Russian President Vladimir Putin's "partial mobilisation" order has led to an unprecedented exodus of people from the country. In a bid to escape conscription, people are attempting to flee, trying to cross the borders by road or fly out after purchasing exorbitantly-priced plane tickets.&nbsp;

Now, reports suggest that Russia has decided to exempt some bankers, IT workers and journalists from being drafted into the army. The defence ministry on Friday announced that some employees working in critically important industries would be excluded from the draft. The move aims to ensure that the work of specific high-tech industries, as well as Russia’s financial system is not hampered.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-full-day-of-mobilisation-in-russia-marked-by-tears-and-protests-reports-suggest-100-conscription-518945">First full day of mobilisation in Russia marked by tears and protests</a>

The exceptions apply to some IT workers, telecommunications workers, finance professionals, as well as some employees at “systemically-important” mass media outlets. Companies that meet certain thresholds in terms of headcount, revenue or annual tax payments are categorised as “systemically-important”.

State-run TV channels, radio stations, news agencies, newspapers, and some of Russia’s few privately-held media outlets are part of the list. The ministry has asked heads of companies to draw up lists of their employees who meet the criteria and can be excluded from the draft.

Russia has announced that 300,000 reservists will be called up to fight in Ukraine. Protests broke out following the announcement, with several of them being served draft papers immediately. Video footage shows long lines of traffic at land border crossings into several countries.

Traffic into Finland over its border with Russia was heavy on Friday. But the Finnish government, wary of becoming a major transit nation, plans to stop all Russians from entering on tourist visas within the coming days, foreign minister Pekka Haavisto told a news conference in New York.

About 7,000 people entered from Russia on Thursday, some 6,000 of them Russian, according to the border guards. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin's "partial mobilisation" order has led to an unprecedented exodus of people from the country. In a bid to escape conscription, people are attempting to flee, trying to cross the borders by road or fly out after purchasing exorbitantly-priced plane tickets.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's "partial mobilisation" order has led to an unprecedented exodus of people from the country. In a bid to escape conscription, people are attempting to flee, trying to cross the borders by road or fly out after purchasing exorbitantly-priced plane tickets. Now, reports suggest that Russia has decided to exempt some bankers, IT workers and journalists from being drafted into the army. The defence ministry on Friday announced that some employees working in critically important industries would be excluded from the draft. The move aims to ensure that the work of specific high-tech industries, as well as Russia’s financial system is not hampered. Also Read | First full day of mobilisation in Russia marked by tears and protests The exceptions apply to some IT workers, telecommunications workers, finance professionals, as well as some employees at “systemically-important” mass media outlets. Companies that meet certain thresholds in terms of headcount, revenue or annual tax payments are categorised as “systemically-important”. State-run TV channels, radio stations, news agencies, newspapers, and some of Russia’s few privately-held media outlets are part of the list. The ministry has asked heads of companies to draw up lists of their employees who meet the criteria and can be excluded from the draft. Russia has announced that 300,000 reservists will be called up to fight in Ukraine. Protests broke out following the announcement, with several of them being served draft papers immediately. Video footage shows long lines of traffic at land border crossings into several countries. Traffic into Finland over its border with Russia was heavy on Friday. But the Finnish government, wary of becoming a major transit nation, plans to stop all Russians from entering on tourist visas within the coming days, foreign minister Pekka Haavisto told a news conference in New York. About 7,000 people entered from Russia on Thursday, some 6,000 of them Russian, according to the border guards. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia announces exemptions for certain professionals from mobilisation call

More than 1,300 people denouncing mobilisation in Russia were detained by security forces on Wednesday, a rights group said, hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russia’s first military draft since the second World War. CNN has reported that some of them have&nbsp;directly been drafted into the military, according to a monitoring group. The OVD-Info protest monitoring group said that it had collated information from 38 Russian cities, according to which over 1,311 people had been held by late evening.

Photos released on OVD-Info's Telegram channel showed police in Saint Petersburg using batons against protestors. Videos emerged from Moscow where several protesters can be seen being carried away by the police. A crowd gathered at Isakiivskiy Cathedral and videos show police attempting to contain it behind barriers, amid chants of “no mobilisation".

OVD-Info said that at least 502 were detained in Moscow and 524 in St Petersburg. Unsanctioned rallies are illegal under Russia’s anti-protest laws.

Russian interior ministry official Irina Volk, in a statement quoted by Russian news agencies, said officers had cut short attempts to stage what it called small protests.

“In a number of regions, there were attempts to stage unauthorised actions which brought together an extremely small number of participants,” Volk was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

“These were all stopped. And those persons who violated laws were detained and taken to police stations for investigation and establish their responsibility.”

Meanwhile, the Moscow prosecutor’s office warned that organising or participating in protests could lead to up to 15 years in prison. This was the first full-fledged anti-war display in Russia ever since the military intervention began in Ukraine in February.

Several people are trying to leave the country, with prices of one-way flights out of Russia skyrocketing and selling out fast on Wednesday after Putin ordered the immediate call-up of 300,000 reservists.

The Vesna opposition movement called for protests, saying, “Thousands of Russian men, our fathers, brothers and husbands, will be thrown into the meat grinder of the war. What will they be dying for? What will mothers and children be crying for?”

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than 1,300 people denouncing mobilisation in Russia were detained by security forces on Wednesday, a rights group said, hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russia’s first military draft since the second World War.

More than 1,300 people denouncing mobilisation in Russia were detained by security forces on Wednesday, a rights group said, hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russia’s first military draft since the second World War. CNN has reported that some of them have directly been drafted into the military, according to a monitoring group. The OVD-Info protest monitoring group said that it had collated information from 38 Russian cities, according to which over 1,311 people had been held by late evening. Photos released on OVD-Info's Telegram channel showed police in Saint Petersburg using batons against protestors. Videos emerged from Moscow where several protesters can be seen being carried away by the police. A crowd gathered at Isakiivskiy Cathedral and videos show police attempting to contain it behind barriers, amid chants of “no mobilisation". OVD-Info said that at least 502 were detained in Moscow and 524 in St Petersburg. Unsanctioned rallies are illegal under Russia’s anti-protest laws. Russian interior ministry official Irina Volk, in a statement quoted by Russian news agencies, said officers had cut short attempts to stage what it called small protests. “In a number of regions, there were attempts to stage unauthorised actions which brought together an extremely small number of participants,” Volk was quoted as saying by The Guardian. “These were all stopped. And those persons who violated laws were detained and taken to police stations for investigation and establish their responsibility.” Meanwhile, the Moscow prosecutor’s office warned that organising or participating in protests could lead to up to 15 years in prison. This was the first full-fledged anti-war display in Russia ever since the military intervention began in Ukraine in February. Several people are trying to leave the country, with prices of one-way flights out of Russia skyrocketing and selling out fast on Wednesday after Putin ordered the immediate call-up of 300,000 reservists. The Vesna opposition movement called for protests, saying, “Thousands of Russian men, our fathers, brothers and husbands, will be thrown into the meat grinder of the war. What will they be dying for? What will mothers and children be crying for?” (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands held in Russia for protesting mobilisation, some drafted directly into military

Russia has been reportedly hiring prisoners to fight its war in an attempt to compensate for the acute shortage of personnel fighting in Ukraine.&nbsp;The name of a private agency has come to the fore that has been recruiting these inmates, who face serious charges like murder and loot.

According to the Guardian, Yevgeny Prigozhin, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, and the reported head of the Wagner group—a private military company and often described as a network of mercenaries—has been sending these convicted felons to the battlefield.

Though there is no official number available as to how many have been hired, a US official on Monday said that Wagner was trying to recruit more than 1,500 prisoners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A video had gone viral last week on Russian social media showing a man closely resembling Prigozhin telling inmates at a prison 500 miles north of Tambov that they would be freed if they served six months with his group.&nbsp;

This is&nbsp;the first time that the enlistment process had been captured on camera.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-western-allies-condemn-russian-referendum-plans-for-occupied-regions-518218" hreflang="en">Ukraine's Western allies condemn Russian referendum plans for occupied regions</a>

The Guardian spoke to several prisoners and close family members of inmates across different penal colonies in&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;who all gave similar accounts of how Prigozhin was personally conducting recruitment in prisons, and how they are promised freedom and money in exchange for their services.

One of the inmates, Ivan, told the UK daily that around 120 inmates joined the group and were now fighting in Ukraine after a one-week training course.

All the prisoners interviewed said they were promised a presidential pardon after six months and a salary of 100,000 rubles (£1,400) a month.

Last month, Pentagon said that Russia has lost around 80,000 soldiers since its invasion of Ukraine began.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has been reportedly hiring prisoners to fight its war in an attempt to compensate for the acute shortage of personnel fighting in Ukraine. The name of a private agency has come to the fore that has been recruiting these inmates, who face serious charges like murder and loot.

Russia has been reportedly hiring prisoners to fight its war in an attempt to compensate for the acute shortage of personnel fighting in Ukraine. The name of a private agency has come to the fore that has been recruiting these inmates, who face serious charges like murder and loot. According to the Guardian, Yevgeny Prigozhin, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, and the reported head of the Wagner group—a private military company and often described as a network of mercenaries—has been sending these convicted felons to the battlefield. Though there is no official number available as to how many have been hired, a US official on Monday said that Wagner was trying to recruit more than 1,500 prisoners. A video had gone viral last week on Russian social media showing a man closely resembling Prigozhin telling inmates at a prison 500 miles north of Tambov that they would be freed if they served six months with his group. This is the first time that the enlistment process had been captured on camera. Also read | Ukraine's Western allies condemn Russian referendum plans for occupied regions The Guardian spoke to several prisoners and close family members of inmates across different penal colonies in Russia who all gave similar accounts of how Prigozhin was personally conducting recruitment in prisons, and how they are promised freedom and money in exchange for their services. One of the inmates, Ivan, told the UK daily that around 120 inmates joined the group and were now fighting in Ukraine after a one-week training course. All the prisoners interviewed said they were promised a presidential pardon after six months and a salary of 100,000 rubles (£1,400) a month. Last month, Pentagon said that Russia has lost around 80,000 soldiers since its invasion of Ukraine began. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Money, pardon: How Russia is luring prisoners to fight the war in Ukraine

The Kremlin has accused Kyiv of fabricating its discoveries of mass graves, denying its forces were responsible for large-scale killings in east Ukraine. Ukraine recaptured Izyum and other towns in the east this month. Kremlin supply routes have been crippled as a result of this. Hundreds of graves, some containing multiple bodies, were discovered in the region, bringing into limelight once again the atrocities being committed by the Russian forces in Ukraine.

"These are lies," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday. Moscow, he said, "will stand up for the truth in this story."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bodies-tortured-to-death-at-the-mass-burial-site-discovered-in-eastern-ukraine-claims-kyiv-516986">Most bodies at mass burial site have signs of violent death, claims Kyiv</a>

Ukraine had said that most of the bodies bore signs of a violent death.&nbsp;

"Among the bodies that were exhumed today, 99 percent showed signs of violent death. There are several bodies with their hands tied behind their backs, and one person is buried with a rope around his neck," Oleg Synegubov, head of the Kharkiv regional administration, had said.

Additionally, the graves of the buried were not marked with names or dates. The Russian troops simply marked a number while burying the dead, leaving no trail for the Ukrainian authorities to identify the victims, officials had said.

Meanwhile, fears of an atomic emergency were renewed after Ukraine said that Russian rockets landed precariously close to a nuclear power station in southern Ukraine.

In his address to the nation on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russians were "panicking" as his forces hold recaptured territory in the northeastern Kharkiv region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Kremlin has accused Kyiv of fabricating its discoveries of mass graves, denying its forces were responsible for large-scale killings in east Ukraine. Ukraine recaptured Izyum and other towns in the east this month.

The Kremlin has accused Kyiv of fabricating its discoveries of mass graves, denying its forces were responsible for large-scale killings in east Ukraine. Ukraine recaptured Izyum and other towns in the east this month. Kremlin supply routes have been crippled as a result of this. Hundreds of graves, some containing multiple bodies, were discovered in the region, bringing into limelight once again the atrocities being committed by the Russian forces in Ukraine. "These are lies," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday. Moscow, he said, "will stand up for the truth in this story." Also Read | Most bodies at mass burial site have signs of violent death, claims Kyiv Ukraine had said that most of the bodies bore signs of a violent death. "Among the bodies that were exhumed today, 99 percent showed signs of violent death. There are several bodies with their hands tied behind their backs, and one person is buried with a rope around his neck," Oleg Synegubov, head of the Kharkiv regional administration, had said. Additionally, the graves of the buried were not marked with names or dates. The Russian troops simply marked a number while burying the dead, leaving no trail for the Ukrainian authorities to identify the victims, officials had said. Meanwhile, fears of an atomic emergency were renewed after Ukraine said that Russian rockets landed precariously close to a nuclear power station in southern Ukraine. In his address to the nation on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russians were "panicking" as his forces hold recaptured territory in the northeastern Kharkiv region. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia slams reports of mass graves in Izyum, accuses Ukraine of fabricating its discoveries

Disclaimer:&nbsp;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.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday a mass burial site has been found in the city of Izium following the re-capture of the areas last weekend. "In Izium, Kharkiv region, a mass burial of people was found. The necessary procedural actions have already started there, more information, clear and verified, should be available tomorrow," Zelensky said in his nightly address.

"Bucha, Mariupol and now, unfortunately, Izium... Russia leaves death everywhere. And must be responsible for it. The world must hold Russia to real responsibility for this war. We will do everything for this," he added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supplying-arms-to-ukraine-morally-acceptable-says-pope-516611">Supplying arms to Ukraine 'morally acceptable', says Pope</a>

The mass grave had more than 440 bodies, including some people killed by shelling and air strikes. The Russian forces had been using it as a logistics hub in the Kharkiv region. They left behind large amounts of ammunition and equipment.

"I can say it is one of the largest burial sites in a big town in liberated (areas)... 440 bodies were buried in one place," Serhiy Bolvinov, the chief police investigator for Kharkiv region, told Sky News. "Some died because of artillery fire ... some died because of air strikes."

Meanwhile, the United States announced another $600 million in military aid to support Kyiv's two-week-old counteroffensive aimed at dislodging Russian occupiers.

Ukraine compared the discovery to what happened in Bucha, on the outskirts of the capital Kyiv in the early stages of the invasion. &nbsp;Ukraine and its Western allies have accused Russian forces of perpetrating war crimes there. Tens of thousands of civilians were likely killed in a separate Russian assault on the southern port of Mariupol, Ukrainian officials said in April.

Presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak,&nbsp;in a tweet,&nbsp;accused Russia of murder.

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A mass burial was found in Izyum, Kharkiv region. Necessary procedures have already begun. All bodies will be exhumed and sent for forensic examination. Expect more information tomorrow. 
 
Russia is a murderer country. A state sponsor of terrorism. <a href="https://t.co/7pKTrYvlUF">pic.twitter.com/7pKTrYvlUF</a>
— Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndriyYermak/status/1570515892794195971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday a mass burial site has been found in the city of Izium following the re-capture of the areas last weekend. "In Izium, Kharkiv region, a mass burial of people was found. The necessary procedural actions have already started there, more information, clear and verified, should be available tomorrow," Zelensky said in his nightly address. "Bucha, Mariupol and now, unfortunately, Izium... Russia leaves death everywhere. And must be responsible for it. The world must hold Russia to real responsibility for this war. We will do everything for this," he added. Also Read | Supplying arms to Ukraine 'morally acceptable', says Pope The mass grave had more than 440 bodies, including some people killed by shelling and air strikes. The Russian forces had been using it as a logistics hub in the Kharkiv region. They left behind large amounts of ammunition and equipment. "I can say it is one of the largest burial sites in a big town in liberated (areas)... 440 bodies were buried in one place," Serhiy Bolvinov, the chief police investigator for Kharkiv region, told Sky News. "Some died because of artillery fire ... some died because of air strikes." Meanwhile, the United States announced another $600 million in military aid to support Kyiv's two-week-old counteroffensive aimed at dislodging Russian occupiers. Ukraine compared the discovery to what happened in Bucha, on the outskirts of the capital Kyiv in the early stages of the invasion. Ukraine and its Western allies have accused Russian forces of perpetrating war crimes there. Tens of thousands of civilians were likely killed in a separate Russian assault on the southern port of Mariupol, Ukrainian officials said in April. Presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak, in a tweet, accused Russia of murder. A mass burial was found in Izyum, Kharkiv region. Necessary procedures have already begun. All bodies will be exhumed and sent for forensic examination. Expect more information tomorrow. Russia is a murderer country. A state sponsor of terrorism. pic.twitter.com/7pKTrYvlUF — Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) September 15, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies)

Mass grave with over 400 bodies found in Izium in Kharkiv region recaptured last week, says Ukraine

After driving out Russian forces in a speedy counter-offensive in the northeast, Ukraine is targeting freeing all territory occupied by invading Russian forces. In a Tuesday evening address, President Volodymyr Zelensky said around 8,000 square km (3,100 square miles) have been liberated by Ukrainian forces so far this month. The victories have apparently all been in the northeastern region of Kharkiv.

"Stabilisation measures" had been completed in about half of that territory, Zelensky said, "and across a liberated area of about the same size, stabilisation measures are still ongoing."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-claims-troops-recaptured-over-6000-sq-km-while-some-reached-russian-border-515620">Zelensky claims troops recaptured over 6,000 sq km while some reached Russian border</a>

The total area retaken by Ukraine and cited by Zelensky is roughly the size of the Greek island of Crete, Reuters reported.

However, US President Joe Biden believes that Ukraine is still far from achieving what it has set out to do. Asked whether Ukraine has reached a turning point in the six-month war, Biden said it was hard to tell.

Russian forces have left defensive positions, particularly in and around Kharkiv, a US spokesperson said.

"It's clear the Ukrainians have made significant progress. But I think it’s going to be a long haul," Biden said.

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Moscow abandoned its main bastion in the northeast on Saturday following which Ukrainian troops have recaptured dozens of towns. Russian forces still control about a fifth of Ukraine in the south and east, but Kyiv is now on the offensive in both areas.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych held out the prospects of moving on the eastern province of Luhansk, which together with Donetsk is known as the Donbas.

"There is now an assault on Lyman and there could be an advance on Siversk," Arestovych said in a video posted on YouTube, referring to two towns.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-send-more-weapons-to-ukraine-515898">US plans to send more weapons to Ukraine</a>

He also talked of a fight expected in the town of Svatovo, where the Russians have storage depots.

"And that is what they fear most, that we take Lyman and then advance on Lysychansk and Sievierodonetsk. And they would be cut off from Svatovo," he said.

Meanwhile, Denis Pushilin, leader of the Donetsk People's Republic run by Russian proxies said in a video post that Lyman remains in their hands. "The situation has been stabilised. The enemy naturally is trying to advance in small groups but (Russian-led) Allied forces are fully repelling them."

Speaking in the central square of Balakliia, a crucial military supply hub taken by Ukrainian forces late last week,&nbsp;Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said 150,000 people had been liberated from Russian rule in the area.

"The aim is to liberate the Kharkiv region and beyond - all the territories occupied by the Russian Federation," Malyar said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After driving out Russian forces in a speedy counter-offensive in the northeast, Ukraine is targeting freeing all territory occupied by invading Russian forces. In a Tuesday evening address, President Volodymyr Zelensky said around 8,000 square km (3,100 square miles) have been liberated by Ukrainian forces so far this month.

After driving out Russian forces in a speedy counter-offensive in the northeast, Ukraine is targeting freeing all territory occupied by invading Russian forces. In a Tuesday evening address, President Volodymyr Zelensky said around 8,000 square km (3,100 square miles) have been liberated by Ukrainian forces so far this month. The victories have apparently all been in the northeastern region of Kharkiv. "Stabilisation measures" had been completed in about half of that territory, Zelensky said, "and across a liberated area of about the same size, stabilisation measures are still ongoing." Also Read | Zelensky claims troops recaptured over 6,000 sq km while some reached Russian border The total area retaken by Ukraine and cited by Zelensky is roughly the size of the Greek island of Crete, Reuters reported. However, US President Joe Biden believes that Ukraine is still far from achieving what it has set out to do. Asked whether Ukraine has reached a turning point in the six-month war, Biden said it was hard to tell. Russian forces have left defensive positions, particularly in and around Kharkiv, a US spokesperson said. "It's clear the Ukrainians have made significant progress. But I think it’s going to be a long haul," Biden said. × Moscow abandoned its main bastion in the northeast on Saturday following which Ukrainian troops have recaptured dozens of towns. Russian forces still control about a fifth of Ukraine in the south and east, but Kyiv is now on the offensive in both areas. Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych held out the prospects of moving on the eastern province of Luhansk, which together with Donetsk is known as the Donbas. "There is now an assault on Lyman and there could be an advance on Siversk," Arestovych said in a video posted on YouTube, referring to two towns. Also Read | US plans to send more weapons to Ukraine He also talked of a fight expected in the town of Svatovo, where the Russians have storage depots. "And that is what they fear most, that we take Lyman and then advance on Lysychansk and Sievierodonetsk. And they would be cut off from Svatovo," he said. Meanwhile, Denis Pushilin, leader of the Donetsk People's Republic run by Russian proxies said in a video post that Lyman remains in their hands. "The situation has been stabilised. The enemy naturally is trying to advance in small groups but (Russian-led) Allied forces are fully repelling them." Speaking in the central square of Balakliia, a crucial military supply hub taken by Ukrainian forces late last week, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said 150,000 people had been liberated from Russian rule in the area. "The aim is to liberate the Kharkiv region and beyond - all the territories occupied by the Russian Federation," Malyar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine aims to free all Russian-occupied areas after recapturing 8,000 sq km

A Russian state media war correspondent found himself in an awkward situation when he accidentally revealed the scale of their losses in Ukraine. He basically admitted a "huge number of people" have died. The correspondent in question is Alexander Sladkov, who while speaking to the Kremlin-run Rossiya 1 news channel from the Donbas said how effective Ukraine's counter-offensive has been.

He quickly corrected himself after realising what he had just said and told the propaganda channel that Russia is having "great successes". However, he did not spell out the details.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-it-shot-down-iranian-made-drone-used-by-russia-in-kharkiv-516025">Ukraine says it shot down Iranian-made drone used by Russia in Kharkiv</a>

The Daily Mail quoted Sladkov as saying, "People here [in the Donbas] are waiting for us to get started. For us to hit them so hard that they end up on their backsides. That's to say, a knockout! It's very difficult to win on points."

"We're losing a huge number of people, we have wounded... we're having... great successes!"

"We're having great successes but we're not... well now we've used long-range aviation, we've dealt serious damage to their energy system, but again we didn't finish it off."

Russia has reportedly seen major losses in the past few days with Ukraine claiming that the opposition troops have left their posts. However, Moscow has described its troop withdrawal in north-eastern Kharkiv amid Ukraine's push as a "regrouping" with the aim of focusing on the Luhansk and Donetsk regions.&nbsp;

Ukraine has asserted that Russian troops have surrendered en masse following a rapid Ukrainian counter-attack which continues to gain ground.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Russian state media war correspondent found himself in an awkward situation when he accidentally revealed the scale of their losses in Ukraine. He basically admitted a "huge number of people" have died.

A Russian state media war correspondent found himself in an awkward situation when he accidentally revealed the scale of their losses in Ukraine. He basically admitted a "huge number of people" have died. The correspondent in question is Alexander Sladkov, who while speaking to the Kremlin-run Rossiya 1 news channel from the Donbas said how effective Ukraine's counter-offensive has been. He quickly corrected himself after realising what he had just said and told the propaganda channel that Russia is having "great successes". However, he did not spell out the details. Also Read | Ukraine says it shot down Iranian-made drone used by Russia in Kharkiv The Daily Mail quoted Sladkov as saying, "People here [in the Donbas] are waiting for us to get started. For us to hit them so hard that they end up on their backsides. That's to say, a knockout! It's very difficult to win on points." "We're losing a huge number of people, we have wounded... we're having... great successes!" "We're having great successes but we're not... well now we've used long-range aviation, we've dealt serious damage to their energy system, but again we didn't finish it off." Russia has reportedly seen major losses in the past few days with Ukraine claiming that the opposition troops have left their posts. However, Moscow has described its troop withdrawal in north-eastern Kharkiv amid Ukraine's push as a "regrouping" with the aim of focusing on the Luhansk and Donetsk regions. Ukraine has asserted that Russian troops have surrendered en masse following a rapid Ukrainian counter-attack which continues to gain ground. (With inputs from agencies)

Reporter accidentally admits Russia is suffering 'huge' losses in Ukraine

The United States has accused Moscow of committing a war crime by forcibly deporting Ukrainians to Russia. It informed that it has information that Russian officials are overseeing so-called filtration operations. "These operations aim to identify individuals Russia deems insufficiently compliant or compatible to its control," US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the UN Security Council.

She said that following the Russian invasion, estimates suggest that authorities have "interrogated, detained, and forcibly deported" between 900,000 and 1.6 million Ukrainians to Russia. Over 1,800 children were transferred from Russia-controlled areas of Ukraine to Russia in July alone, Thomas-Greenfield said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-threatens-no-gas-no-oil-in-case-prices-are-capped-513740">Putin threatens 'no gas, no oil' to countries introducing price caps on Russian oil</a>

"The forcible transfer or deportation of protected persons from occupied territory to the territory of the occupier...constitutes a war crime," she said. "So why are they doing this?...to prepare for an attempted annexation."

Meanwhile, Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia called the accusation "a new milestone in the disinformation campaign unleashed by Ukraine and its Western backers".&nbsp;He said Ukrainians who travel to Russia "go through a registration rather than filtration procedure".

Nebenzia requested that the council meet again on Thursday to discuss "real threats to international peace and security caused by the supplies by foreign states of arms and military goods to Ukraine."

Ukraine has been critical of the invasion and calls it an imperial-style war to take over a pro-Western neighbor. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he wants to ensure Russian security and protect Russian speakers, particularly in eastern Ukraine.

Later, UN political affairs chief Rosemary DiCarlo said the accusations of deportations and filtration were "extremely disturbing" and such reports must be investigated with the cooperation of the competent authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States has accused Moscow of committing a war crime by forcibly deporting Ukrainians to Russia. It informed that it has information that Russian officials are overseeing so-called filtration operations.

The United States has accused Moscow of committing a war crime by forcibly deporting Ukrainians to Russia. It informed that it has information that Russian officials are overseeing so-called filtration operations. "These operations aim to identify individuals Russia deems insufficiently compliant or compatible to its control," US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the UN Security Council. She said that following the Russian invasion, estimates suggest that authorities have "interrogated, detained, and forcibly deported" between 900,000 and 1.6 million Ukrainians to Russia. Over 1,800 children were transferred from Russia-controlled areas of Ukraine to Russia in July alone, Thomas-Greenfield said. Also Read | Putin threatens 'no gas, no oil' to countries introducing price caps on Russian oil "The forcible transfer or deportation of protected persons from occupied territory to the territory of the occupier...constitutes a war crime," she said. "So why are they doing this?...to prepare for an attempted annexation." Meanwhile, Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia called the accusation "a new milestone in the disinformation campaign unleashed by Ukraine and its Western backers". He said Ukrainians who travel to Russia "go through a registration rather than filtration procedure". Nebenzia requested that the council meet again on Thursday to discuss "real threats to international peace and security caused by the supplies by foreign states of arms and military goods to Ukraine." Ukraine has been critical of the invasion and calls it an imperial-style war to take over a pro-Western neighbor. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he wants to ensure Russian security and protect Russian speakers, particularly in eastern Ukraine. Later, UN political affairs chief Rosemary DiCarlo said the accusations of deportations and filtration were "extremely disturbing" and such reports must be investigated with the cooperation of the competent authorities. (With inputs from agencies)

US accuses Russia of war crimes, says it is forcibly deporting Ukrainians

The UN nuclear watchdog has sounded alarm over the fragile situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is occupied by Russia, and called for an urgent need for “interim measures to prevent a nuclear accident”.

The warning comes in the wake of a spurt in attacks in the vicinity ever since it fell under the control of the Russian troops in March.

"The current situation is untenable," the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in a report after it sent inspectors to the plant last week.

"There is an urgent need for interim measures to prevent a nuclear accident... This can be achieved by the immediate establishment of a nuclear safety and security protection zone."

Later in an interview to CNN, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, who recently returned from a visit to the nuclear plant, said that the situation continues to be "very worrying" and warned "we are playing with fire."

Speaking from Vienna, Director General Rafael Grossi called for the deployment of a safety zone around the Russian-held site amid sustained shelling.

"What is urgently needed, now, today, is that we agree on establishing a protection (if you want), a shield, a bubble around the perimeter of the facility," Grossi was quoted as saying.

The IAEA chief further said that he would quickly consult with the relevant stakeholders to "establish an interim measure" because "what we need desperately is to protect this nuclear plant because it is being shelled."

"Now the IAEA has been there, we have corroborated what is happening. And this is a measure that one way or the other must be put in place. We can do it. We have the means to do it ... Nuclear security is indispensable. We are playing with fire,” he added.

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shelling at the site, despite the watchdog's recommendations.

According to the Russian defence ministry, radiation levels around the plant are normal.

Last week, the IAEA sent a 14-person team to the site for inspection. It has stationed two members at the site on a permanent basis to ensure the facility's safety.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The UN nuclear watchdog has sounded alarm over the fragile situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is occupied by Russia, and called for an urgent need for “interim measures to prevent a nuclear accident”.

The UN nuclear watchdog has sounded alarm over the fragile situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is occupied by Russia, and called for an urgent need for “interim measures to prevent a nuclear accident”. The warning comes in the wake of a spurt in attacks in the vicinity ever since it fell under the control of the Russian troops in March. "The current situation is untenable," the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in a report after it sent inspectors to the plant last week. "There is an urgent need for interim measures to prevent a nuclear accident... This can be achieved by the immediate establishment of a nuclear safety and security protection zone." Later in an interview to CNN, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, who recently returned from a visit to the nuclear plant, said that the situation continues to be "very worrying" and warned "we are playing with fire." Speaking from Vienna, Director General Rafael Grossi called for the deployment of a safety zone around the Russian-held site amid sustained shelling. "What is urgently needed, now, today, is that we agree on establishing a protection (if you want), a shield, a bubble around the perimeter of the facility," Grossi was quoted as saying. The IAEA chief further said that he would quickly consult with the relevant stakeholders to "establish an interim measure" because "what we need desperately is to protect this nuclear plant because it is being shelled." "Now the IAEA has been there, we have corroborated what is happening. And this is a measure that one way or the other must be put in place. We can do it. We have the means to do it ... Nuclear security is indispensable. We are playing with fire,” he added. Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shelling at the site, despite the watchdog's recommendations. According to the Russian defence ministry, radiation levels around the plant are normal. Last week, the IAEA sent a 14-person team to the site for inspection. It has stationed two members at the site on a permanent basis to ensure the facility's safety. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant: IAEA calls for urgent measures to ‘prevent disaster’

According to new regulations introduced in response to fears that bitcoin and other cryptoassets are being used to get over limitations put in place in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, cryptocurrency exchanges must notify suspected sanctions breaches to the UK authorities.&nbsp;

On August 30, official guidelines were revised to specifically include "cryptoassets" among the things that must be blocked if sanctions are placed on a person or business. Cryptoassets could include non-fungible tokens in addition to digital currencies like bitcoin, ether, and tether as well as other hypothetically valuable digital assets.

According to the regulations established by the Treasury's Office of Financial Penalties Implementation, cryptocurrency exchanges will be breaking the law if they fail to report customers who are subject to sanctions. According to the regulations, cryptocurrency exchanges have the same responsibility as professionals like estate agents, accountants, lawyers, and jewellers to take appropriate action if they suspect one of their customers is subject to penalties or if they suspect a breach of sanctions.&nbsp;

One of the UK's most notable responses to the invasion of Ukraine has been the imposition of financial penalties on individuals and businesses with ties to the Vladimir Putin administration.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-webb-telescope-captures-cosmic-tarantula-161000-light-years-away-513553">NASA’s Webb telescope captures cosmic tarantula 161,000 light-years away</a>

The stepdaughter of the foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, Polina Kovaleva, and the daughter of Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, Elizaveta Peskova, had their accounts suspended, according to Binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world by trading volume. The exchange has allayed concerns that cryptocurrency may be used to circumvent sanctions.&nbsp;

The UK already has regulations against using cryptocurrency to circumvent sanctions and transfer money abroad. These laws cover all "economic resources." The modification highlights the authorities' worry about the relatively new assets, which may be helpful for avoiding sanctions because users do not rely on regulated firms to conduct transactions.

(with inputs from agencies)

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According to new regulations introduced in response to fears that bitcoin and other cryptoassets are being used to get over limitations put in place in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, cryptocurrency exchanges must notify suspected sanctions breaches to the UK authorities.

According to new regulations introduced in response to fears that bitcoin and other cryptoassets are being used to get over limitations put in place in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, cryptocurrency exchanges must notify suspected sanctions breaches to the UK authorities. On August 30, official guidelines were revised to specifically include "cryptoassets" among the things that must be blocked if sanctions are placed on a person or business. Cryptoassets could include non-fungible tokens in addition to digital currencies like bitcoin, ether, and tether as well as other hypothetically valuable digital assets. According to the regulations established by the Treasury's Office of Financial Penalties Implementation, cryptocurrency exchanges will be breaking the law if they fail to report customers who are subject to sanctions. According to the regulations, cryptocurrency exchanges have the same responsibility as professionals like estate agents, accountants, lawyers, and jewellers to take appropriate action if they suspect one of their customers is subject to penalties or if they suspect a breach of sanctions. One of the UK's most notable responses to the invasion of Ukraine has been the imposition of financial penalties on individuals and businesses with ties to the Vladimir Putin administration. Also Read: NASA’s Webb telescope captures cosmic tarantula 161,000 light-years away The stepdaughter of the foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, Polina Kovaleva, and the daughter of Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, Elizaveta Peskova, had their accounts suspended, according to Binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world by trading volume. The exchange has allayed concerns that cryptocurrency may be used to circumvent sanctions. The UK already has regulations against using cryptocurrency to circumvent sanctions and transfer money abroad. These laws cover all "economic resources." The modification highlights the authorities' worry about the relatively new assets, which may be helpful for avoiding sanctions because users do not rely on regulated firms to conduct transactions. (with inputs from agencies)

Crypto for sanction evasion: Suspected breaches must be reported by Crypto exchanges in UK

Russia has postponed the referendum in its occupied territory Kherson on joining Russia following increased shellings in the region by the Ukraine forces.

"This is being paused because of the security situation," BBC quoted Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russian-appointed administration there, as saying.

Earlier there were plans for referendum in Kherson, as well as in the neighbouring Zaporizhzhia region and the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, on joining Russia in September, coinciding with local elections in Russia.

Kherson region was taken by Russian forces in March, while Kherson city remains the only Ukrainian regional capital captured by Russia since it sent armed forces into Ukraine on February 24.

The West and Ukraine have condemned the referendum plans in Kherson and other areas as illegal.

Last week, Ukraine said that it had launched counter-offensive measures in a bid to retake the region after shelling bridges and ammunition depots for weeks.

Kirill Stremousov told Russian state TV that Ukrainian shelling had damaged Kherson's Antonovskiy Bridge to such an extent that vehicles could no longer pass it.

He added that barges transporting civilians across the Dnieper (Dnipro) river are also being targeted by the Ukrainian fire, and also the city's infrastructure.

The bridge was being used by the Russians to bring troops and hardware in and out of Kherson.

According to BBC, Ukraine is using US-made Himars multiple rocket launchers to push the Russians out of the city, which was the first to fall under the Russian occupation after launching the invasion on February 24.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk has warned that those who participate in the Russian referendum would face Ukrainian prosecution.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has postponed the referendum in its occupied territory Kherson on joining Russia following increased shellings in the region by the Ukraine forces. "This is being paused because of the security situation," BBC quoted Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russian-appointed administration there, as saying.

Russia has postponed the referendum in its occupied territory Kherson on joining Russia following increased shellings in the region by the Ukraine forces. "This is being paused because of the security situation," BBC quoted Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russian-appointed administration there, as saying. Earlier there were plans for referendum in Kherson, as well as in the neighbouring Zaporizhzhia region and the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, on joining Russia in September, coinciding with local elections in Russia. Kherson region was taken by Russian forces in March, while Kherson city remains the only Ukrainian regional capital captured by Russia since it sent armed forces into Ukraine on February 24. The West and Ukraine have condemned the referendum plans in Kherson and other areas as illegal. Last week, Ukraine said that it had launched counter-offensive measures in a bid to retake the region after shelling bridges and ammunition depots for weeks. Kirill Stremousov told Russian state TV that Ukrainian shelling had damaged Kherson's Antonovskiy Bridge to such an extent that vehicles could no longer pass it. He added that barges transporting civilians across the Dnieper (Dnipro) river are also being targeted by the Ukrainian fire, and also the city's infrastructure. The bridge was being used by the Russians to bring troops and hardware in and out of Kherson. According to BBC, Ukraine is using US-made Himars multiple rocket launchers to push the Russians out of the city, which was the first to fall under the Russian occupation after launching the invasion on February 24. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk has warned that those who participate in the Russian referendum would face Ukrainian prosecution. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia postpones referendum in occupied Kherson region after Ukraine intensifies shelling

At the conclusion of the G20 energy meeting in Bali on Friday, the top countries in the world pledged to accelerate the switch to cleaner energy, but there was no definitive agreement as officials battled disagreement over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Energy prices have skyrocketed since Moscow launched its military offensive, and many Western countries are feverishly hunting for alternative suppliers in an effort to cut energy dependence on Russia.&nbsp;

The strain on worldwide efforts to prevent climate change has increased as a result of changes in the energy sector.

Host Indonesia presented a plan at the discussions detailing guidelines to hasten a "fair" transition to cleaner energy, and the G20 members supported it.&nbsp;

According to Indonesia's energy minister, Arifin Tasrif, the non-binding "Bali Compact," which outlines guidelines for achieving net zero emissions, was approved by all participants.&nbsp;

Although specifics were not made public, the minister stated that the plan aims to improve national energy planning and implementation in order to increase investment and financing while also enhancing energy security and efficiency.&nbsp;

Tasrif said in a Friday online press conference that the G20 energy ministers "sent a strong signal to the market that policymakers are taking action to strengthen the investment-enabling environment."

However, the officials were unable to agree on a joint communique at the one-day summit because of "differences among countries," Tasrif stated without going into further detail.&nbsp;

The invasion of Ukraine was condemned by a number of countries, notably Britain and France, who said it had disrupted the energy supply.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mikhail-gorbachev-last-soviet-leader-to-be-laid-to-rest-512551">Mikhail Gorbachev: Last Soviet leader laid to rest</a>

A source familiar with the conference told AFP that Russia's attendance at the summit prevented a statement from being agreed upon.&nbsp;

According to the source, the "current energy crisis shows the urgency to accelerate the energy transition."

According to a list seen by AFP, representatives from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Germany, India, South Africa, and the European Union were also there.&nbsp;

The G20 environment discussions in Bali on Wednesday also ended without a single declaration, highlighting disagreements among member nations over how to address climate change. The energy talks come after those discussions.

(with inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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At the conclusion of the G20 energy meeting in Bali on Friday, the top countries in the world pledged to accelerate the switch to cleaner energy, but there was no definitive agreement as officials battled disagreement over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

At the conclusion of the G20 energy meeting in Bali on Friday, the top countries in the world pledged to accelerate the switch to cleaner energy, but there was no definitive agreement as officials battled disagreement over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Energy prices have skyrocketed since Moscow launched its military offensive, and many Western countries are feverishly hunting for alternative suppliers in an effort to cut energy dependence on Russia. The strain on worldwide efforts to prevent climate change has increased as a result of changes in the energy sector. Host Indonesia presented a plan at the discussions detailing guidelines to hasten a "fair" transition to cleaner energy, and the G20 members supported it. According to Indonesia's energy minister, Arifin Tasrif, the non-binding "Bali Compact," which outlines guidelines for achieving net zero emissions, was approved by all participants. Although specifics were not made public, the minister stated that the plan aims to improve national energy planning and implementation in order to increase investment and financing while also enhancing energy security and efficiency. Tasrif said in a Friday online press conference that the G20 energy ministers "sent a strong signal to the market that policymakers are taking action to strengthen the investment-enabling environment." However, the officials were unable to agree on a joint communique at the one-day summit because of "differences among countries," Tasrif stated without going into further detail. The invasion of Ukraine was condemned by a number of countries, notably Britain and France, who said it had disrupted the energy supply. Also Read: Mikhail Gorbachev: Last Soviet leader laid to rest A source familiar with the conference told AFP that Russia's attendance at the summit prevented a statement from being agreed upon. According to the source, the "current energy crisis shows the urgency to accelerate the energy transition." According to a list seen by AFP, representatives from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Germany, India, South Africa, and the European Union were also there. The G20 environment discussions in Bali on Wednesday also ended without a single declaration, highlighting disagreements among member nations over how to address climate change. The energy talks come after those discussions. (with inputs from agencies)

No binding agreement reached in Bali G20 energy talks due to Russia-Ukraine war

As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores.

Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea.

A Ukrainian official claims that progress has been achieved in the counteroffensive that the government is waging in the south.

Russian troops are leaving certain locations where Ukraine has begun a counteroffensive, according to a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command on Monday.

The military command declared on Monday that the counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces to recover the Russian-occupied area of Kherson had started.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-may-visit-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-in-ukraine-509593" hreflang="en">IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine</a>

According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian forces will be able to drive occupying Russian forces back to pre-2014 lines.

The focus of attention was on any harm Ukraine might have caused to Russian forces around the port city of Kherson, a significant economic centre near the Black Sea that has been a valued possession of Moscow since it began the invasion just over half a year ago.

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In the Kherson region, "strong explosions persisted throughout the day and night," according to a dispatch from the Ukrainian presidential office on Tuesday. Practically the entire strategic area is still rife with fierce fights. According to the report, Ukrainian forces have destroyed numerous ammunition storage facilities in the area as well as all substantial bridges over the Dnieper that are necessary for supplying the Russian soldiers.

The Russian state news agency Tass noted five explosions near Kherson on Tuesday morning; these explosions were likely caused by air defence systems.

Operation Command South of the Ukrainian military said that artillery fire was used to attack a dozen command posts in various areas of the Kherson region as well as a pontoon that Russian soldiers were erecting across the Dnieper.

Over the past few months, the war has come to a standstill, with casualties rising and the local population suffering disproportionately as a result of the constant shelling in the east and in the wider region surrounding the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has also been the focal point of fighting in Ukraine.

Amid fears the plant could be damaged, leading to a radioactive leak, a U.N. nuclear watchdog team has arrived in Kyiv and is further preparing a mission to safeguard the Russian-occupied plant from nuclear catastrophe.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for the International Atomic Energy Agency experts, who will visit the plant in a country where the 1986 Chernobyl disaster spewed radiation throughout the region, shocking the world and intensifying a global push away from nuclear energy.

The Crimean peninsula was acquired by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, sparking a crisis that was dormant until the February 24 invasion. The Kherson area lies just north of that peninsula.

A substantial portion of the annexed peninsula's fresh water supplies come from the North Crimea Canal, which has its beginnings just to the east of the city.

The city effectively acts as a link between the rest of Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula, which Russia has controlled since 2014.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores. Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea.

As it attempts to retake occupied Kherson, the Ukrainian military has claimed to have destroyed important Russian control stations, munitions, and stores. Kherson, a significant port city with access to important commercial, naval, and other sea routes, is just around 60 miles (100 km) from the Russian-occupied Crimea. A Ukrainian official claims that progress has been achieved in the counteroffensive that the government is waging in the south. Russian troops are leaving certain locations where Ukraine has begun a counteroffensive, according to a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command on Monday. The military command declared on Monday that the counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces to recover the Russian-occupied area of Kherson had started. Also read | IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian forces will be able to drive occupying Russian forces back to pre-2014 lines. The focus of attention was on any harm Ukraine might have caused to Russian forces around the port city of Kherson, a significant economic centre near the Black Sea that has been a valued possession of Moscow since it began the invasion just over half a year ago. “The occupiers must know: we will chase them to the border. To our border, which line has not been changed.If they want to survive - it’s time for the Russian military to run away ... If they do not hear me - they will have to deal with our defenders, who will not stop until they free everything that belongs to Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address Monday. × In the Kherson region, "strong explosions persisted throughout the day and night," according to a dispatch from the Ukrainian presidential office on Tuesday. Practically the entire strategic area is still rife with fierce fights. According to the report, Ukrainian forces have destroyed numerous ammunition storage facilities in the area as well as all substantial bridges over the Dnieper that are necessary for supplying the Russian soldiers. The Russian state news agency Tass noted five explosions near Kherson on Tuesday morning; these explosions were likely caused by air defence systems. Operation Command South of the Ukrainian military said that artillery fire was used to attack a dozen command posts in various areas of the Kherson region as well as a pontoon that Russian soldiers were erecting across the Dnieper. Over the past few months, the war has come to a standstill, with casualties rising and the local population suffering disproportionately as a result of the constant shelling in the east and in the wider region surrounding the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has also been the focal point of fighting in Ukraine. Amid fears the plant could be damaged, leading to a radioactive leak, a U.N. nuclear watchdog team has arrived in Kyiv and is further preparing a mission to safeguard the Russian-occupied plant from nuclear catastrophe. The stakes couldn’t be higher for the International Atomic Energy Agency experts, who will visit the plant in a country where the 1986 Chernobyl disaster spewed radiation throughout the region, shocking the world and intensifying a global push away from nuclear energy. The Crimean peninsula was acquired by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, sparking a crisis that was dormant until the February 24 invasion. The Kherson area lies just north of that peninsula. A substantial portion of the annexed peninsula's fresh water supplies come from the North Crimea Canal, which has its beginnings just to the east of the city. The city effectively acts as a link between the rest of Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula, which Russia has controlled since 2014. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We will chase them to the border,’ says Zelensky, as Ukraine battles to retake Kherson 

Ukraine's presidency said Tuesday that there is "heavy fighting" in "almost the entire territory" of the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson occupied by Russian troops. Earlier,&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked Russian troops to flee for their lives as his forces launched an offensive near the city of Kherson, saying Ukraine's military were taking back their territory. However, Russia has said that the assault had failed. In a late night address Monday, Zelensky vowed that Ukrainian troops would chase the Russian army "to the border".

"If they want to survive, it's time for the Russian military to run away. Go home. Ukraine is taking back its own," Zelensky said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-of-hydrogen-leakage-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-ukraine-510772">Ukraine warns of hydrogen leakage risk at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</a>

"Powerful explosions continued throughout the day and throughout the night in Kherson region," the president's office said in a morning update.&nbsp;

Oleksiy Arestovych, Zelensky's senior adviser, said that the offensive in the Kherson region has led to the Russian defences being "broken through in a few hours". He further informed that Ukrainian forces were shelling ferries that Russia was using to supply a pocket of territory on the west bank of the Dnipro river.&nbsp;

Britain has also said that Ukrainian forces have increased "artillery fire in front line sectors across southern Ukraine" and their &nbsp;"long-range precision strikes" were disrupting Russian resupplies.

Ukraine's Suspilne public broadcaster reported explosions in the Kherson area on Tuesday. Residents of the area shared social media posts informing of gunfire and explosions but said it was not clear who was firing.

Meanwhile, Russia's defence ministry said Ukrainian troops had attempted an offensive in the Mykolaiv and Kherson regions but sustained significant casualties, RIA news agency reported. The "enemy's offensive attempt failed miserably", it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's presidency said Tuesday that there is "heavy fighting" in "almost the entire territory" of the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson occupied by Russian troops.

Ukraine's presidency said Tuesday that there is "heavy fighting" in "almost the entire territory" of the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson occupied by Russian troops. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked Russian troops to flee for their lives as his forces launched an offensive near the city of Kherson, saying Ukraine's military were taking back their territory. However, Russia has said that the assault had failed. In a late night address Monday, Zelensky vowed that Ukrainian troops would chase the Russian army "to the border". "If they want to survive, it's time for the Russian military to run away. Go home. Ukraine is taking back its own," Zelensky said. Also Read | Ukraine warns of hydrogen leakage risk at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant "Powerful explosions continued throughout the day and throughout the night in Kherson region," the president's office said in a morning update. Oleksiy Arestovych, Zelensky's senior adviser, said that the offensive in the Kherson region has led to the Russian defences being "broken through in a few hours". He further informed that Ukrainian forces were shelling ferries that Russia was using to supply a pocket of territory on the west bank of the Dnipro river. Britain has also said that Ukrainian forces have increased "artillery fire in front line sectors across southern Ukraine" and their "long-range precision strikes" were disrupting Russian resupplies. Ukraine's Suspilne public broadcaster reported explosions in the Kherson area on Tuesday. Residents of the area shared social media posts informing of gunfire and explosions but said it was not clear who was firing. Meanwhile, Russia's defence ministry said Ukrainian troops had attempted an offensive in the Mykolaiv and Kherson regions but sustained significant casualties, RIA news agency reported. The "enemy's offensive attempt failed miserably", it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Kyiv launches counteroffensive in the south, 'flee for your lives', Zelensky tells Russians

Since the war began the 37-year-old biologist, who works as a gardener to make ends meet has added another notch to his CV, as a key-keeper.

6 months of Ukraine war: Meet Kyiv's biologist turned key keeper

As the Russia-Ukraine war reaches six months, the US will provide $3 billion in fresh military aid to Kyiv to train and equip the Ukrainian fighters for years to come.

According to The Associated Press which cited US officials, the package is expected to be announced on Wednesday, the day the war hits the six-months mark, and Ukraine celebrates its independence day.

The assistance will go into funding contracts for three types of drones, other weapons, ammunition and equipment that may not see the battlefront for a year or two, the officials said.

The latest announcement comes even as the US has warned that Russia might amp up the strikes on major civilian targets, coinciding with Ukraine's independence day observations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged citizens to be on guard against "Russian terror."

Russia is expected to up the ante after Kremlin vowed to punish those involved in the assassination of Daria Dugina—the daughter of Alexander Dugin, an ultra-nationalist intellectual allied with President Vladimir Putin.

Moscow believes Ukraine is responsible for the killing, but the latter has denied responsibility for the Saturday bombing, which apparently targeted Dugin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-vows-to-retake-annexed-crimea-from-russia-509597" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia</a>

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said the investigation into the attack would be completed soon.

"According to the results of this investigation, there can be no mercy for those who organised, ordered and carried out" the car bombing, he was quoted as saying by Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-is-on-high-alert-as-i-day-approaches-top-ukrainian-official-tells-wion-509536" hreflang="en">Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukrainian official tells WION</a>

Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia traded charges at a Tuesday meeting of the UN Security Council on Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in southern Ukraine, which is occupied by Russian troops, with Ukraine and its allies demanding Russia pull its troops out of the plant and agree to a demilitarised zone.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the Russia-Ukraine war reaches six months, the US will provide $3 billion in fresh military aid to Kyiv to train and equip the Ukrainian fighters for years to come.

As the Russia-Ukraine war reaches six months, the US will provide $3 billion in fresh military aid to Kyiv to train and equip the Ukrainian fighters for years to come. According to The Associated Press which cited US officials, the package is expected to be announced on Wednesday, the day the war hits the six-months mark, and Ukraine celebrates its independence day. The assistance will go into funding contracts for three types of drones, other weapons, ammunition and equipment that may not see the battlefront for a year or two, the officials said. The latest announcement comes even as the US has warned that Russia might amp up the strikes on major civilian targets, coinciding with Ukraine's independence day observations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged citizens to be on guard against "Russian terror." Russia is expected to up the ante after Kremlin vowed to punish those involved in the assassination of Daria Dugina—the daughter of Alexander Dugin, an ultra-nationalist intellectual allied with President Vladimir Putin. Moscow believes Ukraine is responsible for the killing, but the latter has denied responsibility for the Saturday bombing, which apparently targeted Dugin. Also read | Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said the investigation into the attack would be completed soon. "According to the results of this investigation, there can be no mercy for those who organised, ordered and carried out" the car bombing, he was quoted as saying by Reuters. Also read | Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukrainian official tells WION Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia traded charges at a Tuesday meeting of the UN Security Council on Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in southern Ukraine, which is occupied by Russian troops, with Ukraine and its allies demanding Russia pull its troops out of the plant and agree to a demilitarised zone. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Six months into Russia war, US to give $3bn in fresh military aid to Ukraine

The United Nations has raised concerns over reports that Russia is making preparations to prosecute Ukrainian prisoners of war under conditions that could amount to war crimes, including the possible use of cages.

The UN human rights office pointed to images and footage appearing to show metal cages being installed in a hall in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, apparently to hold PoWs during proceedings.

"Under international law, individuals entitled to prisoner of war status have combatant immunity and cannot be prosecuted for having participated in hostilities, or for lawful acts of war committed in the course of the armed conflict, even if such acts would otherwise constitute an offence under domestic law," Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), told a briefing in Geneva.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-condemns-russia-on-targeting-civilians-warns-moscow-plans-to-hit-govt-buildings-509366">US condemns Russia on targeting civilians, warns Moscow plans to hit govt buildings</a>

"If prisoners of war are charged with crimes, they are entitled to due process and fair trial guarantees. No sentence or punishment may be passed on them unless it is delivered by an impartial and regularly constituted court," she said.

OHCHR has repeatedly asked Moscow to grant independent monitors full access to all individuals detained in relation to the war in Ukraine. But it has not been granted access to any places of internment of PoWs or to areas controlled by its proxies, such as in the Donetsk region.

Notably, under the international humanitarian law, the establishment of courts solely to judge PoWs is not allowed, and willfully depriving a PoW of the right to a fair and regular trial "amounts to a war crime", she added.

"It would be the Russian Federation that would be responsible if this goes ahead," she said.

The UN rights office said that PoWs are at risk of being tortured for information&nbsp;as they have generally been held without access to independent monitors.

"We have had reports that have led to our concern that torture may be used in these circumstances," she said.

"There have also been worrying public statements by Russian officials and members of affiliated armed groups labelling Ukrainian prisoners of war as 'war criminals', 'Nazis', and 'terrorists', thereby undermining the presumption of innocence," she added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-treated-russians-to-a-magical-evening-launched-drone-attack-on-crimea-508581">Ukraine shows off demolished Russian tanks during parade in Kyiv</a>

OHCHR is clueless about the number of people who may be tried or how Russia plans to set up the tribunal to hear the cases, who the defendants are and what crimes will be considered.

Russia's military intervention in Ukraine began on February 24 and will reach the six-month milestone tomorrow. Ukraine's southern port city of Mariupol suffered a devastating siege and heavy shelling before being captured by Russian troops.

Shamdasani said the OHCHR had been given access to Ukrainian trials, and was aware of six men being sentenced for war crimes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations has raised concerns over reports that Russia is making preparations to prosecute Ukrainian prisoners of war under conditions that could amount to war crimes, including the possible use of cages.

The United Nations has raised concerns over reports that Russia is making preparations to prosecute Ukrainian prisoners of war under conditions that could amount to war crimes, including the possible use of cages. The UN human rights office pointed to images and footage appearing to show metal cages being installed in a hall in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, apparently to hold PoWs during proceedings. "Under international law, individuals entitled to prisoner of war status have combatant immunity and cannot be prosecuted for having participated in hostilities, or for lawful acts of war committed in the course of the armed conflict, even if such acts would otherwise constitute an offence under domestic law," Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), told a briefing in Geneva. Also Read | US condemns Russia on targeting civilians, warns Moscow plans to hit govt buildings "If prisoners of war are charged with crimes, they are entitled to due process and fair trial guarantees. No sentence or punishment may be passed on them unless it is delivered by an impartial and regularly constituted court," she said. OHCHR has repeatedly asked Moscow to grant independent monitors full access to all individuals detained in relation to the war in Ukraine. But it has not been granted access to any places of internment of PoWs or to areas controlled by its proxies, such as in the Donetsk region. Notably, under the international humanitarian law, the establishment of courts solely to judge PoWs is not allowed, and willfully depriving a PoW of the right to a fair and regular trial "amounts to a war crime", she added. "It would be the Russian Federation that would be responsible if this goes ahead," she said. The UN rights office said that PoWs are at risk of being tortured for information as they have generally been held without access to independent monitors. "We have had reports that have led to our concern that torture may be used in these circumstances," she said. "There have also been worrying public statements by Russian officials and members of affiliated armed groups labelling Ukrainian prisoners of war as 'war criminals', 'Nazis', and 'terrorists', thereby undermining the presumption of innocence," she added. Also Read | Ukraine shows off demolished Russian tanks during parade in Kyiv OHCHR is clueless about the number of people who may be tried or how Russia plans to set up the tribunal to hear the cases, who the defendants are and what crimes will be considered. Russia's military intervention in Ukraine began on February 24 and will reach the six-month milestone tomorrow. Ukraine's southern port city of Mariupol suffered a devastating siege and heavy shelling before being captured by Russian troops. Shamdasani said the OHCHR had been given access to Ukrainian trials, and was aware of six men being sentenced for war crimes. (With inputs from agencies)

Cage trial? United Nations fears Russia is preparing to hold 'unlawful' PoW trials

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action.

The Ukrainian president made these comments at the second iteration of the Crimea Platform on Tuesday—an online gathering of 60 nations and international organisations hosted by Kyiv focused on the peninsula.

"We will take back Crimea- it is our territory. We will do this in any way which we decide. We will decide this by ourselves, without consultation with any other country in the world," he told reporters.

"Ukraine is strong enough and powerful enough to see a perspective for Ukrainian Crimea. We will bring freedom to Ukrainian citizens in Crimea, and we will restore justice to all those who suffered from the repressions and abuses of the Russian occupiers," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Newsweek.

"I know that Crimea is with Ukraine, is waiting for us to return. I want all of you to know that we will return. We need to win the fight against Russian aggression. Therefore, we need to free Crimea from&nbsp;occupation.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-is-on-high-alert-as-i-day-approaches-top-ukrainian-official-tells-wion-509536" hreflang="en">Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukraine official tells WION</a>

Speaking of Ukraine's war with Russia, Zelensky said, “It began with Crimea, it will end with Crimea."

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 following the pro-Western Maidan Revolution. The peninsula served as a launchpad for Russia’s full-scale invasion in February this year, seizing chunks of Ukraine's southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-may-visit-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-in-ukraine-509593" hreflang="en">IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine</a>

In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased its attacks in Crimea, with long-range&nbsp;weapons and drones&nbsp;targeting air bases, transport hubs, logistics depots, and command centres, triggering panic among Russians in Crimea, according to reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to retake its annexed Crimea peninsula from Russia by any means necessary and added that Kyiv would consult with countries before taking such action. The Ukrainian president made these comments at the second iteration of the Crimea Platform on Tuesday—an online gathering of 60 nations and international organisations hosted by Kyiv focused on the peninsula. "We will take back Crimea- it is our territory. We will do this in any way which we decide. We will decide this by ourselves, without consultation with any other country in the world," he told reporters. "Ukraine is strong enough and powerful enough to see a perspective for Ukrainian Crimea. We will bring freedom to Ukrainian citizens in Crimea, and we will restore justice to all those who suffered from the repressions and abuses of the Russian occupiers," Zelensky was quoted as saying by Newsweek. "I know that Crimea is with Ukraine, is waiting for us to return. I want all of you to know that we will return. We need to win the fight against Russian aggression. Therefore, we need to free Crimea from occupation.” Also read | Ukraine is on high alert as I-day approaches, top Ukraine official tells WION Speaking of Ukraine's war with Russia, Zelensky said, “It began with Crimea, it will end with Crimea." Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 following the pro-Western Maidan Revolution. The peninsula served as a launchpad for Russia’s full-scale invasion in February this year, seizing chunks of Ukraine's southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. Also read | IAEA may visit Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased its attacks in Crimea, with long-range weapons and drones targeting air bases, transport hubs, logistics depots, and command centres, triggering panic among Russians in Crimea, according to reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to retake annexed Crimea from Russia

Russia's FSB security services on Monday accused Ukraine's secret services of killing Darya Dugina, Kremlin ideologue Alexander Dugin's daughter, in a car bomb attack near Moscow. Dugin is an outspoken ultranationalist intellectual and a vocal supporter of the Kremlin's offensive in Ukraine and was supposedly the likely target of the attack.&nbsp; "The crime was prepared and committed by Ukrainian special services," the FSB said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Ukraine has already denied involvement in the fatal attack and has described it as an imperial-style war of conquest mounted by Russia.&nbsp;Ukrainian presidential adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, today said that Kyiv authorities weren't behind the car bombing.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexander-dugins-daughter-killed-in-car-bomb-attack-who-is-darya-dugina-508788">Alexander Dugin's daughter killed in car bomb attack: Who is Darya Dugina?</a>

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin also expressed his "sincere condolences" following her death and termed it a "vile crime".

"A vile, cruel crime ended the life of Darya Dugina, a bright, talented person with a real Russian heart, kind, loving, sympathetic and open," Putin said in a message to Dugina's family released by the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Alexander also released his first public statement on his daughter's death, and said she had been savagely killed before his own eyes by Ukraine.

"Our hearts are not simply thirsting for revenge or retribution," Dugin wrote. "We only need our victory (against Ukraine). My daughter has sacrificed her young life on the altar of victory. So please win!"

The FSB security service identified the attacker as a Ukrainian woman born in 1979 whose name is Natalia Vovk. It added that she fled to Estonia after the attack. Russian news websites linked her to Ukraine's security services and accused her of being a member of the Azov battalion, a unit of Ukraine's army that Russia has designated a terrorist group.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-treated-russians-to-a-magical-evening-launched-drone-attack-on-crimea-508581">Ukraine launches fresh drone strike on Russia-annexed Crimea, far from war front</a>

The woman and her teenage daughter had arrived in Russia in July and spent a month preparing for the attack by renting an apartment in the same housing block as Dugina, the FSB was quoted as saying. It said she had driven a Mini Cooper around Moscow which she used to spy on Dugina and for which she had three different sets of licence plates to avoid detection.

Russian law enforcement agencies had placed the Ukrainian woman on the country's wanted list, the TASS news agency reported, with Moscow seeking her extradition from Estonia.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Russia's FSB security services on Monday accused Ukraine's secret services of killing Darya Dugina, Kremlin ideologue Alexander Dugin's daughter, in a car bomb attack near Moscow.

Russia's FSB security services on Monday accused Ukraine's secret services of killing Darya Dugina, Kremlin ideologue Alexander Dugin's daughter, in a car bomb attack near Moscow. Dugin is an outspoken ultranationalist intellectual and a vocal supporter of the Kremlin's offensive in Ukraine and was supposedly the likely target of the attack. "The crime was prepared and committed by Ukrainian special services," the FSB said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies. On the other hand, Ukraine has already denied involvement in the fatal attack and has described it as an imperial-style war of conquest mounted by Russia. Ukrainian presidential adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, today said that Kyiv authorities weren't behind the car bombing. Also Read | Alexander Dugin's daughter killed in car bomb attack: Who is Darya Dugina? Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin also expressed his "sincere condolences" following her death and termed it a "vile crime". "A vile, cruel crime ended the life of Darya Dugina, a bright, talented person with a real Russian heart, kind, loving, sympathetic and open," Putin said in a message to Dugina's family released by the Kremlin. Alexander also released his first public statement on his daughter's death, and said she had been savagely killed before his own eyes by Ukraine. "Our hearts are not simply thirsting for revenge or retribution," Dugin wrote. "We only need our victory (against Ukraine). My daughter has sacrificed her young life on the altar of victory. So please win!" The FSB security service identified the attacker as a Ukrainian woman born in 1979 whose name is Natalia Vovk. It added that she fled to Estonia after the attack. Russian news websites linked her to Ukraine's security services and accused her of being a member of the Azov battalion, a unit of Ukraine's army that Russia has designated a terrorist group. Also Read | Ukraine launches fresh drone strike on Russia-annexed Crimea, far from war front The woman and her teenage daughter had arrived in Russia in July and spent a month preparing for the attack by renting an apartment in the same housing block as Dugina, the FSB was quoted as saying. It said she had driven a Mini Cooper around Moscow which she used to spy on Dugina and for which she had three different sets of licence plates to avoid detection. Russian law enforcement agencies had placed the Ukrainian woman on the country's wanted list, the TASS news agency reported, with Moscow seeking her extradition from Estonia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia accuses Ukraine of killing Kremlin ideologue's daughter Darya Dugina

A Russian missile strike in a residential area of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-biggest city, on Wednesday left seven people dead and injured 16, the Ukrainian Emergencies Service said. The fire hit a dormitory building block where around fifty people were residing.&nbsp;

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed Russia for the attack on Telegram, "This is a devious and cynical strike on civilians with no justification, showing the powerlessness of the aggressor. We cannot forgive. We will avenge it."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-only-way-to-end-nuclear-threat-from-zaporizhzhia-is-to-end-the-war-says-senior-journalist-507884">Only way to end nuclear threat from Zaporizhzhia 'is to end the war', says senior journalist</a>

A witness Ivan Sokol described the missile fire to Reuters as a "Caliber cruise missile". Zelensky said a block of flats was "totally destroyed" in the attack.

"Then, bang, gray. Gray fog...we've got three windows - nothing else left! The stairs started collapsing, people started helping each other," building resident, Tamara Kramarenko told Reuters describing the scene of the attack.

Meanwhile, Pavlo Kyrylenko, governor of the Donetsk region in the east, said on Wednesday that two civilians were killed and seven wounded in shelling by Russian forces in the past 24 hours. Donetsk has seen some of the fiercest fighting during the war that started in February.

Kharkiv was besieged in the first days of the invasion in February. But Russian troops, backed by massive artillery fire and missile strikes,&nbsp;have not been able to take control of Ukraine's second-biggest city.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A Russian missile strike in a residential area of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-biggest city, on Wednesday left seven people dead and injured 16, the Ukrainian Emergencies Service said.

A Russian missile strike in a residential area of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-biggest city, on Wednesday left seven people dead and injured 16, the Ukrainian Emergencies Service said. The fire hit a dormitory building block where around fifty people were residing. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed Russia for the attack on Telegram, "This is a devious and cynical strike on civilians with no justification, showing the powerlessness of the aggressor. We cannot forgive. We will avenge it." Also Read | Only way to end nuclear threat from Zaporizhzhia 'is to end the war', says senior journalist A witness Ivan Sokol described the missile fire to Reuters as a "Caliber cruise missile". Zelensky said a block of flats was "totally destroyed" in the attack. "Then, bang, gray. Gray fog...we've got three windows - nothing else left! The stairs started collapsing, people started helping each other," building resident, Tamara Kramarenko told Reuters describing the scene of the attack. Meanwhile, Pavlo Kyrylenko, governor of the Donetsk region in the east, said on Wednesday that two civilians were killed and seven wounded in shelling by Russian forces in the past 24 hours. Donetsk has seen some of the fiercest fighting during the war that started in February. Kharkiv was besieged in the first days of the invasion in February. But Russian troops, backed by massive artillery fire and missile strikes, have not been able to take control of Ukraine's second-biggest city. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian missile fire in Kharkiv residential area leaves seven dead

Fewer than four months after Russia's forces invaded the neighbouring&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-military-need-to-use-nuclear-arms-in-ukraine-says-russia-calls-speculations-absolute-lies-507644">Ukraine</a>, dozens of UN&nbsp;ambassadors from Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia attended a reception to celebrate the nation's national day on a June night beneath the chandeliers of Russia's United Nations mission in New York.

&nbsp;"We thank all of you for your support and your principled position against the so-called anti-Russian crusade,"&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told them, after accusing countries he did not name of trying to "cancel"&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and its culture.

After an initial burst of <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-hope-this-is-just-the-beginning-uncief-secures-first-malaria-vaccine-supply-says-will-benefit-millions-507613">UN</a>&nbsp;denunciations for attacking Ukraine, the crowd of ambassadors demonstrated the challenges western diplomats face in trying to maintain international commitment to isolate Russia diplomatically.

Western diplomats recognise they are constrained in their ability to significantly further target Russia beyond having meetings due to frustration and concern among some countries that the war is consuming too much global attention nearly six months in with no prospect of the United Nations being able to put an end to it.

"As the&nbsp;war&nbsp;has dragged on, it has become harder to find meaningful ways to penalize&nbsp;Russia," said Richard Gowan,&nbsp;UN&nbsp;director at the independent International Crisis Group.

In some instances, Western nations are holding off on taking certain actions out of concern for lukewarm support since rising vote abstentions have shown a growing hesitation to openly criticise Moscow, diplomats and analysts said.

COSTUMES AND CHOCOLATES

According to diplomats, the European Union considered a plan in June to name a UN&nbsp;expert to look into human rights issues in Russia, but it abandoned the idea due to concerns that over half of the 47 members of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva may oppose it.

According to the Russian representation to the UN in Geneva, Western countries "know all too well that it's impossible to isolate Russia since it's a global power."

The best "national clothing" for a reception in June was chosen in a secret vote in Geneva, despite the diplomatic isolation. After winning, a box of chocolates was given to a Russian envoy, as seen on camera. The delegation representing Ukraine left.

Russia can avoid serious measures like sanctions because it has a veto on the UN Security Council, which has 15 members, but it has also fought to stymie support for Western diplomatic initiatives elsewhere.

Russia issued a warning to nations that a vote in favour of suspending Russia from the <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-court-sentences-woman-student-for-using-twitter-charged-with-causing-public-unrest-507724">Human Rights</a>&nbsp;Council or an abstention would be seen as "unfriendly," which would have an impact on their relations. The 193-member UN&nbsp;General Assembly voted in April to do so.

After receiving 93 votes in favour, 24 votes against, and 58 abstentions, the US-led initiative was approved.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US&nbsp;ambassador to the UN, claimed that Russia has been successful in persuading certain nations to support it despite a "false narrative" that Western sanctions are to blame for a world food crisis sparked by Moscow's war.

RED LINES

After the invasion on 24 February, the General Assembly voted to censure Russia and demand that it withdraw its soldiers less than a week later. Three weeks later, it once more condemned Russia vehemently for inciting a "dire" humanitarian crisis.

"Support will wane because the March resolutions represent a high water mark; and there is no appetite for further&nbsp;action&nbsp;unless red lines are crossed," a senior Asian diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Such red lines, according to some officials, could include the use of nuclear or chemical weapons, the mass killing of civilians, or the annexation of Ukrainian land.

Focusing on elections to UN&nbsp;agencies has been successful for Western countries. For the first time since UNICEF was established in 1946, Russia failed to retain its board position in April, as well as its seats in other organisations.

But in May, when it came time to vote on a Ukraine resolution at the World Health Organization, some 30 states—half of them from Africa—failed to show up, leading several delegates in attendance to quip that they must be missing a party.

Ukraine has requested that Russia be expelled from the UN. But in order to take the extraordinary action, the Security Council must propose it, which Russia might veto, and then the General Assembly must vote on it.

Removing the representatives of Russian President Vladimir Putin's credentials is another possibility, but doing so would require at least 75% backing from the General Assembly.

(With inputs from agencies)

Also Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine, Russia trade blames over Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant strikes

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Fewer than four months after Russia's forces invaded the neighbouring Ukraine, dozens of UN ambassadors from Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia attended a reception to celebrate the nation's national day on a June night beneath the chandeliers of Russia's United Nations mission in New York.

Fewer than four months after Russia's forces invaded the neighbouring Ukraine, dozens of UN ambassadors from Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia attended a reception to celebrate the nation's national day on a June night beneath the chandeliers of Russia's United Nations mission in New York. "We thank all of you for your support and your principled position against the so-called anti-Russian crusade," Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told them, after accusing countries he did not name of trying to "cancel" Russia and its culture. After an initial burst of UN denunciations for attacking Ukraine, the crowd of ambassadors demonstrated the challenges western diplomats face in trying to maintain international commitment to isolate Russia diplomatically. Western diplomats recognise they are constrained in their ability to significantly further target Russia beyond having meetings due to frustration and concern among some countries that the war is consuming too much global attention nearly six months in with no prospect of the United Nations being able to put an end to it. "As the war has dragged on, it has become harder to find meaningful ways to penalize Russia," said Richard Gowan, UN director at the independent International Crisis Group. In some instances, Western nations are holding off on taking certain actions out of concern for lukewarm support since rising vote abstentions have shown a growing hesitation to openly criticise Moscow, diplomats and analysts said. COSTUMES AND CHOCOLATES According to diplomats, the European Union considered a plan in June to name a UN expert to look into human rights issues in Russia, but it abandoned the idea due to concerns that over half of the 47 members of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva may oppose it. According to the Russian representation to the UN in Geneva, Western countries "know all too well that it's impossible to isolate Russia since it's a global power." The best "national clothing" for a reception in June was chosen in a secret vote in Geneva, despite the diplomatic isolation. After winning, a box of chocolates was given to a Russian envoy, as seen on camera. The delegation representing Ukraine left. Russia can avoid serious measures like sanctions because it has a veto on the UN Security Council, which has 15 members, but it has also fought to stymie support for Western diplomatic initiatives elsewhere. Russia issued a warning to nations that a vote in favour of suspending Russia from the Human Rights Council or an abstention would be seen as "unfriendly," which would have an impact on their relations. The 193-member UN General Assembly voted in April to do so. After receiving 93 votes in favour, 24 votes against, and 58 abstentions, the US-led initiative was approved. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador to the UN, claimed that Russia has been successful in persuading certain nations to support it despite a "false narrative" that Western sanctions are to blame for a world food crisis sparked by Moscow's war. RED LINES After the invasion on 24 February, the General Assembly voted to censure Russia and demand that it withdraw its soldiers less than a week later. Three weeks later, it once more condemned Russia vehemently for inciting a "dire" humanitarian crisis. "Support will wane because the March resolutions represent a high water mark; and there is no appetite for further action unless red lines are crossed," a senior Asian diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Such red lines, according to some officials, could include the use of nuclear or chemical weapons, the mass killing of civilians, or the annexation of Ukrainian land. Focusing on elections to UN agencies has been successful for Western countries. For the first time since UNICEF was established in 1946, Russia failed to retain its board position in April, as well as its seats in other organisations. But in May, when it came time to vote on a Ukraine resolution at the World Health Organization, some 30 states—half of them from Africa—failed to show up, leading several delegates in attendance to quip that they must be missing a party. Ukraine has requested that Russia be expelled from the UN. But in order to take the extraordinary action, the Security Council must propose it, which Russia might veto, and then the General Assembly must vote on it. Removing the representatives of Russian President Vladimir Putin's credentials is another possibility, but doing so would require at least 75% backing from the General Assembly. (With inputs from agencies) Also Watch | Ukraine, Russia trade blames over Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant strikes

Nearly six months into the Ukraine war, UN efforts to isolate Russia diminish

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday accused Washington of seeking to prolong the conflict in Ukraine and of fuelling conflicts elsewhere in the world, AFP reported.&nbsp;Putin specifically pointed out US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan.

"The situation in Ukraine shows that the US is trying to prolong this conflict. And they act in exactly the same way, fuelling the potential for conflict in Asia, Africa and Latin America," Putin said in televised remarks, addressing the opening ceremony of a security conference in Moscow via video link.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-ready-to-offer-its-most-advance-weapons-to-allies-507263">Vladimir Putin says Russia ready to offer its ‘most advanced weapons’ to allies</a>

"The American adventure in relation to Taiwan is not just a trip of an individual irresponsible politician, but part of a purposeful, conscious US strategy to destabilise and make chaotic the situation in the region and the world," he added.&nbsp;

Calling it a "carefully planned provocation", Putin said the visit was a "brazen demonstration of disrespect for the sovereignty of other countries and for its (Washington's) international obligations".

Moscow's war on Ukraine has left thousands dead and millions displaced, besides leading to a food shortage across the world. There have also been fears of a nuclear attack.

Speaking at the security conference, Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said Moscow does not plan to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine.

"From a military point of view, there is no need to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine to achieve the set goals. The main purpose of Russian nuclear weapons is to deter a nuclear attack," Shoigu said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-kim-jong-un-exchange-letters-talk-of-expanding-bilateral-ties-to-counter-hostile-military-forces-507093">Putin and Kim Jong Un exchange letters, talk of expanding bilateral ties</a>

Ever since Russia launched a military attack on Ukraine in February, US has slapped unprecedented sanctions on it. Putin has been trying to bolster ties with countries in Africa and Asia, especially with China, in the face of all these sanctions.

Moscow supported Beijing during Pelosi's August visit to self-ruled Taiwan, which China considers its territory.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday accused Washington of seeking to prolong the conflict in Ukraine and of fuelling conflicts elsewhere in the world, AFP reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday accused Washington of seeking to prolong the conflict in Ukraine and of fuelling conflicts elsewhere in the world, AFP reported. Putin specifically pointed out US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan. "The situation in Ukraine shows that the US is trying to prolong this conflict. And they act in exactly the same way, fuelling the potential for conflict in Asia, Africa and Latin America," Putin said in televised remarks, addressing the opening ceremony of a security conference in Moscow via video link. Also Read | Vladimir Putin says Russia ready to offer its ‘most advanced weapons’ to allies "The American adventure in relation to Taiwan is not just a trip of an individual irresponsible politician, but part of a purposeful, conscious US strategy to destabilise and make chaotic the situation in the region and the world," he added. Calling it a "carefully planned provocation", Putin said the visit was a "brazen demonstration of disrespect for the sovereignty of other countries and for its (Washington's) international obligations". Moscow's war on Ukraine has left thousands dead and millions displaced, besides leading to a food shortage across the world. There have also been fears of a nuclear attack. Speaking at the security conference, Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said Moscow does not plan to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. "From a military point of view, there is no need to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine to achieve the set goals. The main purpose of Russian nuclear weapons is to deter a nuclear attack," Shoigu said. Also Read | Putin and Kim Jong Un exchange letters, talk of expanding bilateral ties Ever since Russia launched a military attack on Ukraine in February, US has slapped unprecedented sanctions on it. Putin has been trying to bolster ties with countries in Africa and Asia, especially with China, in the face of all these sanctions. Moscow supported Beijing during Pelosi's August visit to self-ruled Taiwan, which China considers its territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin slams US over Pelosi's Taiwan visit, accuses it of trying to prolong the Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed interest to “expand the comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang’s state media reported on Monday.

According to KCNA&nbsp;news agency said, Putin sent a letter to Kim on the 77th anniversary of the end of Japan’s occupation of the Korean peninsula, where he stressed that closer ties would be in the interest of both countries.

It would help solidify the security and stability of the Korean peninsula and the Northeastern Asian region, Putin said in the letter, reports Reuters.

The North Korean leader also voiced his response through his letter saying that the Russian-North Korean friendship had been forged in World War II with victory over Japan, which had occupied the Korean peninsula.

Kim said that the “strategic and tactical cooperation, support and solidarity” between the two countries have since reached a new level in their common efforts to frustrate threats and provocations from hostile military forces.

Though KCNA did not describe who the hostile forces were, the term is generally used in North Korea to refer to the United States and its allies.

Kim expressed hope that the cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang would grow based on the 2019 agreement signed when he met with Vladimir Putin.

North Korea is considered a close ally of Russia. It had recently recognised two Russian-backed breakaway “people’s republics” in eastern Ukraine as independent states.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-offering-100000-troops-to-help-russia-win-ukrainian-war-state-media-505028">North Korea offering 100,000 troops to help Russia win Ukrainian war: State media</a>

Moreover, reports are swirling around that North Korea has reportedly offered 100,000 "volunteer" troops to help bolster Russia’s chances of invading Ukraine.

“There are reports that 100,000 North Korean volunteers are prepared to come and take part in the conflict,” Russian defence analyst Igor Korotchenko told Russian Channel One, reports New York Post.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-wired-nuclear-power-plant-with-explosives-ukraine-504910">Russia has wired nuclear power plant with explosives: Ukraine</a>

“If North Korea expresses a desire to meet its international duty to fight against Ukrainian fascism, we should let them,”&nbsp;<a name="_Hlk110931379">Korotchenko</a>&nbsp;was quoted as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed interest to “expand the comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang’s state media reported on Monday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed interest to “expand the comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang’s state media reported on Monday. According to KCNA news agency said, Putin sent a letter to Kim on the 77th anniversary of the end of Japan’s occupation of the Korean peninsula, where he stressed that closer ties would be in the interest of both countries. It would help solidify the security and stability of the Korean peninsula and the Northeastern Asian region, Putin said in the letter, reports Reuters. The North Korean leader also voiced his response through his letter saying that the Russian-North Korean friendship had been forged in World War II with victory over Japan, which had occupied the Korean peninsula. Kim said that the “strategic and tactical cooperation, support and solidarity” between the two countries have since reached a new level in their common efforts to frustrate threats and provocations from hostile military forces. Though KCNA did not describe who the hostile forces were, the term is generally used in North Korea to refer to the United States and its allies. Kim expressed hope that the cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang would grow based on the 2019 agreement signed when he met with Vladimir Putin. North Korea is considered a close ally of Russia. It had recently recognised two Russian-backed breakaway “people’s republics” in eastern Ukraine as independent states. Also read | North Korea offering 100,000 troops to help Russia win Ukrainian war: State media Moreover, reports are swirling around that North Korea has reportedly offered 100,000 "volunteer" troops to help bolster Russia’s chances of invading Ukraine. “There are reports that 100,000 North Korean volunteers are prepared to come and take part in the conflict,” Russian defence analyst Igor Korotchenko told Russian Channel One, reports New York Post. Also read | Russia has wired nuclear power plant with explosives: Ukraine “If North Korea expresses a desire to meet its international duty to fight against Ukrainian fascism, we should let them,” Korotchenko was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin and Kim Jong Un exchange letters, talk of expanding bilateral ties to counter 'hostile military forces'

While attending the 77th anniversary of the world's first atomic bombing in Japan, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said any attack on a nuclear plant is a "suicidal thing".

Is the risk of nuclear confrontation back?

Vladimir <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-red-vladimir-putin-statue-appears-in-central-park-leaves-visitors-fascinated-503124">Putin</a>&nbsp;may be using a physical duplicate, according to repeated assertions made by the head of Ukraine's military intelligence.

The recently appointed Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, Major General Kyrylo Budanov, said on Ukrainian television that Putin's&nbsp;height and ears have changed in recent appearances.

He made an appearance on the "Groshi" channel and said: "Let's assume the image of the ears is different. Additionally, each person's ear picture is distinctive, just like a fingerprint. It can't be done again."

According to the Ukrainian news site TSN, Budanov also said that he thought the Russian president was gravely ill and that he used body doubles to avoid public appearances.

Many critics have discussed the 69-year-old warmonger's health, and a variety of assertions have been made about it.

The alleged body doubles, according to Budanov, "had different habits, mannerisms, gaits, and sometimes, if you looked closely, different heights."

Putin may have utilised a double for his entrance at a summit in Tehran last month, according to a previous accusation made by the intelligence chief.

Budanov told the 1+1 new channel: “I will only hint. Please look at the moment of Putin's exit from the plane. Is it Putin at all?”

Putin made the trip, which is just his second in five months, as one of the few overseas trips he is currently permitted to undertake as a result of his ongoing invasion of Ukraine. He met the presidents of Turkey and <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-deal-indirect-talks-resume-in-vienna-as-tehran-expands-enrichment-503761">Iran</a>&nbsp;at that location.

This occurs while Putin's invasion of Ukraine rages on, with violence concentrated in the nation's east.

In recent days, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared his desire to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping personally in the hope&nbsp;that China will use its clout with Russia to stop the conflict.

All diplomatic channels have so far been fruitless, and China has declined to denounce the incursion.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin may be using a physical duplicate, according to repeated assertions made by the head of Ukraine's military intelligence. The recently appointed Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, Major General Kyrylo Budanov, said on Ukrainian television that Putin's height and ears have changed in recent appearances.

Vladimir Putin may be using a physical duplicate, according to repeated assertions made by the head of Ukraine's military intelligence. The recently appointed Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, Major General Kyrylo Budanov, said on Ukrainian television that Putin's height and ears have changed in recent appearances. He made an appearance on the "Groshi" channel and said: "Let's assume the image of the ears is different. Additionally, each person's ear picture is distinctive, just like a fingerprint. It can't be done again." According to the Ukrainian news site TSN, Budanov also said that he thought the Russian president was gravely ill and that he used body doubles to avoid public appearances. Many critics have discussed the 69-year-old warmonger's health, and a variety of assertions have been made about it. The alleged body doubles, according to Budanov, "had different habits, mannerisms, gaits, and sometimes, if you looked closely, different heights." Putin may have utilised a double for his entrance at a summit in Tehran last month, according to a previous accusation made by the intelligence chief. Budanov told the 1+1 new channel: “I will only hint. Please look at the moment of Putin's exit from the plane. Is it Putin at all?” Putin made the trip, which is just his second in five months, as one of the few overseas trips he is currently permitted to undertake as a result of his ongoing invasion of Ukraine. He met the presidents of Turkey and Iran at that location. This occurs while Putin's invasion of Ukraine rages on, with violence concentrated in the nation's east. In recent days, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared his desire to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping personally in the hope that China will use its clout with Russia to stop the conflict. All diplomatic channels have so far been fruitless, and China has declined to denounce the incursion. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin using body double? Fresh rumours surface

The Russian defence ministry on Wednesday said that a depot of foreign arms near the city of Lviv, Ukraine has been destroyed in a missile strike. The depot in western Ukraine housed weapons supplied by Poland. However, it isn’t clear what type of weapons were being carried in the depot.

"Air-launched high-precision long-range missiles near the city of Radekhiv in Lviv region destroyed a storage base with foreign-made weapons and ammunition delivered to the Kyiv regime from Poland," the defence ministry said in a statement.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hypersonics-missile-strikes-russias-assault-on-ukraine-in-numbers-478150">Hypersonics &amp; missile strikes: Russia's assault on Ukraine in numbers</a>&nbsp;

Radekhiv is situated approximately 60 kilometres northeast of the regional capital Lviv.

The statement further said that strikes have also destroyed four warehouses in the southern region of Mykolaiv and the eastern region of Donetsk. It added that the warehouses contained rockets, artillery weapons and ammunition.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began on February 24 this year and has led to massive loss of life, a refugee crisis unseen since World War II and major food shortages.

As part of a deal between Russia and Ukraine, a cargo ship carrying the first delivery of grain from Ukraine since the Kremlin's invasion, successfully departed from Odesa on Monday. The Razoni will further move towards Lebanon via Turkish waters.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-grain-tycoon-killed-in-russian-missile-attack-502417">Ukraine’s grain tycoon killed in Russian missile attack</a>&nbsp;

The Turkish defence ministry has said that inspections of the ship, which is carrying 26,000 tonnes of corn, have been completed. It will now travel through the narrow Bosphorus strait.

Lebanon, which imports over 80 per cent of its wheat from Russia and Ukraine, has been in a deep crisis ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian defence ministry on Wednesday said that a depot of foreign arms near the city of Lviv, Ukraine has been destroyed in a missile strike. The depot in western Ukraine housed weapons supplied by Poland.

The Russian defence ministry on Wednesday said that a depot of foreign arms near the city of Lviv, Ukraine has been destroyed in a missile strike. The depot in western Ukraine housed weapons supplied by Poland. However, it isn’t clear what type of weapons were being carried in the depot. "Air-launched high-precision long-range missiles near the city of Radekhiv in Lviv region destroyed a storage base with foreign-made weapons and ammunition delivered to the Kyiv regime from Poland," the defence ministry said in a statement. Also Read | Hypersonics & missile strikes: Russia's assault on Ukraine in numbers Radekhiv is situated approximately 60 kilometres northeast of the regional capital Lviv. The statement further said that strikes have also destroyed four warehouses in the southern region of Mykolaiv and the eastern region of Donetsk. It added that the warehouses contained rockets, artillery weapons and ammunition. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began on February 24 this year and has led to massive loss of life, a refugee crisis unseen since World War II and major food shortages. As part of a deal between Russia and Ukraine, a cargo ship carrying the first delivery of grain from Ukraine since the Kremlin's invasion, successfully departed from Odesa on Monday. The Razoni will further move towards Lebanon via Turkish waters. Also Read | Ukraine’s grain tycoon killed in Russian missile attack The Turkish defence ministry has said that inspections of the ship, which is carrying 26,000 tonnes of corn, have been completed. It will now travel through the narrow Bosphorus strait. Lebanon, which imports over 80 per cent of its wheat from Russia and Ukraine, has been in a deep crisis ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

A foreign arms depot in Ukraine's Lviv region has been destroyed, says Russia

A horrific video has emerged which appears to show a Ukrainian prisoner of war being castrated by Russian fighters. The Ukrainian, according to local reports, was later murdered.

The minute-and-a-half-long video, which was originally posted on pro-Russian Telegram channels, purportedly shows a group of Russian soldiers or mercenaries using a knife to castrate the man, who was bound and gagged and whose fatigues resemble of Ukrainian Army, reports The Moscow Times newspaper.

WION has decided not to republish the video, considering the sensitivity of the incident. Also, it could not independently verify the authenticity of the clip which was being circulated on Telegram channels.

Though it could not be determined exactly when or where the footage was taken, several reports indicated that the gruesome act could have happened weeks before near the Azot chemicals plant in the eastern city of Sievierodonetsk.

Most of the fight in Sievierodonetsk has subsided since the Russian forces captured the city. According to reports, the victim served with a Chechen formation known as the Akhat battalion.

The video has triggered widespread shock and horror not only in Ukraine, but also the world over. Officials in Kyiv have vowed to punish the perpetrators.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak&nbsp;tweeted, “All the world needs to understand: Russia is a country of cannibals who enjoy torture and murder. But the fog of war will not help to avoid the punishment of the executioners. We identify everyone. We will get everyone.”

Reacting to the video, Australian former general and military analyst Mick Ryan tweeted, “In the last day or so, a video showing Russian soldiers conducting a hideous and repulsive act against a defenceless Ukrainian prisoner of war has circulated. While I will not amplify this, I wanted to provide some thoughts.”

“First, from a purely human level, I am sickened that one human will do this to another. It is a depraved and inhuman act – there is nothing that justifies it. Second, as a soldier, it breaks my heart to see a fellow soldier – now a non-combatant – being treated in such a way. No soldier deserves such disgusting treatment.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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A horrific video has emerged which appears to show a Ukrainian prisoner of war being castrated by Russian fighters. The Ukrainian, according to local reports, was later murdered.

A horrific video has emerged which appears to show a Ukrainian prisoner of war being castrated by Russian fighters. The Ukrainian, according to local reports, was later murdered. The minute-and-a-half-long video, which was originally posted on pro-Russian Telegram channels, purportedly shows a group of Russian soldiers or mercenaries using a knife to castrate the man, who was bound and gagged and whose fatigues resemble of Ukrainian Army, reports The Moscow Times newspaper. WION has decided not to republish the video, considering the sensitivity of the incident. Also, it could not independently verify the authenticity of the clip which was being circulated on Telegram channels. Though it could not be determined exactly when or where the footage was taken, several reports indicated that the gruesome act could have happened weeks before near the Azot chemicals plant in the eastern city of Sievierodonetsk. Most of the fight in Sievierodonetsk has subsided since the Russian forces captured the city. According to reports, the victim served with a Chechen formation known as the Akhat battalion. The video has triggered widespread shock and horror not only in Ukraine, but also the world over. Officials in Kyiv have vowed to punish the perpetrators. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak tweeted, “All the world needs to understand: Russia is a country of cannibals who enjoy torture and murder. But the fog of war will not help to avoid the punishment of the executioners. We identify everyone. We will get everyone.” Reacting to the video, Australian former general and military analyst Mick Ryan tweeted, “In the last day or so, a video showing Russian soldiers conducting a hideous and repulsive act against a defenceless Ukrainian prisoner of war has circulated. While I will not amplify this, I wanted to provide some thoughts.” “First, from a purely human level, I am sickened that one human will do this to another. It is a depraved and inhuman act – there is nothing that justifies it. Second, as a soldier, it breaks my heart to see a fellow soldier – now a non-combatant – being treated in such a way. No soldier deserves such disgusting treatment.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Horrific video shows Russian soldiers castrating Ukrainian prisoner of war

Bangladesh has sought a multibillion-dollar loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after rising food and fuel prices severely impacted its forex reserves.

Notably, it is the third South Asian country to approach IMF seeking a financial rescue package after Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

According to the Daily Star newspaper, the country wanted $4.5bn from the IMF, including budgetary and balance-of-payment support.

“The IMF stands ready to support Bangladesh, and the staff will engage with the authorities on programme design as per the established policies and procedures of the fund,” The Guardian quoted an IMF spokesperson.

“The amount of support will be part of the programme design discussions,” the spokesperson added, without mentioning the potential size of the package.

This comes at a time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused a massive spike in energy and food prices, sending Bangladesh’s balance of payments into deficit.

Since the onset of the pandemic, around 90 countries have approached the IMF, however, only a select few have been forced to seek bailouts to avoid defaulting on loans or being unable to pay bills.

But Bangladesh’s economy has performed better than other South Asian countries partly thanks to its robust export sector, especially the garment trade which brings in valuable foreign currency into the country.

Bangladesh’s finance minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has denied that the country’s facing any economic woes saying that the government would take an IMF loan only if conditions were favourable.

“If the IMF conditions are in favour of the country and compatible with our development policy, we’ll go for it, otherwise not,” Kamal told reporters.

“Seeking a loan from the IMF does not mean Bangladesh’s economy is in bad shape.”

Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves fell to $39.7bn in July down from $45.5bn a year earlier. It would cover over five months worth of imports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bangladesh has sought a multibillion-dollar loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after rising food and fuel prices severely impacted its forex reserves.

Bangladesh has sought a multibillion-dollar loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after rising food and fuel prices severely impacted its forex reserves. Notably, it is the third South Asian country to approach IMF seeking a financial rescue package after Sri Lanka and Pakistan. According to the Daily Star newspaper, the country wanted $4.5bn from the IMF, including budgetary and balance-of-payment support. “The IMF stands ready to support Bangladesh, and the staff will engage with the authorities on programme design as per the established policies and procedures of the fund,” The Guardian quoted an IMF spokesperson. “The amount of support will be part of the programme design discussions,” the spokesperson added, without mentioning the potential size of the package. This comes at a time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused a massive spike in energy and food prices, sending Bangladesh’s balance of payments into deficit. Since the onset of the pandemic, around 90 countries have approached the IMF, however, only a select few have been forced to seek bailouts to avoid defaulting on loans or being unable to pay bills. But Bangladesh’s economy has performed better than other South Asian countries partly thanks to its robust export sector, especially the garment trade which brings in valuable foreign currency into the country. Bangladesh’s finance minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has denied that the country’s facing any economic woes saying that the government would take an IMF loan only if conditions were favourable. “If the IMF conditions are in favour of the country and compatible with our development policy, we’ll go for it, otherwise not,” Kamal told reporters. “Seeking a loan from the IMF does not mean Bangladesh’s economy is in bad shape.” Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves fell to $39.7bn in July down from $45.5bn a year earlier. It would cover over five months worth of imports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh seeks bailout package from IMF as huge import bill takes toll on economy

Igor Besukh, who works in an eastern Ukrainian sushi restaurant, cranks up the music to block out the sound of air raid sirens while he makes the following order, AFP reports. The thunderous sound of the missile strike that occurred in Kramatorsk's Peace Square on Friday, close to the town hall, the cultural centre, and the sushi restaurant where Besukh works, could not be covered up by the music, though.

The restaurant is one of the few that is still operating in the city, which is located in the industrial Donbas region that Russia is trying to annex and is only around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the frontline with Russian troops. The staff of "Woka," a restaurant with red lacquered walls and Asian themes, hurried to a bunker when they heard the explosion.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

Twenty minutes later, they surfaced to inspect the damage. Even though the windows and doors were boarded up with plywood panels, they were all broken. As they continued to prepare the orders that were awaiting delivery, they cleared up the debris. No one was hurt in the strike that occurred at 8:00 p.m., but the impact smashed the windows of numerous surrounding buildings.

"It made a mighty noise. Evidently, we weren't prepared for it. I was terrified "says the tattooed chef, age 23, whose arms are covered in ink, reports AFP. He acknowledges that returning to work the following day was difficult, but adds with a chuckle that "war is war, but lunch must be served on time."

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Igor Besukh, who works in an eastern Ukrainian sushi restaurant, cranks up the music to block out the sound of air raid sirens while he makes the following order, AFP reports.

Igor Besukh, who works in an eastern Ukrainian sushi restaurant, cranks up the music to block out the sound of air raid sirens while he makes the following order, AFP reports. The thunderous sound of the missile strike that occurred in Kramatorsk's Peace Square on Friday, close to the town hall, the cultural centre, and the sushi restaurant where Besukh works, could not be covered up by the music, though. The restaurant is one of the few that is still operating in the city, which is located in the industrial Donbas region that Russia is trying to annex and is only around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the frontline with Russian troops. The staff of "Woka," a restaurant with red lacquered walls and Asian themes, hurried to a bunker when they heard the explosion. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn Twenty minutes later, they surfaced to inspect the damage. Even though the windows and doors were boarded up with plywood panels, they were all broken. As they continued to prepare the orders that were awaiting delivery, they cleared up the debris. No one was hurt in the strike that occurred at 8:00 p.m., but the impact smashed the windows of numerous surrounding buildings. "It made a mighty noise. Evidently, we weren't prepared for it. I was terrified "says the tattooed chef, age 23, whose arms are covered in ink, reports AFP. He acknowledges that returning to work the following day was difficult, but adds with a chuckle that "war is war, but lunch must be served on time." (with inputs from agencies)

'War is war, but lunch must be served on time,' says Ukrainian sushi chef

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

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

Russia threatens broad Ukraine offensive as US presses China over war stance

The world will most likely face a ‘hunger catastrophe’ over the next two years as the Russia-Ukraine war drags out, the director of the UN World Food Programme, Patrick Beasley, has warned, according to The Guardian.

He said that the world is currently witnessing an acute shortage of food due to Russia blocking 25 tonnes of Ukrainian grain, adding that the current food affordability crisis would turn more serious next years if no short- and long-term reforms are made.

This warning comes as the number of people classified as “acutely food insecure” has increased to 276 million after Covid crisis from 130 million before.

“This number has increased to 345 million due to the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;crisis. And a staggering 50 million people in 45 countries are now just one step from famine,” Beasley said.

“The international community must act to stop this looming hunger catastrophe in its tracks – or these numbers will explode.

“Global food markets have been plunged into turmoil, with soaring prices, export bans and shortages of basic foodstuffs spreading far from Ukraine’s borders. Nations across Africa, the Middle East, Asia and even Latin America are feeling the heat from this conflict.”

Beasley said that global food security has worsened following volatility worldwide in fuel and&nbsp;fertiliser markets.

“Without urgent action, food production and crop yields will be slashed. This raises the frightening possibility that on top of today’s food-pricing crisis, the world will also face a genuine crisis of food availability over the next 12 to 24 months – and with it, the spectre of multiple famines.”

Food prices reached a 10-year high in 2022, although there has been a slight easing in the past two months. The crisis has been stoked by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its&nbsp;Black Sea blockade&nbsp;preventing crucial grain exports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The world will most likely face a ‘hunger catastrophe’ over the next two years as the Russia-Ukraine war drags out, the director of the UN World Food Programme, Patrick Beasley, has warned, according to The Guardian.

The world will most likely face a ‘hunger catastrophe’ over the next two years as the Russia-Ukraine war drags out, the director of the UN World Food Programme, Patrick Beasley, has warned, according to The Guardian. He said that the world is currently witnessing an acute shortage of food due to Russia blocking 25 tonnes of Ukrainian grain, adding that the current food affordability crisis would turn more serious next years if no short- and long-term reforms are made. This warning comes as the number of people classified as “acutely food insecure” has increased to 276 million after Covid crisis from 130 million before. “This number has increased to 345 million due to the Ukraine crisis. And a staggering 50 million people in 45 countries are now just one step from famine,” Beasley said. “The international community must act to stop this looming hunger catastrophe in its tracks – or these numbers will explode. “Global food markets have been plunged into turmoil, with soaring prices, export bans and shortages of basic foodstuffs spreading far from Ukraine’s borders. Nations across Africa, the Middle East, Asia and even Latin America are feeling the heat from this conflict.” Beasley said that global food security has worsened following volatility worldwide in fuel and fertiliser markets. “Without urgent action, food production and crop yields will be slashed. This raises the frightening possibility that on top of today’s food-pricing crisis, the world will also face a genuine crisis of food availability over the next 12 to 24 months – and with it, the spectre of multiple famines.” Food prices reached a 10-year high in 2022, although there has been a slight easing in the past two months. The crisis has been stoked by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its Black Sea blockade preventing crucial grain exports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Hunger catastrophe’ in the offing due to Russian blockade of Ukrainian grains, warns UN

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