History of urban warfare & why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv

According to reports, Ukraine's parliament has passed a new law to offer rewards of upto $1 million for defecting Russian soldiers who can hand over a warship or a combat aircraft to the country's Army.

The move by the Ukrainian lawmakers is being made as a "reward mechanism" for Russian soldiers. Reports claim giving up a tank or ground artillery by a Russian soldier would involve a reward of $100,000.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/aerorozvidka-how-ukraines-elite-it-force-halted-russias-long-mechanised-brigade-eyeing-kyiv-467687">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's long mechanised brigade eyeing Kyiv</a>

First vice-speaker of the Ukrainian parliament Oleksandr Kornienko said: "For a helicopter - 500 thousand dollars, a tank - 100 thousand, respectively. If, for example, someone is ready to come to us by plane - it's a million dollars. There is a certain gradation there. "

Kornienko added that there are "many willing soldiers" who want to "replenish their financial status". "We do not see anything wrong here - if they surrender not just individually, but also with their equipment," the Ukrainian lawmaker added.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia is worse than ISIS, says Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-fm-dmytro-kuleba-russia-is-worse-than-isis-468052/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The bill includes $500,000 for a combat helicopter, and $25,000-35,000 for a reactive volley fire system. Also, handing over an armoured personnel carrier&nbsp;includes a reward of $50,000 and military trucks have a reward of $10,000.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-war-what-panzerfaust-3-weapons-can-do-against-russian-tanks-466330">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;What Panzerfaust 3 weapons can do against Russian tanks</a>

The legislation also includes ships $200,000 for military support ships and $50,000 for small combat reconnaissance ships. The legislation named Bill No: 7229 seeks to "establish a reward for the voluntary transfer of military equipment".

Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky called for more sanctions against Russia over the killing of civilians in Bucha. Russia has however denied claims its troops killed civilians.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to reports, Ukraine's parliament has passed a new law to offer rewards of upto $1 million for defecting Russian soldiers who can hand over a warship or a combat aircraft to the country's Army.

According to reports, Ukraine's parliament has passed a new law to offer rewards of upto $1 million for defecting Russian soldiers who can hand over a warship or a combat aircraft to the country's Army. The move by the Ukrainian lawmakers is being made as a "reward mechanism" for Russian soldiers. Reports claim giving up a tank or ground artillery by a Russian soldier would involve a reward of $100,000. Also Read in Pics: How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's long mechanised brigade eyeing Kyiv First vice-speaker of the Ukrainian parliament Oleksandr Kornienko said: "For a helicopter - 500 thousand dollars, a tank - 100 thousand, respectively. If, for example, someone is ready to come to us by plane - it's a million dollars. There is a certain gradation there. " Kornienko added that there are "many willing soldiers" who want to "replenish their financial status". "We do not see anything wrong here - if they surrender not just individually, but also with their equipment," the Ukrainian lawmaker added. Watch: Russia is worse than ISIS, says Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba The bill includes $500,000 for a combat helicopter, and $25,000-35,000 for a reactive volley fire system. Also, handing over an armoured personnel carrier includes a reward of $50,000 and military trucks have a reward of $10,000. Also Read in Pics: What Panzerfaust 3 weapons can do against Russian tanks The legislation also includes ships $200,000 for military support ships and $50,000 for small combat reconnaissance ships. The legislation named Bill No: 7229 seeks to "establish a reward for the voluntary transfer of military equipment". Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky called for more sanctions against Russia over the killing of civilians in Bucha. Russia has however denied claims its troops killed civilians. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine's new law: $1 million 'reward' for Russian soldier who surrenders jet, warship

Poland's deputy prime minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski has said his country is "open" to hosting US nuclear weapons as Russia continues its war in neighbouring Ukraine.

Kaczynski added that Poland was ready to host more US troops. "Poland would be pleased if the Americans increased their presence in Europe from the current 100,000 soldiers up to 150,000 in the future due to Russia's increasing aggressiveness," Jaroslaw Kaczynski said.

Poland has been increasingly worried over Russia's military campaign in Ukraine even as thousands of US troops are already stationed in Europe. In an interview with a German newspaper, Kaczynski called the "eastern flank" to be better protected than before while calling for a 50 per cent increase in US troops in Europe.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/aerorozvidka-how-ukraines-elite-it-force-halted-russias-long-mechanised-brigade-eyeing-kyiv-467687">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's long mechanised brigade eyeing Kyiv</a>

The Polish leader said his country can "store American nuclear weapons in Poland" if the US government asks amid tensions in eastern Europe in the aftermath of the Russian invasion on Ukraine.

Just days after launching the attack on Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin had put nuclear weapons on alert sending shockwaves across NATO countries.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia is worse than ISIS, says Ukraine minister Dmytro Kuleba

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-fm-dmytro-kuleba-russia-is-worse-than-isis-468052/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kaczynski added that extending nuclear weapons to the eastern flank "makes sense". The Polish leader also hit out against Germany's energy policy towards Russia saying that it was "politically and morally unacceptable" and that the German government should make its stand clear and not support "Russia with billions in energy purchase fees."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-using-phosphorus-bombs-in-ukraine-incendiary-weapons-its-use-466629">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine?</a>

Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki called for an international probe to investigate this "crime of genocide" against Russia after bodies of civilians were found in mass graves in Bucha near capital Kyiv.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Poland's deputy prime minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski has said his country is "open" to hosting US nuclear weapons as Russia continues its war in neighbouring Ukraine.

Poland's deputy prime minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski has said his country is "open" to hosting US nuclear weapons as Russia continues its war in neighbouring Ukraine. Kaczynski added that Poland was ready to host more US troops. "Poland would be pleased if the Americans increased their presence in Europe from the current 100,000 soldiers up to 150,000 in the future due to Russia's increasing aggressiveness," Jaroslaw Kaczynski said. Poland has been increasingly worried over Russia's military campaign in Ukraine even as thousands of US troops are already stationed in Europe. In an interview with a German newspaper, Kaczynski called the "eastern flank" to be better protected than before while calling for a 50 per cent increase in US troops in Europe. Also Read in Pics: How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's long mechanised brigade eyeing Kyiv The Polish leader said his country can "store American nuclear weapons in Poland" if the US government asks amid tensions in eastern Europe in the aftermath of the Russian invasion on Ukraine. Just days after launching the attack on Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin had put nuclear weapons on alert sending shockwaves across NATO countries. Watch: Russia is worse than ISIS, says Ukraine minister Dmytro Kuleba Kaczynski added that extending nuclear weapons to the eastern flank "makes sense". The Polish leader also hit out against Germany's energy policy towards Russia saying that it was "politically and morally unacceptable" and that the German government should make its stand clear and not support "Russia with billions in energy purchase fees." Also Read in Pics: Russia using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine? Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki called for an international probe to investigate this "crime of genocide" against Russia after bodies of civilians were found in mass graves in Bucha near capital Kyiv. (With inputs from Agencies)

Poland 'open' to hosting US nuclear weapons, says deputy PM Kaczynski

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.

Reports say Ukraine has accused Russian troops of arranging "specialised bazaar" in Belarus to sell goods stolen from Ukrainians.

Ukraine's defence ministry has reportedly said that Russian troops were selling household goods like washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, and jewellery including bicycles, motorcycles and carpets taken from the country.

The ministry alleged that the "bazaar" was opened in Naroulia town in Belarus with "industrial goods and household things" moving to Buryn town near Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/aerorozvidka-how-ukraines-elite-it-force-halted-russias-long-mechanised-brigade-eyeing-kyiv-467687">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's brigade eyeing Kyiv</a>

Ukraine said Russian troops had "unloading packages" which it had "looted" headed towards&nbsp;&nbsp;Mozir city in Belarus.

In fact, Ukraine's spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko in a tweet said: "As Russian troops retreat from the Kyiv region after having sustained immense losses, they are looting houses of ordinary people. Electronics, clothes, shoes, cosmetics."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As Russian troops retreat from the Kyiv region after having sustained immense losses, they are looting houses of ordinary people. Electronics, clothes, shoes, cosmetics. This is not an army. This is a disgrace. We will never forget and we will never forgive.
— Oleg Nikolenko (@OlegNikolenko_) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlegNikolenko_/status/1509625545067221008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 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>

Nikolenko angrily added: "This is not an army. This is a disgrace."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Shocking images of civilian killings in Ukraine's Bucha surfaces

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-accuses-russia-after-shocking-images-of-civilian-killings-in-ukraines-bucha-surfaces-468151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We will never forget and we will never forgive," he added. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky called Russian troops "murderers, torturers, rapists, looters" after bodies of civilians were reportedly found near Kyiv.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-russias-missiles-in-ukraine-are-failing-to-hit-the-target-465689">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Why Russia's missiles in Ukraine are failing to hit the target</a>

"I want every mother of every Russian soldier to see the bodies of the killed people in Bucha, in Irpin, in Hostomel," President Zelensky said, adding, "I want all the leaders of the Russian Federation to see how their orders are being fulfilled."

(With inputs from Agencies)

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

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. Reports say Ukraine has accused Russian troops of arranging "specialised bazaar" in Belarus to sell goods stolen from Ukrainians. Ukraine's defence ministry has reportedly said that Russian troops were selling household goods like washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, and jewellery including bicycles, motorcycles and carpets taken from the country. The ministry alleged that the "bazaar" was opened in Naroulia town in Belarus with "industrial goods and household things" moving to Buryn town near Russia. Also Read in Pics: How Ukraine's elite IT force halted Russia's brigade eyeing Kyiv Ukraine said Russian troops had "unloading packages" which it had "looted" headed towards Mozir city in Belarus. In fact, Ukraine's spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko in a tweet said: "As Russian troops retreat from the Kyiv region after having sustained immense losses, they are looting houses of ordinary people. Electronics, clothes, shoes, cosmetics." As Russian troops retreat from the Kyiv region after having sustained immense losses, they are looting houses of ordinary people. Electronics, clothes, shoes, cosmetics. This is not an army. This is a disgrace. We will never forget and we will never forgive. — Oleg Nikolenko (@OlegNikolenko_) March 31, 2022 × Nikolenko angrily added: "This is not an army. This is a disgrace." Watch: Shocking images of civilian killings in Ukraine's Bucha surfaces "We will never forget and we will never forgive," he added. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky called Russian troops "murderers, torturers, rapists, looters" after bodies of civilians were reportedly found near Kyiv. Also Read in Pics: Why Russia's missiles in Ukraine are failing to hit the target "I want every mother of every Russian soldier to see the bodies of the killed people in Bucha, in Irpin, in Hostomel," President Zelensky said, adding, "I want all the leaders of the Russian Federation to see how their orders are being fulfilled." (With inputs from Agencies)

Russian troops selling 'looted' goods in Belarus bazaar, alleges Ukraine

As the US defence department announced it will be sending $300 million in "security assistance" to Ukraine, a US defence official claimed Russian troops had likely "abandoned Hostomel airfield", however, Kyiv is still under artillery fire and airstrikes.

Ukrainian officials said some Russian troops were still in the Chernobyl nuclear power station "exclusion zone" after most troops left the area.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-war-what-panzerfaust-3-weapons-can-do-against-russian-tanks-466330">Also Read in Pics |&nbsp;Ukraine war: What Panzerfaust 3 weapons can do against Russian tanks</a>

Russian forces had occupied the Chernobyl power plant on February 24 as President Putin announced a "special military operation" against Ukraine.

"Russia behaved irresponsibly in Chernobyl on all accounts, from not allowing personnel of the station to perform their functions to digging trenches in the contaminated areas," Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said while informing that his country will work with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to find out what Russians troops did during the occupation of the nuclear site.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine conflict rages on as Moscow reports air raids on Russian soil

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-rages-on-as-moscow-reports-air-raids-on-russian-soil-467585/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, the US said it was cancelling its planned intercontinental ballistic missile test even as Russia accused Ukraine of attacking a fuel depot in the border city of Belgorod. However, Ukraine hasn't confirmed the airstrike on Russian soil.

As the fighting continued in&nbsp;Mariupol, reports claimed several people were pulled out in buses. Ukraine said over 3,000 people were evacuated from Mariupol which has witnessed increased Russian bombardment with food, electricity and water running low in the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-russias-missiles-in-ukraine-are-failing-to-hit-the-target-465689">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Why Russia's missiles in Ukraine are failing to hit the target</a>

Local authorities say at least 5,000 people have been killed in Mariupol as the Red Cross said it would be sending a team to conduct more evacuations.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As the US defence department announced it will be sending $300 million in "security assistance" to Ukraine, a US defence official claimed Russian troops had likely "abandoned Hostomel airfield", however, Kyiv is still under artillery fire and airstrikes.

As the US defence department announced it will be sending $300 million in "security assistance" to Ukraine, a US defence official claimed Russian troops had likely "abandoned Hostomel airfield", however, Kyiv is still under artillery fire and airstrikes. Ukrainian officials said some Russian troops were still in the Chernobyl nuclear power station "exclusion zone" after most troops left the area. Also Read in Pics | Ukraine war: What Panzerfaust 3 weapons can do against Russian tanks Russian forces had occupied the Chernobyl power plant on February 24 as President Putin announced a "special military operation" against Ukraine. "Russia behaved irresponsibly in Chernobyl on all accounts, from not allowing personnel of the station to perform their functions to digging trenches in the contaminated areas," Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said while informing that his country will work with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to find out what Russians troops did during the occupation of the nuclear site. Watch: Ukraine conflict rages on as Moscow reports air raids on Russian soil Meanwhile, the US said it was cancelling its planned intercontinental ballistic missile test even as Russia accused Ukraine of attacking a fuel depot in the border city of Belgorod. However, Ukraine hasn't confirmed the airstrike on Russian soil. As the fighting continued in Mariupol, reports claimed several people were pulled out in buses. Ukraine said over 3,000 people were evacuated from Mariupol which has witnessed increased Russian bombardment with food, electricity and water running low in the city. Also Read in Pics: Why Russia's missiles in Ukraine are failing to hit the target Local authorities say at least 5,000 people have been killed in Mariupol as the Red Cross said it would be sending a team to conduct more evacuations. (With inputs from Agencies)

Some Russian troops still in Chernobyl 'exclusion zone': Ukraine

As&nbsp;Russian troops continue&nbsp;their war in Ukraine, the country's defence ministry said Russian troops were on "partial retreat" from the north of Kyiv.

Earlier this week, Russia had said it would be scaling back operations around Kyiv and Chernihiv located in northern Ukraine during peace negotiations in Istanbul, however, reports claim fighting continues in some areas.

Ukraine President Zelensky in a video message said Russian troops were making a “slow but noticeable” withdrawal&nbsp;from northern areas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/multiple-launches-russia-fires-kinzhal-dagger-hypersonic-missiles-in-ukraine-war-467136">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;'Multiple launches': Russia fires Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missiles in Ukraine war</a>

“We are moving forward, moving carefully,” Zelensky added however the Ukraine president said the situation in the east remained “extremely difficult” as Russian troops were "preparing for new powerful blows".

“I emphasise again, hard battles lie ahead. We cannot think we have already passed all the tests," Ukraine's president warned.

President Volodymyr Zelensky's political adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said: "Our troops are chasing them both to the northwest and northeast (of Kyiv), pushing the enemy away from Kyiv."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia praises India's neutrality on Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-russia-praises-indias-neutrality-on-ukraine-467544/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Arestovych added that Russia was in fact carrying out troop rotation and sending its forces to eastern Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Kyiv's mayor Vitaliy Klitschko added that Russian and Ukrainian forces were battling in the northern and eastern sections of the capital.

"The risk of dying is pretty high, and that's why my advice to anyone who wants to come back is: Please, take a little bit more time," Klitschko said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-tactical-nuclear-weapons-arsenal-will-putin-use-it-466893">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's tactical nuclear weapons arsenal: Will Putin use it?</a>

Chernihiv governor &nbsp;Viacheslav Chaus said some Russian troops had withdrawn even as Mariupol continues to experience bombardment.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As Russian troops continue their war in Ukraine, the country's defence ministry said Russian troops were on "partial retreat" from the north of Kyiv. Earlier this week, Russia had said it would be scaling back operations around Kyiv and Chernihiv located in northern Ukraine during peace negotiations in Istanbul, however, reports claim fighting continues in some areas.

As Russian troops continue their war in Ukraine, the country's defence ministry said Russian troops were on "partial retreat" from the north of Kyiv. Earlier this week, Russia had said it would be scaling back operations around Kyiv and Chernihiv located in northern Ukraine during peace negotiations in Istanbul, however, reports claim fighting continues in some areas. Ukraine President Zelensky in a video message said Russian troops were making a “slow but noticeable” withdrawal from northern areas. Also Read in Pics: 'Multiple launches': Russia fires Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missiles in Ukraine war “We are moving forward, moving carefully,” Zelensky added however the Ukraine president said the situation in the east remained “extremely difficult” as Russian troops were "preparing for new powerful blows". “I emphasise again, hard battles lie ahead. We cannot think we have already passed all the tests," Ukraine's president warned. President Volodymyr Zelensky's political adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said: "Our troops are chasing them both to the northwest and northeast (of Kyiv), pushing the enemy away from Kyiv." Watch | Gravitas: Russia praises India's neutrality on Ukraine Arestovych added that Russia was in fact carrying out troop rotation and sending its forces to eastern Ukraine. Meanwhile, Kyiv's mayor Vitaliy Klitschko added that Russian and Ukrainian forces were battling in the northern and eastern sections of the capital. "The risk of dying is pretty high, and that's why my advice to anyone who wants to come back is: Please, take a little bit more time," Klitschko said. Also Read in Pics: Russia's tactical nuclear weapons arsenal: Will Putin use it? Chernihiv governor Viacheslav Chaus said some Russian troops had withdrawn even as Mariupol continues to experience bombardment. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia making 'slow but noticeable' withdrawal from northern areas: President Zelensky

According to reports, China had launched cyberattacks on Ukraine before the Russian invasion.

Reports claim the cyberattacks were targeted at Ukraine's military and nuclear targets. The attacks were reportedly directed against Ukraine's defence ministry with 600 websites being targeted.

The Times of London quoting Ukraine's security service said other institutions including the national bank and railway network were also targeted in the hacking attempt by China.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-tactical-nuclear-weapons-arsenal-will-putin-use-it-466893">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia's tactical nuclear weapons arsenal: Will Putin use it?</a>

The Chinese cyberattacks were apparently carried out before the Winter Olympics in Beijing and peaked a day before the invasion on February 23. Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered a "special military operation" against Ukraine on February 24.

President Biden had warned China against providing support to Russia amid the Ukraine invasion. During a phone call to President Xi, Biden had said there would be "consequences" if China aided Russia during the war.

China has taken a neutral stance on the Ukraine war while calling for "restraint" and de-escalation. Before the invasion, Ukraine had blamed Russia for a series of cyberattacks accusing it of targeting its official websites.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict rages on as Moscow reports air raids on Russian 

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-rages-on-as-moscow-reports-air-raids-on-russian-soil-467585/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Last month President Biden had warned that US companies should protect themselves against possible Russian cyberattacks as Kremlin hit out against the US president's accusations.

In January, over a month before the invasion, Ukraine had said Russian hackers had downed 70 government websites including a website which stored personal vaccination data and certificates. The Ukrainian officials moved to quickly restore the sites. Ukraine's security service had said it had neutralised over 1,000 cyberattacks last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-using-phosphorus-bombs-in-ukraine-incendiary-weapons-its-use-466629">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Is Russia using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine?</a>

Russian deputy foreign minister Oleg Syromolotov called it "absurd" and added that it was an attempt to spread "dangerous gratuitous accusations"

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to reports, China had launched cyberattacks on Ukraine before the Russian invasion. Reports claim the cyberattacks were targeted at Ukraine's military and nuclear targets.

According to reports, China had launched cyberattacks on Ukraine before the Russian invasion. Reports claim the cyberattacks were targeted at Ukraine's military and nuclear targets. The attacks were reportedly directed against Ukraine's defence ministry with 600 websites being targeted. The Times of London quoting Ukraine's security service said other institutions including the national bank and railway network were also targeted in the hacking attempt by China. Also Read in Pics: Russia's tactical nuclear weapons arsenal: Will Putin use it? The Chinese cyberattacks were apparently carried out before the Winter Olympics in Beijing and peaked a day before the invasion on February 23. Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered a "special military operation" against Ukraine on February 24. President Biden had warned China against providing support to Russia amid the Ukraine invasion. During a phone call to President Xi, Biden had said there would be "consequences" if China aided Russia during the war. China has taken a neutral stance on the Ukraine war while calling for "restraint" and de-escalation. Before the invasion, Ukraine had blamed Russia for a series of cyberattacks accusing it of targeting its official websites. Watch: Russia-Ukraine conflict rages on as Moscow reports air raids on Russian Last month President Biden had warned that US companies should protect themselves against possible Russian cyberattacks as Kremlin hit out against the US president's accusations. In January, over a month before the invasion, Ukraine had said Russian hackers had downed 70 government websites including a website which stored personal vaccination data and certificates. The Ukrainian officials moved to quickly restore the sites. Ukraine's security service had said it had neutralised over 1,000 cyberattacks last year. Also Read in Pics: Is Russia using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine? Russian deputy foreign minister Oleg Syromolotov called it "absurd" and added that it was an attempt to spread "dangerous gratuitous accusations" (With inputs from Agencies)

China launched cyberattack against Ukraine before Russian invasion: Report

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion.

Svitolina, who has been outspoken in support of Ukraine amid the invasion, has competed at the Monterrey Open, Indian Wells and the Miami Open in recent weeks.

She lost in the opening round at Indian Wells and Miami, but reached the Monterrey Open quarter-finals and pledged to donate her prize money from the tournament to the Ukrainian army.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-rohan-bopanna-denis-shapovalov-pair-stuns-croatias-nikola-mektic-mate-pavic-to-enter-quarters-466464">Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters</a>

Russia calls its actions a "special military operation".

"It's been an extremely difficult couple of months for me, not only mentally but also physically," Svitolina wrote on Twitter. "For a quite long time I've been struggling with my back. 
 
"The pain didn't let me prepare for the tournaments at my best. Observing with unbearable pain in my heart what is happening in my homeland Ukraine ... gave me a huge push to continue and fight on court.

"Now, my body can't handle it anymore and I need to rest."

Svitolina added that she would also miss some of her "favourite" tournaments in Europe, but did not provide any other details.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-daniil-medvedev-outclasses-pedro-martinez-to-reach-last-16-naomi-osaka-storms-into-quarter-finals-466590">Miami Open: Daniil Medvedev outclasses Pedro Martinez to reach last 16, Naomi Osaka storms into quarter-finals</a>

Ukraine will take on the United States in a best-of-five qualifier in the Billie Jean King tournament formerly known as the Fed Cup on April 15-16.

The tie will be played at an indoor hard court venue in Asheville, North Carolina.

The winners will qualify for the 2022 Finals, scheduled to be held in November.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion. Svitolina, who has been outspoken in support of Ukraine amid the invasion, has competed at the Monterrey Open, Indian Wells and the Miami Open in recent weeks. She lost in the opening round at Indian Wells and Miami, but reached the Monterrey Open quarter-finals and pledged to donate her prize money from the tournament to the Ukrainian army. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters Russia calls its actions a "special military operation". "It's been an extremely difficult couple of months for me, not only mentally but also physically," Svitolina wrote on Twitter. "For a quite long time I've been struggling with my back. "The pain didn't let me prepare for the tournaments at my best. Observing with unbearable pain in my heart what is happening in my homeland Ukraine ... gave me a huge push to continue and fight on court. "Now, my body can't handle it anymore and I need to rest." Svitolina added that she would also miss some of her "favourite" tournaments in Europe, but did not provide any other details. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Daniil Medvedev outclasses Pedro Martinez to reach last 16, Naomi Osaka storms into quarter-finals Ukraine will take on the United States in a best-of-five qualifier in the Billie Jean King tournament formerly known as the Fed Cup on April 15-16. The tie will be played at an indoor hard court venue in Asheville, North Carolina. The winners will qualify for the 2022 Finals, scheduled to be held in November.

Elina Svitolina aggravates back injury after battling to represent Ukraine amid Russia's invasion

For three weeks, 13-year-old Sofia has been stuck in bed in the basement of a hospital in the southern Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Mykolaiv&nbsp;undergoing three operations that have still not removed all the shrapnel from her skull.&nbsp;

Yet, she's still smiling, dreaming of playing the guitar and one day becoming a painter.

After&nbsp;some terrible weeks in which the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;army has tried -- in vain -- to blow up this strategic city, the&nbsp;threat&nbsp;in the last few days seems to have eased a bit.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-world-cannot-burn-bridges-with-moscow-465999">&nbsp;Turkey says world cannot 'burn bridges' with Moscow</a>

The frontline has even moved back slightly&nbsp;after&nbsp;Ukrainian forces launched a counter-offensive in Kherson, about 80 kilometres (50 miles) to the southeast, the country's only major city seized by&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;troops.

Mykolaiv&nbsp;is a key city on the road to Odessa, Ukraine's biggest port.

While dozens of&nbsp;residents, including many children, are leaving the city on yellow coaches every morning headed west, others are beginning to&nbsp;hope&nbsp;for a return to an almost normal life.

"The weather is beautiful," said the regional governor, Vitaly Kim, in one of the videos on social media that has made him popular since the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;invasion. "And without strikes, it would be even more so."

At the weekend, the air raid sirens no longer disturb onlookers, who are more and more on the streets. Most barely hurry when they hear them.

It was one of these strikes on March 5 on a village near&nbsp;Mykolaiv&nbsp;that led Sofia to the basement of the paediatric hospital from which she dreams of leaving soon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leading-energy-analyst-says-russian-gas-sales-to-china-will-not-make-up-for-loss-of-european-markets-465956">Leading energy analyst says Russian gas sales to China 'will not make up for loss of European markets'</a>

"She received shrapnel to the head, some of which have not yet been able to be removed," says her mother, Ludmila, at the teenager's bedside where Sofia lies under a colourful blanket with a big white teddy bear for a companion.

"Now I can move my arms and legs a little, I still can't get up without my mother's help, but hopefully I can leave soon," says a stoic Sofia, with bandages on her hands and on her head in the neurosurgery department, demarcated by sheets hung on a wire with clothes pegs.

Situation has stabilised

"She has already undergone several operations, but the pieces are still there. Her life is no longer in danger, but it could harm her health, so that's why we are preparing to operate again," says Irina Tkachenko, a medical officer at the hospital.

"I know that I must not let myself go, otherwise I will crack," says Ludmila, who pushes back tears before recovering, a little reassured by the courage shown by her daughter.

"I want to make a guitar to learn to play," Sofia says, "since my little brother broke mine". "But we'll buy you one," her mother gently promises her.

"I dream of being an artist, I studied painting for a semester," Sofia continues, adding: "I want to be a famous painter and live from my art."

On the other side of the sheet is Micha, five, who lost his mother in a bombing. With his head wrapped in a thick bandage, he gets up from his cluttered bed to let his grandparents help him get dressed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-i-was-the-us-president-id-threaten-to-drop-a-nuclear-bomb-on-russia-trump-465947">If I was the US President, I’d threaten to drop a nuclear bomb on Russia: Trump</a>

"We turned our basement into a shelter, divided into sections for neurosurgery, surgery, traumatology and neonatology," Tkachenko says.

"At the height of war, when we were attacked by fascists -- there is no other word -- we had 12 children admitted with injuries of varying severity," says the hospital's chief doctor, Alexander Plitkin, "as well as two we could not save".

"Now the situation has stabilised a bit," he adds.

In another sign of respite, the governor eased restrictions on the sale of alcohol by allowing it on weekends but warned the limits would be reinstated in the event of excess.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine under attack: Russians come out in support of Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-under-attack-russians-come-out-in-support-of-ukraine-465987/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For three weeks, 13-year-old Sofia has been stuck in bed in the basement of a hospital in the southern Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv undergoing three operations that have still not removed all the shrapnel from her skull.

For three weeks, 13-year-old Sofia has been stuck in bed in the basement of a hospital in the southern Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv undergoing three operations that have still not removed all the shrapnel from her skull. Yet, she's still smiling, dreaming of playing the guitar and one day becoming a painter. After some terrible weeks in which the Russian army has tried -- in vain -- to blow up this strategic city, the threat in the last few days seems to have eased a bit. Also read | Turkey says world cannot 'burn bridges' with Moscow The frontline has even moved back slightly after Ukrainian forces launched a counter-offensive in Kherson, about 80 kilometres (50 miles) to the southeast, the country's only major city seized by Russian troops. Mykolaiv is a key city on the road to Odessa, Ukraine's biggest port. While dozens of residents, including many children, are leaving the city on yellow coaches every morning headed west, others are beginning to hope for a return to an almost normal life. "The weather is beautiful," said the regional governor, Vitaly Kim, in one of the videos on social media that has made him popular since the Russian invasion. "And without strikes, it would be even more so." At the weekend, the air raid sirens no longer disturb onlookers, who are more and more on the streets. Most barely hurry when they hear them. It was one of these strikes on March 5 on a village near Mykolaiv that led Sofia to the basement of the paediatric hospital from which she dreams of leaving soon. Also read | Leading energy analyst says Russian gas sales to China 'will not make up for loss of European markets' "She received shrapnel to the head, some of which have not yet been able to be removed," says her mother, Ludmila, at the teenager's bedside where Sofia lies under a colourful blanket with a big white teddy bear for a companion. "Now I can move my arms and legs a little, I still can't get up without my mother's help, but hopefully I can leave soon," says a stoic Sofia, with bandages on her hands and on her head in the neurosurgery department, demarcated by sheets hung on a wire with clothes pegs. Situation has stabilised "She has already undergone several operations, but the pieces are still there. Her life is no longer in danger, but it could harm her health, so that's why we are preparing to operate again," says Irina Tkachenko, a medical officer at the hospital. "I know that I must not let myself go, otherwise I will crack," says Ludmila, who pushes back tears before recovering, a little reassured by the courage shown by her daughter. "I want to make a guitar to learn to play," Sofia says, "since my little brother broke mine". "But we'll buy you one," her mother gently promises her. "I dream of being an artist, I studied painting for a semester," Sofia continues, adding: "I want to be a famous painter and live from my art." On the other side of the sheet is Micha, five, who lost his mother in a bombing. With his head wrapped in a thick bandage, he gets up from his cluttered bed to let his grandparents help him get dressed. Also read | If I was the US President, I’d threaten to drop a nuclear bomb on Russia: Trump "We turned our basement into a shelter, divided into sections for neurosurgery, surgery, traumatology and neonatology," Tkachenko says. "At the height of war, when we were attacked by fascists -- there is no other word -- we had 12 children admitted with injuries of varying severity," says the hospital's chief doctor, Alexander Plitkin, "as well as two we could not save". "Now the situation has stabilised a bit," he adds. In another sign of respite, the governor eased restrictions on the sale of alcohol by allowing it on weekends but warned the limits would be reinstated in the event of excess. Watch | Ukraine under attack: Russians come out in support of Ukraine

Mykolaiv residents dare to hope after Russian threat eases

A semi-professional female soccer team which fled war in Ukraine has found a new training ground and shelter at the German Bundesliga club- 1. FC Cologne.

Ukrainian Female Footballers have found a new training ground

Three&nbsp;Panamanian-flagged&nbsp;ships&nbsp;have been&nbsp;hit&nbsp;by&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;in the Black Sea since Russia's invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;last month,&nbsp;Panama's Maritime Authority said on Wednesday.

One ship sank, the maritime authority said in a statement, but there were no casualties reported. The two others remain afloat with damages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tv-comedy-that-launched-zelensky-to-presidency-back-on-netflix-463038">TV comedy that launched Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;to presidency back on Netflix</a>

"We know that we had&nbsp;three&nbsp;ships&nbsp;that were attacked by&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;missiles&nbsp;but the crew is all safe, we had material damage," said Noriel Arauz, the administrator of the&nbsp;Panama&nbsp;Maritime Authority (AMP).

The&nbsp;three&nbsp;affected&nbsp;ships&nbsp;were Namura Queen, Lord Nelson and Helt. The AMP did not give the dates of when the&nbsp;ships&nbsp;were&nbsp;hit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-us-theatres-to-play-ukrainian-film-the-guide-to-aid-relief-efforts-for-war-stricken-country-463040">US theatres to play Ukrainian film 'The Guide' to aid relief efforts for war-stricken country</a>

At least 10 other flag-bearing&nbsp;ships&nbsp;are still in the&nbsp;Black&nbsp;Sea, Arauz said, adding the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;navy is restricting&nbsp;ships&nbsp;from leaving the area.

Panama&nbsp;has the largest registry of flagged&nbsp;ships&nbsp;in the world, exceeding 8,000 vessels, according to the AMP.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: How rich is Vladimir Putin?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-rich-is-vladimir-putin-462986/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Three Panamanian-flagged ships have been hit by Russian missiles in the Black Sea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine last month, Panama's Maritime Authority said on Wednesday.

Three Panamanian-flagged ships have been hit by Russian missiles in the Black Sea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine last month, Panama's Maritime Authority said on Wednesday. One ship sank, the maritime authority said in a statement, but there were no casualties reported. The two others remain afloat with damages. Also read | TV comedy that launched Volodymyr Zelensky to presidency back on Netflix "We know that we had three ships that were attacked by Russian missiles but the crew is all safe, we had material damage," said Noriel Arauz, the administrator of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP). The three affected ships were Namura Queen, Lord Nelson and Helt. The AMP did not give the dates of when the ships were hit. Also read | US theatres to play Ukrainian film 'The Guide' to aid relief efforts for war-stricken country At least 10 other flag-bearing ships are still in the Black Sea, Arauz said, adding the Russian navy is restricting ships from leaving the area. Panama has the largest registry of flagged ships in the world, exceeding 8,000 vessels, according to the AMP. Watch | Gravitas: How rich is Vladimir Putin?

Panama says three ships hit by Russian missiles in Black Sea since start of Ukraine invasion

In 2013 he achieved one of the great shocks in tennis history, knocking defending champion Roger Federer out of Wimbledon.

Today, the Ukranian player Sergiy Stakhovsky is a volunteer fighter on a military patrol in Kyiv, which he vows to defend "to the end" against Russian forces.

Now 36, he looks much the same as the journeyman player ranked 116 in the world who lay stretched out in his tennis whites on the hallowed London turf after toppling Federer in the second round nine years ago.

But his outfit now could not be more different as he patrols Maidan Square, symbol of Ukraine's "fight for democracy", armed with a Kalashnikov, a pistol in his belt and his 1.93 metre (6 ft 4 in) frame dressed in khaki camouflage.

"I cannot say that I feel comfortable around a rifle. I am not sure how I am going to react to shooting at somebody," he tells AFP. "I wish I would never have to be preoccupied with these things."

It's been just over two weeks since he returned to Ukraine and signed up for the territorial brigade, the volunteers tasked with helping the army against the Russian invasion launched on February 24.

"I knew I had to go there", he says.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-gujarat-titans-skipper-hardik-pandya-fit-to-play-prithvi-shaw-fails-yo-yo-test-463066">IPL 2022: Gujarat Titans skipper Hardik Pandya fit to play, Delhi Capitals' Prithvi Shaw fails Yo-Yo Test</a>

"Despair"

On the eve of the invasion Stakhovsky was on holiday in Dubai with his wife and three children aged four, six and eight, having hung up his racquet as a professional player in January after the Australian Open.

The next day, after seeing the television images of Russian bombs falling on his homeland, he says he was plunged into a mixture of "despair" and "misery".

Much of his family still lived in Ukraine. He spent the next three days at the hotel in a blur as he tried to get information about the situation on the ground, to find shelter for people

"I was full of adrenaline, I slept three or four hours (overall), I didn't eat".

He then told his wife he had decided to go back.

"My wife was really upset, I mean, she knew, she understood but she was really upset," he said. But "now she understands that I couldn't really do it other way".

The heartbreaking decision torments him every time he thinks of his family.

"Leaving the kids is not something I'm proud of," he says.

"My kids don't know that I'm here, well, they know that I'm not at home, but they don't know what war is and I'm trying to not get them involved. I told them I'd be right back, it's been 15 days now... And God knows how many more it's going to be".

Like all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60, Stakhovsky is eligible for call-up by the army and cannot leave the country when the country is at war.

He says that he finds the strength to go because of his countrymen, whom he has seen sign up "in their thousands".

"If we don't stand up, we don't have a country to live in," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-simona-halep-registers-clinical-win-over-petra-martic-iga-swiatek-storms-into-semifinal-463092">Indian Wells: Simona Halep registers clinical win over Petra Martic, Iga Swiatek storms into semifinal</a>

Federer hopes for peace

The former tennis pro now carries out two patrols a day lasting two hours each to guard the centre of Kyiv from possible infiltrations, particularly around the palace of President Volodymyr Zelensky, the hero of the resistance against Moscow.

"Listen, I am here on foot patrolling," he said, adding of Zelensky that he was "remarkably brave and knows what he's doing, and we all believe he knows what he's doing."

People from "India to South America" have sent thousands of messages of support and asking how they can help Ukraine, says Stakhovsky.

Among those are "hundreds" of professional tennis players who have not forgotten their former colleague, who rose to a world ranking of 31 in 2010 and was an unofficial spokesman for junior players.

Tennis legends have also offered their support -- including the man he stunned at Wimbledon, Roger Federer himself.

"He said that he wishes that there will be peace soon," said the Ukranian, adding that Federer and his wife were trying to help Ukranian children through their foundation.

One message that particularly touched him came from Serbian world number two Novak Djokovic.

"He lived through this when he was young so he knows exactly what our kids are going through. So from him that message is, I would say, more heavy in terms of meaning."

As the Russians close in on Kyiv there are fears it could face the same fate as destroyed cities like Kharkiv and Mariupol.

"That's disturbing", he said, because "they don't care whether they're going to kill a child or military personel, they just don't care".

In 2013 he achieved one of the great shocks in tennis history, knocking defending champion Roger Federer out of Wimbledon. Today, the Ukranian player Sergiy Stakhovsky is a volunteer fighter on a military patrol in Kyiv, which he vows to defend "to the end" against Russian forces.

In 2013 he achieved one of the great shocks in tennis history, knocking defending champion Roger Federer out of Wimbledon. Today, the Ukranian player Sergiy Stakhovsky is a volunteer fighter on a military patrol in Kyiv, which he vows to defend "to the end" against Russian forces. Now 36, he looks much the same as the journeyman player ranked 116 in the world who lay stretched out in his tennis whites on the hallowed London turf after toppling Federer in the second round nine years ago. But his outfit now could not be more different as he patrols Maidan Square, symbol of Ukraine's "fight for democracy", armed with a Kalashnikov, a pistol in his belt and his 1.93 metre (6 ft 4 in) frame dressed in khaki camouflage. "I cannot say that I feel comfortable around a rifle. I am not sure how I am going to react to shooting at somebody," he tells AFP. "I wish I would never have to be preoccupied with these things." It's been just over two weeks since he returned to Ukraine and signed up for the territorial brigade, the volunteers tasked with helping the army against the Russian invasion launched on February 24. "I knew I had to go there", he says. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Gujarat Titans skipper Hardik Pandya fit to play, Delhi Capitals' Prithvi Shaw fails Yo-Yo Test "Despair" On the eve of the invasion Stakhovsky was on holiday in Dubai with his wife and three children aged four, six and eight, having hung up his racquet as a professional player in January after the Australian Open. The next day, after seeing the television images of Russian bombs falling on his homeland, he says he was plunged into a mixture of "despair" and "misery". Much of his family still lived in Ukraine. He spent the next three days at the hotel in a blur as he tried to get information about the situation on the ground, to find shelter for people "I was full of adrenaline, I slept three or four hours (overall), I didn't eat". He then told his wife he had decided to go back. "My wife was really upset, I mean, she knew, she understood but she was really upset," he said. But "now she understands that I couldn't really do it other way". The heartbreaking decision torments him every time he thinks of his family. "Leaving the kids is not something I'm proud of," he says. "My kids don't know that I'm here, well, they know that I'm not at home, but they don't know what war is and I'm trying to not get them involved. I told them I'd be right back, it's been 15 days now... And God knows how many more it's going to be". Like all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60, Stakhovsky is eligible for call-up by the army and cannot leave the country when the country is at war. He says that he finds the strength to go because of his countrymen, whom he has seen sign up "in their thousands". "If we don't stand up, we don't have a country to live in," he said. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Simona Halep registers clinical win over Petra Martic, Iga Swiatek storms into semifinal Federer hopes for peace The former tennis pro now carries out two patrols a day lasting two hours each to guard the centre of Kyiv from possible infiltrations, particularly around the palace of President Volodymyr Zelensky, the hero of the resistance against Moscow. "Listen, I am here on foot patrolling," he said, adding of Zelensky that he was "remarkably brave and knows what he's doing, and we all believe he knows what he's doing." People from "India to South America" have sent thousands of messages of support and asking how they can help Ukraine, says Stakhovsky. Among those are "hundreds" of professional tennis players who have not forgotten their former colleague, who rose to a world ranking of 31 in 2010 and was an unofficial spokesman for junior players. Tennis legends have also offered their support -- including the man he stunned at Wimbledon, Roger Federer himself. "He said that he wishes that there will be peace soon," said the Ukranian, adding that Federer and his wife were trying to help Ukranian children through their foundation. One message that particularly touched him came from Serbian world number two Novak Djokovic. "He lived through this when he was young so he knows exactly what our kids are going through. So from him that message is, I would say, more heavy in terms of meaning." As the Russians close in on Kyiv there are fears it could face the same fate as destroyed cities like Kharkiv and Mariupol. "That's disturbing", he said, because "they don't care whether they're going to kill a child or military personel, they just don't care".

Tennis player Sergiy Stakhovsky swaps racket for rifle, joins Ukraine army amid Russian invasion

After bolting to Ukraine to escape political persecution in her native Belarus, Olympic swimmer Aliaksandra Herasimenia never thought she would again be forced to flee, this time to save her family from Russian attack.

Herasimenia, a three-time Olympic medallist, found herself among thousands of Ukrainians massing at the border with Poland as Russian troops advanced on Kyiv.

On the second day of the Russian invasion last month, Herasimenia and her husband, Olympic swimmer Yauhen Tsurkin, scrambled to pack some belongings and set off on a 12-hour car ride to the Polish border with their young daughter and Herasimenia's mother.

With explosions resounding in the background as they inched along congested roads, Herasimenia reassured her three-and-a-half-year-old daughter, telling her it was only thunder.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-win-at-old-trafford-to-knock-out-cristiano-ronaldo-starrer-manchester-united-462773">Atletico Madrid win at Old Trafford to knock out Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer Manchester United</a>

"Of course I had to make something up because how do you explain to a child that war has started?" Herasimenia, who is now in Warsaw with her family, told Reuters.

Herasimenia was among the elite athletes who fled Belarus in the wake of a crackdown against those who protested what they said was the fraudulent re-election of Alexander Lukashenko in August 2020.

Lukashenko, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has denied any wrongdoing.

Russia has used Belarusian territory to launch a multi-pronged invasion of Ukraine, where many Belarusians settled after escaping persecution at home. Moscow says it is conducting a "special military operation" to disarm and "denazify" Ukraine.

"We've been running for a long time," said Herasimenia, whose family waited for nearly a day and a half at Ukraine's border with Poland.

"Those who left were the best of Belarusian society, those who were against what happened after the election, those who spoke out against the violence and expressed their position."

'FIGHTING FOR FREEDOM'

Herasimenia heads the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation, a group that supports athletes who have been jailed or otherwise punished for their political views.

These include Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, a sprinter who defected at the Tokyo Olympics last year after being removed from the Games against her will by coaches.

Following a recommendation by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), several international sports federations have barred both Russian and Belarusian athletes from taking part in international events because of the invasion of Ukraine.

The foundation has backed the decision to ban Belarusian athletes but says it supports efforts by those who voiced opposition to Lukashenko to compete independently.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chicago-cubs-owners-teams-up-with-citadel-founder-ken-griffin-to-bid-for-chelsea-football-club-462943">Chicago Cubs owners teams up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to bid for Chelsea Football Club</a>

It is also determined to fight discrimination against Belarusians now that their country is viewed an "aggressor" by the public in many Western countries, Herasimenia said.

"A year and a half ago, we were the ones who were fighting for our rights, our freedom," said Herasimenia, who won silver in both the 100m and 50m freestyle at the 2012 London Games, and bronze in the 50m freestyle at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

"We called on the Europeans, Americans and everyone in Ukraine for help.

We warned that Lukashenko was very dangerous.

"It's as if this never happened... No difference is being made between those who support Lukashenko and those who fought against him."

After bolting to Ukraine to escape political persecution in her native Belarus, Olympic swimmer Aliaksandra Herasimenia never thought she would again be forced to flee, this time to save her family from Russian attack.

After bolting to Ukraine to escape political persecution in her native Belarus, Olympic swimmer Aliaksandra Herasimenia never thought she would again be forced to flee, this time to save her family from Russian attack. Herasimenia, a three-time Olympic medallist, found herself among thousands of Ukrainians massing at the border with Poland as Russian troops advanced on Kyiv. On the second day of the Russian invasion last month, Herasimenia and her husband, Olympic swimmer Yauhen Tsurkin, scrambled to pack some belongings and set off on a 12-hour car ride to the Polish border with their young daughter and Herasimenia's mother. With explosions resounding in the background as they inched along congested roads, Herasimenia reassured her three-and-a-half-year-old daughter, telling her it was only thunder. ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid win at Old Trafford to knock out Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer Manchester United "Of course I had to make something up because how do you explain to a child that war has started?" Herasimenia, who is now in Warsaw with her family, told Reuters. Herasimenia was among the elite athletes who fled Belarus in the wake of a crackdown against those who protested what they said was the fraudulent re-election of Alexander Lukashenko in August 2020. Lukashenko, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has denied any wrongdoing. Russia has used Belarusian territory to launch a multi-pronged invasion of Ukraine, where many Belarusians settled after escaping persecution at home. Moscow says it is conducting a "special military operation" to disarm and "denazify" Ukraine. "We've been running for a long time," said Herasimenia, whose family waited for nearly a day and a half at Ukraine's border with Poland. "Those who left were the best of Belarusian society, those who were against what happened after the election, those who spoke out against the violence and expressed their position." 'FIGHTING FOR FREEDOM' Herasimenia heads the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation, a group that supports athletes who have been jailed or otherwise punished for their political views. These include Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, a sprinter who defected at the Tokyo Olympics last year after being removed from the Games against her will by coaches. Following a recommendation by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), several international sports federations have barred both Russian and Belarusian athletes from taking part in international events because of the invasion of Ukraine. The foundation has backed the decision to ban Belarusian athletes but says it supports efforts by those who voiced opposition to Lukashenko to compete independently. ALSO READ: Chicago Cubs owners teams up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to bid for Chelsea Football Club It is also determined to fight discrimination against Belarusians now that their country is viewed an "aggressor" by the public in many Western countries, Herasimenia said. "A year and a half ago, we were the ones who were fighting for our rights, our freedom," said Herasimenia, who won silver in both the 100m and 50m freestyle at the 2012 London Games, and bronze in the 50m freestyle at the 2016 Rio Olympics. "We called on the Europeans, Americans and everyone in Ukraine for help. We warned that Lukashenko was very dangerous. "It's as if this never happened... No difference is being made between those who support Lukashenko and those who fought against him."

Olympic medallist Aliaksandra Herasimenia, who fled Belarus, forced into exile again as Ukraine attacked

Spanish club Real Madrid will donate one million euros ($1.10 million) to help those displaced in Ukraine following Russia`s invasion, the LaLiga leaders said on Wednesday.

Real said the funds would be donated to the Red Cross, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other organisations working on the ground in Ukraine.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-win-at-old-trafford-to-knock-out-cristiano-ronaldo-starrer-manchester-united-462773">Atletico Madrid win at Old Trafford to knock out Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer Manchester United</a>

The UNHCR said approximately 2.97 million refugees have so far fled Ukraine, roughly 7% of the country's population, since Russia's invasion began on Feb. 24.

Spanish club Real Madrid will donate one million euros ($1.10 million) to help those displaced in Ukraine following Russia`s invasion, the LaLiga leaders said on Wednesday.

Spanish club Real Madrid will donate one million euros ($1.10 million) to help those displaced in Ukraine following Russia`s invasion, the LaLiga leaders said on Wednesday. Real said the funds would be donated to the Red Cross, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other organisations working on the ground in Ukraine. ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid win at Old Trafford to knock out Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer Manchester United The UNHCR said approximately 2.97 million refugees have so far fled Ukraine, roughly 7% of the country's population, since Russia's invasion began on Feb. 24.

Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld UEFA's ban on Russian teams taking part in its competitions while CAS deliberates on the case, it said on Tuesday.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-will-continue-to-fight-hard-for-success-says-coach-thomas-tuchel-amid-roman-abramovich-crisis-462608">Chelsea will continue to fight hard for success, says coach Thomas Tuchel amid Roman Abramovich crisis</a>

The ruling only applies to UEFA competitions, with Russia still looking to overturn a FIFA ban that would allow them to take part in World Cup qualifying playoff matches scheduled for the end of this month.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld UEFA's ban on Russian teams taking part in its competitions while CAS deliberates on the case, it said on Tuesday.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld UEFA's ban on Russian teams taking part in its competitions while CAS deliberates on the case, it said on Tuesday. ALSO READ:Chelsea will continue to fight hard for success, says coach Thomas Tuchel amid Roman Abramovich crisis The ruling only applies to UEFA competitions, with Russia still looking to overturn a FIFA ban that would allow them to take part in World Cup qualifying playoff matches scheduled for the end of this month.

CAS upholds UEFA ban on Russian teams pending appeal

Ukraine says it has restored Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) four days after they were completely lost at the Russian-controlled site, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a statement.

The Director-General received the news from the head of Ukraine's nuclear power company Energoatom, Petro Kotin, who told him that the specialists had fixed one of two damaged lines and would now be able to deliver all required off-site power to the NPP, where various radioactive waste management facilities are located following the 1986 accident.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-not-for-free-says-zelensky-on-western-arms-sale-to-ukraine-462030">It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine</a>

Ukraine's regulator separately informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that the power supply line was restored at 18:38 CET by the repair personnel of Ukrenergo, the country's transmission system operator. The Chornobyl NPP continues to work on backup diesel generators and will be reconnected to the Ukrainian electricity grid in the morning, the statement said.

Earlier, the agency also informed that Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP which is also under the control of Russia is not in a position to deliver the necessary spare parts, equipment, and specialized personnel to carry out planned repairs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-nuclear-watchdog-no-longer-receiving-data-from-chernobyl-expresses-worry-about-the-130-trapped-workers-460404">UN nuclear watchdog no longer receiving data from Chernobyl, expresses worry about the 130 trapped workers</a>

While Ukraine is reporting all the problems related to Chornobyl NPP, indicating NPP is in danger, Russia on other hand, denied all Ukraine's claims that the Chernobyl NPP is in danger after being captured by Russian forces.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-russia-launch-a-chemical-attack-on-ukraine-461097/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On March 3, Ukraine informed the IAEA that Russian forces had taken the control of the site of the country`s Zaporizhzhia NPP.&nbsp;

Ukraine says it has restored Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) four days after they were completely lost at the Russian-controlled site, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a statement.

Ukraine says it has restored Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) four days after they were completely lost at the Russian-controlled site, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a statement. The Director-General received the news from the head of Ukraine's nuclear power company Energoatom, Petro Kotin, who told him that the specialists had fixed one of two damaged lines and would now be able to deliver all required off-site power to the NPP, where various radioactive waste management facilities are located following the 1986 accident. Also read | It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine Ukraine's regulator separately informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that the power supply line was restored at 18:38 CET by the repair personnel of Ukrenergo, the country's transmission system operator. The Chornobyl NPP continues to work on backup diesel generators and will be reconnected to the Ukrainian electricity grid in the morning, the statement said. Earlier, the agency also informed that Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP which is also under the control of Russia is not in a position to deliver the necessary spare parts, equipment, and specialized personnel to carry out planned repairs. Also read | UN nuclear watchdog no longer receiving data from Chernobyl, expresses worry about the 130 trapped workers While Ukraine is reporting all the problems related to Chornobyl NPP, indicating NPP is in danger, Russia on other hand, denied all Ukraine's claims that the Chernobyl NPP is in danger after being captured by Russian forces. Watch | Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine? On March 3, Ukraine informed the IAEA that Russian forces had taken the control of the site of the country`s Zaporizhzhia NPP.

Chernobyl Nuclear Plant restored: Ukraine tells IAEA

Russia&nbsp;said on Sunday that it was counting on&nbsp;China&nbsp;to help it withstand the blow to&nbsp;its&nbsp;economy from Western sanctions, which it said had&nbsp;frozen&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;half&nbsp;of&nbsp;its&nbsp;gold and foreign currency&nbsp;reserves.

“We have part of our gold and foreign exchange&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;in the Chinese currency, in yuan. And we see what pressure is being exerted by Western countries on&nbsp;China&nbsp;in order to limit mutual trade with&nbsp;China. Of course, there is pressure to limit access to those&nbsp;reserves," Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said.

"But I think that our partnership with&nbsp;China&nbsp;will still allow us to maintain the cooperation that we have achieved, and not only maintain, but also increase it in an environment where Western markets are closing."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-cafe-in-india-takes-russian-salad-off-its-menu-to-condemn-ukraine-invasion-461880">This cafe in India takes 'Russian Salad' off its menu to condemn Ukraine invasion</a>

Western countries have imposed unprecedented sanctions on&nbsp;Russia's corporate and financial system since it invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it calls a special military operation.

Siluanov's comments in a TV interview marked the clearest statement yet from Moscow that it will seek help from&nbsp;China&nbsp;to cushion the impact.

The two countries have tightened cooperation in recent times as both have come under strong Western pressure over human rights and a raft of other issues.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing on Feb. 4 and announced a strategic partnership they said was aimed at countering the influence of the United States, describing it as a friendship with no limits.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-conducts-airstrike-on-ukrainian-military-target-near-poland-9-dead-461872">Russia conducts airstrike on Ukrainian military target near Poland, 9 dead</a>

The sanctions on&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;have become one of the most painful measures for the&nbsp;Russian economy.

A month ago, Siluanov said&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;would be able to withstand sanctions thanks to abundant&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;and was even considering offering Eurobonds to foreign investors once the market volatility subsides.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: How China is benefitting

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-invasion-how-china-is-benefitting-461456/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Sunday he said the sanctions had&nbsp;frozen&nbsp;around $300 billion out of $640 billion that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;had in&nbsp;its&nbsp;gold and forex&nbsp;reserves.

Siluanov also said&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;will fulfil&nbsp;its&nbsp;state debt obligations and will pay roubles to&nbsp;its&nbsp;debt holders until the state&nbsp;reserves&nbsp;are unfrozen.

Russia said on Sunday that it was counting on China to help it withstand the blow to its economy from Western sanctions, which it said had frozen nearly half of its gold and foreign currency reserves.

Russia said on Sunday that it was counting on China to help it withstand the blow to its economy from Western sanctions, which it said had frozen nearly half of its gold and foreign currency reserves. “We have part of our gold and foreign exchange reserves in the Chinese currency, in yuan. And we see what pressure is being exerted by Western countries on China in order to limit mutual trade with China. Of course, there is pressure to limit access to those reserves," Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said. "But I think that our partnership with China will still allow us to maintain the cooperation that we have achieved, and not only maintain, but also increase it in an environment where Western markets are closing." Also read | This cafe in India takes 'Russian Salad' off its menu to condemn Ukraine invasion Western countries have imposed unprecedented sanctions on Russia's corporate and financial system since it invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it calls a special military operation. Siluanov's comments in a TV interview marked the clearest statement yet from Moscow that it will seek help from China to cushion the impact. The two countries have tightened cooperation in recent times as both have come under strong Western pressure over human rights and a raft of other issues. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing on Feb. 4 and announced a strategic partnership they said was aimed at countering the influence of the United States, describing it as a friendship with no limits. Also read | Russia conducts airstrike on Ukrainian military target near Poland, 9 dead The sanctions on Russian reserves have become one of the most painful measures for the Russian economy. A month ago, Siluanov said Russia would be able to withstand sanctions thanks to abundant reserves and was even considering offering Eurobonds to foreign investors once the market volatility subsides. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: How China is benefitting On Sunday he said the sanctions had frozen around $300 billion out of $640 billion that Russia had in its gold and forex reserves. Siluanov also said Russia will fulfil its state debt obligations and will pay roubles to its debt holders until the state reserves are unfrozen.

Ukraine crisis: Russia says nearly half its reserves are frozen, counts on ties with China

Facebook owner Meta Platforms said Friday that a temporary change in its content policy, only for Ukraine, was needed to let users voice opposition to Russia's attack, as Russia opened a criminal case after the company said it would allow posts such as "death to the Russian invaders."

Russian prosecutors asked a court to designate the U.S. tech giant as an "extremist organisation," and the communications regulator said it would restrict access to Meta's Instagram starting March 14. The company said the decision would affect 80 million users in Russia.

"A criminal case has been initiated ... in connection with illegal calls for murder and violence against citizens of the Russian Federation by employees of the American company Meta, which owns the social networks Facebook and Instagram," Russia's Investigative Committee said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-india-to-clearly-condemn-war-by-russia-says-belgiums-envoy-to-india-461492">Want India to clearly condemn ‘war by Russia’, says Belgium's envoy to India</a>

The committee reports directly to President Vladimir Putin. It was not immediately clear what the consequences of the criminal case might be.

Meta Global Affairs President Nick Clegg responded after the Russian government action with a tweeted statement saying that the company aimed to protect rights to speech as an expression of self-defense reacting to the invasion of Ukraine and that the policy only applied to Ukraine.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Responding to reports that the Russian government is considering designating Meta as an extremist organization for its policies in support of speech: <a href="https://t.co/Y8sUbZDSML">pic.twitter.com/Y8sUbZDSML</a>
— Nick Clegg (@nickclegg) <a href="https://twitter.com/nickclegg/status/1502349805221126144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 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>

"If we applied our standard content policies without any adjustments we would now be removing content from ordinary Ukrainians expressing their resistance and fury at the invading military forces, which would rightly be viewed as unacceptable," Clegg wrote.

"We have no quarrel with the Russian people. There is no change at all in our policies on hate speech as far as the Russian people are concerned," he added.

Two weeks into Russia's war in Ukraine, a Meta spokesperson said on Thursday the company had temporarily altered its rules for political speech, allowing posts such as "death to the Russian invaders," although it would not allow calls for violence against Russian civilians.

Meta said the temporary change aimed to allow for forms of political expression that would normally violate its rules.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-conflict-russia-violates-nuclear-safety-principles-in-ukraine-says-us-461477">&nbsp;In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US&nbsp;</a>

Its oversight board said on Friday that it had been briefed by the company on Ukraine-related policies and that context was important for content policies and enforcement.

Internal Meta emails previously seen by Reuters said the temporary policy changes on calls for violence to Russian soldiers had applied to the markets of: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

A Meta spokesperson declined to provide comment other than Clegg's statement.

The emails seen by Reuters also showed the U.S. company had temporarily allowed posts that call for the death of Putin or Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

"We hope it is not true because if it is true then it will mean that there will have to be the most decisive measures to end the activities of this company," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

INFORMATION WARS

Russia has for more than a year been striving to curb the influence of U.S. tech giants including Alphabet Inc's Google and Twitter, repeatedly fining them for allowing what it deems to be illegal content.

But the invasion of Ukraine - met by a storm of international condemnation and unprecedented sanctions - has sharply raised the stakes in the information war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-briefs-tiktokers-on-ukraine-as-information-war-against-russia-heats-up-461466">White House briefs TikTokers on Ukraine as information war against Russia heats up</a>

Social media provide an opportunity for dissent against Putin's line - loyally followed by the tightly controlled state media - that Moscow was forced to launch its "special military operation" to defend Russian-speakers in Ukraine against genocide and to demilitarise and "denazify" the country.

The Investigative Committee said the Facebook move could violate articles of the Russian criminal law against public calls for extremist activities.

"Such actions of the (Meta) company's management not only form an idea that terrorist activity is permissible, but are aimed at inciting hatred and enmity towards the citizens of the Russian Federation," the state prosecutor's office said.

It said it had applied to a court to recognise Meta as an extremist organisation and prohibit its activities in Russia.

Meta's other services also are popular in Russia. Facebook last year had an estimated 7.5 million users and WhatsApp 67 million, according to researcher Insider Intelligence.

Last week, Russia said it was banning Facebook in the country in response to what it said were restrictions of access to Russian media on the platform.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-russia-launch-a-chemical-attack-on-ukraine-461097/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Instagram is a favoured tool of jailed Putin opponent Alexei Navalny, who used it in a message posted via his lawyers and supporters on Friday to call for Russians to join protests against the Ukraine war and "mad maniac Putin" this weekend.

WhatsApp will not be affected by the legal moves, Russia's RIA news agency cited a source as saying, as the messaging app is considered a means of communication not a way to post information.

Facebook owner Meta Platforms said Friday that a temporary change in its content policy, only for Ukraine, was needed to let users voice opposition to Russia's attack, as Russia opened a criminal case after the company said it would allow posts such as "death to the Russian invaders.

Facebook owner Meta Platforms said Friday that a temporary change in its content policy, only for Ukraine, was needed to let users voice opposition to Russia's attack, as Russia opened a criminal case after the company said it would allow posts such as "death to the Russian invaders." Russian prosecutors asked a court to designate the U.S. tech giant as an "extremist organisation," and the communications regulator said it would restrict access to Meta's Instagram starting March 14. The company said the decision would affect 80 million users in Russia. "A criminal case has been initiated ... in connection with illegal calls for murder and violence against citizens of the Russian Federation by employees of the American company Meta, which owns the social networks Facebook and Instagram," Russia's Investigative Committee said. Also read | Want India to clearly condemn ‘war by Russia’, says Belgium's envoy to India The committee reports directly to President Vladimir Putin. It was not immediately clear what the consequences of the criminal case might be. Meta Global Affairs President Nick Clegg responded after the Russian government action with a tweeted statement saying that the company aimed to protect rights to speech as an expression of self-defense reacting to the invasion of Ukraine and that the policy only applied to Ukraine. Responding to reports that the Russian government is considering designating Meta as an extremist organization for its policies in support of speech: pic.twitter.com/Y8sUbZDSML — Nick Clegg (@nickclegg) March 11, 2022 × "If we applied our standard content policies without any adjustments we would now be removing content from ordinary Ukrainians expressing their resistance and fury at the invading military forces, which would rightly be viewed as unacceptable," Clegg wrote. "We have no quarrel with the Russian people. There is no change at all in our policies on hate speech as far as the Russian people are concerned," he added. Two weeks into Russia's war in Ukraine, a Meta spokesperson said on Thursday the company had temporarily altered its rules for political speech, allowing posts such as "death to the Russian invaders," although it would not allow calls for violence against Russian civilians. Meta said the temporary change aimed to allow for forms of political expression that would normally violate its rules. Also read | In conflict, Russia violates nuclear safety principles in Ukraine, says US Its oversight board said on Friday that it had been briefed by the company on Ukraine-related policies and that context was important for content policies and enforcement. Internal Meta emails previously seen by Reuters said the temporary policy changes on calls for violence to Russian soldiers had applied to the markets of: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, and Ukraine. A Meta spokesperson declined to provide comment other than Clegg's statement. The emails seen by Reuters also showed the U.S. company had temporarily allowed posts that call for the death of Putin or Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. "We hope it is not true because if it is true then it will mean that there will have to be the most decisive measures to end the activities of this company," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. INFORMATION WARS Russia has for more than a year been striving to curb the influence of U.S. tech giants including Alphabet Inc's Google and Twitter, repeatedly fining them for allowing what it deems to be illegal content. But the invasion of Ukraine - met by a storm of international condemnation and unprecedented sanctions - has sharply raised the stakes in the information war. Also read | White House briefs TikTokers on Ukraine as information war against Russia heats up Social media provide an opportunity for dissent against Putin's line - loyally followed by the tightly controlled state media - that Moscow was forced to launch its "special military operation" to defend Russian-speakers in Ukraine against genocide and to demilitarise and "denazify" the country. The Investigative Committee said the Facebook move could violate articles of the Russian criminal law against public calls for extremist activities. "Such actions of the (Meta) company's management not only form an idea that terrorist activity is permissible, but are aimed at inciting hatred and enmity towards the citizens of the Russian Federation," the state prosecutor's office said. It said it had applied to a court to recognise Meta as an extremist organisation and prohibit its activities in Russia. Meta's other services also are popular in Russia. Facebook last year had an estimated 7.5 million users and WhatsApp 67 million, according to researcher Insider Intelligence. Last week, Russia said it was banning Facebook in the country in response to what it said were restrictions of access to Russian media on the platform. Watch | Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine? Instagram is a favoured tool of jailed Putin opponent Alexei Navalny, who used it in a message posted via his lawyers and supporters on Friday to call for Russians to join protests against the Ukraine war and "mad maniac Putin" this weekend. WhatsApp will not be affected by the legal moves, Russia's RIA news agency cited a source as saying, as the messaging app is considered a means of communication not a way to post information.

Meta defends policy on calls for violence that angered Russia

What are war crimes? What are the rules of war?

Apple might lose at least $3 million in iPhone sales revenue daily or $1.14 billion annually as it announced to pull out from the Russian market in the wake of Ukraine invasion. 
 
According to estimates by Lithuania-based online shopping portal Burga, the amount is based on Apple's latest recorded Russian market share and the company's revenue from sales as of 2021. 
 
"Apple's exit in Russia puts a close to the rocky relationship between the two entities. Notably, Russia has in the past enacted questionable policies for companies like Apple to comply with. Apple had only recently adhered with a government mandate to open offices in Russia to offer online services there," said the report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/almost-2-million-flee-ukraine-in-fastest-growing-refugee-crisis-in-europe-since-wwii-un-459892">Almost 2 million flee Ukraine in ‘fastest growing refugee crisis in Europe since WWII’: UN</a> 
 
Although Russia does not account for a significant revenue share for Apple products, the tech giant's exit will likely leave a mark on its smartphone sales that have been growing in the country. 
 
Data presented by Burga indicates that based on vendor, Apple accounts for 15 per cent of the Russian smartphone sales to rank third overall. 
 
South Korea's Samsung occupies the top position with 34 per cent followed by Xiaomi at the third spot at 26 per cent. 
 
Realme has a share of 8 per cent, followed by Poco at 3 per cent, while other smaller brands account for 14 per cent, the Burga report mentioned. 
 
Elsewhere, as of 2021, Russia's smartphone sales stood at 730 billion ($7.6 billion).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-have-plans-in-place-says-blinken-should-zelensky-die-during-war-459896">Ukrainians have plans in place, says Blinken should Zelensky die during war</a> 
 
The Apple's revenue lost might be higher considering that Russia's general smartphone sales income has risen steadily in the last few years. 
 
As of 2020, the revenue stood at $5.93 billion, while in 2019, the figure was at $5.2 billion. 
 
Overall, between 2014 and 2021, the figure has spiked almost 200 per cent. 
 
After Apple's decision on Russia, the move has placed pressure on other brands like Samsung that have also stopped shipping products to the country.

Watch |&nbsp;'We are providing US made defence equipments', says Antony Blinken 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-are-providing-us-made-defence-equipments-says-antony-blinken-459916/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Consequently, the exit by the two manufacturers might be a window of expansion for Chinese operators that are likely to stay put. However, such firms might suffer the impact of any follow-up sanctions that can bar companies from operating in Russia using U.S. origin technology," the report noted.

&nbsp;

Apple might lose at least $3 million in iPhone sales revenue daily or $1.14 billion annually as it announced to pull out from the Russian market in the wake of Ukraine invasion.

Apple might lose at least $3 million in iPhone sales revenue daily or $1.14 billion annually as it announced to pull out from the Russian market in the wake of Ukraine invasion. According to estimates by Lithuania-based online shopping portal Burga, the amount is based on Apple's latest recorded Russian market share and the company's revenue from sales as of 2021. "Apple's exit in Russia puts a close to the rocky relationship between the two entities. Notably, Russia has in the past enacted questionable policies for companies like Apple to comply with. Apple had only recently adhered with a government mandate to open offices in Russia to offer online services there," said the report. Also read | Almost 2 million flee Ukraine in ‘fastest growing refugee crisis in Europe since WWII’: UN Although Russia does not account for a significant revenue share for Apple products, the tech giant's exit will likely leave a mark on its smartphone sales that have been growing in the country. Data presented by Burga indicates that based on vendor, Apple accounts for 15 per cent of the Russian smartphone sales to rank third overall. South Korea's Samsung occupies the top position with 34 per cent followed by Xiaomi at the third spot at 26 per cent. Realme has a share of 8 per cent, followed by Poco at 3 per cent, while other smaller brands account for 14 per cent, the Burga report mentioned. Elsewhere, as of 2021, Russia's smartphone sales stood at 730 billion ($7.6 billion). Also read | Ukrainians have plans in place, says Blinken should Zelensky die during war The Apple's revenue lost might be higher considering that Russia's general smartphone sales income has risen steadily in the last few years. As of 2020, the revenue stood at $5.93 billion, while in 2019, the figure was at $5.2 billion. Overall, between 2014 and 2021, the figure has spiked almost 200 per cent. After Apple's decision on Russia, the move has placed pressure on other brands like Samsung that have also stopped shipping products to the country. Watch | 'We are providing US made defence equipments', says Antony Blinken "Consequently, the exit by the two manufacturers might be a window of expansion for Chinese operators that are likely to stay put. However, such firms might suffer the impact of any follow-up sanctions that can bar companies from operating in Russia using U.S. origin technology," the report noted.

Apple to lose $3 million in iPhone sales daily after Russia pullout

Vassily Nebenzia, Russia's UN Ambassador, has promised a fresh ceasefire for Tuesday, claiming that Ukrainians will be able to select "where they wish to be evacuated to."

The event will start at 10 a.m. Moscow time (12.30 PM Indian Standard Time).

Following Ukraine's rejection of the earlier offer, it was discovered that departure routes would send migrants to Russia or Belarus.

According to Ukraine, the Russian attacks are preventing its population from safely escaping their encircled towns.

Several people in Mariupol city were running out of food and water.

On Tuesday, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, entered its 13th day.&nbsp;

Ukraine's UN Ambassador, Sergiy Kyslytsya, believes the Russian invasion has brought the country "to the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe of possibly global scope."&nbsp;

Watch | What's the impact of war on Children? How to help kids cope with war? Expert answers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/whats-the-impact-of-war-on-children-how-to-help-kids-cope-with-war-expert-answers-460066/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | Gravitas | Ukraine Vs Russia: The meme war

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-vs-russia-the-meme-war-460063/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Vassily Nebenzia, Russia's UN Ambassador, has promised a fresh ceasefire for Tuesday, claiming that Ukrainians will be able to select "where they wish to be evacuated to.

Vassily Nebenzia, Russia's UN Ambassador, has promised a fresh ceasefire for Tuesday, claiming that Ukrainians will be able to select "where they wish to be evacuated to." The event will start at 10 a.m. Moscow time (12.30 PM Indian Standard Time). Following Ukraine's rejection of the earlier offer, it was discovered that departure routes would send migrants to Russia or Belarus. According to Ukraine, the Russian attacks are preventing its population from safely escaping their encircled towns. Several people in Mariupol city were running out of food and water. On Tuesday, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, entered its 13th day. Ukraine's UN Ambassador, Sergiy Kyslytsya, believes the Russian invasion has brought the country "to the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe of possibly global scope." Watch | What's the impact of war on Children? How to help kids cope with war? Expert answers Watch | Gravitas | Ukraine Vs Russia: The meme war (With inputs from agencies)

Russia announces a new ceasefire to let people evacuate in ‘direction of their choice’

Scotland's FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine, scheduled for March 24, has been postponed.

FIFA, world football's governing body, had a call with the chief executives of the Scotland, Ukraine, Wales and Austria Football Associations on Monday where they were verbally told that the game will be moved to June.

Earlier, Ukriane had asked FIFA to postpone their March 24 World Cup play-off match against Scotland.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-suspend-contracts-of-foreign-players-currently-tied-to-ukrainian-russian-clubs-460172">FIFA to suspend contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian, Russian clubs</a>

The play-off semi-final was due to be played at Hampden Park on March 24, with the winner going on to face Austria or Wales in Cardiff for a place in this year's World Cup in Qatar.

But now the clash has been postponed owing to the ongoing military operation of Ukraine by Russia.

Russia was thrown out of the tournament by FIFA as a sanction for their military operation.

They had been due to face Poland in their semi-final.World football's governing body had earlier released a joint statement with UEFA on Monday announcing Russia's national teams and its clubs were banned from all competitions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-harry-kanes-brace-helps-tottenham-hotspur-crush-everton-5-0-460196">Premier League: Harry Kane's brace helps Tottenham Hotspur crush Everton 5-0</a>

Earlier, the Russian football federation on Thursday said that it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the decisions by FIFA and UEFA to bar Russian national teams from international competitions over the country's military operation of Ukraine.

The Russian football federation said in a statement it would file one lawsuit against the two governing bodies to demand that Russian men's and women's national teams be allowed to compete, including in qualifying for this year`s World Cup in Qatar.

Scotland's FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine, scheduled for March 24, has been postponed. FIFA, world football's governing body, had a call with the chief executives of the Scotland, Ukraine, Wales and Austria Football Associations on Monday where they were verbally told that the game will be moved to June.

Scotland's FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine, scheduled for March 24, has been postponed. FIFA, world football's governing body, had a call with the chief executives of the Scotland, Ukraine, Wales and Austria Football Associations on Monday where they were verbally told that the game will be moved to June. Earlier, Ukriane had asked FIFA to postpone their March 24 World Cup play-off match against Scotland. ALSO READ: FIFA to suspend contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian, Russian clubs The play-off semi-final was due to be played at Hampden Park on March 24, with the winner going on to face Austria or Wales in Cardiff for a place in this year's World Cup in Qatar. But now the clash has been postponed owing to the ongoing military operation of Ukraine by Russia. Russia was thrown out of the tournament by FIFA as a sanction for their military operation. They had been due to face Poland in their semi-final.World football's governing body had earlier released a joint statement with UEFA on Monday announcing Russia's national teams and its clubs were banned from all competitions. ALSO READ: Premier League: Harry Kane's brace helps Tottenham Hotspur crush Everton 5-0 Earlier, the Russian football federation on Thursday said that it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the decisions by FIFA and UEFA to bar Russian national teams from international competitions over the country's military operation of Ukraine. The Russian football federation said in a statement it would file one lawsuit against the two governing bodies to demand that Russian men's and women's national teams be allowed to compete, including in qualifying for this year`s World Cup in Qatar.

FIFA postpone Scotland's World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine amid war crisis

Pics: Russian advance throttled as Ukraine destroys rocket launchers, military vehicles

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Arkady Rotenberg have been removed from all positions held in the International Judo Federation, the IJF announced on Sunday.

The sports governing body removed Putin and Rotenberg in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

"The International Judo Federation announces that Mr. Vladimir Putin and Mr. Arkady Rotenberg have been removed from all positions held in the International Judo Federation," IJF in a statement said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-captain-sunil-chhetri-ruled-out-of-friendlies-against-bahrain-belarus-459870">India captain Sunil Chhetri ruled out of friendlies against Bahrain, Belarus</a>

On February 27, Putin was suspended as honorary president and ambassador of the International Judo Federation.

The Russian President ordered special military operations on February 24 "to protect" the people in the Donbas region.

Earlier, Putin had recognized Ukraine's breakaway regions - Donetsk and Luhansk - as independent entities.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-afford-to-drop-any-more-points-says-man-utds-ralf-rangnick-as-race-for-top-4-intensifies-459882">Can't afford to drop any more points, says Man Utd's Ralf Rangnick as race for top 4 intensifies</a>

Russia has been facing immense criticism, especially from the western countries over the recent actions. A number of countries including the US, UK and Germany have applied fresh rounds of sanctions on Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Arkady Rotenberg have been removed from all positions held in the International Judo Federation, the IJF announced on Sunday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Arkady Rotenberg have been removed from all positions held in the International Judo Federation, the IJF announced on Sunday. The sports governing body removed Putin and Rotenberg in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. "The International Judo Federation announces that Mr. Vladimir Putin and Mr. Arkady Rotenberg have been removed from all positions held in the International Judo Federation," IJF in a statement said. ALSO READ: India captain Sunil Chhetri ruled out of friendlies against Bahrain, Belarus On February 27, Putin was suspended as honorary president and ambassador of the International Judo Federation. The Russian President ordered special military operations on February 24 "to protect" the people in the Donbas region. Earlier, Putin had recognized Ukraine's breakaway regions - Donetsk and Luhansk - as independent entities. ALSO READ: Can't afford to drop any more points, says Man Utd's Ralf Rangnick as race for top 4 intensifies Russia has been facing immense criticism, especially from the western countries over the recent actions. A number of countries including the US, UK and Germany have applied fresh rounds of sanctions on Russia.

International Judo Federation removes Vladimir Putin, Arkady Rotenberg from all positions amid Ukraine war

Australia has committed A$70 million ($50 million) to fund lethal defensive weapons for Ukraine, including missiles and ammunition, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday.

Australia has shifted from its stance last week when it said it would only fund military technical assistance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-gives-visas-to-only-50-ukrainian-refugees-france-calls-it-lack-of-humanity-459814">UK gives visas to only 50 Ukrainian refugees, France calls it 'lack of humanity'</a>

Morrison told reporters on Tuesday the majority of the new weapons funding for Ukraine would be in the lethal category.

"We're talking missiles, we're talking ammunition, we're talking supporting them in their defence of their own homeland in Ukraine and we will be doing that in partnership with NATO."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-allies-plan-ways-to-help-establish-support-a-ukrainian-government-in-exile-459791">US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile</a>

He said the weapons would be delivered rapidly, but didn't disclose how.

Morrison also urged Australian citizens not travel to join Ukraine's militia in fighting against the Russian military, saying the legal position of foreign civilian combatants was unclear.

"Don't do it," he said.

Australia will commit A$35 million in humanitarian support to international organisations assisting Ukrainians with shelter, food, medical care, water and education, he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia calls for a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from 7 AM GMT to aid in evacuations

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-calls-for-a-temporary-ceasefire-in-ukraine-from-7-am-gmt-to-aid-in-evacuations-459818/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Australia has committed A$70 million ($50 million) to fund lethal defensive weapons for Ukraine, including missiles and ammunition, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday.

Australia has committed A$70 million ($50 million) to fund lethal defensive weapons for Ukraine, including missiles and ammunition, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday. Australia has shifted from its stance last week when it said it would only fund military technical assistance. Also read | UK gives visas to only 50 Ukrainian refugees, France calls it 'lack of humanity' Morrison told reporters on Tuesday the majority of the new weapons funding for Ukraine would be in the lethal category. "We're talking missiles, we're talking ammunition, we're talking supporting them in their defence of their own homeland in Ukraine and we will be doing that in partnership with NATO." Also read | US, allies plan ways to help establish, support a Ukrainian government-in-exile He said the weapons would be delivered rapidly, but didn't disclose how. Morrison also urged Australian citizens not travel to join Ukraine's militia in fighting against the Russian military, saying the legal position of foreign civilian combatants was unclear. "Don't do it," he said. Australia will commit A$35 million in humanitarian support to international organisations assisting Ukrainians with shelter, food, medical care, water and education, he said. Watch | Russia calls for a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from 7 AM GMT to aid in evacuations

Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Australia will fund lethal weapons for Ukraine, says PM Morrison

Novak Djokovic has offered financial support and any other help required to Ukrainian former world number 31 Sergiy Stakhovsky, who has enlisted in his country's reserve army amid Russia's invasion of its neighbour.

Stakhovsky, who won four ATP titles and had a shock win over Roger Federer in the second round of Wimbledon in 2013, joined Ukraine's reserve army last month despite a lack of military experience.

The 36-year-old posted a screenshot on Instagram of his conversation with Djokovic via WhatsApp, in which the Serbian world number two asked about his situation and hoped for things to calm down.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-manager-ralf-rangnick-rubbishes-speculations-over-cristiano-ronaldos-injury-459826">Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick rubbishes speculations over Cristiano Ronaldo's injury</a>

"Please let me know what would be the best address to send help ... financial help, any other help as well," Djokovic said in the message to the retired Stakhovsky.

Stakhovsky posted on Instagram that Ukraine was grateful for Djokovic's offer of support.

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation" designed not to occupy territory but to destroy its neighbour`s military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-dad-is-a-fighter-peles-son-edinho-on-his-fathers-cancer-battle-459817">'My dad is a fighter': Pele’s son Edinho on his father's cancer battle</a>

Several other Ukrainian athletes, including world boxing heavyweight champions Wladimir Klitschko and Vitali Klitschko, are defending their country after taking up arms.

Novak Djokovic has offered financial support and any other help required to Ukrainian former world number 31 Sergiy Stakhovsky, who has enlisted in his country's reserve army amid Russia's invasion of its neighbour.

Novak Djokovic has offered financial support and any other help required to Ukrainian former world number 31 Sergiy Stakhovsky, who has enlisted in his country's reserve army amid Russia's invasion of its neighbour. Stakhovsky, who won four ATP titles and had a shock win over Roger Federer in the second round of Wimbledon in 2013, joined Ukraine's reserve army last month despite a lack of military experience. The 36-year-old posted a screenshot on Instagram of his conversation with Djokovic via WhatsApp, in which the Serbian world number two asked about his situation and hoped for things to calm down. ALSO READ: Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick rubbishes speculations over Cristiano Ronaldo's injury "Please let me know what would be the best address to send help ... financial help, any other help as well," Djokovic said in the message to the retired Stakhovsky. Stakhovsky posted on Instagram that Ukraine was grateful for Djokovic's offer of support. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation" designed not to occupy territory but to destroy its neighbour`s military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists. ALSO READ: 'My dad is a fighter': Pele’s son Edinho on his father's cancer battle Several other Ukrainian athletes, including world boxing heavyweight champions Wladimir Klitschko and Vitali Klitschko, are defending their country after taking up arms.

Novak Djokovic offers financial support to Ukraine's Sergiy Stakhovsky amid war

As part of its tactics to disarm Ukraine, the Russian defence ministry has announced that it will target Ukraine enterprises in the defence industry. Russia says that it will use high precision weapons to destroy defence factories in Ukraine.

Russia steps up assault on urban areas | Russia announces plans to strike defence factories

Russia announces plans to strike defence factories

Russia has announced fresh ceasefire to open humanitarian corridors in Ukraine to facilitate the evacuations of civilians from several Ukraine in cities. The Russian military will hold fire on open green corridors in several Ukraine cities including the capital Kyiv 7am onwards. Now Russian defence ministry confirmed that they hold temporary ceasefire to facilitate the evacuation from several Ukraine in cities.

Russia calls for a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from 7 AM GMT to aid in evacuations

Chinese&nbsp;exports&nbsp;in January and February rose a combined&nbsp;16.3&nbsp;percent on surging global demand and a spike in trade with Russia&nbsp;in the run-up&nbsp;to the war in Ukraine, according to customs data released on Monday.

The growth rate exceeded economists' expectations of a 15.7 percent gain from a year earlier.

Shipments from the world's second-largest economy were valued at $544.7 billion in the first two months, the data from the General Administration of Customs showed.

Exports&nbsp;to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;rose 41 percent compared to the same period in the previous year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-girl-sings-let-it-go-moves-hearts-from-kyivs-bomb-shelter-459765">Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter</a>

Trade&nbsp;data for January and February is usually combined to even out the impact of the extended Chinese new year holiday, which usually begins in one of those two months.

Imports rose 15.5 percent&nbsp;to $428.75 billion in the first two months of the year, leaving a Chinese&nbsp;trade&nbsp;surplus of $115.95 billion.

Exports&nbsp;remain a bright spot for a Chinese economy that has slowed sharply in recent months due to virus outbreaks, a property market slump and regulatory crackdowns on key sectors.

China's leaders&nbsp; Saturday set a target of 5.5 percent GDP growth this year -- the lowest annual goal since 1991 -- with Premier Li Keqiang warning of a "grave and uncertain" outlook as the war in Ukraine threatens to damage global supply chains.

China's coal imports in the first two months doubled from a year earlier as Beijing scrambled to replenish supplies after a shortage late last year caused power cuts that paralysed large swathes of the economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraine-under-attack-indian-student-shot-at-in-kyiv-crosses-into-poland-thanks-officials-459758">Ukraine under attack: Indian student shot at in Kyiv crosses into Poland, thanks officials</a>

Exports&nbsp;to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;grew at the fastest rate among&nbsp;China's major trading partners in January and February, outpacing&nbsp;trade&nbsp;with the European Union and the United States.

Russia&nbsp;was also the second biggest source of imports for&nbsp;China, which buys energy products from its neighbour.

Trade&nbsp;with&nbsp;China&nbsp;has served as a lifeline for&nbsp;Russia, which had already faced Western sanctions over its 2014 seizure of the Crimea region from Ukraine.

Moscow's international isolation has deepened following its invasion of Ukraine that began late last month.

China&nbsp;has been&nbsp;Russia's largest trading partner for more than a decade, according to&nbsp;commerce&nbsp;ministry data.&nbsp;

Beijing approved Russian wheat imports just hours before the outbreak of hostilities in Ukraine.

But analysts believe&nbsp;China&nbsp;will avoid dramatically increasing&nbsp;trade&nbsp;support to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to avoid running afoul of the global sanctions arrayed against Moscow.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian airstrike destroys airport in Vinnytsia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-russian-airstrike-destroys-airport-in-vinnytsia-459757/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Chinese exports in January and February rose a combined 16.3 percent on surging global demand and a spike in trade with Russia in the run-up to the war in Ukraine, according to customs data released on Monday.

Chinese exports in January and February rose a combined 16.3 percent on surging global demand and a spike in trade with Russia in the run-up to the war in Ukraine, according to customs data released on Monday. The growth rate exceeded economists' expectations of a 15.7 percent gain from a year earlier. Shipments from the world's second-largest economy were valued at $544.7 billion in the first two months, the data from the General Administration of Customs showed. Exports to Russia rose 41 percent compared to the same period in the previous year. Also read | Watch: Ukrainian girl sings 'Let It Go', moves hearts from Kyiv’s bomb shelter Trade data for January and February is usually combined to even out the impact of the extended Chinese new year holiday, which usually begins in one of those two months. Imports rose 15.5 percent to $428.75 billion in the first two months of the year, leaving a Chinese trade surplus of $115.95 billion. Exports remain a bright spot for a Chinese economy that has slowed sharply in recent months due to virus outbreaks, a property market slump and regulatory crackdowns on key sectors. China's leaders Saturday set a target of 5.5 percent GDP growth this year -- the lowest annual goal since 1991 -- with Premier Li Keqiang warning of a "grave and uncertain" outlook as the war in Ukraine threatens to damage global supply chains. China's coal imports in the first two months doubled from a year earlier as Beijing scrambled to replenish supplies after a shortage late last year caused power cuts that paralysed large swathes of the economy. Also read | Ukraine under attack: Indian student shot at in Kyiv crosses into Poland, thanks officials Exports to Russia grew at the fastest rate among China's major trading partners in January and February, outpacing trade with the European Union and the United States. Russia was also the second biggest source of imports for China, which buys energy products from its neighbour. Trade with China has served as a lifeline for Russia, which had already faced Western sanctions over its 2014 seizure of the Crimea region from Ukraine. Moscow's international isolation has deepened following its invasion of Ukraine that began late last month. China has been Russia's largest trading partner for more than a decade, according to commerce ministry data. Beijing approved Russian wheat imports just hours before the outbreak of hostilities in Ukraine. But analysts believe China will avoid dramatically increasing trade support to Russia to avoid running afoul of the global sanctions arrayed against Moscow. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian airstrike destroys airport in Vinnytsia

China exports up 16.3% as trade with Russia surged

Israel will continue trying to mediate between Russia and Ukraine even if success seems unlikely, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said on Sunday after returning from surprise talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine has requested that Israel serve as intermediary, citing the Bennett government's good relations with both Kyiv and Moscow. Bennett's office said he spoke three times over the weekend with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-will-be-a-war-crime-ukraine-warns-russia-preparing-to-shell-port-city-odessa-459585">&nbsp;'This will be a war crime': Ukraine warns Russia preparing to shell port city Odessa</a>

In televised remarks to his cabinet, Bennett gave no details on his three-hour Kremlin meeting with Putin on Saturday, saying only that it had "the blessing and encouragement of all parties" - an allusion to the United States, among other powers. Bennett and Putin had discussed the mediation idea by phone last week.

"We will continue to assist wherever this is requested, even if the chances are not great," Bennett said. "The moment there is even a small opening, and we have the access to all sides and the capability, I see it as a moral duty to make every attempt."

Israel has condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, expressed solidarity with Kyiv and sent humanitarian aid. But Bennett has not met Ukrainian requests for military assistance and has kept channels open to Russia, with which Israel coordinates operations against Iranian deployments in Syria.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-russian-invasion-over-61000-airbnb-bookings-made-in-ukraine-in-48-hours-heres-why-459576">Amid Russian invasion, over 61,000 Airbnb bookings made in Ukraine in 48 hours. Here's why</a>

Israeli Communications Minister Yoaz Hendel said he had declined Ukrainian requests to ban nine Russian media outlets on the grounds they were propagandising.

"These (broadcasters) did not meet any kind of threshold that would necessitate their blocking. I would like to remind you that, in a democracy, blocking media channels is a very dramatic event," Hendel told reporters.

Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked said Israel, which has a population of 9.2 million, was bracing for a "very, very big wave" of immigration sparked by the conflict.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel PM Bennett holds talks with Russian President Putin &amp; Ukraine President Zelensky amid crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-pm-bennett-holds-talks-with-russian-president-putin-ukraine-president-zelensky-amid-crisis-459455/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This could entail taking in more than 200,000 Ukrainians who are Jewish or have Jewish family links and more than 600,000 Russians in the same categories, she said.

In what local media have cast as a bid to prevent Russian oligarchs from fleeing to Israel to evade sanctions, the Israel Airports Authority said it had received instructions not to allow private jets to park for more than 24 hours.

Israel will continue trying to mediate between Russia and Ukraine even if success seems unlikely, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said on Sunday after returning from surprise talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Israel will continue trying to mediate between Russia and Ukraine even if success seems unlikely, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said on Sunday after returning from surprise talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ukraine has requested that Israel serve as intermediary, citing the Bennett government's good relations with both Kyiv and Moscow. Bennett's office said he spoke three times over the weekend with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Also read | 'This will be a war crime': Ukraine warns Russia preparing to shell port city Odessa In televised remarks to his cabinet, Bennett gave no details on his three-hour Kremlin meeting with Putin on Saturday, saying only that it had "the blessing and encouragement of all parties" - an allusion to the United States, among other powers. Bennett and Putin had discussed the mediation idea by phone last week. "We will continue to assist wherever this is requested, even if the chances are not great," Bennett said. "The moment there is even a small opening, and we have the access to all sides and the capability, I see it as a moral duty to make every attempt." Israel has condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, expressed solidarity with Kyiv and sent humanitarian aid. But Bennett has not met Ukrainian requests for military assistance and has kept channels open to Russia, with which Israel coordinates operations against Iranian deployments in Syria. Also read | Amid Russian invasion, over 61,000 Airbnb bookings made in Ukraine in 48 hours. Here's why Israeli Communications Minister Yoaz Hendel said he had declined Ukrainian requests to ban nine Russian media outlets on the grounds they were propagandising. "These (broadcasters) did not meet any kind of threshold that would necessitate their blocking. I would like to remind you that, in a democracy, blocking media channels is a very dramatic event," Hendel told reporters. Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked said Israel, which has a population of 9.2 million, was bracing for a "very, very big wave" of immigration sparked by the conflict. Watch | Israel PM Bennett holds talks with Russian President Putin & Ukraine President Zelensky amid crisis This could entail taking in more than 200,000 Ukrainians who are Jewish or have Jewish family links and more than 600,000 Russians in the same categories, she said. In what local media have cast as a bid to prevent Russian oligarchs from fleeing to Israel to evade sanctions, the Israel Airports Authority said it had received instructions not to allow private jets to park for more than 24 hours.

Bennett says Israel will try to mediate on Ukraine even if prospect slim