On Tuesday, an Indian student was killed by Russian shelling in the war-torn Ukrainian city of Kharkiv.

Naveen Shekharappa Gyanagoudar had gone to a nearby store to make a purchase.

His friend later received a call from a local authority informing him that Naveen had died.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old's father, after his son's death, said that "despite scoring 97 per cent in PUC, my son could not secure a medical seat in State. To get a medical seat one has to give crores of rupees, and students are getting the same education abroad spending less money."

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Despite scoring 97% in PUC, my son could not secure a medical seat in State. To get a medical seat one has to give crores of rupees&amp;students are getting same education abroad spending less money, says father of Naveen Shekharappa, an Indian student who died in shelling in Ukraine <a href="https://t.co/wXqArRW9eq">pic.twitter.com/wXqArRW9eq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1498709522567012353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Naveen Shekharappa was a native of Karnataka's Haveri district.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-ukraine-such-a-popular-choice-for-indian-medical-students-456990">Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students?</a>

The Indian student, who lost his life in shelling, was pursuing MBBS in Ukraine's Kharkiv National Medical University for the past six years. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/stop-criticising-indian-students-stuck-in-ukraine-they-need-to-be-appreciated-457069">Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated</a>

Kharkiv is the second biggest city in Ukraine and under heavy Russian attack. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-wipes-out-bloodthirsty-chechen-special-forces-sent-to-zelensky-457107">Also read | Ukraine wipes out 'bloodthirsty' Chechen special forces sent to assassinate Zelensky</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

On Tuesday, an Indian student was killed by Russian shelling in the war-torn Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Naveen Shekharappa Gyanagoudar had gone to a nearby store to make a purchase.

On Tuesday, an Indian student was killed by Russian shelling in the war-torn Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Naveen Shekharappa Gyanagoudar had gone to a nearby store to make a purchase. His friend later received a call from a local authority informing him that Naveen had died. The 21-year-old's father, after his son's death, said that "despite scoring 97 per cent in PUC, my son could not secure a medical seat in State. To get a medical seat one has to give crores of rupees, and students are getting the same education abroad spending less money." Despite scoring 97% in PUC, my son could not secure a medical seat in State. To get a medical seat one has to give crores of rupees&students are getting same education abroad spending less money, says father of Naveen Shekharappa, an Indian student who died in shelling in Ukraine pic.twitter.com/wXqArRW9eq — ANI (@ANI) March 1, 2022 × Naveen Shekharappa was a native of Karnataka's Haveri district. Also read | Why is Ukraine such a popular choice for Indian medical students? The Indian student, who lost his life in shelling, was pursuing MBBS in Ukraine's Kharkiv National Medical University for the past six years. Also read | Stop criticising Indian students stuck in Ukraine; they need to be appreciated Kharkiv is the second biggest city in Ukraine and under heavy Russian attack. Also read | Ukraine wipes out 'bloodthirsty' Chechen special forces sent to assassinate Zelensky (With inputs from agencies)

Despite 97%, he couldn't get a medical seat in India: Father of Indian killed in Ukraine

The European Union's official statistics agency Eurostat said on Wednesday (March 2) that Eurozone inflation had soared to a record high in February. The inflation was at 5.8 per cent and energy prices surged.

The acceleration, from 5.1 percent in January, was announced as oil and gas prices rocketed even higher over fears about the impact on supplies from Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Brent crude touched USD 110 a barrel for the first time since 2014. WTI followed suit hours later. It hit its highest level since 2013. European natural gas prices similarly hit a record level.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-talkshows-describe-reports-of-military-losses-as-fake-458218">Russian talkshows describe reports of military losses as 'fake'</a>

The surge in inflation comes at a difficult time for European leaders as they warn their citizens of the "price to pay" from tough sanctions imposed on Russia, the EU's leading foreign gas supplier.

Policymakers fear soaring inflation could choke off the EU's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

Eurostat said energy prices in February jumped 31.7 percent, faster than the 28.8 percent recorded in January.

Food prices were up 4.1 percent in February, compared with 3.5 percent the previous month.

Analysts at Capital Economics predicted inflation would hit six percent in the coming months before falling back to around four percent, "most likely" at the end the year.

That is still double the European Central Bank's target of around two percent.

Capital Economics warned that not only energy prices, but also food prices could rise further due to the conflict in Ukraine, a major wheat exporter.

The EU and Western allies have imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow over President Vladimir Putin's invasion.

They have unleashed turmoil on Russia's economy and forced the Kremlin to impose capital controls.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union's official statistics agency Eurostat said on Wednesday (March 2) that Eurozone inflation had soared to a record high in February. The inflation was at 5.

The European Union's official statistics agency Eurostat said on Wednesday (March 2) that Eurozone inflation had soared to a record high in February. The inflation was at 5.8 per cent and energy prices surged. The acceleration, from 5.1 percent in January, was announced as oil and gas prices rocketed even higher over fears about the impact on supplies from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Brent crude touched USD 110 a barrel for the first time since 2014. WTI followed suit hours later. It hit its highest level since 2013. European natural gas prices similarly hit a record level. Also Read | Russian talkshows describe reports of military losses as 'fake' The surge in inflation comes at a difficult time for European leaders as they warn their citizens of the "price to pay" from tough sanctions imposed on Russia, the EU's leading foreign gas supplier. Policymakers fear soaring inflation could choke off the EU's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. Eurostat said energy prices in February jumped 31.7 percent, faster than the 28.8 percent recorded in January. Food prices were up 4.1 percent in February, compared with 3.5 percent the previous month. Analysts at Capital Economics predicted inflation would hit six percent in the coming months before falling back to around four percent, "most likely" at the end the year. That is still double the European Central Bank's target of around two percent. Capital Economics warned that not only energy prices, but also food prices could rise further due to the conflict in Ukraine, a major wheat exporter. The EU and Western allies have imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow over President Vladimir Putin's invasion. They have unleashed turmoil on Russia's economy and forced the Kremlin to impose capital controls. (With inputs from agencies)

Eurozone inflation hits record high due to soaring energy prices

The global economy has been severely impacted because of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Some of the countries have taken a stringent stance on the crisis by slapping multiple economic sanctions on Moscow after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced "military operations" in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The crisis has led to a geopolitical shift as several countries have taken a neutral stance and a few have allied with Russia.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, if we talk about China, it has become a close ally with Russia in recent years, including as a trading partner.&nbsp;

A relationship is opportunistic but might face risks as Russia reels from tough economic sanctions led by the West.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-footballs-first-reported-losses-as-two-ukrainian-players-killed-during-russian-invasion-458012">Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion</a>&nbsp;

That's about the China and Russia ties, but what about China and Ukraine ties?&nbsp;

The India-based news agency ANI reported that China's business and economic interests have grown in Ukraine in recent years.&nbsp;

ANI cited local reports that many A-share listed companies have business layouts in Ukraine as in terms of different industries, Chinese wind power companies have been more active in investing in Ukraine in recent years.&nbsp;

In the agriculture, grain and oil sectors, many companies have subsidiaries or product sales in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-i-am-scared-we-are-hitting-everyone-russian-soldiers-last-words-to-mother-are-heart-wrenching-457862">'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching</a>&nbsp;

In addition, listed companies such as Beinken Energy, Xinjiang Communications Construction Group and Weldatlantic Group also have business operations or product sales in Ukraine, a report added.&nbsp;

Due to its strategic location, Ukraine is very important for China, it's a gateway for Beijing in Europe owing to the free trade deal between Ukraine and the European Union and abundant supply of mineral and agricultural resources.&nbsp;

Ukraine is an important hub within the Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese President Xi Jinping's signature infrastructure and foreign policy project, which Kyiv joined in 2017.&nbsp;

However, amid the ongoing chaos, the future of all all the ties are in jeopardy.&nbsp;

More than 2,500 Chinese nationals in Ukraine have been moved out of the country, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular media briefing on Wednesday (March 2).&nbsp;

China has said previously that there were about 6,000 Chinese citizens living in the country.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Biden: Putin isolated from the world more than ever

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The global economy has been severely impacted because of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Some of the countries have taken a stringent stance on the crisis by slapping multiple economic sanctions on Moscow after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced "military operations" in Ukraine.

The global economy has been severely impacted because of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Some of the countries have taken a stringent stance on the crisis by slapping multiple economic sanctions on Moscow after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced "military operations" in Ukraine. The crisis has led to a geopolitical shift as several countries have taken a neutral stance and a few have allied with Russia. Meanwhile, if we talk about China, it has become a close ally with Russia in recent years, including as a trading partner. A relationship is opportunistic but might face risks as Russia reels from tough economic sanctions led by the West. ALSO READ | Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion That's about the China and Russia ties, but what about China and Ukraine ties? The India-based news agency ANI reported that China's business and economic interests have grown in Ukraine in recent years. ANI cited local reports that many A-share listed companies have business layouts in Ukraine as in terms of different industries, Chinese wind power companies have been more active in investing in Ukraine in recent years. In the agriculture, grain and oil sectors, many companies have subsidiaries or product sales in Ukraine. ALSO READ | 'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching In addition, listed companies such as Beinken Energy, Xinjiang Communications Construction Group and Weldatlantic Group also have business operations or product sales in Ukraine, a report added. Due to its strategic location, Ukraine is very important for China, it's a gateway for Beijing in Europe owing to the free trade deal between Ukraine and the European Union and abundant supply of mineral and agricultural resources. Ukraine is an important hub within the Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese President Xi Jinping's signature infrastructure and foreign policy project, which Kyiv joined in 2017. However, amid the ongoing chaos, the future of all all the ties are in jeopardy. More than 2,500 Chinese nationals in Ukraine have been moved out of the country, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular media briefing on Wednesday (March 2). China has said previously that there were about 6,000 Chinese citizens living in the country. WATCH | Biden: Putin isolated from the world more than ever ×

How will the Russia-Ukraine conflict impact China's economic interests in Ukraine?

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem chaired an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) to address matters relating to the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

In his opening remarks to the meeting, the FIA President said: "As you know, the FIA is watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and I hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation. We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine."

"I would like to stress that the HA, together with our promoters, proactively acted on this matter last week and communicated accordingly on the Formula 1, Formula 2, WTCR and the International Drifting Cup," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-from-russia-belarus-allowed-to-compete-in-atp-wta-events-458105">Players from Russia, Belarus allowed to compete in ATP, WTA events</a>

Motorsport's governing body FIA on Tuesday condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine but said Russian and Belarusian drivers could still take part in its competitions in a neutral capacity.

An updated version of the different FIA International Calendars will be presented to the WMSC meeting in Bahrain for approval," he added.

In accordance with the International Olympic Committee recommendations, Council members approved the following decisions to be implemented with immediate effect: No international/zone competition to take place in Russia and Belarus, until further notice.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-bans-athletes-from-russia-belarus-after-ukraine-invasion-458082">ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion</a>

No flag/symbol or anthem of Russia/Belarus to be used in international/zone competitions until further notice No Russian/Belarusian national teams to participate in international/zone competitions (e.g. FIA Motorsport Games), until further notice.

Russian/Belarusian drivers, individual competitors and officials to participate in international/zone competitions only in their neutral capacity and under the "FIA flag", subject to specific commitment and adherence to the FIA's principles of peace and political neutrality, until further notice.

No Russian/Belarusian national symbols, colours, flags (uniform, equipment and car)- should be displayed or anthems should be played at international/zone competitions, until further notice.

The FIA President added: "I want to thank the Council members for their prompt action in deciding these measures in the interests of sport and peace. We stand in solidarity with Leonid Kostyuchenko, the President of the Federation Automobile d'Ukraine (FAU) and the wider FIA family in the country."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-bwf-suspend-russian-and-belarusan-athletes-officials-457893">Ukraine crisis: BWF suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials</a>

"The measures taken today recognise the authority of the FAU in Ukraine and are also aligned with the recommendations recently made by the International Olympic Committee. We are in active discussions with our members as we continue to extend our compassion and support in their time of need. We sincerely hope for a peaceful resolution to their intolerable hardship," he added.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem chaired an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) to address matters relating to the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem chaired an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) to address matters relating to the ongoing situation in Ukraine. In his opening remarks to the meeting, the FIA President said: "As you know, the FIA is watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and I hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation. We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine." "I would like to stress that the HA, together with our promoters, proactively acted on this matter last week and communicated accordingly on the Formula 1, Formula 2, WTCR and the International Drifting Cup," he added. ALSO READ: Players from Russia, Belarus allowed to compete in ATP, WTA events Motorsport's governing body FIA on Tuesday condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine but said Russian and Belarusian drivers could still take part in its competitions in a neutral capacity. An updated version of the different FIA International Calendars will be presented to the WMSC meeting in Bahrain for approval," he added. In accordance with the International Olympic Committee recommendations, Council members approved the following decisions to be implemented with immediate effect: No international/zone competition to take place in Russia and Belarus, until further notice. ALSO READ: ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion No flag/symbol or anthem of Russia/Belarus to be used in international/zone competitions until further notice No Russian/Belarusian national teams to participate in international/zone competitions (e.g. FIA Motorsport Games), until further notice. Russian/Belarusian drivers, individual competitors and officials to participate in international/zone competitions only in their neutral capacity and under the "FIA flag", subject to specific commitment and adherence to the FIA's principles of peace and political neutrality, until further notice. No Russian/Belarusian national symbols, colours, flags (uniform, equipment and car)- should be displayed or anthems should be played at international/zone competitions, until further notice. The FIA President added: "I want to thank the Council members for their prompt action in deciding these measures in the interests of sport and peace. We stand in solidarity with Leonid Kostyuchenko, the President of the Federation Automobile d'Ukraine (FAU) and the wider FIA family in the country." ALSO READ: Ukraine crisis: BWF suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials "The measures taken today recognise the authority of the FAU in Ukraine and are also aligned with the recommendations recently made by the International Olympic Committee. We are in active discussions with our members as we continue to extend our compassion and support in their time of need. We sincerely hope for a peaceful resolution to their intolerable hardship," he added.

Drivers from Russia, Belarus to participate only in their neutral capacity, says FIA President Md. Ben Sulayem

The officials in Ukraine released the final words that were believed to be sent by a Russian soldier to his mother before he was killed in combat. Amid the escalating crisis, the Security Service of Ukraine released the messages from the soldier on Monday (February 28).&nbsp;

The messages indicated that the Russian soldiers are "afraid" and they are "hitting everyone", including civilians.&nbsp;

Parts of the heartbreaking messages were read by the Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya at a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

However, Kyslytsya neither revealed when exactly the messages were sent nor the soldier's identity. He also didn't tell how the soldier died.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-ukraine-russia-conflict-man-miraculously-saved-after-military-combat-vehicle-runs-over-his-car-457805">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Man miraculously saved after military combat vehicle runs over his car</a>

As read by the official, the soldier wrote: "I'm scared, we're hitting everyone, even civilians. We had been told that people would welcome us here but they jump under our vehicles, not letting us pass. They call us fascists."&nbsp;

"Mom, it's so hard," the soldier added in the texts that were apparently written in Russian.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukraines-foreign-ministry-posts-dramatic-video-of-administration-building-being-blown-up-in-kharkiv-457724">Ukraine's foreign ministry posts dramatic video of administration building being blown up in Kharkiv</a>

He said that they were told that the civilians would "welcome" them, and told his mother that he is no longer in Crimea doing training exercises.&nbsp;

He replied that "the only thing I want now is to hang myself" when his mother asked if she could send him a package.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the office of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court on Monday said it will seek court approval to open an investigation into alleged war crimes in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

Watch the video here:

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Ukrainian Amb. to the UN reads texts between Russian soldier and his mom before he was killed: 
 
"I'm afraid. We are bombing all of the cities...even targeting civilians. We were told that they would welcome us. And they are falling under our armored vehicles." <a href="https://t.co/CMuK6zkFCy">pic.twitter.com/CMuK6zkFCy</a>
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At the UN General Assembly, Ukrainian Ambassador Kyslytsya read a text message exchange between a Russian soldier and his mother before he was killed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DemVoice1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DemVoice1</a> 1/2 
<a href="https://t.co/wEpDpBvzDI">https://t.co/wEpDpBvzDI</a>
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&nbsp;

The officials in Ukraine released the final words that were believed to be sent by a Russian soldier to his mother before he was killed in combat. Amid the escalating crisis, the Security Service of Ukraine released the messages from the soldier on Monday (February 28).

The officials in Ukraine released the final words that were believed to be sent by a Russian soldier to his mother before he was killed in combat. Amid the escalating crisis, the Security Service of Ukraine released the messages from the soldier on Monday (February 28). The messages indicated that the Russian soldiers are "afraid" and they are "hitting everyone", including civilians. Parts of the heartbreaking messages were read by the Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya at a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. However, Kyslytsya neither revealed when exactly the messages were sent nor the soldier's identity. He also didn't tell how the soldier died. WATCH | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Man miraculously saved after military combat vehicle runs over his car As read by the official, the soldier wrote: "I'm scared, we're hitting everyone, even civilians. We had been told that people would welcome us here but they jump under our vehicles, not letting us pass. They call us fascists." "Mom, it's so hard," the soldier added in the texts that were apparently written in Russian. WATCH | Ukraine's foreign ministry posts dramatic video of administration building being blown up in Kharkiv He said that they were told that the civilians would "welcome" them, and told his mother that he is no longer in Crimea doing training exercises. He replied that "the only thing I want now is to hang myself" when his mother asked if she could send him a package. Meanwhile, the office of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court on Monday said it will seek court approval to open an investigation into alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: Ukrainian Amb. to the UN reads texts between Russian soldier and his mom before he was killed: "I'm afraid. We are bombing all of the cities...even targeting civilians. We were told that they would welcome us. And they are falling under our armored vehicles." pic.twitter.com/CMuK6zkFCy — Breaking911 (@Breaking911) February 28, 2022 × At the UN General Assembly, Ukrainian Ambassador Kyslytsya read a text message exchange between a Russian soldier and his mother before he was killed. #DemVoice1 1/2 https://t.co/wEpDpBvzDI — ThinkJoMice (@ThinkJoMice) February 28, 2022 ×

'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events.

The decision comes despite many sports governing bodies including IOC, FIFA, UEFA imposing bans on the Russian players.

"A deep sense of distress, shock and sadness has been felt across the entire tennis community following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the past week. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, and we commend the many tennis players who have spoken out and taken action against this unacceptable act of aggression. We echo their calls for the violence to end and peace to return," stated an official joint statement by International Governing Bodies of Tennis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-bans-athletes-from-russia-belarus-after-ukraine-invasion-458082">ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion</a>

"The safety of the tennis community is our most immediate collective priority. The focus of the WTA and ATP in particular in recent days has been on contacting current and former players, and other members of the tennis community from Ukraine and neighbouring countries to check on their safety and offer any assistance," stated further.

The WTA and ATP Boards have made the decision to suspend the WTA/ATP combined event scheduled this October in Moscow.

The ITF Board has made the decision to suspend the Russian Tennis Federation and Belarus Tennis Federation membership and to withdraw their entries from all ITF international team competitions until further notice.

This action follows the cancellation of all ITF tournaments in Russia and Belarus indefinitely.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-footballs-first-reported-losses-as-two-ukrainian-players-killed-during-russian-invasion-458012">Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion</a>

At this time, players from Russia and Belarus will continue to be allowed to compete in international tennis events on Tour and at the Grand Slams.

However, they will not compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus until further notice.

Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix.

The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris.

UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-athletics-joins-sporting-bodies-in-banning-russian-and-belarusian-athletes-457935">World Athletics joins sporting bodies in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events.

Following Russia's military operations in Ukraine, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) announced that the players from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete in ATP and World Tennis Association (WTA) events. The decision comes despite many sports governing bodies including IOC, FIFA, UEFA imposing bans on the Russian players. "A deep sense of distress, shock and sadness has been felt across the entire tennis community following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the past week. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, and we commend the many tennis players who have spoken out and taken action against this unacceptable act of aggression. We echo their calls for the violence to end and peace to return," stated an official joint statement by International Governing Bodies of Tennis. ALSO READ: ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion "The safety of the tennis community is our most immediate collective priority. The focus of the WTA and ATP in particular in recent days has been on contacting current and former players, and other members of the tennis community from Ukraine and neighbouring countries to check on their safety and offer any assistance," stated further. The WTA and ATP Boards have made the decision to suspend the WTA/ATP combined event scheduled this October in Moscow. The ITF Board has made the decision to suspend the Russian Tennis Federation and Belarus Tennis Federation membership and to withdraw their entries from all ITF international team competitions until further notice. This action follows the cancellation of all ITF tournaments in Russia and Belarus indefinitely. ALSO READ: Ukraine crisis: Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion At this time, players from Russia and Belarus will continue to be allowed to compete in international tennis events on Tour and at the Grand Slams. However, they will not compete under the name or flag of Russia or Belarus until further notice. Following rising tension between Russia and Ukraine, the sports fraternity has become proactive and many events in Russia have been cancelled, including the Russian Grand Prix. The Champions League final has also been moved out of Russia and it will now take place in Paris. UEFA and FIFA have also barred Russia from international football until further notice. ALSO READ: World Athletics joins sporting bodies in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday had announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to "consequences they have never seen."

Players from Russia, Belarus allowed to compete in ATP, WTA events

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.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday (March 1) may have accidentally shared Russia's plans to invade Ukraine during a live televised meet.&nbsp;

During the Security Council meeting in Minsk, the Belarusian leader demonstrated a map that looked like a scheme of military actions in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-footballs-first-reported-losses-as-two-ukrainian-players-killed-during-russian-invasion-458012">Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion</a>

While talking, he repeated that the Russian Armed Forces conducted missile launches from Belarus into Ukraine on February 23 to prevent what he has claimed was Ukraine's intention to attack Belarus.&nbsp;

In a video shared by news agency Reuters, Lukashenko said, "Thankfully those guys, warned us. We had found it literally six hours before a launch, and the Russians - Iskanders were deployed here, right, in the Mazyr area - they attacked those missiles, those positions."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mom-i-am-scared-we-are-hitting-everyone-russian-soldiers-last-words-to-mother-are-heart-wrenching-457862">'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching</a>

"And after that, we haven't seen them anymore. During the Russians' advancement, entering Ukraine, we did not see those positions anymore. That is why I am saying, yes, there were launches from Belarusian territory. And I told you openly what point we targeted," he added.&nbsp;

The video was also shared by Belarusian journalist Tadeusz Giczan on Twitter, in which Lukashenko appeared to point to a map of Ukraine. The map showed Ukraine segmented into four parts.&nbsp;

As per the journo, the demonstration "looks like an actual invasion map." Important to note that the Belarusian leader is a longtime ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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At today's security council meeting, Lukashenko showed what looks like an actual invasion map. It shows Ukraine military facilities destroyed by missiles from Belarus, attacks directions (everything agrees except Odessa-Transnistria). Also, Ukraine is divided into 4 sectors. <a href="https://t.co/ueqBIFUbyM">pic.twitter.com/ueqBIFUbyM</a>
— Tadeusz Giczan 🇺🇦 (@TadeuszGiczan) <a href="https://twitter.com/TadeuszGiczan/status/1498673348183744518?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday, Lukashenko said that Belarus has no plans to join Russia's military operation in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Monday that Lukashenko has allowed Putin to "make a mockery" of Belarus' sovereignty by allowing Moscow's forces to launch their attack on Ukraine from its territory.

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. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday (March 1) may have accidentally shared Russia's plans to invade Ukraine during a live televised meet. During the Security Council meeting in Minsk, the Belarusian leader demonstrated a map that looked like a scheme of military actions in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Football's first reported losses as two Ukrainian players killed during Russian invasion While talking, he repeated that the Russian Armed Forces conducted missile launches from Belarus into Ukraine on February 23 to prevent what he has claimed was Ukraine's intention to attack Belarus. In a video shared by news agency Reuters, Lukashenko said, "Thankfully those guys, warned us. We had found it literally six hours before a launch, and the Russians - Iskanders were deployed here, right, in the Mazyr area - they attacked those missiles, those positions." ALSO READ | 'Mom, I am scared. We are hitting everyone': Russian soldier's last words to mother are heart-wrenching "And after that, we haven't seen them anymore. During the Russians' advancement, entering Ukraine, we did not see those positions anymore. That is why I am saying, yes, there were launches from Belarusian territory. And I told you openly what point we targeted," he added. The video was also shared by Belarusian journalist Tadeusz Giczan on Twitter, in which Lukashenko appeared to point to a map of Ukraine. The map showed Ukraine segmented into four parts. As per the journo, the demonstration "looks like an actual invasion map." Important to note that the Belarusian leader is a longtime ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Watch the video here: At today's security council meeting, Lukashenko showed what looks like an actual invasion map. It shows Ukraine military facilities destroyed by missiles from Belarus, attacks directions (everything agrees except Odessa-Transnistria). Also, Ukraine is divided into 4 sectors. pic.twitter.com/ueqBIFUbyM — Tadeusz Giczan 🇺🇦 (@TadeuszGiczan) March 1, 2022 × On Tuesday, Lukashenko said that Belarus has no plans to join Russia's military operation in Ukraine. The US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Monday that Lukashenko has allowed Putin to "make a mockery" of Belarus' sovereignty by allowing Moscow's forces to launch their attack on Ukraine from its territory.

Watch: Did Belarusian President accidentally share Russia's plans to invade Ukraine?

NASA&nbsp;is&nbsp;exploring&nbsp;ways&nbsp;to&nbsp;keep&nbsp;the&nbsp;International Space Station&nbsp;in orbit&nbsp;without&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;help, but doesn't see any immediate signs Moscow is withdrawing from the collaboration following the invasion of Ukraine, a senior&nbsp;official&nbsp;said Monday.

Kathy Lueders, who heads the agency's human spaceflight program, told reporters on a call that operations on the research platform were proceeding "nominally" and "we're not getting&nbsp;any&nbsp;indications at a working level that our counterparts are not committed."

"That said, we always look for how do we get more operational flexibility and our cargo providers are looking at how do we add different capabilities," she continued.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-artificial-intelligence-model-shows-hidden-turbulence-in-suns-atmosphere-457528">&nbsp;New artificial intelligence model shows hidden turbulence in Sun's atmosphere</a>

While the US side of the ISS supplies power and life support, Russia is responsible for propulsion and keeping the&nbsp;station&nbsp;afloat: it does this by using docked Progress spacecraft to periodically give the&nbsp;station&nbsp;a boost to maintain its altitude, approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers) high.&nbsp;

Last week, though, Russia's&nbsp;space&nbsp;chief Dmitry Rogozin raised the prospect of pulling out of the partnership in response to US sanctions, allowing the 400 ton structure to come crashing down to Earth while most likely avoiding his country, since its&nbsp;orbit&nbsp;doesn't&nbsp;fly much over it.

Lueders said: "Northrop Grumman has been offering up a reboost capability, and you know, our SpaceX folks are looking at can we have additional capability."

The last Northrop Grumman Cygnus cargo vessel that arrived at the ISS on February 21 was the first to boast a capacity to "reboost" the outpost&nbsp;without&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;help.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-curiosity-rover-captures-image-of-mineral-flower-on-mars-457155">&nbsp;NASA's Curiosity rover captures image of mineral 'flower' on Mars</a>

On Friday, SpaceX boss Elon Musk tweeted his company's logo in response to Rogozin's rhetorical question about who would save the ISS&nbsp;from&nbsp;an uncontrolled de-orbit.

But Lueders stressed that such plans were a contingency measure only.&nbsp;

"It would be very difficult for us to be operating on our own -- ISS is an&nbsp;international&nbsp;partnership that was created...with joint dependencies," she said.

"As a team, we are looking at where we may have operational flexibilities, but... it would be a sad day for&nbsp;international&nbsp;operations if we can't&nbsp;continue to peacefully operate in&nbsp;space," she concluded.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A NASA spacecraft has reached the sun

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-nasa-spacecraft-has-reached-the-sun-437230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A symbol of post Cold War detente, the ISS has been continuously habited for more than 21 years and has weathered past geopolitical storms, notably Russia's&nbsp;invasion&nbsp;of Crimea in 2014. But some observers believe the&nbsp;invasion&nbsp;of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;could hasten the demise of US-Russian&nbsp;space&nbsp;cooperation.

NASA is exploring ways to keep the International Space Station in orbit without Russian help, but doesn't see any immediate signs Moscow is withdrawing from the collaboration following the invasion of Ukraine, a senior official said Monday.

NASA is exploring ways to keep the International Space Station in orbit without Russian help, but doesn't see any immediate signs Moscow is withdrawing from the collaboration following the invasion of Ukraine, a senior official said Monday. Kathy Lueders, who heads the agency's human spaceflight program, told reporters on a call that operations on the research platform were proceeding "nominally" and "we're not getting any indications at a working level that our counterparts are not committed." "That said, we always look for how do we get more operational flexibility and our cargo providers are looking at how do we add different capabilities," she continued. Also read | New artificial intelligence model shows hidden turbulence in Sun's atmosphere While the US side of the ISS supplies power and life support, Russia is responsible for propulsion and keeping the station afloat: it does this by using docked Progress spacecraft to periodically give the station a boost to maintain its altitude, approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers) high. Last week, though, Russia's space chief Dmitry Rogozin raised the prospect of pulling out of the partnership in response to US sanctions, allowing the 400 ton structure to come crashing down to Earth while most likely avoiding his country, since its orbit doesn't fly much over it. Lueders said: "Northrop Grumman has been offering up a reboost capability, and you know, our SpaceX folks are looking at can we have additional capability." The last Northrop Grumman Cygnus cargo vessel that arrived at the ISS on February 21 was the first to boast a capacity to "reboost" the outpost without Russian help. Also read | NASA's Curiosity rover captures image of mineral 'flower' on Mars On Friday, SpaceX boss Elon Musk tweeted his company's logo in response to Rogozin's rhetorical question about who would save the ISS from an uncontrolled de-orbit. But Lueders stressed that such plans were a contingency measure only. "It would be very difficult for us to be operating on our own -- ISS is an international partnership that was created...with joint dependencies," she said. "As a team, we are looking at where we may have operational flexibilities, but... it would be a sad day for international operations if we can't continue to peacefully operate in space," she concluded. Watch | Gravitas: A NASA spacecraft has reached the sun A symbol of post Cold War detente, the ISS has been continuously habited for more than 21 years and has weathered past geopolitical storms, notably Russia's invasion of Crimea in 2014. But some observers believe the invasion of Ukraine could hasten the demise of US-Russian space cooperation.

NASA exploring ways to keep International Space Station afloat without Russia

Microsoft&nbsp;Corp said on Monday it would&nbsp;remove&nbsp;Russian state-owned media outlet RT's mobile apps from the Windows App store and ban advertisements on&nbsp;Russian state-sponsored media, as global tech firms respond to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

The company said it would not display any state-sponsored RT and Sputnik content, de-rank their search results on Bing and not place any ads from its ad network on those sites.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/454148">Here's what Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates doing in Pakistan</a>

Western tech companies, including Facebook-owner Meta Platforms Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google, have placed restrictions on&nbsp;Russia's state-controlled media outlets in Ukraine and around the world.

Google has banned downloads of RT's mobile app on Ukrainian territory after barring&nbsp;Russia's state-owned media outlet RT and other channels from receiving money for ads on their websites, apps and YouTube videos.

Facebook is barring&nbsp;Russian state media from running ads or monetizing on its platform anywhere in the world.

Watch |&nbsp;World Bank Prez David Malpass criticized Microsoft's $69 billion deal as poor countries struggle

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"(We) will make ongoing adjustments to strengthen our detection and disruption mechanisms to avoid the spread of disinformation and promote instead independent and trusted content,"&nbsp;Microsoft&nbsp;said in a blog.

A growing list of companies are also looking to exit&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;as sanctions from Western countries tighten.

Microsoft Corp said on Monday it would remove Russian state-owned media outlet RT's mobile apps from the Windows App store and ban advertisements on Russian state-sponsored media, as global tech firms respond to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Microsoft Corp said on Monday it would remove Russian state-owned media outlet RT's mobile apps from the Windows App store and ban advertisements on Russian state-sponsored media, as global tech firms respond to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. The company said it would not display any state-sponsored RT and Sputnik content, de-rank their search results on Bing and not place any ads from its ad network on those sites. Also read | Here's what Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates doing in Pakistan Western tech companies, including Facebook-owner Meta Platforms Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google, have placed restrictions on Russia's state-controlled media outlets in Ukraine and around the world. Google has banned downloads of RT's mobile app on Ukrainian territory after barring Russia's state-owned media outlet RT and other channels from receiving money for ads on their websites, apps and YouTube videos. Facebook is barring Russian state media from running ads or monetizing on its platform anywhere in the world. Watch | World Bank Prez David Malpass criticized Microsoft's $69 billion deal as poor countries struggle "(We) will make ongoing adjustments to strengthen our detection and disruption mechanisms to avoid the spread of disinformation and promote instead independent and trusted content," Microsoft said in a blog. A growing list of companies are also looking to exit Russia as sanctions from Western countries tighten.

Microsoft to remove RT apps, ban Russian state-owned media ads

Hollywood is taking a stand amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Like Disney, Warner Bros too has announced that it has paused its plans of releasing its upcoming film 'The Batman' in Russia. The film stars Robert Pattinson as the superhero. The DC adaption is set to release worldwide on March 4 but won't release in Russia now.&nbsp; 
 
"In light of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, WarnerMedia is pausing the release of its feature film 'The Batman' in Russia," a spokesperson for the company said in a statement to the media. "We will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves. We hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to this tragedy." 
 
On Monday evening, hours after Warner Bros announced its decision, Sony Pictures too decided to pause its plans to release 'Morbius' in Russia. The film is based on a popular Marvel anti-hero. Sony Pictures has also pulled back all its other upcoming theatrical releases in Russia.&nbsp; 
 
"Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been impacted and hope this crisis will be resolved quickly," a Sony Pictures Entertainment spokesperson said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/disney-pausing-film-releases-in-russia-over-ukraine-invasion-457652" hreflang="en">Disney pausing film releases in Russia over Ukraine invasion</a> 
 
Warner Bros and Sony's decisions to halt the rollout of upcoming films in Russia followed an announcement by Disney to pause its own theatrical releases in that country, beginning with Pixar's 'Turning Red'. The animated film was set to premiere on March 10 in Russia. 
 
According to a report in 'Variety', 'The Batman' has been made on a budget of $200 million and is expected to gain much more as it releases worldwide.&nbsp; 
 
"Russia generally isn't a make-or-break territory for the success of Hollywood releases, but there is still a sizable market for a film like 'The Batman'," the Variety pointed out in its report.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/russian-conductor-valery-gergiev-shunned-by-la-scala-other-venues-457670" hreflang="en">Russian conductor Valery Gergiev shunned by La Scala, other venues</a>

Hollywood is taking a stand amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Like Disney, Warner Bros too has announced that it has paused its plans of releasing its upcoming film 'The Batman' in Russia.

Hollywood is taking a stand amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Like Disney, Warner Bros too has announced that it has paused its plans of releasing its upcoming film 'The Batman' in Russia. The film stars Robert Pattinson as the superhero. The DC adaption is set to release worldwide on March 4 but won't release in Russia now. "In light of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, WarnerMedia is pausing the release of its feature film 'The Batman' in Russia," a spokesperson for the company said in a statement to the media. "We will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves. We hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to this tragedy." On Monday evening, hours after Warner Bros announced its decision, Sony Pictures too decided to pause its plans to release 'Morbius' in Russia. The film is based on a popular Marvel anti-hero. Sony Pictures has also pulled back all its other upcoming theatrical releases in Russia. "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been impacted and hope this crisis will be resolved quickly," a Sony Pictures Entertainment spokesperson said in a statement. Disney pausing film releases in Russia over Ukraine invasion Warner Bros and Sony's decisions to halt the rollout of upcoming films in Russia followed an announcement by Disney to pause its own theatrical releases in that country, beginning with Pixar's 'Turning Red'. The animated film was set to premiere on March 10 in Russia. According to a report in 'Variety', 'The Batman' has been made on a budget of $200 million and is expected to gain much more as it releases worldwide. "Russia generally isn't a make-or-break territory for the success of Hollywood releases, but there is still a sizable market for a film like 'The Batman'," the Variety pointed out in its report. Russian conductor Valery Gergiev shunned by La Scala, other venues

'The Batman' to miss its date with Russia as Hollywood decides to boycott the invader

World Athletics banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from all events for the foreseeable future on Tuesday, as more sporting bodies sanctioned athletes from the two countries in response to Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

Since the start of what Russian President Vladimir Putin has called "a special military operation" last week, Russian and Belarusian teams and athletes have found themselves frozen out from international competitions across a number of sports.

Belarus has been a key staging area for Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. On Monday, the International Olympic Committee`s (IOC) executive board recommended sports federations ban Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from competing in events.

World Athletics said its council also agreed to consider further measures, including the suspension of the Belarus Federation, at its scheduled Council meeting next week.

The Russian Athletics Federation has been suspended from World Athletics since 2015 due to doping violations, and hence its competitors have not been allowed to compete under the country`s flag at international events.

World Athletics said the new sanction also included Russian athletes who had the Authorised Neutral Athlete (ANA) status in 2022.

"Anyone who knows me will understand that imposing sanctions on athletes because of the actions of their government goes against the grain," said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.

"I have railed against the practice of politicians targeting athletes and sport to make political points when other sectors continue about their business.

"This is different as governments, business and other international organisations have imposed sanctions and measures against Russia across all sectors. Sport has to step up and join these efforts to end this war and restore peace. We cannot and should not sit this one out."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-fifa-to-ioc-how-sporting-bodies-have-shunned-russia-after-ukraine-invasion-457891">From FIFA to IOC: How sporting bodies have shunned Russia after Ukraine invasion</a>

The badminton federation (BWF) banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from international competition from next Tuesday. However, the BWF said it is allowing Russian players to compete at two Para badminton tournaments in Spain this week as they have already arrived on location.

"These players, however, will compete as neutral athletes, with no national flags or anthems," the BWF added. 
The global governing bodies for rowing, skiing (FIS) and volleyball (FIVB) have also banned Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions until further notice.

"With immediate effect, no Russian or Belarusian athlete shall participate in any FIS competition at any level through the end of the 2021-2022 season," FIS said in a statement.

FIVB`s ban covers all teams, clubs and officials across beach and snow volleyball too. The decision came shortly after FIVB had stripped Russia of the men`s world championship.

The international shooting federation (ISSF) said Russian and Belarusian athletes stopped participation during the ISSF World Cup Rifle/Pistol in Cairo, Egypt.

German sportswear company Adidas suspended its partnership with the Russian Football Union (RFS) with immediate effect on Tuesday.

Swimming`s world governing body FINA, which on Sunday called off the World Junior Swimming Championships in Kazan, Russia, said on Tuesday that Russian and Belarusian athletes could only compete as neutral athletes or neutral teams.

"No national symbols, colours, flags should be displayed or anthems should be played in international Aquatics events which are not already part of the respective World Anti-Doping Agency sanctions for Russia," FINA said.

It added that the FINA Order awarded to Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2014 has been withdrawn. 
Paralympic committees from the U.S. and Canada (CPC) said Russian and Belarusian athletes should not be allowed to compete at international sporting events, including the Beijing Paralympics which begins on Friday.

The CPC also urged the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to "consider revoking the memberships of Russia and Belarus" from the IPC.

The IPC will meet on Wednesday to discuss Russia ahead of the Beijing Games.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russian-belarusian-skaters-banned-from-isu-competitions-until-further-notice-457792">Russian, Belarusian skaters banned from ISU competitions until further notice</a>

Russian Daniil Kvyat, who is the Alpine Formula One outfit`s reserve driver this season, said banning his country`s athletes and teams was an "unfair solution".

"...Sport should remain outside politics and disallowing Russian athletes and teams from participating in world competitions is an unfair solution and goes against what sport teaches us in its principle - the unity and peace," Kvyat tweeted on Tuesday.

"Who else if not us sports people will help to glue nations together in the upcoming times."

On Monday, soccer governing bodies FIFA and UEFA suspended Russia`s national teams and clubs, making it likely the country will be excluded from this year`s men`s World Cup and the women`s Euro 2022 tournament.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said on Sunday that it had taken `swift action` to cancel all events in Russia indefinitely and that no ITF events would be held in Belarus for 2022.

However, the sport`s two professional tours, the men`s ATP and women`s WTA, have not announced any action against the two countries.

Ukraine`s Elina Svitolina refused to play against Russia`s Anastasia Potapova at the Monterrey Open and said she would not play any Russians or Belarusians until the sport`s governing bodies implement the IOC`s recommendations.

World Athletics banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from all events for the foreseeable future on Tuesday, as more sporting bodies sanctioned athletes from the two countries in response to Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

World Athletics banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from all events for the foreseeable future on Tuesday, as more sporting bodies sanctioned athletes from the two countries in response to Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. Since the start of what Russian President Vladimir Putin has called "a special military operation" last week, Russian and Belarusian teams and athletes have found themselves frozen out from international competitions across a number of sports. Belarus has been a key staging area for Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. On Monday, the International Olympic Committee`s (IOC) executive board recommended sports federations ban Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from competing in events. World Athletics said its council also agreed to consider further measures, including the suspension of the Belarus Federation, at its scheduled Council meeting next week. The Russian Athletics Federation has been suspended from World Athletics since 2015 due to doping violations, and hence its competitors have not been allowed to compete under the country`s flag at international events. World Athletics said the new sanction also included Russian athletes who had the Authorised Neutral Athlete (ANA) status in 2022. "Anyone who knows me will understand that imposing sanctions on athletes because of the actions of their government goes against the grain," said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. "I have railed against the practice of politicians targeting athletes and sport to make political points when other sectors continue about their business. "This is different as governments, business and other international organisations have imposed sanctions and measures against Russia across all sectors. Sport has to step up and join these efforts to end this war and restore peace. We cannot and should not sit this one out." Also Read: From FIFA to IOC: How sporting bodies have shunned Russia after Ukraine invasion The badminton federation (BWF) banned Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from international competition from next Tuesday. However, the BWF said it is allowing Russian players to compete at two Para badminton tournaments in Spain this week as they have already arrived on location. "These players, however, will compete as neutral athletes, with no national flags or anthems," the BWF added. The global governing bodies for rowing, skiing (FIS) and volleyball (FIVB) have also banned Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions until further notice. "With immediate effect, no Russian or Belarusian athlete shall participate in any FIS competition at any level through the end of the 2021-2022 season," FIS said in a statement. FIVB`s ban covers all teams, clubs and officials across beach and snow volleyball too. The decision came shortly after FIVB had stripped Russia of the men`s world championship. The international shooting federation (ISSF) said Russian and Belarusian athletes stopped participation during the ISSF World Cup Rifle/Pistol in Cairo, Egypt. German sportswear company Adidas suspended its partnership with the Russian Football Union (RFS) with immediate effect on Tuesday. Swimming`s world governing body FINA, which on Sunday called off the World Junior Swimming Championships in Kazan, Russia, said on Tuesday that Russian and Belarusian athletes could only compete as neutral athletes or neutral teams. "No national symbols, colours, flags should be displayed or anthems should be played in international Aquatics events which are not already part of the respective World Anti-Doping Agency sanctions for Russia," FINA said. It added that the FINA Order awarded to Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2014 has been withdrawn. Paralympic committees from the U.S. and Canada (CPC) said Russian and Belarusian athletes should not be allowed to compete at international sporting events, including the Beijing Paralympics which begins on Friday. The CPC also urged the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to "consider revoking the memberships of Russia and Belarus" from the IPC. The IPC will meet on Wednesday to discuss Russia ahead of the Beijing Games. Also Read: Russian, Belarusian skaters banned from ISU competitions until further notice Russian Daniil Kvyat, who is the Alpine Formula One outfit`s reserve driver this season, said banning his country`s athletes and teams was an "unfair solution". "...Sport should remain outside politics and disallowing Russian athletes and teams from participating in world competitions is an unfair solution and goes against what sport teaches us in its principle - the unity and peace," Kvyat tweeted on Tuesday. "Who else if not us sports people will help to glue nations together in the upcoming times." On Monday, soccer governing bodies FIFA and UEFA suspended Russia`s national teams and clubs, making it likely the country will be excluded from this year`s men`s World Cup and the women`s Euro 2022 tournament. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said on Sunday that it had taken `swift action` to cancel all events in Russia indefinitely and that no ITF events would be held in Belarus for 2022. However, the sport`s two professional tours, the men`s ATP and women`s WTA, have not announced any action against the two countries. Ukraine`s Elina Svitolina refused to play against Russia`s Anastasia Potapova at the Monterrey Open and said she would not play any Russians or Belarusians until the sport`s governing bodies implement the IOC`s recommendations.

World Athletics joins sporting bodies in banning Russian and Belarusian athletes

The top diplomats of 22 countries, including European Union member states, on Tuesday jointly called on the government of Pakistan to support a resolution in the United Nations General Assembly condemning Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was in Moscow to meet President Vladimir Putin last week on the day Russian forces entered Ukraine.

Pakistan has expressed concern about the fallout from the invasion but stopped short of condemning it.

"As heads of mission to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, we urge Pakistan to join us in condemning Russia's actions," said a joint statement signed by envoys from 22 countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghan-border-reopens-days-after-deadly-clash-457149" hreflang="en">Pakistan-Afghan border reopens days after deadly clash</a>

Signatories included EU member states Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Spain, Sweden and The Netherlands, as well as Australia, Canada, Japan, Norway, Switzerland and Britain.

The 193-member UNGA will this week vote on a resolution condemning Moscow's actions, similar to one vetoed by Russia in the Security Council on Friday. The resolution needs two-thirds support to be adopted.

Before his Russia visit, Khan said the Ukraine crisis had nothing to do with Pakistan, which did not want to join any bloc.

While Pakistan has begun expanding ties with Russia on energy projects, the EU is its top export market along with the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-to-address-pakistan-on-the-countrys-current-economic-crisis-457023" hreflang="en">Imran Khan to address Pakistan on the country's current economic crisis</a>

The EU has gives Pakistan special trade status, the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP+), which lowers entry tariffs.

There was no comment from Pakistan's Foreign Office, but the country's Human Rights Minister, Shireen Mazari, responded on Twitter calling the joint statement "ironic".

She said Pakistan did not support military force, but the EU could not adhere to the U.N. Charter "selectively" as has been done "for decades". She called for the EU to condemn alleged violations by India and Israel.

The top diplomats of 22 countries, including European Union member states, on Tuesday jointly called on the government of Pakistan to support a resolution in the United Nations General Assembly condemning Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

The top diplomats of 22 countries, including European Union member states, on Tuesday jointly called on the government of Pakistan to support a resolution in the United Nations General Assembly condemning Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was in Moscow to meet President Vladimir Putin last week on the day Russian forces entered Ukraine. Pakistan has expressed concern about the fallout from the invasion but stopped short of condemning it. "As heads of mission to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, we urge Pakistan to join us in condemning Russia's actions," said a joint statement signed by envoys from 22 countries. Also read | Pakistan-Afghan border reopens days after deadly clash Signatories included EU member states Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Spain, Sweden and The Netherlands, as well as Australia, Canada, Japan, Norway, Switzerland and Britain. The 193-member UNGA will this week vote on a resolution condemning Moscow's actions, similar to one vetoed by Russia in the Security Council on Friday. The resolution needs two-thirds support to be adopted. Before his Russia visit, Khan said the Ukraine crisis had nothing to do with Pakistan, which did not want to join any bloc. While Pakistan has begun expanding ties with Russia on energy projects, the EU is its top export market along with the United States. Also read | Imran Khan to address Pakistan on the country's current economic crisis The EU has gives Pakistan special trade status, the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP+), which lowers entry tariffs. There was no comment from Pakistan's Foreign Office, but the country's Human Rights Minister, Shireen Mazari, responded on Twitter calling the joint statement "ironic". She said Pakistan did not support military force, but the EU could not adhere to the U.N. Charter "selectively" as has been done "for decades". She called for the EU to condemn alleged violations by India and Israel.

Islamabad-based diplomats call on Pakistan to condemn Russia

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's team on Monday appealed Russians to take up civil obedience campaign to protest Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"Putin declared war on Ukraine and is trying to make everyone think that Ukraine was attacked by Russia, that is, by all of us. But that's not right," the Navalny team wrote on its Twitter account.

"We must show that we do not support the war. We call on Russians to show civil disobedience. Do not be silent."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-in-ukraines-kharkiv-violates-laws-of-war-european-union-457796">Russian shelling in Ukraine's Kharkiv 'violates laws of war': European Union</a>

Navalny is most prominent of opposition leaders who fiercely criticises Russian President Vladimir Putin. He was jailed last year after returning to Germany post recovery from a poisoning attempt. Laboratory tests had revealed that it was Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. Navalny had accused Putin of trying to kill him.

Russia denied carrying out such an attack.

Since then, authorities have clamped down even more tightly on his movement, and key figures have fled into exile after being designated by the authorities as "foreign agents".

The OVD-Info group which monitors protests and arrests in Russia said 6,006 people had so far been arrested for anti-war demonstrations since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb.27 in what Putin said was a special operation to demilitarise and "denazify" the country. Ukraine and the West have dismissed that justification as baseless propaganda.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's team on Monday appealed Russians to take up civil obedience campaign to protest Russian invasion of Ukraine. "Putin declared war on Ukraine and is trying to make everyone think that Ukraine was attacked by Russia, that is, by all of us.

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's team on Monday appealed Russians to take up civil obedience campaign to protest Russian invasion of Ukraine. "Putin declared war on Ukraine and is trying to make everyone think that Ukraine was attacked by Russia, that is, by all of us. But that's not right," the Navalny team wrote on its Twitter account. "We must show that we do not support the war. We call on Russians to show civil disobedience. Do not be silent." Also Read | Russian shelling in Ukraine's Kharkiv 'violates laws of war': European Union Navalny is most prominent of opposition leaders who fiercely criticises Russian President Vladimir Putin. He was jailed last year after returning to Germany post recovery from a poisoning attempt. Laboratory tests had revealed that it was Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. Navalny had accused Putin of trying to kill him. Russia denied carrying out such an attack. Since then, authorities have clamped down even more tightly on his movement, and key figures have fled into exile after being designated by the authorities as "foreign agents". The OVD-Info group which monitors protests and arrests in Russia said 6,006 people had so far been arrested for anti-war demonstrations since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb.27 in what Putin said was a special operation to demilitarise and "denazify" the country. Ukraine and the West have dismissed that justification as baseless propaganda. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny's team calls for civil disobedience to protest Ukraine invasion

An Indian student has died in shelling taking place in Ukraine conflict. Naveen Shekaragouda, the deceased student, was out to buy grocery when he met the tragic end. This is first reported death of an Indian student amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. India's Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed the news to Naveen's family saying that confirmation of Naveen's death had been received from his friends. As per the MEA, the body has been kept in morgue and all out efforts are on to bring Naveen's mortal remains to India.

Naveen's family members said Naveen was in the fourth year of his course in the Kharkiv medical college. Kharkiv is the second biggest city in Ukraine and under heavy Russian attack.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-in-ukraines-kharkiv-violates-laws-of-war-european-union-457796">Russian shelling in Ukraine's Kharkiv 'violates laws of war': European Union</a>

Naveen hails from southern Indian state of Karnataka.&nbsp;

Indian news agency ANI said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Naveen's family this morning.

After learning about the tragedy, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai called up Shekaragouda over phone and expressed his sorrow.

Bommai assured Shekaragouda he would make every effort to bring back his son's body to India. He also told him that he is touch with the officials in the external affairs ministry.

The bereaved father told Bommai that Naveen had called him in the morning as well. Daily the son used to ring him up at least two to three times, he told the Chief Minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian student has died in shelling taking place in Ukraine conflict. Naveen Shekaragouda, the deceased student, was out to buy grocery when he met the tragic end.

An Indian student has died in shelling taking place in Ukraine conflict. Naveen Shekaragouda, the deceased student, was out to buy grocery when he met the tragic end. This is first reported death of an Indian student amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. India's Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed the news to Naveen's family saying that confirmation of Naveen's death had been received from his friends. As per the MEA, the body has been kept in morgue and all out efforts are on to bring Naveen's mortal remains to India. Naveen's family members said Naveen was in the fourth year of his course in the Kharkiv medical college. Kharkiv is the second biggest city in Ukraine and under heavy Russian attack. Also Read | Russian shelling in Ukraine's Kharkiv 'violates laws of war': European Union Naveen hails from southern Indian state of Karnataka. Indian news agency ANI said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Naveen's family this morning. After learning about the tragedy, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai called up Shekaragouda over phone and expressed his sorrow. Bommai assured Shekaragouda he would make every effort to bring back his son's body to India. He also told him that he is touch with the officials in the external affairs ministry. The bereaved father told Bommai that Naveen had called him in the morning as well. Daily the son used to ring him up at least two to three times, he told the Chief Minister. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student dies in Ukraine, caught in shelling while out for grocery

Amid the crisis and chaos in Ukraine that has impacted the world and global economy, an Indo-Ukrainian couple has quite a striking story to tell.&nbsp;

Indian media outlets reported how a Hyderabadi boy and a Ukrainian girl just evaded the crisis after getting married in Ukraine as they left the country and arrived in India.&nbsp;

Prateek, who belongs to Hyderabad - the capital of southern Indian Telangana state, tied the knot in Ukraine on February 23 with a girl named Lyubov. The couple came to India to host the reception, just a day before Russia invaded Ukraine.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukraines-foreign-ministry-posts-dramatic-video-of-administration-building-being-blown-up-in-kharkiv-457724">Ukraine's foreign ministry posts dramatic video of administration building being blown up in Kharkiv</a>

CS Rangarajan, who is the chief priest of Chilkur Balaji temple, officiated the reception as per media reports. He blessed the couple and was quoted as saying: "This war has brought bloodshed, turmoil worldwide and impacting the Covid-19 devastated world further."&nbsp;

Videos and images of the reception were circulating on social media forums. Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In a Hope for new relationships👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> bride Lyubov &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hyderabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hyderabad</a> groom Prateek 
 
Chilkur Priest <a href="https://twitter.com/csranga?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@csranga</a> prayed for the war to end while blessing this new relationship! 
 
The couple tied a knot in Ukrain &amp; came to India to host the reception a day before war started <a href="https://t.co/bwo3qJHEOZ">pic.twitter.com/bwo3qJHEOZ</a>
— Naveena Ghanate (@TheNaveena) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNaveena/status/1498195585999917056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

Meanwhile, the Indian government has launched 'Operation Ganga' to bring back stranded students and Indian citizens from the conflict-torn Ukraine as special flights are being operated by Air India as part of the 'Operation Ganga' mission.&nbsp;

Sources also said that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on President Ram Nath Kovind and briefed him on the prevailing situation and steps being taken by the government.&nbsp;

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On Monday (February 28), PM Modi while presiding over a high-level meeting over the Ukraine crisis said that the entire government machinery is working round the clock to ensure that all stranded Indians in Ukraine are safe and secure.&nbsp;

India's Ministry of External Affairs also said that India has evacuated over 8,000 nationals since the initial advisories were issued.&nbsp;

Amid the crisis and chaos in Ukraine that has impacted the world and global economy, an Indo-Ukrainian couple has quite a striking story to tell. Indian media outlets reported how a Hyderabadi boy and a Ukrainian girl just evaded the crisis after getting married in Ukraine as they left the country and arrived in India.

Amid the crisis and chaos in Ukraine that has impacted the world and global economy, an Indo-Ukrainian couple has quite a striking story to tell. Indian media outlets reported how a Hyderabadi boy and a Ukrainian girl just evaded the crisis after getting married in Ukraine as they left the country and arrived in India. Prateek, who belongs to Hyderabad - the capital of southern Indian Telangana state, tied the knot in Ukraine on February 23 with a girl named Lyubov. The couple came to India to host the reception, just a day before Russia invaded Ukraine. WATCH | Ukraine's foreign ministry posts dramatic video of administration building being blown up in Kharkiv CS Rangarajan, who is the chief priest of Chilkur Balaji temple, officiated the reception as per media reports. He blessed the couple and was quoted as saying: "This war has brought bloodshed, turmoil worldwide and impacting the Covid-19 devastated world further." Videos and images of the reception were circulating on social media forums. Watch: In a Hope for new relationships👇#Ukraine bride Lyubov & #Hyderabad groom Prateek Chilkur Priest @csranga prayed for the war to end while blessing this new relationship! The couple tied a knot in Ukrain & came to India to host the reception a day before war started pic.twitter.com/bwo3qJHEOZ — Naveena Ghanate (@TheNaveena) February 28, 2022 × Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Meanwhile, the Indian government has launched 'Operation Ganga' to bring back stranded students and Indian citizens from the conflict-torn Ukraine as special flights are being operated by Air India as part of the 'Operation Ganga' mission. Sources also said that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on President Ram Nath Kovind and briefed him on the prevailing situation and steps being taken by the government. ALSO READ | Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? On Monday (February 28), PM Modi while presiding over a high-level meeting over the Ukraine crisis said that the entire government machinery is working round the clock to ensure that all stranded Indians in Ukraine are safe and secure. India's Ministry of External Affairs also said that India has evacuated over 8,000 nationals since the initial advisories were issued.

Amid Russia-Ukraine chaos, here's how an Indo-Ukrainian couple had a narrow escape

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. In a tweet on Tuesday (March 1), Ukraine's foreign ministry posted a dramatic video that appears to show an administrative building being blown up. In the caption, the ministry wrote: "Russia is waging war in violation of international humanitarian law. Kills civilians, destroys civilian infrastructure. Russiaʼs main target is large cities that now fired at by its missiles." ALSO READ | Nuclear war outbreak’s fear grows. What are nuke capabilities of Russia? The extent of destruction in Ukraine's second-largest city, Kharkiv is immense as it is pressed with Russia's invasion. In the latest development, news agency AFP reported that Russia shelled Kharkiv despite global calls to de-escalate the conflict. Russia has been slapped with a range of sanctions by the Western countries that have smashed the economy. ALSO READ | Russia accused of using a vacuum bomb in Ukraine. What is it? Global pressure has mounted that saw a war crimes probe opened against Moscow. The office of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court on Monday said it will seek court approval to open an investigation into alleged war crimes in Ukraine. AFP reported citing the mayor that shelling by Russian forces in Kharkiv killed at least 11 civilians in residential areas and an AFP journalist in the city saw destroyed school, burned-out Russian armoured vehicles and corpses of Russian soldiers after earlier fighting. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: Russia is waging war in violation of international humanitarian law. Kills civilians, destroys civilian infrastructure. Russiaʼs main target is large cities that now fired at by its missiles. 📍Kharkiv, Administration building pic.twitter.com/BJgyNnDp1h — MFA of Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@MFA_Ukraine) March 1, 2022 × Apart from shelling, satellite images have shown a vast column of military vehicles amassing just north of the capital Kyiv, where residents are braced for a Russian assault. The Russian army has told them they can "freely leave" on one highway as it hints of attacks on civilian areas, news agencies reported.

Watch: Ukraine's foreign ministry posts dramatic video of administration building being blown up in Kharkiv

Police in Russia detained more than 2,000 people protesting against Ukraine conflict. The detainments have been made in 48 cities across Russia, said protest monitoring group. People defied official warnings to show their displeasure and even anger over Russian invasion.

More than 5,500 people have been detained at various anti-war protests since the invasion began on Thursday, according to the OVD-Info monitor, which has documented crackdowns on Russia's opposition for years.

In Moscow, riot police often outnumbered protesters, some of whom carried hand-written placards with peace signs and anti-war slogans in Russian and Ukrainian. Some wore masks with the word "Enough" emblazoned in the front.

Also Read |&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-elon-musk-activates-starlink-internet-service-after-request-from-an-official-457100">Ukraine invasion: Elon Musk activates Starlink internet service after request from an official</a> 
 
A reporter for the independent television channel Dozhd was arrested during the protests despite showing his accreditation to the police and wearing a press vest.

Outside the upmarket Gostiny Dvor department store in downtown Saint Petersburg, hundreds of anti-war protesters stood together, linking arms and chanting.

Sunday's protests coincided with the seventh anniversary of the murder of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov.

In Moscow some of the arrests took place at an improvised memorial just outside the Kremlin at the site where Nemtsov was shot, a Reuters witness said. "No to war!" shouted one of the demonstrators as he was being dragged away by the police.

Nemtsov was a prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin, Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and Moscow's support for pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine, which ultimately led to what Putin labels a "special operation" to protect the two separatist regions although his troops are fighting in wider Ukraine.

Ukraine's Western allies have slapped unprecedented sanctions in response to Russia's land, sea and air invasion.

Putin ordered his military command to put nuclear-armed forces on high alert on Sunday as Ukrainian fighters defending the city of Kharkiv said they had repelled an attack by invading Russian troops.

Tens of thousands of people across Europe marched in protest against Russia's invasion on Sunday, with 100,000 people protesting in solidarity with Ukraine in Berlin.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Police in Russia detained more than 2,000 people protesting against Ukraine conflict. The detainments have been made in 48 cities across Russia, said protest monitoring group.

Police in Russia detained more than 2,000 people protesting against Ukraine conflict. The detainments have been made in 48 cities across Russia, said protest monitoring group. People defied official warnings to show their displeasure and even anger over Russian invasion. More than 5,500 people have been detained at various anti-war protests since the invasion began on Thursday, according to the OVD-Info monitor, which has documented crackdowns on Russia's opposition for years. In Moscow, riot police often outnumbered protesters, some of whom carried hand-written placards with peace signs and anti-war slogans in Russian and Ukrainian. Some wore masks with the word "Enough" emblazoned in the front. Also Read | Ukraine invasion: Elon Musk activates Starlink internet service after request from an official A reporter for the independent television channel Dozhd was arrested during the protests despite showing his accreditation to the police and wearing a press vest. Outside the upmarket Gostiny Dvor department store in downtown Saint Petersburg, hundreds of anti-war protesters stood together, linking arms and chanting. Sunday's protests coincided with the seventh anniversary of the murder of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov. In Moscow some of the arrests took place at an improvised memorial just outside the Kremlin at the site where Nemtsov was shot, a Reuters witness said. "No to war!" shouted one of the demonstrators as he was being dragged away by the police. Nemtsov was a prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin, Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and Moscow's support for pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine, which ultimately led to what Putin labels a "special operation" to protect the two separatist regions although his troops are fighting in wider Ukraine. Ukraine's Western allies have slapped unprecedented sanctions in response to Russia's land, sea and air invasion. Putin ordered his military command to put nuclear-armed forces on high alert on Sunday as Ukrainian fighters defending the city of Kharkiv said they had repelled an attack by invading Russian troops. Tens of thousands of people across Europe marched in protest against Russia's invasion on Sunday, with 100,000 people protesting in solidarity with Ukraine in Berlin. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 2000 detained in anti-war protests across Russia

United Nations held a rare emergency special session of General Assembly on Monday (February 28) to debate Russia's invasion of Poland. The countries condemned Rusia's "unprovoked armed aggression". Russia defended its decision to invade its neighbor as member state after member state made a plea for peace.

This was just 11th such session in United Nations' 77-year history.&nbsp;

"The fighting in Ukraine must stop," warned UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, after the session began with a minute of silence for the victims of the conflict.

"Enough is enough. Soldiers need to move back to their barracks. Leaders need to move to peace. Civilians must be protected," he pleaded.

More than 100 countries were expected to speak as the global body decides if it will support the resolution that demands Russia immediately withdraws its troops from Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-plan-second-round-of-conflict-talks-457449">Russia, Ukraine plan 'second round' of conflict talks</a>

The resolution is non-binding but will serve as marker of how isolated Russia is.

A vote may not come until Tuesday. Its authors hope they may exceed 100 votes in favor -- though countries including Syria, China, Cuba and India are expected to either support Russia or abstain.

It will be seen as a barometer of democracy in a world where autocratic sentiment has been on the rise, diplomats said, pointing to such regimes in Myanmar, Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, Venezuela, Nicaragua -- and, of course, Russia.

"If Ukraine does not survive, the United Nations will not survive. Have no illusions," said Ukraine's ambassador to the UN, Sergiy Kyslytsya, imploring countries to support the resolution.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-invasion-united-states-treasury-bans-transactions-with-russias-central-bank-457505">Ukraine invasion: United States Treasury bans transactions with Russia’s Central Bank</a>

"We can save Ukraine, save the United Nations, save democracy and defend the values we believe in," he added.

Russian ambassador Vassily Nebenzia reiterated Moscow's stance -- flatly rejected by Kiev and its Western allies -- that its military operation was launched to protect residents of breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine.

"The hostilities were unleashed by Ukraine against its own residents," he said from the podium.

"Russia is seeking to end this war," he added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24. Moscow has pleaded "self-defense" under Article 51 of the UN Charter.&nbsp;

But that has been roundly rejected by Western countries and the UN, which accuse Moscow of violating Article 2 of the Charter, requiring its members to refrain from the threat or use of force to resolve a crisis.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations held a rare emergency special session of General Assembly on Monday (February 28) to debate Russia's invasion of Poland. The countries condemned Rusia's "unprovoked armed aggression".

United Nations held a rare emergency special session of General Assembly on Monday (February 28) to debate Russia's invasion of Poland. The countries condemned Rusia's "unprovoked armed aggression". Russia defended its decision to invade its neighbor as member state after member state made a plea for peace. This was just 11th such session in United Nations' 77-year history. "The fighting in Ukraine must stop," warned UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, after the session began with a minute of silence for the victims of the conflict. "Enough is enough. Soldiers need to move back to their barracks. Leaders need to move to peace. Civilians must be protected," he pleaded. More than 100 countries were expected to speak as the global body decides if it will support the resolution that demands Russia immediately withdraws its troops from Ukraine. Also Read | Russia, Ukraine plan 'second round' of conflict talks The resolution is non-binding but will serve as marker of how isolated Russia is. A vote may not come until Tuesday. Its authors hope they may exceed 100 votes in favor -- though countries including Syria, China, Cuba and India are expected to either support Russia or abstain. It will be seen as a barometer of democracy in a world where autocratic sentiment has been on the rise, diplomats said, pointing to such regimes in Myanmar, Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, Venezuela, Nicaragua -- and, of course, Russia. "If Ukraine does not survive, the United Nations will not survive. Have no illusions," said Ukraine's ambassador to the UN, Sergiy Kyslytsya, imploring countries to support the resolution. Also Read | Ukraine invasion: United States Treasury bans transactions with Russia’s Central Bank "We can save Ukraine, save the United Nations, save democracy and defend the values we believe in," he added. Russian ambassador Vassily Nebenzia reiterated Moscow's stance -- flatly rejected by Kiev and its Western allies -- that its military operation was launched to protect residents of breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine. "The hostilities were unleashed by Ukraine against its own residents," he said from the podium. "Russia is seeking to end this war," he added. Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24. Moscow has pleaded "self-defense" under Article 51 of the UN Charter. But that has been roundly rejected by Western countries and the UN, which accuse Moscow of violating Article 2 of the Charter, requiring its members to refrain from the threat or use of force to resolve a crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

UNGA emergency session: Russia defends Ukraine invasion, countries appeal for peace

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is planning to take a bold step in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The governing body of football is planning to ban Russia from international football as several global sporting bodies continue to impose sanctions on the country in the wake of their brutality in Ukraine.

As per a report in Reuters, FIFA is set to suspend the Russian national teams from international football until further notice. Both the men's and the women's teams will be barred from taking part in any international competitions until the ban is lifted by the governing body. FIFA is in talks with European football's governing body UEFA to take an official decision on the matter.

UEFA is also set to hold a meeting soon to discuss the issues pertaining to Russian football. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Monday recommended a ban on Russian and Belarusian teams and athletes from taking part in any organised international competitions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-recommends-banning-participation-of-russian-belarusian-athletes-and-officials-in-international-events-457540">IOC recommends banning participation of Russian, Belarusian athletes and officials in international events</a>

The ban can be a huge setback for Russia as they are scheduled to take on Poland in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match on March 24. If they are suspended from international football, Russia will be out of the World Cup without getting a chance to play against Poland. The Russian women's team will also be banned from international football.

The Polish Football Association along with several other national football associations have already refused to play against Russia in any international competitions. FIFA too had earlier announced strict sanctions against Russia after UEFA had stripped them of the hosting rights for the Champions League final this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-bans-matches-in-russia-following-ukraine-crisis-no-flag-or-anthem-for-team-457364">FIFA bans matches in Russia following Ukraine crisis, no flag or anthem for team</a>

FIFA had earlier announced that Russia will not be awarded hosting rights for any FIFA organised football matches and will not be to use the&nbsp;country's name in international competitions. Russia will have to play under the name&nbsp;'Football Union of Russia'. The country will also not be allowed to use its national anthem and flag in FIFA events.

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is planning to take a bold step in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The governing body of football is planning to ban Russia from international football as several global sporting bodies continue to impose sanctions on the country in the wake of their brutality in Ukraine.

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is planning to take a bold step in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The governing body of football is planning to ban Russia from international football as several global sporting bodies continue to impose sanctions on the country in the wake of their brutality in Ukraine. As per a report in Reuters, FIFA is set to suspend the Russian national teams from international football until further notice. Both the men's and the women's teams will be barred from taking part in any international competitions until the ban is lifted by the governing body. FIFA is in talks with European football's governing body UEFA to take an official decision on the matter. UEFA is also set to hold a meeting soon to discuss the issues pertaining to Russian football. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Monday recommended a ban on Russian and Belarusian teams and athletes from taking part in any organised international competitions. Also Read: IOC recommends banning participation of Russian, Belarusian athletes and officials in international events The ban can be a huge setback for Russia as they are scheduled to take on Poland in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match on March 24. If they are suspended from international football, Russia will be out of the World Cup without getting a chance to play against Poland. The Russian women's team will also be banned from international football. The Polish Football Association along with several other national football associations have already refused to play against Russia in any international competitions. FIFA too had earlier announced strict sanctions against Russia after UEFA had stripped them of the hosting rights for the Champions League final this year. Also Read: FIFA bans matches in Russia following Ukraine crisis, no flag or anthem for team FIFA had earlier announced that Russia will not be awarded hosting rights for any FIFA organised football matches and will not be to use the country's name in international competitions. Russia will have to play under the name 'Football Union of Russia'. The country will also not be allowed to use its national anthem and flag in FIFA events.

FIFA set to ban Russia from international football after Ukraine invasion - Report

The International Olympic Committee's executive board has recommended that international sports federations ban Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from competing in events, it said on Monday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The IOC said it made the decision "in order to protect the integrity of global sports competitions and for the safety of all the participants".

The IOC also urged federations to ensure that no athlete or sports official from Russia or Belarus would be allowed to take part under the name of Russia or Belarus.

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"Russian or Belarusian nationals, be it as individuals or teams, should be accepted only as neutral athletes or neutral teams. No national symbols, colours, flags or anthems should be displayed," the statement added.

The IOC also said it had taken the ad hoc decision to withdraw the Olympic Order from all persons who currently have an important function in the government of the Russian Federation, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.

It said it made the decision based on "the exceptional circumstances of the situation and considering the extremely grave violation of the Olympic Truce and other violations of the Olympic Charter by the Russian government in the past".

The International Olympic Committee's executive board has recommended that international sports federations ban Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from competing in events, it said on Monday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The International Olympic Committee's executive board has recommended that international sports federations ban Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from competing in events, it said on Monday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The IOC said it made the decision "in order to protect the integrity of global sports competitions and for the safety of all the participants". The IOC also urged federations to ensure that no athlete or sports official from Russia or Belarus would be allowed to take part under the name of Russia or Belarus. ALSO READ: Badminton World Federation cancels events in Russia, Belarus amid Ukraine crisis "Russian or Belarusian nationals, be it as individuals or teams, should be accepted only as neutral athletes or neutral teams. No national symbols, colours, flags or anthems should be displayed," the statement added. The IOC also said it had taken the ad hoc decision to withdraw the Olympic Order from all persons who currently have an important function in the government of the Russian Federation, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. It said it made the decision based on "the exceptional circumstances of the situation and considering the extremely grave violation of the Olympic Truce and other violations of the Olympic Charter by the Russian government in the past".

IOC recommends banning participation of Russian, Belarusian athletes and officials in international events

A case has been registered against Russia by Ukraine at the United Nations' highest court. Kyiv has accused Moscow of planning genocide and asked the court to intervene to halt the attack and order Russia to pay reparations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the case, Ukraine on Sunday, also asked the International Court of Justice, which is based in The Hague, to indicate "provisional measures" and order Moscow to "immediately suspend the military operations" launched on February 24. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-352-ukrainian-civilians-killed-1684-injured-457271">Russia-Ukraine conflict: 352 Ukrainian civilians killed, 1,684 injured</a>

Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine on the basis of its false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions and now is planning genocidal acts in the country, the case said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement, the court said, Ukraine "emphatically denies that genocide happened in the eastern regions" and says it filed the case "to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide." &nbsp;&nbsp;

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To hear the provisional measures request, the court will soon schedule a hearing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The court hears disputes between nations over matters of law, while the International Criminal Court holds individuals criminally responsible for offences, which include war crimes and crimes against humanity. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A case has been registered against Russia by Ukraine at the United Nations' highest court. Kyiv has accused Moscow of planning genocide and asked the court to intervene to halt the attack and order Russia to pay reparations.

A case has been registered against Russia by Ukraine at the United Nations' highest court. Kyiv has accused Moscow of planning genocide and asked the court to intervene to halt the attack and order Russia to pay reparations. In the case, Ukraine on Sunday, also asked the International Court of Justice, which is based in The Hague, to indicate "provisional measures" and order Moscow to "immediately suspend the military operations" launched on February 24. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine conflict: 352 Ukrainian civilians killed, 1,684 injured Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine on the basis of its false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions and now is planning genocidal acts in the country, the case said. In a statement, the court said, Ukraine "emphatically denies that genocide happened in the eastern regions" and says it filed the case "to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide." Also Read | Live: Satellite images show large convoy of Russian forces moving toward Kyiv To hear the provisional measures request, the court will soon schedule a hearing. The court hears disputes between nations over matters of law, while the International Criminal Court holds individuals criminally responsible for offences, which include war crimes and crimes against humanity. (With inputs from agencies)

At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia

Ukraine launched a case against Russia at the United Nations’ highest court accusing Moscow of planning genocide and asking the court to intervene to halt the invasion and order Russia to pay reparations, the court said Sunday.

The case, filed Saturday, asks the International Court of Justice, based in The Hague, to indicate “provisional measures” ordering Moscow to “immediately suspend the military operations” that were launched Feb. 24.

The case says Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and now is planning genocidal acts in Ukraine.

Ukraine “emphatically denies that genocide happened in the eastern regions” and says it filed the case “to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide,” the court said in a statement.

The court will schedule a hearing soon to hear the provisional measures request. Orders by the court are legally binding, but not always adhered to. If the court is found to have jurisdiction and the case goes ahead it will likely take years to reach a conclusion. A decision on so-called provisional measures, however, could come far sooner.

The world court already has a case brought by Ukraine on its docket linked to Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and Russian funding of rebels in eastern Ukraine. The U.N. court said in a preliminary ruling in 2017 that it expected both Moscow and Kyiv to work to implement the Minsk peace agreements that were designed to bring peace to conflict-ravaged eastern Ukraine.

The court hears disputes between nations over matters of law, unlike the International Criminal Court, also based in The Hague, that holds individuals criminally responsible for offenses including war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, said Friday that he was closely monitoring events in Ukraine and warned combatants he has jurisdiction over any genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Ukraine dating back to February 2014.

“Any person who commits such crimes, including by ordering, inciting, or contributing in another manner to the commission of these crimes, may be liable to prosecution before the Court,” Khan said.

He added that it is “imperative that all parties to the conflict respect their obligations under international humanitarian law.”

Ukraine launched a case against Russia at the United Nations’ highest court accusing Moscow of planning genocide and asking the court to intervene to halt the invasion and order Russia to pay reparations, the court said Sunday.

Ukraine launched a case against Russia at the United Nations’ highest court accusing Moscow of planning genocide and asking the court to intervene to halt the invasion and order Russia to pay reparations, the court said Sunday. The case, filed Saturday, asks the International Court of Justice, based in The Hague, to indicate “provisional measures” ordering Moscow to “immediately suspend the military operations” that were launched Feb. 24. The case says Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and now is planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. Ukraine “emphatically denies that genocide happened in the eastern regions” and says it filed the case “to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide,” the court said in a statement. The court will schedule a hearing soon to hear the provisional measures request. Orders by the court are legally binding, but not always adhered to. If the court is found to have jurisdiction and the case goes ahead it will likely take years to reach a conclusion. A decision on so-called provisional measures, however, could come far sooner. The world court already has a case brought by Ukraine on its docket linked to Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and Russian funding of rebels in eastern Ukraine. The U.N. court said in a preliminary ruling in 2017 that it expected both Moscow and Kyiv to work to implement the Minsk peace agreements that were designed to bring peace to conflict-ravaged eastern Ukraine. The court hears disputes between nations over matters of law, unlike the International Criminal Court, also based in The Hague, that holds individuals criminally responsible for offenses including war crimes and crimes against humanity. The ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, said Friday that he was closely monitoring events in Ukraine and warned combatants he has jurisdiction over any genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Ukraine dating back to February 2014. “Any person who commits such crimes, including by ordering, inciting, or contributing in another manner to the commission of these crimes, may be liable to prosecution before the Court,” Khan said. He added that it is “imperative that all parties to the conflict respect their obligations under international humanitarian law.”

Ukraine files genocide case against Russia at UN's highest court

Russian-British media tycoon Evgeny Lebedev has pleaded with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop" the "war" through his prominent media publication. Lebedev is the son of Alexander Lebedev, a former KGB spy. Through his newspaper, Lebedev has called on Putin to use path of peace negotiations to stop Ukraine conflict and resolve differences.

"As Europe stands on the brink of another world war, and the world on the brink of a possible nuclear disaster, I plead with you to use today’s negotiations to bring this terrible conflict in Ukraine to an end," Lebedev wrote.

"As a Russian citizen I plead with you to stop Russians killing their Ukrainian brothers and sisters. As a British citizen I ask you to save Europe from war."

Lebedev was made a lifelong member of Britain's upper house of parliament in July 2020 with the title Baron Lebedev of Hampton in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and of Siberia in the Russian Federation

He also owns the Independent daily online British newspaper.

Lebedev's father once worked as a spy at the Soviet embassy in London but then built a fortune by trading securities in the chaos that followed the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian-British media tycoon Evgeny Lebedev has pleaded with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop" the "war" through his prominent media publication. Lebedev is the son of Alexander Lebedev, a former KGB spy.

Russian-British media tycoon Evgeny Lebedev has pleaded with Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop" the "war" through his prominent media publication. Lebedev is the son of Alexander Lebedev, a former KGB spy. Through his newspaper, Lebedev has called on Putin to use path of peace negotiations to stop Ukraine conflict and resolve differences. "As Europe stands on the brink of another world war, and the world on the brink of a possible nuclear disaster, I plead with you to use today’s negotiations to bring this terrible conflict in Ukraine to an end," Lebedev wrote. "As a Russian citizen I plead with you to stop Russians killing their Ukrainian brothers and sisters. As a British citizen I ask you to save Europe from war." Lebedev was made a lifelong member of Britain's upper house of parliament in July 2020 with the title Baron Lebedev of Hampton in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and of Siberia in the Russian Federation He also owns the Independent daily online British newspaper. Lebedev's father once worked as a spy at the Soviet embassy in London but then built a fortune by trading securities in the chaos that followed the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict: Russian-British media boss requests Putin to 'stop' the 'war'

As the conflict intensifies, 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed so far, the interior ministry of Ukraine said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

These victims include 14 children. Around 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded, it said. &nbsp;

However, the statement of the ministry on Sunday did not give any information on the casualties among armed forces of Ukraine. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-sceptical-but-say-will-try-dialogue-with-russia-457239">Zelensky sceptical, but says will 'try' dialogue with Russia</a>

For the first time, the Russian military has admitted that it suffered casualties in the conflict. It said on Sunday that some troops were killed and others were wounded in Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Sunday, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj Gen Igor Konashenkov said, "There are dead and wounded among our comrades”, without giving any numbers. He added that Russia's losses were "many times" fewer than those of Ukrainian forces. &nbsp;

Ukraine has claimed that its forces have killed 3,500 Russian troops. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-orders-deterrence-forces-on-high-alert-457165">Russian President Vladimir Putin orders 'deterrence forces' on high alert</a>

Since the beginning of the attack on Thursday, the Russian military have hit 1,067 Ukrainian military facilities, including 27 command posts and communication centers, 38 air defence missile system and 56 radar stations, Konashenkov also said. &nbsp;

The claims of Konashenkov and allegations of Ukraine that its forces killed thousands of Russian troops can't be verified independently. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

As the conflict intensifies, 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed so far, the interior ministry of Ukraine said. These victims include 14 children. Around 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded, it said.

As the conflict intensifies, 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed so far, the interior ministry of Ukraine said. These victims include 14 children. Around 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded, it said. However, the statement of the ministry on Sunday did not give any information on the casualties among armed forces of Ukraine. Also Read: Zelensky sceptical, but says will 'try' dialogue with Russia For the first time, the Russian military has admitted that it suffered casualties in the conflict. It said on Sunday that some troops were killed and others were wounded in Ukraine. On Sunday, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj Gen Igor Konashenkov said, "There are dead and wounded among our comrades”, without giving any numbers. He added that Russia's losses were "many times" fewer than those of Ukrainian forces. Ukraine has claimed that its forces have killed 3,500 Russian troops. Also Read: Russian President Vladimir Putin orders 'deterrence forces' on high alert Since the beginning of the attack on Thursday, the Russian military have hit 1,067 Ukrainian military facilities, including 27 command posts and communication centers, 38 air defence missile system and 56 radar stations, Konashenkov also said. The claims of Konashenkov and allegations of Ukraine that its forces killed thousands of Russian troops can't be verified independently. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: 352 Ukrainian civilians killed, 1,684 injured

Moscovite Daniil Medvedev reached the pinnacle of men's tennis when he became the ATP's world number one on Monday but what should have been a day of pride for Russian sport has been engulfed by the country's invasion of Ukraine.

Medvedev is only the third Russian man to top the standings and the first player outside the so-called "big four" of Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray to hold the top spot in 18 years.

But with the sporting world uniting its in condemnation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Medvedev's meteoric rise to the top could hardly have happened at a worse time for tennis.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daniil-medvedev-pips-novak-djokovic-to-become-world-no-1-in-atp-rankings-457493">Daniil Medvedev pips Novak Djokovic to become World No 1 in ATP rankings</a>

On Sunday the Ukrainian Tennis Federation urged the sport's governing body the International Tennis Federation (ITF) to immediately expel Russia and Belarus from the organisation and ban Russia from team and individual tournaments.

In a letter seen by Reuters, the Ukrainian federation described the actions of Russia and Belarus in Ukraine over the past four days as "unprecedented, cynical and bloody".

"Civilians are dying, including women and children; civilian infrastructure is collapsing ... This is a full-scale war that will push our country back decades," the letter said, adding that the goal of Russia's invasion was "extermination."

"Russia and Belarus do not have the right not only to hold international competitions on their territory, but also to participate in all ITF team and individual tournaments abroad," the letter continued.

In response the ITF said it had taken "swift action" to cancel all events in Russia indefinitely and that no ITF events would be held in Belarus for 2022.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dipa-karmakar-shocked-after-being-suspended-by-international-gymnastics-federation-reveals-coach-457485">Dipa Karmakar 'shocked' after being suspended by international gymnastics federation, reveals coach</a>

"This is a fast-evolving situation; we are in active discussion with the ITF tennis family and the ITF Board to decide and align around our next course of action," it said.

"We stand united with the Ukraine and are working with the Ukraine Tennis Federation. Right now, our priority is the safety of the tennis players and the security of all those participating in our events."

Any restrictions on individual Russian players, while seen as unlikely, would cast doubt on Medvedev's participation at the next Grand Slam, the French Open in May.

Ahead of his coronation as world number one Medvedev took to Twitter on Sunday with a plea for peace.

"Today I want to speak on behalf of every kid in the world," he said.

"They all have dreams, their lives are just starting, so many nice experiences to come...That's why I want to ask for peace in the world, for peace between countries. Kids are born with inner trust in the world, they believe so much in everything, in people, in love, in safety, in justice, in their chances in life."

"Let's be together and show them that's it true, because every kid shouldn't stop dreaming."

Medvedev's fellow Russian Andry Rublev, the world number seven, wrote "No War Please" on the lens of a TV camera on his way to winning the Dubai title last week.

French Open 2021 finalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova called for an end to violence and war in a social media post on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-world-federation-cancels-events-in-russia-belarus-amid-ukraine-crisis-457458">Badminton World Federation cancels events in Russia, Belarus amid Ukraine crisis</a>

"Personal ambitions or political motives cannot justify violence," Pavlyuchenkova said. "This takes away the future not only from us, but also from our children. Stop the violence, stop the war."

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation" that it says is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy its southern neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists.

Four leading players from Russia and Belarus are on the entry list for next month's prestigious Indian Wells tournament in California.

Women's world number two Aryna Sabalenka and world number 16 Victoria Azarenka represent Belarus.

Moscovite Daniil Medvedev reached the pinnacle of men's tennis when he became the ATP's world number one on Monday but what should have been a day of pride for Russian sport has been engulfed by the country's invasion of Ukraine.

Moscovite Daniil Medvedev reached the pinnacle of men's tennis when he became the ATP's world number one on Monday but what should have been a day of pride for Russian sport has been engulfed by the country's invasion of Ukraine. Medvedev is only the third Russian man to top the standings and the first player outside the so-called "big four" of Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray to hold the top spot in 18 years. But with the sporting world uniting its in condemnation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Medvedev's meteoric rise to the top could hardly have happened at a worse time for tennis. ALSO READ: Daniil Medvedev pips Novak Djokovic to become World No 1 in ATP rankings On Sunday the Ukrainian Tennis Federation urged the sport's governing body the International Tennis Federation (ITF) to immediately expel Russia and Belarus from the organisation and ban Russia from team and individual tournaments. In a letter seen by Reuters, the Ukrainian federation described the actions of Russia and Belarus in Ukraine over the past four days as "unprecedented, cynical and bloody". "Civilians are dying, including women and children; civilian infrastructure is collapsing ... This is a full-scale war that will push our country back decades," the letter said, adding that the goal of Russia's invasion was "extermination." "Russia and Belarus do not have the right not only to hold international competitions on their territory, but also to participate in all ITF team and individual tournaments abroad," the letter continued. In response the ITF said it had taken "swift action" to cancel all events in Russia indefinitely and that no ITF events would be held in Belarus for 2022. ALSO READ: Dipa Karmakar 'shocked' after being suspended by international gymnastics federation, reveals coach "This is a fast-evolving situation; we are in active discussion with the ITF tennis family and the ITF Board to decide and align around our next course of action," it said. "We stand united with the Ukraine and are working with the Ukraine Tennis Federation. Right now, our priority is the safety of the tennis players and the security of all those participating in our events." Any restrictions on individual Russian players, while seen as unlikely, would cast doubt on Medvedev's participation at the next Grand Slam, the French Open in May. Ahead of his coronation as world number one Medvedev took to Twitter on Sunday with a plea for peace. "Today I want to speak on behalf of every kid in the world," he said. "They all have dreams, their lives are just starting, so many nice experiences to come...That's why I want to ask for peace in the world, for peace between countries. Kids are born with inner trust in the world, they believe so much in everything, in people, in love, in safety, in justice, in their chances in life." "Let's be together and show them that's it true, because every kid shouldn't stop dreaming." Medvedev's fellow Russian Andry Rublev, the world number seven, wrote "No War Please" on the lens of a TV camera on his way to winning the Dubai title last week. French Open 2021 finalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova called for an end to violence and war in a social media post on Monday. ALSO READ: Badminton World Federation cancels events in Russia, Belarus amid Ukraine crisis "Personal ambitions or political motives cannot justify violence," Pavlyuchenkova said. "This takes away the future not only from us, but also from our children. Stop the violence, stop the war." Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation" that it says is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy its southern neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists. Four leading players from Russia and Belarus are on the entry list for next month's prestigious Indian Wells tournament in California. Women's world number two Aryna Sabalenka and world number 16 Victoria Azarenka represent Belarus.

Daniil Medvedev's No. 1 rank in danger as Ukrainian federation demands Russia's ban

Athletes from Ukraine and other nations have called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to suspend Russia and Belarus and ban their athletes from events immediately.

Ukraine's health ministry said on Sunday that 352 civilians, including 14 children, had been killed since Russia's invasion of the country last week.

Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-bans-matches-in-russia-following-ukraine-crisis-no-flag-or-anthem-for-team-457364">FIFA bans matches in Russia following Ukraine crisis, no flag or anthem for team</a>

"Russia's invasion of Ukraine, supported by Belarus, is a clear breach of the Olympic and Paralympic Charters -- a breach that must be met with strong sanctions," the athletes said in an open letter to IOC President Thomas Bach and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) chief Andrew Parsons.

The letter, released by the Global Athlete movement, which aims to empower athletes, said that Ukrainian sportspeople and their families in the country were in "grave danger" and it had been a challenge to speak to them as they were in bomb shelters.

It added that refusing to take swift action and suspend the National Olympic Committees of Russia and Belarus would send the wrong message.

"Your lack of action will send a message to every athlete in the world that you have chosen Russia and Belarus interests over athlete interests. Your legacy will be defined by your actions," the letter said.

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The letter received widespread support, including from British former marathon runner Paula Radcliffe and Canadian former cross-country skier Beckie Scott.

The IOC has said international sports federations should either move or cancel sports events currently planned in Russia or Belarus, while the IOC's executive said Russian and Belarusian national flags should not be displayed at international sports events.

Athletes from Ukraine and other nations have called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to suspend Russia and Belarus and ban their athletes from events immediately.

Athletes from Ukraine and other nations have called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to suspend Russia and Belarus and ban their athletes from events immediately. Ukraine's health ministry said on Sunday that 352 civilians, including 14 children, had been killed since Russia's invasion of the country last week. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation". ALSO READ: FIFA bans matches in Russia following Ukraine crisis, no flag or anthem for team "Russia's invasion of Ukraine, supported by Belarus, is a clear breach of the Olympic and Paralympic Charters -- a breach that must be met with strong sanctions," the athletes said in an open letter to IOC President Thomas Bach and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) chief Andrew Parsons. The letter, released by the Global Athlete movement, which aims to empower athletes, said that Ukrainian sportspeople and their families in the country were in "grave danger" and it had been a challenge to speak to them as they were in bomb shelters. It added that refusing to take swift action and suspend the National Olympic Committees of Russia and Belarus would send the wrong message. "Your lack of action will send a message to every athlete in the world that you have chosen Russia and Belarus interests over athlete interests. Your legacy will be defined by your actions," the letter said. ALSO READ: Premier League: Leeds United part ways with head coach Marcelo Bielsa The letter received widespread support, including from British former marathon runner Paula Radcliffe and Canadian former cross-country skier Beckie Scott. The IOC has said international sports federations should either move or cancel sports events currently planned in Russia or Belarus, while the IOC's executive said Russian and Belarusian national flags should not be displayed at international sports events.

Ukrainian athletes calls on IOC, IPC to suspend Russia, Belarus

Ukraine: Torn between West and Russia

Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;were preparing Monday for their first&nbsp;talks&nbsp;since Moscow's invasion, as&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;raged and Western-led sanctions started to bite with the ruble collapsing.

Ukraine&nbsp;said Sunday it had agreed to send a delegation to meet Russian representatives on the border with Belarus, which would be the foes' first public contact since war erupted.

Belarus announced Monday that the venue for the&nbsp;talks&nbsp;had been prepared and they would start as soon as the delegations arrived.

However, with his government reporting hundreds of civilian deaths and Russian troops besieging key cities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was sceptical about the&nbsp;talks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-mayor-proud-of-citizens-spirit-anxious-about-future-457348">Kyiv mayor proud of citizens' spirit, anxious about future</a>

"As always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," he said.

Russia&nbsp;invaded on Thursday and quickly announced it had neutralised key military facilities, but fierce&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;has since raged and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;forces are reporting some success.

"The Russian occupiers have reduced the pace of the offensive," the general staff of the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;armed forces said.

The United States has also said that&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;forces, backed by Western arms, are stymieing the advance of Russian troops.

Putin on Sunday ordered&nbsp;Russia's nuclear forces onto high alert in response to what he called "unfriendly" steps by the West.&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has the world's largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles.

The United States, the world's second largest nuclear power, slammed Putin's order as "totally unacceptable".

Germany said Putin's nuclear order was because his offensive had "halted" and was not going to plan.

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Economic pressure

The campaign by the United States and its allies to build economic pressure on&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;also showed more signs on Monday of having an impact.

Russia's central bank announced Monday it was more than doubling its key interest rate to 20 percent because the Russian economy's situation had "drastically changed".

The value of the ruble also continued to collapse against the dollar and the euro on the Moscow Stock Exchange on Monday.

And the European Central Bank warned Monday that the European subsidiary of the Russian state-owned Sberbank was facing bankruptcy.

The Kremlin has brushed off sanctions, including those targeting Putin personally, as a sign of Western impotence.

Among the sanctions, the West has said it would remove some Russian banks from the SWIFT bank messaging system, and freeze central bank assets.

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The United States and its allies are seeking to continue building the diplomatic and military pressure, as well as economic.&nbsp;

EU member states closed their airspace to Russian planes and many pledged arms for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;-- but stressed they would not themselves intervene militarily.

Brussels announced it would provide 450 million euros ($500 million) for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;to buy weapons and ban Russian central bank transactions, as well as restricting two Moscow-run media outlets.

British energy giant BP also said Sunday it was pulling its 19.75-percent stake in Rosneft, a blow to&nbsp;Russia's key oil and gas sector, which is partly reliant on Western technology.&nbsp;

The White House said it would hold a secure call with allies and partners Monday to discuss "developments" in&nbsp;Russia's attack on&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and "coordinate our united response".&nbsp;

The UN General Assembly will hold a rare emergency session Monday to discuss the conflict.

Also in response to hostilities, FIFA ordered&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to play its home international fixtures in neutral venues and warned it was considering banning it from the 2022 World Cup.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-ruble-falls-to-117-per-us-dollar-a-decline-of-41-457280">Russia's ruble falls to 117 per US dollar, a decline of 41%</a>

Defending cities&nbsp;

On day four of an invasion that stunned the world, Ukrainian forces said Sunday they had defeated a Russian incursion into&nbsp;Ukraine's second city Kharkiv, 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Kyiv.&nbsp;

Ukrainian officials said they were&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;off Russian forces in several other areas, and claimed that 4,300 Russian troops had been killed.

The Ukrainian army said Monday morning that Russian forces had "several times" attempted to storm the outskirts of Kyiv overnight, but all attacks were repelled.&nbsp;

"The situation in the capital of our homeland is under control," said the army on Facebook.

Local media reported strong explosions heard throughout Sunday night in both Kyiv and Kharkiv.

Presidential advisor Oleksiy Arestovich said on Telegram early Monday the capital had been targeted overnight by three Russian missile strikes, one of which was intercepted.

The southern city of Berdiansk is now occupied by Russian soldiers, he added.

Ukraine&nbsp;has reported 352 civilian deaths, including 14 children, since the invasion began.&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has acknowledged that a number of its forces had been killed or injured.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-united-nations-top-court-ukraine-registers-genocide-case-against-russia-457279">At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia</a>

Humanitarian crisis

The United Nations has put the civilian toll at 64 while the EU said more than seven million people could be displaced by the conflict.

"We are witnessing what could become the largest humanitarian crisis on our European continent in many, many years," the EU commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic said.

Ukraine&nbsp;has called on its own civilians to fight&nbsp;Russia, with a brewery in Lviv in the country's west switching its production line from beers to bombs, making Molotov cocktails for the volunteer fighters.

At the Medyka border crossing with Poland, volunteer Jasinska said the long line of arrivals, mostly women and children, need warm clothes.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus | Ukraine War: Understanding Russian President Vladimir Putin

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-ukraine-war-understanding-russian-president-vladimir-putin-456846/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Crossing Medyka with his family, Ajmal Rahmani, an Afghan who fled Afghanistan for&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;four months before the US withdrawal, told AFP: "I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck".

Putin has said&nbsp;Russia's actions are justified because it is defending Moscow-backed separatists in eastern&nbsp;Ukraine.

The rebels have been&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;Ukrainian government forces for eight years in a conflict that has killed more than 14,000 people.

Russia and Ukraine were preparing Monday for their first talks since Moscow's invasion, as fighting raged and Western-led sanctions started to bite with the ruble collapsing.

Russia and Ukraine were preparing Monday for their first talks since Moscow's invasion, as fighting raged and Western-led sanctions started to bite with the ruble collapsing. Ukraine said Sunday it had agreed to send a delegation to meet Russian representatives on the border with Belarus, which would be the foes' first public contact since war erupted. Belarus announced Monday that the venue for the talks had been prepared and they would start as soon as the delegations arrived. However, with his government reporting hundreds of civilian deaths and Russian troops besieging key cities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was sceptical about the talks. Also read | Kyiv mayor proud of citizens' spirit, anxious about future "As always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," he said. Russia invaded on Thursday and quickly announced it had neutralised key military facilities, but fierce fighting has since raged and Ukraine forces are reporting some success. "The Russian occupiers have reduced the pace of the offensive," the general staff of the Ukraine armed forces said. The United States has also said that Ukraine forces, backed by Western arms, are stymieing the advance of Russian troops. Putin on Sunday ordered Russia's nuclear forces onto high alert in response to what he called "unfriendly" steps by the West. Russia has the world's largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles. The United States, the world's second largest nuclear power, slammed Putin's order as "totally unacceptable". Germany said Putin's nuclear order was because his offensive had "halted" and was not going to plan. Also read | Medical oxygen supplies may run out in 24 hours in war-hit Ukraine, warns WHO Economic pressure The campaign by the United States and its allies to build economic pressure on Russia also showed more signs on Monday of having an impact. Russia's central bank announced Monday it was more than doubling its key interest rate to 20 percent because the Russian economy's situation had "drastically changed". The value of the ruble also continued to collapse against the dollar and the euro on the Moscow Stock Exchange on Monday. And the European Central Bank warned Monday that the European subsidiary of the Russian state-owned Sberbank was facing bankruptcy. The Kremlin has brushed off sanctions, including those targeting Putin personally, as a sign of Western impotence. Among the sanctions, the West has said it would remove some Russian banks from the SWIFT bank messaging system, and freeze central bank assets. Also read | Google temporarily disables Google Maps live traffic data in Ukraine The United States and its allies are seeking to continue building the diplomatic and military pressure, as well as economic. EU member states closed their airspace to Russian planes and many pledged arms for Ukraine -- but stressed they would not themselves intervene militarily. Brussels announced it would provide 450 million euros ($500 million) for Ukraine to buy weapons and ban Russian central bank transactions, as well as restricting two Moscow-run media outlets. British energy giant BP also said Sunday it was pulling its 19.75-percent stake in Rosneft, a blow to Russia's key oil and gas sector, which is partly reliant on Western technology. The White House said it would hold a secure call with allies and partners Monday to discuss "developments" in Russia's attack on Ukraine and "coordinate our united response". The UN General Assembly will hold a rare emergency session Monday to discuss the conflict. Also in response to hostilities, FIFA ordered Russia to play its home international fixtures in neutral venues and warned it was considering banning it from the 2022 World Cup. Also read | Russia's ruble falls to 117 per US dollar, a decline of 41% Defending cities On day four of an invasion that stunned the world, Ukrainian forces said Sunday they had defeated a Russian incursion into Ukraine's second city Kharkiv, 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Kyiv. Ukrainian officials said they were fighting off Russian forces in several other areas, and claimed that 4,300 Russian troops had been killed. The Ukrainian army said Monday morning that Russian forces had "several times" attempted to storm the outskirts of Kyiv overnight, but all attacks were repelled. "The situation in the capital of our homeland is under control," said the army on Facebook. Local media reported strong explosions heard throughout Sunday night in both Kyiv and Kharkiv. Presidential advisor Oleksiy Arestovich said on Telegram early Monday the capital had been targeted overnight by three Russian missile strikes, one of which was intercepted. The southern city of Berdiansk is now occupied by Russian soldiers, he added. Ukraine has reported 352 civilian deaths, including 14 children, since the invasion began. Russia has acknowledged that a number of its forces had been killed or injured. Also read | At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia Humanitarian crisis The United Nations has put the civilian toll at 64 while the EU said more than seven million people could be displaced by the conflict. "We are witnessing what could become the largest humanitarian crisis on our European continent in many, many years," the EU commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic said. Ukraine has called on its own civilians to fight Russia, with a brewery in Lviv in the country's west switching its production line from beers to bombs, making Molotov cocktails for the volunteer fighters. At the Medyka border crossing with Poland, volunteer Jasinska said the long line of arrivals, mostly women and children, need warm clothes. Watch | Gravitas Plus | Ukraine War: Understanding Russian President Vladimir Putin Crossing Medyka with his family, Ajmal Rahmani, an Afghan who fled Afghanistan for Ukraine four months before the US withdrawal, told AFP: "I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck". Putin has said Russia's actions are justified because it is defending Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. The rebels have been fighting Ukrainian government forces for eight years in a conflict that has killed more than 14,000 people.

Russia, Ukraine set for talks as fighting rages

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that he would 'try' to hold dialogie with Russia but was sceptical about impact. Kyiv is preparing to meet Moscow at Ukraine's border with Belarus. The development has come on the fourth day of Russian invasion.

"I will be honest, as always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," Zelensky said in a video address. He added that if there was a "chance" to end war, he should take part in the talks.&nbsp;

Zelensky issued the video after speaking with Belarus leader and Moscow ally Alexander Lukashenko.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-orders-deterrence-forces-on-high-alert-457165">Russian President Vladimir Putin orders 'deterrence forces' on high alert</a>

Russian troops have attacked Ukraine from many directions, including from Belarusian territory, after President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion in the early hours of Thursday.&nbsp;

Kyiv has refused to hold talks in Belarus -- where Moscow wants to meet -- saying the country was acting as a launchpad for the invasion.

Earlier, Zelensky's office said Ukraine was willing to meet Russia at its border with Belarus near the Pripyat River.&nbsp;

Belarusian state television has said the Ukrainian and Russian officials will meet at the Aleksandrovka and Vilcha border checkpoints.&nbsp;

Putin has said that a Russian delegation was currently in the Belarusian city of Gomel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that he would 'try' to hold dialogie with Russia but was sceptical about impact. Kyiv is preparing to meet Moscow at Ukraine's border with Belarus.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that he would 'try' to hold dialogie with Russia but was sceptical about impact. Kyiv is preparing to meet Moscow at Ukraine's border with Belarus. The development has come on the fourth day of Russian invasion. "I will be honest, as always: I do not really believe in the outcome of this meeting, but let them try," Zelensky said in a video address. He added that if there was a "chance" to end war, he should take part in the talks. Zelensky issued the video after speaking with Belarus leader and Moscow ally Alexander Lukashenko. Also Read | Russian President Vladimir Putin orders 'deterrence forces' on high alert Russian troops have attacked Ukraine from many directions, including from Belarusian territory, after President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion in the early hours of Thursday. Kyiv has refused to hold talks in Belarus -- where Moscow wants to meet -- saying the country was acting as a launchpad for the invasion. Earlier, Zelensky's office said Ukraine was willing to meet Russia at its border with Belarus near the Pripyat River. Belarusian state television has said the Ukrainian and Russian officials will meet at the Aleksandrovka and Vilcha border checkpoints. Putin has said that a Russian delegation was currently in the Belarusian city of Gomel. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky sceptical, but says will 'try' dialogue with Russia

Wars are conventionally fought on land, air or sea. But advent of technology has opened up newer dimensions of conflict. This type of war may not be explicitly visible in terms of loud explosion and scary warmachines. But the warfare is more devastating that the conventional one.

Cyber warfare has the capacity to cripple an entire nation, let alone the armed forces. Countries are highly dependent on tech and a well-calibrated cyber strike can wreak havoc without the attacker having to use conventional weapons. The cyber capabilities have increasingly been used to influence public opinion and perception in the target country. Russia is understood to have formidable cyber warfare capabilities

"This type of warfare is known as “fourth generation warfare or hybrid warfare, which is a combination of war on ground, coupled with cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, spreading of disinformation on social media networks, mobilization of covert sabotage groups and causing disturbances of law and order,” said Brijesh Singh, senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and cybersecurity expert.

Russia's invasion on Ukraine was accompanied by reports of cyber attacks. Ukraine said that the country's defence ministry and armed forces as well as two state banks had been hit by a cyberattack. Ukraine pointed finger at Russia. It denied the allegation.

"We do not know anything. As expected, Ukraine continues blaming Russia for everything," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on February 16.

“All these activities are carried out in a highly coordinated fashion what an intent to create a kind of domino effect in multiple domains. Information warfare or disinformation campaigns are used to create a cacophony of narratives which totally confuses the populace in the target country,” said Brijesh Singh.

Wars are conventionally fought on land, air or sea. But advent of technology has opened up newer dimensions of conflict. This type of war may not be explicitly visible in terms of loud explosion and scary warmachines.

Wars are conventionally fought on land, air or sea. But advent of technology has opened up newer dimensions of conflict. This type of war may not be explicitly visible in terms of loud explosion and scary warmachines. But the warfare is more devastating that the conventional one. Cyber warfare has the capacity to cripple an entire nation, let alone the armed forces. Countries are highly dependent on tech and a well-calibrated cyber strike can wreak havoc without the attacker having to use conventional weapons. The cyber capabilities have increasingly been used to influence public opinion and perception in the target country. Russia is understood to have formidable cyber warfare capabilities "This type of warfare is known as “fourth generation warfare or hybrid warfare, which is a combination of war on ground, coupled with cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, spreading of disinformation on social media networks, mobilization of covert sabotage groups and causing disturbances of law and order,” said Brijesh Singh, senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and cybersecurity expert. Russia's invasion on Ukraine was accompanied by reports of cyber attacks. Ukraine said that the country's defence ministry and armed forces as well as two state banks had been hit by a cyberattack. Ukraine pointed finger at Russia. It denied the allegation. "We do not know anything. As expected, Ukraine continues blaming Russia for everything," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on February 16. “All these activities are carried out in a highly coordinated fashion what an intent to create a kind of domino effect in multiple domains. Information warfare or disinformation campaigns are used to create a cacophony of narratives which totally confuses the populace in the target country,” said Brijesh Singh.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Cyber warfare underway alongside conventional fight

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries.&nbsp;

North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one

"This is dangerous rhetoric. This is a behavior which is irresponsible," the alliance's secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg told CNN amid heightened tensions over the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"And, of course, if you combine this rhetoric with what they're doing on the ground in Ukraine, waging war against the independent sovereign nation, conducting a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine, this adds to the seriousness of the situation,” he added.

The US indicated its displeasure too. It said this escalation was "totally unacceptable".

"This is a pattern that we've seen from President Putin through the course of this conflict, which is manufacturing threats that don't exist in order to justify further aggression," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said on ABC when asked about the announcement from Moscow.

The American ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said she condemned Putin's step in the strongest terms.&nbsp;

"It means that President Putin is continuing to escalate this war in a manner that is totally unacceptable," Thomas-Greenfield said in an interview on CBS.

Moscow has the world's second-largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles which form the backbone of the country's deterrence forces.

Putin said he was putting Russia's nuclear forces on high alert because, he said, Western countries are taking "unfriendly" steps against his country.

The US and its allies have unleashed sweeping and punishing economic sanctions against Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one "This is dangerous rhetoric.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday decided to put his nuclear forces on alert. This decision was panned by the Western countries. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg decried Putin's decision as being an "irresponsible" one "This is dangerous rhetoric. This is a behavior which is irresponsible," the alliance's secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg told CNN amid heightened tensions over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "And, of course, if you combine this rhetoric with what they're doing on the ground in Ukraine, waging war against the independent sovereign nation, conducting a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine, this adds to the seriousness of the situation,” he added. The US indicated its displeasure too. It said this escalation was "totally unacceptable". "This is a pattern that we've seen from President Putin through the course of this conflict, which is manufacturing threats that don't exist in order to justify further aggression," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said on ABC when asked about the announcement from Moscow. The American ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said she condemned Putin's step in the strongest terms. "It means that President Putin is continuing to escalate this war in a manner that is totally unacceptable," Thomas-Greenfield said in an interview on CBS. Moscow has the world's second-largest arsenal of nuclear weapons and a huge cache of ballistic missiles which form the backbone of the country's deterrence forces. Putin said he was putting Russia's nuclear forces on high alert because, he said, Western countries are taking "unfriendly" steps against his country. The US and its allies have unleashed sweeping and punishing economic sanctions against Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia receives flak for putting nuclear forces on alert

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