The Russia-Ukraine war has entered a deadly new phase as Moscow intensifies its aerial assault on Ukraine with missiles and hundreds of drones. At least 16 people have been killed and more than 130 injured, including children, in the latest attacks.

Ukraine has retaliated with long-range drone strikes targeting Russian oil and logistics infrastructure. Kyiv has also warned of depleted Patriot missile stocks, raising concerns over its ability to intercept ballistic missiles.

France is preparing additional interceptor missiles for Ukraine, while Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for national unity. Meanwhile, Ukraine is urging the United States to take a more active role in efforts to end the war.

Russia-Ukraine War Escalates | Deadly Strikes Kill 16 | Kyiv Hit By Massive Barrage

Russia and Ukraine have exchanged a fresh wave of intense strikes, leaving casualties and widespread destruction on both sides. A prominent market in Kyiv was reportedly gutted in Russian strikes, while Ukraine claimed to have targeted a missile fuel production facility in Russia's Rostov region.

The escalation comes amid reports that British-made drones are being used in Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory, including attacks targeting facilities near Moscow.

Meanwhile, a NATO F-18 fighter reportedly shot down a drone that breached Romanian airspace, marking another serious development along NATO's eastern flank.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also called for greater international support to protect Ukraine's cultural heritage sites. At the same time, Germany, France and the UK are reportedly working on their own negotiating framework amid concerns that Europe could be excluded from future US-led Russia-Ukraine peace talks.

Russia-Ukraine War Escalates: Deadly Strikes, British Drones Hit Deep Inside Russia 

The Russia-Ukraine war is entering another dangerous phase, with both sides increasingly striking energy, transport and civilian infrastructure as fighting intensifies across the region.

Ukraine says Russian forces struck a second passenger train in the Odesa region, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of people, including children. Earlier, another Russian drone attack reportedly hit a passenger train, killing two crew members.

Meanwhile, a major Ukrainian attack disrupted grain terminals at the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, raising concerns over global food supplies. Ukraine has reportedly offered Russia a proposal to halt attacks on civilian targets in the Black Sea, but Moscow has yet to respond.

Elsewhere, Ukrainian strikes reportedly hit an industrial facility in Russia’s Bashkortostan region and a major oil refinery in Orsk. The refinery was reportedly forced out of operation following the attack.

Russia-Ukraine War Enters New Phase | Trains, Grain Terminals And Oil Sites Hit

The Russia-Ukraine war has witnessed another major escalation after Ukraine carried out an overnight strike on Novorossiysk, a key Russian Black Sea port and naval base.

According to Ukrainian officials, the operation involved missiles, aerial drones and sea drones, targeting Russian air-defence systems and port infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the operation as unique and said it targeted what he called a major remaining stronghold of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.

The attack reportedly damaged several buildings in Novorossiysk, including schools and a college, prompting local authorities to declare a state of emergency.

Russia’s southern Krasnodar region also came under a major drone attack, with the regional governor saying several hundred drones were involved.

Meanwhile, fuel shortages are reportedly emerging in Moscow and surrounding areas, with some petrol stations experiencing shortages. Ukraine has also accused Russia of intensifying strikes on fuel and logistical infrastructure, including petrol stations.

Elsewhere, Ukrainian authorities reported Russian drone attacks in Zaporizhzhia, while Zelenskyy warned that Russia could be preparing for another military mobilisation. Moscow has denied the claim.

Zelenskyy also accused Russia of using North Korean ballistic missiles in overnight attacks on Ukraine, including strikes targeting Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia.

Watch the full report for the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine war, Black Sea naval operations, Russian attacks, Ukrainian drone strikes and the growing military escalation.

Ukraine Strikes Russia’s Black Sea Naval Base as Moscow Intensifies Attacks

Russia has launched another wave of heavy airstrikes across Ukraine, targeting residential areas and a hospital in Zaporizhzhia, leaving multiple civilians injured. As the war intensifies, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans to jointly produce Patriot missile interceptors with US defense giant Raytheon to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses. The latest attacks have also disrupted Black Sea shipping, pushing global wheat prices higher and raising concerns over international food security. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to urge Western allies to accelerate military assistance as Russian missile and drone attacks intensify.

Russia-Ukraine war escalates|  Zelensky pushes patriot missile production as Black sea crisis deepens

<p>The Kakhovka dam was damaged recently, becoming the next flashpoint of the Russia- Ukrainian war. Both parties have accused the other of blowing up the structure. In the midst of this controversy, two women have drawn attention to the threats posed by the Kakhovka dam’s breakage. Alisa Malysheva and Alisa Malysheva dropped a series of pictures on Instagram with a poster that reads, "My Home Is Flooding Because Of Russia."</p>

<p>“Today Russians committed a terrorist act by blowing up the Kakhovka dam, which was under Russian control for more than a year. This is likely the biggest technological disaster Europe has experienced in decades," the post said.</p>

<p>The post continued, “As a result, more than 13 settlements were flooded, more than 1,300 people evacuated so far. The statistics is only about territory which is controlled by Ukraine, the consequences on the occupied by Russians territory is bigger and hidden. Destruction of hydroelectric power plants is considered a weapon of mass destruction and a war crime. Russians are dangerous for everything alive.”</p>

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<p>On June 6, the Kakhovka dam, which maintains a massive reservoir of 2,155 square kilometres on the Dnipro river, was attacked. The dam provides water to a large region of the southern Ukrainian countryside, including the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula. It also serves to cool the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, which is in control of Russian forces, as per Reuters. The reservoir holds 18 cubic kilometres of water, which is approximately equal to the Great Salt Lake in the United States.</p>

<p>The Kakhovka dam was constructed in the mid-1950s during the Soviet Union era. The reservoir is 140 kilometres long and 23 kilometres wide. Since the dam was damaged, images and videos of flooded cities and villages have been making the rounds on social media.</p>

<p>The &nbsp;Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station is not under any immediate threat. "Our current assessment is that there is no immediate risk to the safety of the Zaporizhzhia plant," International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi told Reuters.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><i><span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:
107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
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mso-ansi-language:EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">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.</span></i></strong></p>

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The Kakhovka dam was damaged recently, becoming the next flashpoint of the Russia- Ukrainian war. Both parties have accused the other of blowing up the structure.

The Kakhovka dam was damaged recently, becoming the next flashpoint of the Russia- Ukrainian war. Both parties have accused the other of blowing up the structure. In the midst of this controversy, two women have drawn attention to the threats posed by the Kakhovka dam’s breakage. Alisa Malysheva and Alisa Malysheva dropped a series of pictures on Instagram with a poster that reads, "My Home Is Flooding Because Of Russia." “Today Russians committed a terrorist act by blowing up the Kakhovka dam, which was under Russian control for more than a year. This is likely the biggest technological disaster Europe has experienced in decades," the post said. The post continued, “As a result, more than 13 settlements were flooded, more than 1,300 people evacuated so far. The statistics is only about territory which is controlled by Ukraine, the consequences on the occupied by Russians territory is bigger and hidden. Destruction of hydroelectric power plants is considered a weapon of mass destruction and a war crime. Russians are dangerous for everything alive.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by соня квітка (@your_kvitka) × On June 6, the Kakhovka dam, which maintains a massive reservoir of 2,155 square kilometres on the Dnipro river, was attacked. The dam provides water to a large region of the southern Ukrainian countryside, including the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula. It also serves to cool the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, which is in control of Russian forces, as per Reuters. The reservoir holds 18 cubic kilometres of water, which is approximately equal to the Great Salt Lake in the United States. The Kakhovka dam was constructed in the mid-1950s during the Soviet Union era. The reservoir is 140 kilometres long and 23 kilometres wide. Since the dam was damaged, images and videos of flooded cities and villages have been making the rounds on social media. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station is not under any immediate threat. "Our current assessment is that there is no immediate risk to the safety of the Zaporizhzhia plant," International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi told Reuters. 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian women accuse Russia of blowing up dam, rendering thousands homeless

<p>Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard.</p>

<p>An air base near Saratov, about 730 km (450 miles) southeast of Moscow, was hit on December 5 in what Russia said were Ukrainian drone attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Ukraine has never publicly claimed responsibility for attacks inside Russia but has said, however, that such incidents are "karma" for Russia's invasion.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Moscow bombarded several Ukrainian towns on Christmas Day even as President Vladimir Putin said that they were open to negotiations. Sunday witnessed over 10 rocket attacks on the Kupiansk district in the Kharkiv region and over 25 towns along the Kupiansk-Lyman frontline being shelled. In Zaporizhzhia, nearly 20 towns were hit, Ukraine's top military command said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-slammed-the-west-for-trying-to-tear-apart-russia-546534">Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia</a></p>

<p>"We are ready to negotiate with everyone involved about acceptable solutions, but that is up to them - we are not the ones refusing to negotiate, they are," Putin told Rossiya 1 state television in an interview broadcast on Sunday.</p>

<p>An adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hit back at Putin saying that he needs to acknowledge that it was Russia that did not want talks.</p>

<p>"Russia single-handedly attacked Ukraine and is killing citizens," the adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, tweeted. "Russia doesn't want negotiations, but tries to avoid responsibility."</p>

<p>Zelensky once again slammed Putin for hitting power stations, leaving millions without electricity and heat amidst freezing winter conditions. He said that Russia will aim to make the rest of 2022 "dark and difficult".</p>

<p>"Russia has lost everything it could this year. ... I know darkness will not prevent us from leading the occupiers to new defeats. But we have to be ready for any scenario," he said in an evening video address on Christmas Day.</p>

<p>Christmas is traditionally not celebrated on December 25 in Ukraine. Both Kyiv and Russia mark the day on January 7. However, this year some Orthodox Ukrainians decided to celebrate the holiday on December 25. Ukrainian officials, including Zelensky and Ukraine's prime minister, issued Christmas wishes on Sunday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet.

Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard. An air base near Saratov, about 730 km (450 miles) southeast of Moscow, was hit on December 5 in what Russia said were Ukrainian drone attacks. However, Ukraine has never publicly claimed responsibility for attacks inside Russia but has said, however, that such incidents are "karma" for Russia's invasion. Meanwhile, Moscow bombarded several Ukrainian towns on Christmas Day even as President Vladimir Putin said that they were open to negotiations. Sunday witnessed over 10 rocket attacks on the Kupiansk district in the Kharkiv region and over 25 towns along the Kupiansk-Lyman frontline being shelled. In Zaporizhzhia, nearly 20 towns were hit, Ukraine's top military command said. Also Read | Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia "We are ready to negotiate with everyone involved about acceptable solutions, but that is up to them - we are not the ones refusing to negotiate, they are," Putin told Rossiya 1 state television in an interview broadcast on Sunday. An adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hit back at Putin saying that he needs to acknowledge that it was Russia that did not want talks. "Russia single-handedly attacked Ukraine and is killing citizens," the adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, tweeted. "Russia doesn't want negotiations, but tries to avoid responsibility." Zelensky once again slammed Putin for hitting power stations, leaving millions without electricity and heat amidst freezing winter conditions. He said that Russia will aim to make the rest of 2022 "dark and difficult". "Russia has lost everything it could this year. ... I know darkness will not prevent us from leading the occupiers to new defeats. But we have to be ready for any scenario," he said in an evening video address on Christmas Day. Christmas is traditionally not celebrated on December 25 in Ukraine. Both Kyiv and Russia mark the day on January 7. However, this year some Orthodox Ukrainians decided to celebrate the holiday on December 25. Ukrainian officials, including Zelensky and Ukraine's prime minister, issued Christmas wishes on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas Day even as Putin says he is open to talks

<p>Russian-installed officials in the annexed areas of Donetsk claimed that Ukraine shelled the city overnight in one of the biggest attacks in years. "At exactly 7.00 o'clock this morning they subjected the centre of Donetsk to the most massive attack since 2014," Alexei Kulemzin, the Russian-backed mayor of the city, said on Telegram.&nbsp;"Forty rockets from BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers were fired at civilians in our city," Kulemzin said. He termed the attack a war crime.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russia has ruled out a "Christmas ceasefire" in the 10-month war in Ukraine. It also rejected Kyiv's call to start withdrawing troops by Christmas as a step to end the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Responding to queries regarding whether there was a proposal for a "Christmas ceasefire," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday, "No, no such offers have been received from anybody. This topic is not on the agenda."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-strikes-hit-russian-occupied-regions-two-killed-and-several-injured-542055">Russia-Ukraine war: Missiles strike Russian-occupied regions, two killed and several injured</a></p>

<p>While Zelensky wants Russia to start pulling back by Christmas, Moscow wants Ukraine to accept the loss of territory to Russia before any progress can be made.</p>

<p>The war has been raging in the east and south with little movement on either side. The two sides are not engaged in any kind of talks either to end the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Kyiv bore the brunt of a major drone attack which destroyed two administrative buildings. However, it claimed that its air defences largely repelled the attack. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that 13 "Shahed"&nbsp;Iranian drones&nbsp;had been shot down.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents in one of the areas reported hearing the loud whirring engine of the drone followed by a powerful explosion.</p>

<p>Moscow has been targeting thermal power plants in the country, leaving several people in the country without power in the freezing winter conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US also doesn't see the aggression ending by the year-end. "Just given what we're seeing in the air and on the ground in Ukraine, it's difficult to conclude that this war will be over by year's end," White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said when asked about the possibility of negotiated peace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US is also preparing to send Patriot missile system to the Ukrainian military and the announcement can come on Thursday. Washington is also expected to send equipment that converts unguided aerial munitions into smart bombs, allowing a high degree of accurate targeting.</p>

<p>Moscow is unhappy with the move and has warned that Patriot systems on Ukraine territory would be legitimate targets.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian-installed officials in the annexed areas of Donetsk claimed that Ukraine shelled the city overnight in one of the biggest attacks in years. "At exactly 7.

Russian-installed officials in the annexed areas of Donetsk claimed that Ukraine shelled the city overnight in one of the biggest attacks in years. "At exactly 7.00 o'clock this morning they subjected the centre of Donetsk to the most massive attack since 2014," Alexei Kulemzin, the Russian-backed mayor of the city, said on Telegram. "Forty rockets from BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers were fired at civilians in our city," Kulemzin said. He termed the attack a war crime. Meanwhile, Russia has ruled out a "Christmas ceasefire" in the 10-month war in Ukraine. It also rejected Kyiv's call to start withdrawing troops by Christmas as a step to end the conflict. Responding to queries regarding whether there was a proposal for a "Christmas ceasefire," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday, "No, no such offers have been received from anybody. This topic is not on the agenda." Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Missiles strike Russian-occupied regions, two killed and several injured While Zelensky wants Russia to start pulling back by Christmas, Moscow wants Ukraine to accept the loss of territory to Russia before any progress can be made. The war has been raging in the east and south with little movement on either side. The two sides are not engaged in any kind of talks either to end the war. On Wednesday, Kyiv bore the brunt of a major drone attack which destroyed two administrative buildings. However, it claimed that its air defences largely repelled the attack. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that 13 "Shahed" Iranian drones had been shot down. × Residents in one of the areas reported hearing the loud whirring engine of the drone followed by a powerful explosion. Moscow has been targeting thermal power plants in the country, leaving several people in the country without power in the freezing winter conditions. The US also doesn't see the aggression ending by the year-end. "Just given what we're seeing in the air and on the ground in Ukraine, it's difficult to conclude that this war will be over by year's end," White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said when asked about the possibility of negotiated peace. The US is also preparing to send Patriot missile system to the Ukrainian military and the announcement can come on Thursday. Washington is also expected to send equipment that converts unguided aerial munitions into smart bombs, allowing a high degree of accurate targeting. Moscow is unhappy with the move and has warned that Patriot systems on Ukraine territory would be legitimate targets. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine accused of shelling Donetsk as Moscow rules out a ‘Christmas ceasefire’

<p>UN&nbsp;experts have confirmed the full or partial destruction of 152&nbsp;cultural&nbsp;and historic heritage sites in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;since&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;invaded the country, its&nbsp;cultural&nbsp;agency said Thursday.</p>

<p>They include museums and monuments, churches and other religious buildings, and libraries and other exceptional buildings, UNESCO said in&nbsp;an update of its efforts to assist&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;authorities in documenting the damage.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-a-tough-bite-to-chew-and-so-would-be-finland-says-armed-forces-chief-on-russian-invasion-490781">Ukraine a tough bite to chew and so would be Finland, says armed forces chief on Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>"These repeated attacks on Ukrainian&nbsp;cultural&nbsp;sites must stop.&nbsp;Cultural&nbsp;heritage, in all its forms, should not be targeted under any circumstances," UNESCO'S director-general Audrey Azoulay said in a statement.</p>

<p>Her agency has been helping&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;authorities to mark&nbsp;landmarks&nbsp;with the distinctive "blue shield," meaning they are protected under the 1954 Hague convention on culture in armed conflicts, of which both&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;are signatories.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Kharkiv &amp; Eastern Donbas, Ukrainian soldiers fight back</strong></p>

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<p>Yet dozens of sites have been damaged since the start of the Russian invasion on February 24, with three-quarters in the eastern regions of Kharkiv and Donetsk as well as near the capital Kyiv, UNESCO said in its update.</p>

<p>But for now, the seven World Heritage Sites in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;have not been affected, such as the Saint Sophia Cathedral and monastic buildings of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in the capital.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tensions-with-russia-over-kaliningrad-lithuania-says-ready-to-face-power-grid-disconnection-490772">Amid tensions with Russia over Kaliningrad, Lithuania says ready to face power grid disconnection</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukraine&nbsp;has demanded that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;be expelled from UNESCO, and the agency has indefinitely postponed a meeting to discuss the status of World Heritage Sites that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;was to host this month in the city of Kazan.</p>

<p>UNESCO has warned that Russian troops or officials found guilty of knowingly destroying&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;heritage sites could be prosecuted under international law.</p>

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UN experts have confirmed the full or partial destruction of 152 cultural and historic heritage sites in Ukraine since Russia invaded the country, its cultural agency said Thursday.

UN experts have confirmed the full or partial destruction of 152 cultural and historic heritage sites in Ukraine since Russia invaded the country, its cultural agency said Thursday. They include museums and monuments, churches and other religious buildings, and libraries and other exceptional buildings, UNESCO said in an update of its efforts to assist Ukraine authorities in documenting the damage. Also read | Ukraine a tough bite to chew and so would be Finland, says armed forces chief on Russian invasion "These repeated attacks on Ukrainian cultural sites must stop. Cultural heritage, in all its forms, should not be targeted under any circumstances," UNESCO'S director-general Audrey Azoulay said in a statement. Her agency has been helping Ukraine authorities to mark landmarks with the distinctive "blue shield," meaning they are protected under the 1954 Hague convention on culture in armed conflicts, of which both Russia and Ukraine are signatories. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Kharkiv & Eastern Donbas, Ukrainian soldiers fight back Yet dozens of sites have been damaged since the start of the Russian invasion on February 24, with three-quarters in the eastern regions of Kharkiv and Donetsk as well as near the capital Kyiv, UNESCO said in its update. But for now, the seven World Heritage Sites in Ukraine have not been affected, such as the Saint Sophia Cathedral and monastic buildings of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in the capital. Also read | Amid tensions with Russia over Kaliningrad, Lithuania says ready to face power grid disconnection Ukraine has demanded that Russia be expelled from UNESCO, and the agency has indefinitely postponed a meeting to discuss the status of World Heritage Sites that Russia was to host this month in the city of Kazan. UNESCO has warned that Russian troops or officials found guilty of knowingly destroying Ukraine heritage sites could be prosecuted under international law. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 150 Ukraine cultural landmarks destroyed by Russia's war: UN

<p>The UK government said Friday it was deploying about 8,000&nbsp;troops&nbsp;for exercises across eastern&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;in a show of strength after&nbsp;Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>The months-long drills in countries stretching from Finland to North Macedonia also involve allies including France and the United States, defence officials said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-25-million-tonnes-of-grain-stuck-in-ukraine-un-food-agency-476870">Nearly 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Ukraine: UN food agency</a></strong></p>

<p>Britain&nbsp;is deploying 72 Challenger 2&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;and 120 armoured fighting vehicles along with artillery guns, helicopters and drones for the exercises, some of which are already underway.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: European Union states block sanctions on Russia oil</strong></p>

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<p>"The security of&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;has never been more important," Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said, calling it "one of the largest shared deployments since the Cold War".</p>

<p>The officer in command, Lieutenant General Ralph Wooddisse, said&nbsp;Britain&nbsp;was making "a significant contribution to the defence of&nbsp;Europe&nbsp;and the deterrence of Russian aggression".&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"The British Army's series of exercises is fundamental to both."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-assures-it-wont-use-nuclear-weapons-in-ongoing-war-against-ukraine-476897">Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Britain&nbsp;has been supplying missiles to Ukraine to fight back against&nbsp;Russia, and says it is ready to help with&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;and planes via partners such as Poland.</p>

<p>Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said Wednesday that "the whole of Ukraine" must be liberated, including Crimea, after the peninsula was seized by&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in 2014.</p>


The UK government said Friday it was deploying about 8,000 troops for exercises across eastern Europe in a show of strength after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The months-long drills in countries stretching from Finland to North Macedonia also involve allies including France and the United States, defence officials said in a statement.

The UK government said Friday it was deploying about 8,000 troops for exercises across eastern Europe in a show of strength after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The months-long drills in countries stretching from Finland to North Macedonia also involve allies including France and the United States, defence officials said in a statement. Also read | Nearly 25 million tonnes of grain stuck in Ukraine: UN food agency Britain is deploying 72 Challenger 2 tanks and 120 armoured fighting vehicles along with artillery guns, helicopters and drones for the exercises, some of which are already underway. Watch | Gravitas: European Union states block sanctions on Russia oil "The security of Europe has never been more important," Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said, calling it "one of the largest shared deployments since the Cold War". The officer in command, Lieutenant General Ralph Wooddisse, said Britain was making "a significant contribution to the defence of Europe and the deterrence of Russian aggression". WATCH WION LIVE HERE: "The British Army's series of exercises is fundamental to both." Also read | Russia assures it won’t use nuclear weapons in ongoing war against Ukraine Britain has been supplying missiles to Ukraine to fight back against Russia, and says it is ready to help with tanks and planes via partners such as Poland. Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said Wednesday that "the whole of Ukraine" must be liberated, including Crimea, after the peninsula was seized by Russia in 2014.

UK deploys 8,000 troops to Europe to deter 'Russian aggression'

<p>The Ukrainian army has&nbsp;repelled&nbsp;nine&nbsp;attacks&nbsp;by the Russian&nbsp;army in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, Ukraine's military&nbsp;spokesman&nbsp;said on Thursday (April 21).</p>

<p>A&nbsp;military&nbsp;spokesman&nbsp;for General Staff of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Shtupun, said, one tank, ten armoured units&nbsp;and&nbsp;two vehicles, one artillery system, two special engineering units, an anti-aircraft missile system&nbsp;and&nbsp;an enemy ammunition depot have been destroyed in the past 24 hours.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-russias-donbas-offensive-us-sends-warplanes-to-ukraine-472278">Amid Russia's Donbas offensive, US sends warplanes to Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>In the east,&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;said on Wednesday (April 20), it had held off an assault by&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;forces attempting to advance in what Kyiv calls the Battle of the Donbas, a new campaign to seize two eastern provinces Moscow claims on behalf of separatists.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine refugee crisis | Mariupol could fall within hours</strong></p>

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<p>Russia's forces had carried out strikes on dozens of&nbsp;military&nbsp;facilities in the east&nbsp;and&nbsp;had shot down a Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopter near the village of Koroviy Yar, its defence ministry said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-seeks-india-drug-imports-as-pharmacies-run-short-of-medicines-amid-ukraine-war-sanctions-472245">Russia seeks India drug imports as pharmacies run short of medicines amid Ukraine war, sanctions</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia calls its incursion a "special&nbsp;military&nbsp;operation" to demilitarise&nbsp;and&nbsp;"denazify"&nbsp;Ukraine. Kyiv&nbsp;and&nbsp;its Western allies reject that as a false pretext for a war of choice.</p>

<p>The West has imposed unprecedented sanctions on Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;given&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;extensive support, including arms.</p>


The Ukrainian army has repelled nine attacks by the Russian army in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, Ukraine's military spokesman said on Thursday (April 21). A military spokesman for General Staff of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Shtupun, said, one tank, ten armoured units and two vehicles, one artillery system, two special engineering units, an anti-aircraft missile system and an enemy ammunition depot have been destroyed in the past 24 hours.

The Ukrainian army has repelled nine attacks by the Russian army in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, Ukraine's military spokesman said on Thursday (April 21). A military spokesman for General Staff of the Armed Forces Oleksandr Shtupun, said, one tank, ten armoured units and two vehicles, one artillery system, two special engineering units, an anti-aircraft missile system and an enemy ammunition depot have been destroyed in the past 24 hours. Also read | Amid Russia's Donbas offensive, US sends warplanes to Ukraine In the east, Ukraine said on Wednesday (April 20), it had held off an assault by Russian forces attempting to advance in what Kyiv calls the Battle of the Donbas, a new campaign to seize two eastern provinces Moscow claims on behalf of separatists. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Ukraine refugee crisis | Mariupol could fall within hours Russia's forces had carried out strikes on dozens of military facilities in the east and had shot down a Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopter near the village of Koroviy Yar, its defence ministry said. Also read | Russia seeks India drug imports as pharmacies run short of medicines amid Ukraine war, sanctions Russia calls its incursion a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "denazify" Ukraine. Kyiv and its Western allies reject that as a false pretext for a war of choice. The West has imposed unprecedented sanctions on Russia and given Ukraine extensive support, including arms.

Ukraine repelled nine Russian attacks in Donetsk and Luhansk: Military spokesman

Amidst the shelling, sandbags and security forces clashing, these musicians are playing to add their bit of sweetness to the bitter air in Odesa, Ukraine.

Melodious background to Ukraine's bitter reality

Laws governing foreigners who have signed up for Ukraine's 'international legion'

Seven refugee bears from Kyiv were getting used to their new home in the western city of Lviv on March 8, after enduring a 24 hour non-stop journey to safety.

Bears rescued from Russian Invasion

American brands like Apple, Google, Ford, and Harley-Davidson have stopped sales and distanced themselves from Russia

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: Apple stops sales in Russia

Russian invasion has claimed dozens of civilian lives, forced hundreds and thousands of Ukrainians to flee west and could, according to the EU, eventually displace up to seven million people. This is what the leaders had to say... #ukraine #russia #ukraineconflict

Russian-Ukraine Crisis: Who said what on the situation

As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, Russian President Vladimir Putin has placed nuclear forces on high alert. It supposedly holds the world's biggest nuclear arsenal. With Putin's announcement, fear of an outbreak of a nuclear war has grown. But what are Russia's nuclear capabilities?

Fear of nuclear war grows. How big is Russia's arsenal?

<p>Badminton's world governing body (BWF) has cancelled all sanctioned tournaments in Russia and Belarus, it said on Monday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Russian and Belarusian national flags must not be displayed and their national anthems not played at any BWF events. No other badminton tournaments will be allocated to Russia or Belarus until further notice.</p>

<p>"BWF will continue to monitor the situation closely and will proactively consult our international sport movement partners to discuss other options to potentially strengthen measures against the governments of Russia and Belarus," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>The governing body said it fully supported the International Olympic Committee urging sports federations to move or cancel sports events planned in Russia or Belarus.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukrainian-striker-moved-to-tears-after-standing-ovation-from-benfica-fans-video-goes-viral-watch-457436">Ukrainian striker moved to tears after standing ovation from Benfica fans, video goes viral - WATCH</a></p>

<p>"BWF stands in full solidarity with the entire international sports movement to call on all parties to stop acts of violence and to restore peace," it added.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.</p>

<p>Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation".</p>

<p>Soccer's governing body FIFA said on Sunday that no international soccer matches will be played in Russia and the Russian flag and anthem will be banned from the team's matches abroad.</p>


Badminton's world governing body (BWF) has cancelled all sanctioned tournaments in Russia and Belarus, it said on Monday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Badminton's world governing body (BWF) has cancelled all sanctioned tournaments in Russia and Belarus, it said on Monday, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russian and Belarusian national flags must not be displayed and their national anthems not played at any BWF events. No other badminton tournaments will be allocated to Russia or Belarus until further notice. "BWF will continue to monitor the situation closely and will proactively consult our international sport movement partners to discuss other options to potentially strengthen measures against the governments of Russia and Belarus," it said in a statement. The governing body said it fully supported the International Olympic Committee urging sports federations to move or cancel sports events planned in Russia or Belarus. ALSO READ: Ukrainian striker moved to tears after standing ovation from Benfica fans, video goes viral - WATCH "BWF stands in full solidarity with the entire international sports movement to call on all parties to stop acts of violence and to restore peace," it added. 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". Soccer's governing body FIFA said on Sunday that no international soccer matches will be played in Russia and the Russian flag and anthem will be banned from the team's matches abroad.

Badminton World Federation cancels events in Russia, Belarus amid Ukraine crisis

<p>Manchester United have withdrawn Russian airline Aeroflot's sponsorship rights after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Premier League club said on Friday.</p>

<p>Russia's Aeroflot was banned from flying to the United Kingdom on Thursday after President Vladimir Putin ordered an invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>UK Civil Aviation Authority said it had suspended Aeroflot's foreign carrier permit.</p>

<p>"In light of events in Ukraine, we have withdrawn Aeroflot's sponsorship rights. We share the concerns of our fans around the world and extend our sympathies to those affected," a club spokesperson said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-moves-champions-league-final-from-st-petersburg-to-paris-amid-russia-ukraine-conflict-456427">UEFA moves Champions League final from St Petersburg to Paris amid Russia-Ukraine conflict</a></p>

<p>United made Aeroflot its first Russian sponsor in 2013 when it became the club's airline partner, replacing Turkish Airlines.</p>

<p>Russia has been condemned for its invasion of Ukraine by several sports bodies and on Friday the country lost its hosting rights for the Champions League final in May while Formula One said the Grand Prix in Sochi could not go ahead.</p>


Manchester United have withdrawn Russian airline Aeroflot's sponsorship rights after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Premier League club said on Friday. Russia's Aeroflot was banned from flying to the United Kingdom on Thursday after President Vladimir Putin ordered an invasion of Ukraine.

Manchester United have withdrawn Russian airline Aeroflot's sponsorship rights after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Premier League club said on Friday. Russia's Aeroflot was banned from flying to the United Kingdom on Thursday after President Vladimir Putin ordered an invasion of Ukraine. UK Civil Aviation Authority said it had suspended Aeroflot's foreign carrier permit. "In light of events in Ukraine, we have withdrawn Aeroflot's sponsorship rights. We share the concerns of our fans around the world and extend our sympathies to those affected," a club spokesperson said. ALSO READ: UEFA moves Champions League final from St Petersburg to Paris amid Russia-Ukraine conflict United made Aeroflot its first Russian sponsor in 2013 when it became the club's airline partner, replacing Turkish Airlines. Russia has been condemned for its invasion of Ukraine by several sports bodies and on Friday the country lost its hosting rights for the Champions League final in May while Formula One said the Grand Prix in Sochi could not go ahead.

Manchester United withdraws Russian airline Aeroflot's sponsorship amid Ukraine crisis

<p><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></p>

<p>Amid reports of heavy fighting, Ukraine's Army said its forces were engaged in fighting Russian forces outside capital Kyiv.</p>

<p>As the fighting continued, UK defence minister Wallace said Russia has lost more than 450 personnel. Reports said on Thursday that at least 137 people were killed as President Putin launched an attack on Ukraine early morning.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-crisis-us-thaad-vs-russian-s-400-missile-defence-system-451457">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;US THAAD vs Russian S-400 missile defence system</a></p>

<p>There were reports of clashes in Kyiv's northern district as Russian forces advanced on the outskirts of Ukraine's capital. Reports claimed there were blasts in the capital's central area as people scrambled&nbsp;to safety.</p>

<p>"Putin's assault on Ukraine is barbaric, unjustified and shows a callous disregard for human life," UK foreign secretary Liz Truss said while adding,"We will continue to hold Putin to account."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Thousands of Ukrainians flee to Poland, Hungary</strong></p>

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<p>Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said Russia had launched "horrific rocket strikes" on Kyiv early morning on Friday as the Chernobyl nuclear power plant fell to Russian forces.</p>

<p>Reports claimed the Gostomel airfield near Kyiv was also overrun by Russian paratroopers even as Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country has been "left on its own" while warning that Russian "sabotage groups" had entered Kyiv.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-dagger-on-ukraine-kinzhal-hypersonic-missiles-can-degrade-high-value-targets-447431">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's Kinzhal hypersonic missiles</a></p>

<p>As heavy fighting continued around Ukraine's capital, French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told a radio station that, "Putin has decided to take Ukraine off the map of nations."</p>

<p>Le Drian raised concern over possible Russian offensive against ex-Soviet states Georgia and Moldova in the future.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Amid reports of heavy fighting, Ukraine's Army said its forces were engaged in fighting Russian forces outside capital Kyiv. As the fighting continued, UK defence minister Wallace said Russia has lost more than 450 personnel. Reports said on Thursday that at least 137 people were killed as President Putin launched an attack on Ukraine early morning. Also Read in Pics: US THAAD vs Russian S-400 missile defence system There were reports of clashes in Kyiv's northern district as Russian forces advanced on the outskirts of Ukraine's capital. Reports claimed there were blasts in the capital's central area as people scrambled to safety. "Putin's assault on Ukraine is barbaric, unjustified and shows a callous disregard for human life," UK foreign secretary Liz Truss said while adding,"We will continue to hold Putin to account." Watch: Thousands of Ukrainians flee to Poland, Hungary Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said Russia had launched "horrific rocket strikes" on Kyiv early morning on Friday as the Chernobyl nuclear power plant fell to Russian forces. Reports claimed the Gostomel airfield near Kyiv was also overrun by Russian paratroopers even as Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country has been "left on its own" while warning that Russian "sabotage groups" had entered Kyiv. Also Read in Pics: Russia's Kinzhal hypersonic missiles As heavy fighting continued around Ukraine's capital, French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told a radio station that, "Putin has decided to take Ukraine off the map of nations." Le Drian raised concern over possible Russian offensive against ex-Soviet states Georgia and Moldova in the future. (With inputs from Agencies)

Heavy clashes in Kyiv's northern district as Russian forces advance

As Russia has invaded Ukraine, there's a high level of distress and chaos around. Here's a compilation of some visuals from Ukraine. #Ukraine #Russia #UkraineCrisis

Ukraine Under attack - The visuals of Distress and Chaos | Ukraine crisis

A look at the impact on commodities and markets amid the Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Impact on commodities, markets

<p><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></p>

<p>Russian authorities moved quickly to cancel flights in southern Russia after President Vladimir Putin announced military action against Ukraine.</p>

<p>Newswire AFP reported that Ukraine was under attack from Russia and Belarus border.</p>

<p>Russian and Belarus had earlier taken part in large scale military exercise although Russia had said it had pulled out some troops from Belarus but satellite photos a few days ago suggested military units were still deployed in the area.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/latest-satellite-pictures-show-russian-troop-deployment-near-ukraine-455540">Also Read in Pictures:&nbsp;Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine</a></p>

<p>As loud explosions were heard across Ukraine, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said it was "a glaring violation" and a "dark day" for Europe.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian government-held town of Shchastya said it had fallen to Russian-backed eastern insurgents.</p>

<p>"Germany condemns in the strongest possible terms this unscrupulous act by President Putin. Our solidarity goes out to Ukraine and its people," the German chancellor said.</p>

<p>Amid the explosions, air raid sirens rang out in Ukraine's capital Kyiv as the Russian defence ministry said it will not target Ukrainian cities with missiles.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia announces military operations in Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-announces-military-operations-in-ukraine-as-tensions-mount-to-their-climax-455839/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Reports said Belarusian troops had joined Russian forces to attack Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian authorities moved quickly to cancel flights in southern Russia after President Vladimir Putin announced military action against Ukraine. Newswire AFP reported that Ukraine was under attack from Russia and Belarus border. Russian and Belarus had earlier taken part in large scale military exercise although Russia had said it had pulled out some troops from Belarus but satellite photos a few days ago suggested military units were still deployed in the area. Also Read in Pictures: Latest satellite pictures show Russian troop deployment near Ukraine As loud explosions were heard across Ukraine, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said it was "a glaring violation" and a "dark day" for Europe. The Ukrainian government-held town of Shchastya said it had fallen to Russian-backed eastern insurgents. "Germany condemns in the strongest possible terms this unscrupulous act by President Putin. Our solidarity goes out to Ukraine and its people," the German chancellor said. Amid the explosions, air raid sirens rang out in Ukraine's capital Kyiv as the Russian defence ministry said it will not target Ukrainian cities with missiles. Watch: Russia announces military operations in Ukraine Reports said Belarusian troops had joined Russian forces to attack Ukraine.

Ukraine under attack along Russia, Belarus borders: Report