after innocent civilians in a sovereign country." IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks Authorities revealed that the attack injured women in labour and left children in the wreckage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also slammed the airstrike and described it as a "war crime". He accused Russia of carrying out genocide. In a televised address, Zelensky said, "What kind of country is this, the Russian Federation, which is afraid of hospitals, is afraid of maternity hospitals, and destroys them?" "We have not done and would never do anything like this war crime in any of the cities of the Donetsk or Lugansk regions, or of any region... because we are people. But are you?" Zelensky asked. IN PICS | What are war crimes? What are the rules of war? As per the Mariupol city council, the hospital had been hit several times. The officials said airstrikes that held on maternity and paediatric units, blew out windows, ripped down partition walls and set fire to cars parked outside. On being inquired on the same, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Russian forces do not fire on civilian targets." Russia calls its incursion a "special operation" to disarm its neighbour and dislodge leaders it calls "neo-Nazis." WATCH | The US says Russia after Ukraine's bio-lab ×

US condemns airstrike at children's hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky describes it as 'war crime'

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>The son of a British lawmaker Helen Grant is part of the country's ex-servicemen group that has arrived in war-torn Ukraine to fight the Russian invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thirty-year-old Ben Grant served for five years as a Royal Marines Commando. The Guardian reported that he is among seven British former soldiers who arrived in Ukraine over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At Lviv railway station in Ukraine, he told the media outlet: "I haven't been sent, nothing to do with the government, nothing to do with my mother. Just wanna make that clear, completely off my own back, I decided to do this."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-tanks-or-40-ton-iron-freezers-freezing-temperatures-might-help-ukraine-to-resist-putins-army-460975">Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army</a></strong></p>

<p>Grant, who is a father of three, said he had not informed his mother before going, following a stint working in Iraq as a private security contractor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "I didn’t even tell my mum, but it is what it is. I thought I am a father of three, and if that was my kids I know what I would do, I would go and fight."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Grant said, "In total we have another 100 people coming, so this will be really good when they all get here – different backgrounds, some of them are very, very specialist."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said he was undeterred by Russia's warnings that "foreign mercenaries" taken captive by its forces in Ukraine would not be treated as prisoners of war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-tsar-bomba-worlds-most-powerful-nuclear-weapon-of-mass-destruction-460924">Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction</a></strong></p>

<p>"If it comes to me being able to end my life before getting captured, I probably would do that. I mentally prepared myself for that, but let's hope it doesn't come to that," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports of Britons joining the Ukrainian cause emerged despite UK government warnings against joining the war. UK's Foreign Office advice warns against all travel to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Grant's group are ex-servicemen, The Sun newspaper reported that a 19-year-old member of the Coldstream Guards was among up to four missing British soldiers believed to have gone to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Capital Kyiv turns fortress, families flee as Russian troops advance amid invasion of Ukraine</strong></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The son of a British lawmaker Helen Grant is part of the country's ex-servicemen group that has arrived in war-torn Ukraine to fight the Russian invasion. Thirty-year-old Ben Grant served for five years as a Royal Marines Commando. The Guardian reported that he is among seven British former soldiers who arrived in Ukraine over the weekend. At Lviv railway station in Ukraine, he told the media outlet: "I haven't been sent, nothing to do with the government, nothing to do with my mother. Just wanna make that clear, completely off my own back, I decided to do this." ALSO READ | Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army Grant, who is a father of three, said he had not informed his mother before going, following a stint working in Iraq as a private security contractor. He said, "I didn’t even tell my mum, but it is what it is. I thought I am a father of three, and if that was my kids I know what I would do, I would go and fight." Grant said, "In total we have another 100 people coming, so this will be really good when they all get here – different backgrounds, some of them are very, very specialist." He said he was undeterred by Russia's warnings that "foreign mercenaries" taken captive by its forces in Ukraine would not be treated as prisoners of war. IN PICS | Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction "If it comes to me being able to end my life before getting captured, I probably would do that. I mentally prepared myself for that, but let's hope it doesn't come to that," he said. The reports of Britons joining the Ukrainian cause emerged despite UK government warnings against joining the war. UK's Foreign Office advice warns against all travel to Ukraine. While Grant's group are ex-servicemen, The Sun newspaper reported that a 19-year-old member of the Coldstream Guards was among up to four missing British soldiers believed to have gone to Ukraine. WATCH | Capital Kyiv turns fortress, families flee as Russian troops advance amid invasion of Ukraine ×

Ben Grant, son of a British Conservative MP, joins Ukrainian fight against Russian invasion: Report

<p>UK said on Tuesday that it had taken decision to phase out oil imports from Russia by the end of 2022. The decision has been taken in line with new sanctions announced by the US on Russia. The US has put a ban on import of Russian oil.</p>

<p>"This transition will give the market, businesses and supply chains more than enough time to replace Russian imports -– which make up 8.0 percent of UK demand," Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The oil sanction does not apply to Russian natural gas, which accounts for some four percent of UK supply. But Kwarteng said he was "exploring options to end this altogether".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-bans-us-import-of-russian-oil-global-economy-to-face-heat-460356">Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat?</a></strong></p>

<p>The announcement came in coordination with an embargo on Russian oil announced by US President Joe Biden.</p>

<p>It risks exacerbating a cost-of-living crisis in Britain, with prices of petrol and diesel already surging amid market turmoil following energy-rich Russia's aggression against Ukraine.</p>

<p>But Kwarteng said most of Britain's crude oil imports come from "reliable partners" such as the United States, the Netherlands and Gulf states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We'll work with them this year to secure further supplies," he said.</p>

<p>"The market has already begun to ostracise Russian oil, with nearly 70 percent of it currently unable to find a buyer," the business minister added.</p>

<p>Kwarteng announced a new government taskforce on oil to help companies transition away from Russian oil.</p>

<p>British dockers at a facility in northwest England on Saturday refused to unload Russian oil from a tanker, calling for the government to close a "loophole" in sanctions allowing deliveries from foreign-flagged ships.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


UK said on Tuesday that it had taken decision to phase out oil imports from Russia by the end of 2022. The decision has been taken in line with new sanctions announced by the US on Russia.

UK said on Tuesday that it had taken decision to phase out oil imports from Russia by the end of 2022. The decision has been taken in line with new sanctions announced by the US on Russia. The US has put a ban on import of Russian oil. "This transition will give the market, businesses and supply chains more than enough time to replace Russian imports -– which make up 8.0 percent of UK demand," Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng tweeted. The oil sanction does not apply to Russian natural gas, which accounts for some four percent of UK supply. But Kwarteng said he was "exploring options to end this altogether". Also Read | Joe Biden bans US import of Russian oil, global economy to face heat? The announcement came in coordination with an embargo on Russian oil announced by US President Joe Biden. It risks exacerbating a cost-of-living crisis in Britain, with prices of petrol and diesel already surging amid market turmoil following energy-rich Russia's aggression against Ukraine. But Kwarteng said most of Britain's crude oil imports come from "reliable partners" such as the United States, the Netherlands and Gulf states. "We'll work with them this year to secure further supplies," he said. "The market has already begun to ostracise Russian oil, with nearly 70 percent of it currently unable to find a buyer," the business minister added. Kwarteng announced a new government taskforce on oil to help companies transition away from Russian oil. British dockers at a facility in northwest England on Saturday refused to unload Russian oil from a tanker, calling for the government to close a "loophole" in sanctions allowing deliveries from foreign-flagged ships. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to phase out Russian oil by year-end

<p>It has been termed the great exodus as residents of war-torn Ukraine look for a new home amid the continuing Russian invasion. This is the largest humanitarian crisis after World War II, with over 2 million people displaced. Besides Ukrainians, there were thousands of Indian students who were stranded in a country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One among them was Arnaz Nasreen. The student from Kharkiv National Medical university was preparing for her trip back home on February 24 but was woken up to a message stating her flight was cancelled.</p>

<p>"I still chose to go to the airport to check the status. On my way I got the news that Russia has invaded Ukraine," said the 19-year-old. With the airport sealed off, she had nowhere to go as she had travelled from the northeastern city of Kharkiv to Kyiv, which is in the west, about 500 km away.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/spoke-to-him-5-days-ago-mother-of-indian-student-who-joined-ukraine-militia-tells-wion-460166">‘Spoke to him 5 days ago’, mother of Indian student who joined Ukraine militia tells WION</a></strong></p>

<p>The situation around her was getting worse. All she could hear was bombardment. Clueless of what to do next, she called home. “I informed my sister about the situation. She contacted my consultant, who directed me to another student’s accommodation in Kyiv.” The temporary safe house did not have a bunker, so they both decided to move to a nearby hostel to take shelter. “We were trying to book a cab when we heard that a Russian tank ran over a car. So, we chose to walk," Nasreen told WION.</p>

<p>“On reaching the hostel, we realised it was a military base used by the Ukrainian Army. There were snipers positioned on the higher floors and through our windows we saw Russian troops being shot down.”</p>

<p>With constant bombing in the vicinity, they had to make sure the food they had lasted longer, as stepping out was not an option. “I didn’t have a sip of water for three days, lunch was a piece of wafer, and bun for dinner.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-indian-students-moved-out-from-ukraines-sumy-says-india-460318">All Indian students moved out from Ukraine's Sumy, says India</a></strong></p>

<p>The news of the Chernobyl power plant being captured led her to leave the hostel. “I thought if anything goes wrong at the power plant, nobody will survive even if we are in bunkers. I asked around if people wanted to find a way to the borders, and some of them agreed.”</p>

<p>“I had been vigilant for a few days I was at the hostel. I noted that at a particular time slot, there was no bombing from either side, so we decided to move out accordingly.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>They planned to take a metro till wherever it goes, and then figure out the next step. “At the station, we were being interrogated; soon I was held at gunpoint and I had to convince the Ukrainian Army about my purpose of being at the location.”</p>

<p>Nasreen said she had no choice but to be strong and that kept her going.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Indian students" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61bb4d6e-1463-4cbe-b4eb-7c538e1f146e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FNVIHggaMAQdXgy.png" /></p>

<p><img alt="Indian students" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="69cecb14-29ea-4336-8d92-ea0617468450" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FNVLhCaaIAMgI_m.png" /></p>

<p>“As we tried to board the train, we were pushed out. At some point, there were people climbing over my shoulders, it was chaotic. I was struggling to get into the train, when one student pulled me in while I was almost hanging out. From there, we reached a place called Uzhhorod.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>She stressed that even if there was discrimination at the train station, the Ukrainian government made sure everybody who reached a safe zone was given enough food and water to sustain their journey.</p>

<p>The journey from Uzhhorod to Slovakia border was the last leg of their turbulent route to evacuation. “It was a 6km walk to the border. We heaved a sigh of relief once we reached there. Across the border, Indian embassy looked after our stay and food. Everything was smooth after crossing the border. However the fact that we made it will take some time to sink in. All along, I worked only on my instinct,” she said as she reached home safely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nasreen also mentioned how the journey began with a group of people, and then as they took calls for themselves, they had to unfortunately split. Even though the destination was the same, everybody took a different road to reach.</p>

<p>On returning, Nasreen has been in constant touch with her batchmates and friends, who have been trying to reach the borders for evacuation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukrainian refugees express frustration with UK's visa process</strong></p>

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It has been termed the great exodus as residents of war-torn Ukraine look for a new home amid the continuing Russian invasion. This is the largest humanitarian crisis after World War II, with over 2 million people displaced.

It has been termed the great exodus as residents of war-torn Ukraine look for a new home amid the continuing Russian invasion. This is the largest humanitarian crisis after World War II, with over 2 million people displaced. Besides Ukrainians, there were thousands of Indian students who were stranded in a country. One among them was Arnaz Nasreen. The student from Kharkiv National Medical university was preparing for her trip back home on February 24 but was woken up to a message stating her flight was cancelled. "I still chose to go to the airport to check the status. On my way I got the news that Russia has invaded Ukraine," said the 19-year-old. With the airport sealed off, she had nowhere to go as she had travelled from the northeastern city of Kharkiv to Kyiv, which is in the west, about 500 km away. ALSO READ | ‘Spoke to him 5 days ago’, mother of Indian student who joined Ukraine militia tells WION The situation around her was getting worse. All she could hear was bombardment. Clueless of what to do next, she called home. “I informed my sister about the situation. She contacted my consultant, who directed me to another student’s accommodation in Kyiv.” The temporary safe house did not have a bunker, so they both decided to move to a nearby hostel to take shelter. “We were trying to book a cab when we heard that a Russian tank ran over a car. So, we chose to walk," Nasreen told WION. “On reaching the hostel, we realised it was a military base used by the Ukrainian Army. There were snipers positioned on the higher floors and through our windows we saw Russian troops being shot down.” With constant bombing in the vicinity, they had to make sure the food they had lasted longer, as stepping out was not an option. “I didn’t have a sip of water for three days, lunch was a piece of wafer, and bun for dinner.” ALSO READ | All Indian students moved out from Ukraine's Sumy, says India The news of the Chernobyl power plant being captured led her to leave the hostel. “I thought if anything goes wrong at the power plant, nobody will survive even if we are in bunkers. I asked around if people wanted to find a way to the borders, and some of them agreed.” “I had been vigilant for a few days I was at the hostel. I noted that at a particular time slot, there was no bombing from either side, so we decided to move out accordingly.” They planned to take a metro till wherever it goes, and then figure out the next step. “At the station, we were being interrogated; soon I was held at gunpoint and I had to convince the Ukrainian Army about my purpose of being at the location.” Nasreen said she had no choice but to be strong and that kept her going. “As we tried to board the train, we were pushed out. At some point, there were people climbing over my shoulders, it was chaotic. I was struggling to get into the train, when one student pulled me in while I was almost hanging out. From there, we reached a place called Uzhhorod.” She stressed that even if there was discrimination at the train station, the Ukrainian government made sure everybody who reached a safe zone was given enough food and water to sustain their journey. The journey from Uzhhorod to Slovakia border was the last leg of their turbulent route to evacuation. “It was a 6km walk to the border. We heaved a sigh of relief once we reached there. Across the border, Indian embassy looked after our stay and food. Everything was smooth after crossing the border. However the fact that we made it will take some time to sink in. All along, I worked only on my instinct,” she said as she reached home safely. Nasreen also mentioned how the journey began with a group of people, and then as they took calls for themselves, they had to unfortunately split. Even though the destination was the same, everybody took a different road to reach. On returning, Nasreen has been in constant touch with her batchmates and friends, who have been trying to reach the borders for evacuation. WATCH | Ukrainian refugees express frustration with UK's visa process ×

Escape from Ukraine: No water for 3 days, held at gunpoint, 19-year-old Indian student makes it to safety

<p>A few years ago, after I gave a talk in a small Polish town, an old man sidled up to the table where I sat. “In what language do you dream?” he asked. “In all the languages I speak,” I answered honestly (I’m basically trilingual). “You are a person,” he replied with a slight note of condemnation, “without identity.”</p>

<p>I smiled. His comment was not unusual: I’d heard a version of it many times in the years since I settled in Poland. There was, apparently, only one proper way of being Polish and only one way of pronouncing Polish words. But there was something he, like other Poles reared with a narrow sense of national identity, didn’t understand. I am from Ukraine — and Ukrainian identity is porous, inclusive, multilayered and, crucially, a work in progress.</p>

<p>If Poles didn’t know that then, they’ll get a chance to find out now. More than a million Ukrainians, under brutal attack from Russia, have crossed the border into Poland. Waiting with their children and old relatives in long, slow lines, they said tearful farewells to their husbands and sons and stepped into a new life. It is a tragic upheaval.</p>

<p>My own experience when I left Ukraine almost 20 years ago, by contrast, was not painful at all. There was no war and I was not a refugee. I realize how lucky I am. But I know what it’s like to leave your home and country behind, and to start anew. And I can say that the departure, however final it seems, is never forever. You carry both within you, always. They are a constant presence, sometimes near, sometimes far, lighting up the path to the future.</p>

<p>I was born in Lviv in 1978. Then in the Soviet Union, the city had belonged to Poland for about 400 years and been a place where Poles, Ukrainians, Jews and Armenians lived side by side. In my youth, I was suffused with this borderland identity and thought of myself as existing at the intersection of cultures, never fully beholden to one. So when the Soviet Union fell, I wasn’t very interested in the new Ukrainian state. Instead, I longed to see Paris, Rome and Madrid, with their churches and museums, even if it meant half-starving, sleeping in parks and hitchhiking.</p>

<p>After my travels, I wanted to settle somewhere — and chose Poland, fulfilling my grandmother’s dream of living in the country. I didn’t even call it emigration: My hometown, after all, was only about 185 miles away. But after Poland joined the European Union in 2004, the border between the two countries, previously so easily passed, was garlanded with barbed wire. To get into the country, Ukrainians had to wait in a special line, much longer than E.U. citizens.</p>

<p>I began to dream about the abolition of the border. If Ukraine joined the European Union, say, I would be able to cherish once more my borderland identity — and things could look a bit like the Second Polish Republic, the interwar state where Poles, Ukrainians and other nationalities lived side by side. It was not, of course, an idyll: The Polish state dealt harshly with minorities, and Ukrainians who wanted to study in their own language or practice their religion faced oppression. Between Ukraine and Poland, there are still many “no-go areas.”</p>

<p>At the time, I didn’t really think of myself as Ukrainian. I was from Lviv, spoke Russian, Polish and Ukrainian, and lived in Poland: That seemed like enough. But as I was dreaming about the border falling between us, the Orange Revolution — a series of protests that expressed not only Ukrainians’ opposition to corruption but also, more profoundly perhaps, their European longings — broke out in Ukraine in 2004. At a solidarity demonstration in Krakow, I found myself, for the first time in my life, holding the blue-and-yellow flag. It was, my friend said, the conception of my Ukrainian identity.</p>

<p>For the next decade or so, it went no further. I have relatives and friends on both sides of the border, and I was regularly here and there. I followed events in Ukraine at a distance, as if wary of what could come from full immersion. I knew some educated, talented young Ukrainians who tried to build the new country. After a couple of years they were broken, burned out and bitterly disappointed by corruption that seemed to be unconquerable. In Poland, meanwhile, I continued to build a life for myself. I married, had children and worked away at my first novel, inspired in part by the colorful Ukrainian revolution.</p>

<p>Then another revolution spilled out onto Kyiv’s streets. Based at the Maidan, the city’s central square, protesters bravely demanded the government reverse its decision to abandon an association agreement with Europe and commit to a pro-Western path. Across five fateful days in February 2014 things turned violent, and peaceful demonstrators — about 100 of them — were killed. This, which became known as the Revolution of Dignity, gave birth to my Ukrainian identity. During those days I started to call myself Ukrainian for the first time.</p>

<p>I was joined by hundreds of thousands of my compatriots, who moved to Poland in the aftermath of the protests and Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Taxi drivers, hairdressers, doctors and teachers started to make the harsh rustling sound of the Polish language lingering and melodious. The historical taboos were still there, but so were love affairs, business deals and newborn Ukrainian Polish children. The strict E.U. border was still there, but the spirit of a renewed Second Polish Republic was hovering in the air, too.</p>

<p>Now the mingling and melding of the two countries has reached new levels. From the first day of Russia’s invasion, my mobile phone has been ringing almost without interruption. There was hardly one Polish friend or acquaintance who didn’t express solidarity or wasn’t ready to invite refugees to their home, not one who didn’t want to drive, to feed, to heal, to give, to support. It has been an astounding outpouring of fellow feeling. It was like the fever of a new love: Ukrainians flags were suddenly everywhere.</p>

<p>The border has changed, too. These days Ukrainians can cross it without documents, without Covid tests. They can bring their pets with them. They can make free calls and have free train tickets. When they cross the border, all the doors in Poland are open for them. Poles have even started to translate their cartoons into Ukrainian — to help refugee kids to laugh and relax after nights spent listening to air-raid sirens.</p>

<p>The very meaning of the word “Ukrainian” is changing in Poland. It used to contain such nuances as, for example, “the Easterner” or “the village man” or even “wild man.” Now it sounds different. When the word is uttered, I hear “the brave warrior” and “our brother.” For those leaving their lives behind, under the pressure of bombardment and attack, the fraternal salute seems exactly right.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


A few years ago, after I gave a talk in a small Polish town, an old man sidled up to the table where I sat. “In what language do you dream?” he asked. “In all the languages I speak,” I answered honestly (I’m basically trilingual).

A few years ago, after I gave a talk in a small Polish town, an old man sidled up to the table where I sat. “In what language do you dream?” he asked. “In all the languages I speak,” I answered honestly (I’m basically trilingual). “You are a person,” he replied with a slight note of condemnation, “without identity.” I smiled. His comment was not unusual: I’d heard a version of it many times in the years since I settled in Poland. There was, apparently, only one proper way of being Polish and only one way of pronouncing Polish words. But there was something he, like other Poles reared with a narrow sense of national identity, didn’t understand. I am from Ukraine — and Ukrainian identity is porous, inclusive, multilayered and, crucially, a work in progress. If Poles didn’t know that then, they’ll get a chance to find out now. More than a million Ukrainians, under brutal attack from Russia, have crossed the border into Poland. Waiting with their children and old relatives in long, slow lines, they said tearful farewells to their husbands and sons and stepped into a new life. It is a tragic upheaval. My own experience when I left Ukraine almost 20 years ago, by contrast, was not painful at all. There was no war and I was not a refugee. I realize how lucky I am. But I know what it’s like to leave your home and country behind, and to start anew. And I can say that the departure, however final it seems, is never forever. You carry both within you, always. They are a constant presence, sometimes near, sometimes far, lighting up the path to the future. I was born in Lviv in 1978. Then in the Soviet Union, the city had belonged to Poland for about 400 years and been a place where Poles, Ukrainians, Jews and Armenians lived side by side. In my youth, I was suffused with this borderland identity and thought of myself as existing at the intersection of cultures, never fully beholden to one. So when the Soviet Union fell, I wasn’t very interested in the new Ukrainian state. Instead, I longed to see Paris, Rome and Madrid, with their churches and museums, even if it meant half-starving, sleeping in parks and hitchhiking. After my travels, I wanted to settle somewhere — and chose Poland, fulfilling my grandmother’s dream of living in the country. I didn’t even call it emigration: My hometown, after all, was only about 185 miles away. But after Poland joined the European Union in 2004, the border between the two countries, previously so easily passed, was garlanded with barbed wire. To get into the country, Ukrainians had to wait in a special line, much longer than E.U. citizens. I began to dream about the abolition of the border. If Ukraine joined the European Union, say, I would be able to cherish once more my borderland identity — and things could look a bit like the Second Polish Republic, the interwar state where Poles, Ukrainians and other nationalities lived side by side. It was not, of course, an idyll: The Polish state dealt harshly with minorities, and Ukrainians who wanted to study in their own language or practice their religion faced oppression. Between Ukraine and Poland, there are still many “no-go areas.” At the time, I didn’t really think of myself as Ukrainian. I was from Lviv, spoke Russian, Polish and Ukrainian, and lived in Poland: That seemed like enough. But as I was dreaming about the border falling between us, the Orange Revolution — a series of protests that expressed not only Ukrainians’ opposition to corruption but also, more profoundly perhaps, their European longings — broke out in Ukraine in 2004. At a solidarity demonstration in Krakow, I found myself, for the first time in my life, holding the blue-and-yellow flag. It was, my friend said, the conception of my Ukrainian identity. For the next decade or so, it went no further. I have relatives and friends on both sides of the border, and I was regularly here and there. I followed events in Ukraine at a distance, as if wary of what could come from full immersion. I knew some educated, talented young Ukrainians who tried to build the new country. After a couple of years they were broken, burned out and bitterly disappointed by corruption that seemed to be unconquerable. In Poland, meanwhile, I continued to build a life for myself. I married, had children and worked away at my first novel, inspired in part by the colorful Ukrainian revolution. Then another revolution spilled out onto Kyiv’s streets. Based at the Maidan, the city’s central square, protesters bravely demanded the government reverse its decision to abandon an association agreement with Europe and commit to a pro-Western path. Across five fateful days in February 2014 things turned violent, and peaceful demonstrators — about 100 of them — were killed. This, which became known as the Revolution of Dignity, gave birth to my Ukrainian identity. During those days I started to call myself Ukrainian for the first time. I was joined by hundreds of thousands of my compatriots, who moved to Poland in the aftermath of the protests and Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Taxi drivers, hairdressers, doctors and teachers started to make the harsh rustling sound of the Polish language lingering and melodious. The historical taboos were still there, but so were love affairs, business deals and newborn Ukrainian Polish children. The strict E.U. border was still there, but the spirit of a renewed Second Polish Republic was hovering in the air, too. Now the mingling and melding of the two countries has reached new levels. From the first day of Russia’s invasion, my mobile phone has been ringing almost without interruption. There was hardly one Polish friend or acquaintance who didn’t express solidarity or wasn’t ready to invite refugees to their home, not one who didn’t want to drive, to feed, to heal, to give, to support. It has been an astounding outpouring of fellow feeling. It was like the fever of a new love: Ukrainians flags were suddenly everywhere. The border has changed, too. These days Ukrainians can cross it without documents, without Covid tests. They can bring their pets with them. They can make free calls and have free train tickets. When they cross the border, all the doors in Poland are open for them. Poles have even started to translate their cartoons into Ukrainian — to help refugee kids to laugh and relax after nights spent listening to air-raid sirens. The very meaning of the word “Ukrainian” is changing in Poland. It used to contain such nuances as, for example, “the Easterner” or “the village man” or even “wild man.” Now it sounds different. When the word is uttered, I hear “the brave warrior” and “our brother.” For those leaving their lives behind, under the pressure of bombardment and attack, the fraternal salute seems exactly right.

I left Ukraine 20 years ago. But it never left me

<p>Ukraine alleged on Wednesday that Russia bombed a children's hospital in port city of Mariupol. As per Ukraine, the bombing in the besieged city took place during a supposed ceasefire that was meant to facilitate escape of hundreds thousands of civilions in the city.</p>

<p>Russia had said it would hold fire to let civilians flee Mariupol and other besieged cities on Wednesday. But the city council said the hospital had been hit several times.</p>

<p>"The destruction is colossal," it said in an online post.</p>

<p>President Volodymr Zelenskiy called it an "atrocity".</p>

<p>"Direct strike of Russian troops at the maternity hospital. People, children are under the wreckage," he said on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mariupol. Direct strike of Russian troops at the maternity hospital. People, children are under the wreckage. Atrocity! How much longer will the world be an accomplice ignoring terror? Close the sky right now! Stop the killings! You have power but you seem to be losing humanity. <a href="https://t.co/FoaNdbKH5k">pic.twitter.com/FoaNdbKH5k</a></p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1501579520633102349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, asked by Reuters for comment on the reported bombing, said: "Russian forces do not fire on civilian targets."</p>

<p>The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry posted video footage of what appeared to be the badly damaged building of what it said was the children's and maternity hospital.</p>

<p>The footage showed holes where windows should have been in a three-storey building at the hospital, and huge piles of rubble, some of it smouldering. Officials said they did not yet know any casualty figures. The reports could not immediately be verified.</p>

<p>Earlier Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Russia had broken the ceasefire around the southern port, which lies between Russian-backed separatist areas of eastern Ukraine and Crimea, annexed by Moscow from Ukraine in 2014.</p>

<p>"Russia continues holding hostage over 400,000 people in Mariupol, blocks humanitarian aid and evacuation. Indiscriminate shelling continues," he wrote on Twitter. "Almost 3,000 newborn babies lack medicine and food."</p>

<p>Local officials in other cities said some civilians had left on Wednesday through safe corridors, including out of Sumy in eastern Ukraine and Enerhodar in the south.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukraine alleged on Wednesday that Russia bombed a children's hospital in port city of Mariupol. As per Ukraine, the bombing in the besieged city took place during a supposed ceasefire that was meant to facilitate escape of hundreds thousands of civilions in the city.

Ukraine alleged on Wednesday that Russia bombed a children's hospital in port city of Mariupol. As per Ukraine, the bombing in the besieged city took place during a supposed ceasefire that was meant to facilitate escape of hundreds thousands of civilions in the city. Russia had said it would hold fire to let civilians flee Mariupol and other besieged cities on Wednesday. But the city council said the hospital had been hit several times. "The destruction is colossal," it said in an online post. President Volodymr Zelenskiy called it an "atrocity". "Direct strike of Russian troops at the maternity hospital. People, children are under the wreckage," he said on Twitter. Mariupol. Direct strike of Russian troops at the maternity hospital. People, children are under the wreckage. Atrocity! How much longer will the world be an accomplice ignoring terror? Close the sky right now! Stop the killings! You have power but you seem to be losing humanity. pic.twitter.com/FoaNdbKH5k — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 9, 2022 × Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, asked by Reuters for comment on the reported bombing, said: "Russian forces do not fire on civilian targets." The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry posted video footage of what appeared to be the badly damaged building of what it said was the children's and maternity hospital. The footage showed holes where windows should have been in a three-storey building at the hospital, and huge piles of rubble, some of it smouldering. Officials said they did not yet know any casualty figures. The reports could not immediately be verified. Earlier Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Russia had broken the ceasefire around the southern port, which lies between Russian-backed separatist areas of eastern Ukraine and Crimea, annexed by Moscow from Ukraine in 2014. "Russia continues holding hostage over 400,000 people in Mariupol, blocks humanitarian aid and evacuation. Indiscriminate shelling continues," he wrote on Twitter. "Almost 3,000 newborn babies lack medicine and food." Local officials in other cities said some civilians had left on Wednesday through safe corridors, including out of Sumy in eastern Ukraine and Enerhodar in the south. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia bombed children's hospital in Mariupol, alleges Ukraine

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