<p>Ksenia Karelina, a model&nbsp;and ballet dancer, is the latest target on Kremlin’s radar. The 32-year-old with dual Russian-American citizenship was arrested by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) on Tuesday (Feb 20) on grounds of suspected fundraising for the Ukrainian Army.</p>

<p>The FSB did not disclose the woman's identity, but the independent Russian-language media outlet Mediazona identified the individual detained as Ksenia Karelina.</p>

<p>Karelina, a resident of Los Angeles was detained in Yekaterinburg, Urals in Russia on charges of “treason”, as per Politico.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-bottom-as-worst-president-ever-biden-lands-at-14-in-new-survey-ahead-of-us-elections-692187">Trump hits bottom as worst president ever, Biden lands at 14 in new survey ahead of US elections</a></p>

<p>According to FSB, she participated in fundraising efforts for Kyiv and was also part of pro-Ukraine public rallies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news of her arrest broke on Tuesday when several Russian news outlets released a video showing a woman in the courtroom with handcuffs and eyes covered. It is still unknown when the video was shot.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">❗🇷🇺⚔️🇺🇸🇺🇦 Russian authorities detained a citizen with dual nationality of Russia and the United States and residing in Los Angeles, Ksenia Karelina, on suspicion of treason.<br />
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According to the Russian government, Karelina was dedicated to collecting funds for an unidentified… <a href="https://t.co/0Zn5jNJfDs">pic.twitter.com/0Zn5jNJfDs</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Who is Ksenia Karelina? How the Russian-American model came under Kremlin’s radar</strong></h2>

<p>According to her Facebook page, Karelina attended the SP&nbsp;Diaghilev school in Yekaterinburg for ballet training. After obtaining a degree from Ural Federal University in 2013, she started her career in Baltimore, Maryland, in 2014.</p>

<p>Karelina's LinkedIn profile details her career as a manager at Ciel Spa Beverly Hills since 2019.</p>

<p>She became an American citizen back in 2021 and soon afterwards married an American man, whose identity is still unknown, as per Daily Mail. The media outlet also shared some pictures of her that she used to share on her social media.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>She was first arrested for minor offences, but later she was charged with ‘high treason’, as per the Russian courts’ database. A judge in Yekaterinburg declined an appeal against the pre-trial detention of Karelina on February 20.</p>

<p>The Pervy Otdel group, a team of lawyers handling espionage and treason cases, reported that Karelina was detained by police on January 27. It disclosed that the FSB arrested Karelina for transferring $51.80 from an American bank to the Ukrainian ‘Razom’ charity.</p>

<p>The FSB alleges that the funds Karelina contributed “were used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine to purchase tactical medical supplies, equipment, attack tools, and ammunition".</p>

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<p>However, at the time Karelina donated to ‘Razom’ in February 2022, the platform was openly fundraising for medical supplies, as per the website announcement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court documents also revealed that Karelina was arrested for swearing in public near a movie theatre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Russia, treason accusations are pretty serious and carry hefty jail terms. In the past, a total of 63 people have been prosecuted for treason since 2023, and 37 others have been found guilty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ksenia Karelina, a model and ballet dancer, is the latest target on Kremlin’s radar. The 32-year-old with dual Russian-American citizenship was arrested by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) on Tuesday (Feb 20) on grounds of suspected fundraising for the Ukrainian Army.

Ksenia Karelina, a model and ballet dancer, is the latest target on Kremlin’s radar. The 32-year-old with dual Russian-American citizenship was arrested by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) on Tuesday (Feb 20) on grounds of suspected fundraising for the Ukrainian Army. The FSB did not disclose the woman's identity, but the independent Russian-language media outlet Mediazona identified the individual detained as Ksenia Karelina. Karelina, a resident of Los Angeles was detained in Yekaterinburg, Urals in Russia on charges of “treason”, as per Politico. Also Read | Trump hits bottom as worst president ever, Biden lands at 14 in new survey ahead of US elections According to FSB, she participated in fundraising efforts for Kyiv and was also part of pro-Ukraine public rallies. The news of her arrest broke on Tuesday when several Russian news outlets released a video showing a woman in the courtroom with handcuffs and eyes covered. It is still unknown when the video was shot. ❗🇷🇺⚔️🇺🇸🇺🇦 Russian authorities detained a citizen with dual nationality of Russia and the United States and residing in Los Angeles, Ksenia Karelina, on suspicion of treason. According to the Russian government, Karelina was dedicated to collecting funds for an unidentified… pic.twitter.com/0Zn5jNJfDs — 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformantofc) February 20, 2024 × Who is Ksenia Karelina? How the Russian-American model came under Kremlin’s radar According to her Facebook page, Karelina attended the SP Diaghilev school in Yekaterinburg for ballet training. After obtaining a degree from Ural Federal University in 2013, she started her career in Baltimore, Maryland, in 2014. Karelina's LinkedIn profile details her career as a manager at Ciel Spa Beverly Hills since 2019. She became an American citizen back in 2021 and soon afterwards married an American man, whose identity is still unknown, as per Daily Mail. The media outlet also shared some pictures of her that she used to share on her social media. Also Read | Walmart soars on strong earnings and Vizio acquisition: Report She was first arrested for minor offences, but later she was charged with ‘high treason’, as per the Russian courts’ database. A judge in Yekaterinburg declined an appeal against the pre-trial detention of Karelina on February 20. The Pervy Otdel group, a team of lawyers handling espionage and treason cases, reported that Karelina was detained by police on January 27. It disclosed that the FSB arrested Karelina for transferring $51.80 from an American bank to the Ukrainian ‘Razom’ charity. The FSB alleges that the funds Karelina contributed “were used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine to purchase tactical medical supplies, equipment, attack tools, and ammunition". Also Read | Commercial planes go on a wild ride after Atlantic jet stream's freak winds push it at supersonic speeds However, at the time Karelina donated to ‘Razom’ in February 2022, the platform was openly fundraising for medical supplies, as per the website announcement. The court documents also revealed that Karelina was arrested for swearing in public near a movie theatre. In Russia, treason accusations are pretty serious and carry hefty jail terms. In the past, a total of 63 people have been prosecuted for treason since 2023, and 37 others have been found guilty. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Ksenia Karelina? Russian-US ballerina accused of 'high treason' by Moscow

<p>Russia launched a drone attack on&nbsp;Ukraine's city of Kharkiv, killing seven people, including three small children, triggering blazes and damaging infrastructure and residential houses, regional officials said on Saturday.</p>

<p>Oleh Synehubov, Kharkiv regional governor, said the Russian forces struck the city late on Friday, hitting civilian infrastructure, causing several large fires, and damaging at least 15 residential houses in the east of Kharkiv.</p>

<p>"As a result of the strikes, seven people died, among them three children: seven-, four-years old, and a baby about six- months old," he said on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>Three people were wounded, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russian forces intensify efforts to seize Ukraine's Avdiivka</strong></p>

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<p>The Ukrainian air force said that air defence and mobile groups of drone hunters shot down 23 out of 31 Russian-launched drones, which were targeting the Kharkiv region in the northeast of the country and also the Odesa region in the south.</p>

<p>In Kharkiv, the head of the local prosecutor's office, Oleksandr Filchakov, said in a video posted on Telegram that three drones hit the petrol station in Nemyshlianskyi district of the city.</p>

<p>"There was a great deal of fuel and that's why there are these dreadful consequences from the fire," Filchakov said.</p>

<p>Firefighters and rescuers worked through the night to cope with the consequences of the strike, extinguish fires, and clear through the debris, officials said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw17E4wBmEomgHn7YYxT7Aer" data-ved="2ahUKEwjj1Pmx0aCEAxVn2DgGHVWkA34QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-russian-strike-kills-three-injures-four-688794" jsname="YKoRaf">Ukraine says Russian strike kills three, injures four</a></strong></p>

<p>Synehubov also said that Russian drones hit a restaurant in the small town of Velykyi Berluk, some 100 kilometres from Kharkiv. He reported no casualties there.</p>

<p>Reuters was not able to independently confirm details of the attack. Russia did not immediately respond to a request for comment but has said it does not deliberately target civilian sites.</p>

<p>Kharkiv has been under attack regularly since the start of the Russian invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;in February 2022 and has been a frequent target of Russian assaults in recent weeks.</p>

<p>In the Black Sea port of Odesa, the regional governor said a drone attack had injured one person.</p>


Russia launched a drone attack on Ukraine's city of Kharkiv, killing seven people, including three small children, triggering blazes and damaging infrastructure and residential houses, regional officials said on Saturday.

Russia launched a drone attack on Ukraine's city of Kharkiv, killing seven people, including three small children, triggering blazes and damaging infrastructure and residential houses, regional officials said on Saturday. Oleh Synehubov, Kharkiv regional governor, said the Russian forces struck the city late on Friday, hitting civilian infrastructure, causing several large fires, and damaging at least 15 residential houses in the east of Kharkiv. "As a result of the strikes, seven people died, among them three children: seven-, four-years old, and a baby about six- months old," he said on the Telegram messaging app. Three people were wounded, he said. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Russian forces intensify efforts to seize Ukraine's Avdiivka × The Ukrainian air force said that air defence and mobile groups of drone hunters shot down 23 out of 31 Russian-launched drones, which were targeting the Kharkiv region in the northeast of the country and also the Odesa region in the south. In Kharkiv, the head of the local prosecutor's office, Oleksandr Filchakov, said in a video posted on Telegram that three drones hit the petrol station in Nemyshlianskyi district of the city. "There was a great deal of fuel and that's why there are these dreadful consequences from the fire," Filchakov said. Firefighters and rescuers worked through the night to cope with the consequences of the strike, extinguish fires, and clear through the debris, officials said. Also read: Ukraine says Russian strike kills three, injures four Synehubov also said that Russian drones hit a restaurant in the small town of Velykyi Berluk, some 100 kilometres from Kharkiv. He reported no casualties there. Reuters was not able to independently confirm details of the attack. Russia did not immediately respond to a request for comment but has said it does not deliberately target civilian sites. Kharkiv has been under attack regularly since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and has been a frequent target of Russian assaults in recent weeks. In the Black Sea port of Odesa, the regional governor said a drone attack had injured one person.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian drone strike in Kharkiv kills seven, including three children

<p>The UN’s top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), ruled Friday (Feb 2) that it had the jurisdiction to rule on a request by Ukraine that it was not responsible for genocide. In February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine by claiming that people in eastern Ukraine were "subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime". Ukraine had subsequently filed a case with the ICJ denying all these allegations and accusing Russia of using ‘genocide’ as a pretext for invasion.</p>

<p>In an earlier ruling in March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and asked Russia to stop its invasion immediately. It was then that Putin questioned the ICJ’s jurisdiction over the matter.</p>

<h2><strong>ICJ throws Moscow’s argument</strong></h2>

<p>The ICJ in its Friday judgment quashed Moscow’s argument that it had no jurisdiction to rule over the matter. However, it should not be seen as Ukraine’s legal victory yet a legally binding decision can still take years to come.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;UN Court rejects Ukraine's case against Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Also, the ICJ made clear it didn’t have jurisdiction in two other aspects of Ukraine’s case — claims that Russia’s invasion violated the 1948 genocide convention and that Moscow’s recognition of two breakaway republics in eastern Ukraine also amounted to a breach of the convention.</p>

<h2><strong>The 1948 Genocide Convention</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine’s case at the ICJ is based on the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Kyiv and Moscow have ratified. The convention includes a provision that nations which have a dispute based on its provisions can take that dispute to the world court. However, Moscow denies the very existence of any such dispute.</p>

<h2><strong>Judges rebuke Russia in a separate case</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday (Jan 31), judges at the ICJ rebuked Russia in another case between the two countries linked to attacks in eastern Ukraine since 2014 and discrimination in annexed Crimea. However, in that case, the court largely sided with Russia while reacting to Ukraine’s allegations that it financially backed separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine before launching the invasion.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2lFfIBOWG1rSnTSISiifmG" data-ved="2ahUKEwjZkLWToo2EAxX_cmwGHcjeA9wQxfQBKAB6BAgUEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-concerned-over-alleged-involvement-of-un-workers-in-oct-7-attacks-takes-note-of-icj-ruling-686046" jsname="YKoRaf">India 'concerned' over alleged involvement of UN workers in Oct 7 attacks, takes note of ICJ ruling</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, in January, the ICJ also directed Moscow to do everything possible “to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The UN’s top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), ruled Friday (Feb 2) that it had the jurisdiction to rule on a request by Ukraine that it was not responsible for genocide.

The UN’s top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), ruled Friday (Feb 2) that it had the jurisdiction to rule on a request by Ukraine that it was not responsible for genocide. In February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine by claiming that people in eastern Ukraine were "subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime". Ukraine had subsequently filed a case with the ICJ denying all these allegations and accusing Russia of using ‘genocide’ as a pretext for invasion. In an earlier ruling in March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and asked Russia to stop its invasion immediately. It was then that Putin questioned the ICJ’s jurisdiction over the matter. ICJ throws Moscow’s argument The ICJ in its Friday judgment quashed Moscow’s argument that it had no jurisdiction to rule over the matter. However, it should not be seen as Ukraine’s legal victory yet a legally binding decision can still take years to come. Watch: UN Court rejects Ukraine's case against Russia × Also, the ICJ made clear it didn’t have jurisdiction in two other aspects of Ukraine’s case — claims that Russia’s invasion violated the 1948 genocide convention and that Moscow’s recognition of two breakaway republics in eastern Ukraine also amounted to a breach of the convention. The 1948 Genocide Convention Ukraine’s case at the ICJ is based on the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Kyiv and Moscow have ratified. The convention includes a provision that nations which have a dispute based on its provisions can take that dispute to the world court. However, Moscow denies the very existence of any such dispute. Judges rebuke Russia in a separate case Earlier on Wednesday (Jan 31), judges at the ICJ rebuked Russia in another case between the two countries linked to attacks in eastern Ukraine since 2014 and discrimination in annexed Crimea. However, in that case, the court largely sided with Russia while reacting to Ukraine’s allegations that it financially backed separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine before launching the invasion. Also read: India 'concerned' over alleged involvement of UN workers in Oct 7 attacks, takes note of ICJ ruling Meanwhile, in January, the ICJ also directed Moscow to do everything possible “to prevent death, destruction and any acts of genocide in Gaza.” (With inputs from agencies)

ICJ rules it has jurisdiction over Ukraine’s invasion case, quashing Russia’s argument

Sixty-year-old Boris Nadezhdin is emerging as a key competitor to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Can the leader's anti-war stance gather enough support?

Who is Vladimir Putin's competition ahead of elections?

Standing on Russian soil, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un shook hands with Putin while his country launched ballistic missiles in Japan’s direction. From Kim's medium of choice for travelling to Russia, to the prolonged handshake between Kim and Putin to the locations they chose for their meetings - this diplomatic meet was high on optics and the message was directly aimed at the West. The US State department used words like 'troubled' and 'concerned' seeing the warmth between Putin and North Korea. But what is troubling the U.S.? Will North Korea aid Russia in Ukraine? Will Russia take stance with the hermit nation against US in the Korean peninsula? Watch Game Plan with Shivan Chanana.

Russia to enter theatre of war in Korean peninsula? | What’s Kim-Putin game plan?

NATO announced that it would begin its largest military exercise- Steadfast Defender 2024 next week, involving 90,000 troops and testing the allies' ability over months to engage in a conflict with an adversary like Russia.

NATO to launch largest drills since cold war

Following mediation by United Arab Emirates, Russia and Ukraine have exchanged hundreds of prisoners of war in the biggest single release of captives since Moscow's invasion began in February 2022.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia & Ukraine exchange release over 400 prisoners of war

<p>President Vladimir Putin has been signalling through his intermediaries that Russia is willing to have a ceasefire negotiation with Ukraine, the New York Times (NYT) reported citing unnamed former Russian officials, along with American officials.</p>

<p>Since last September, Putin has been looking to stop “fighting along the current lines”, and that he may even be willing to accept a deal that seeks to put a stop to the two-year-long war.</p>

<p>“They say, ‘We are ready to have negotiations on a ceasefire’,” one&nbsp;senior international official who met with top Russians this fall, told the NYT newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They want to stay where they are on the battlefield,” the official added.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin willing to stop</strong></h2>

<p>But what Putin seeks is the status quo of the current troops' position, rather than a complete cessation of territories occupied during the long-drawn war, the officials said.</p>

<p>“He really is willing to stop at the current positions,” one of the former senior Russian officials told The New York Times, relaying a message he said the Kremlin was quietly sending. The former official added, "He’s not willing to retreat one&nbsp;metre.”</p>

<p>However, it is unclear if the Ukrainian officials are willing to accept an armistice deal at this point given that they had vowed to take back the territories occupied by Russia, including Crimea.</p>

<p>The officials argued that Putin’s change in stance stems from a failed Ukrainian counteroffensive, a stalemate in the battleground and lack of willingness from the West to provide military aid.</p>

<h2><strong>Russian prez wants Russia to 'move on'</strong></h2>

<p>Putin wants, the officials added, Russia just declare victory and “move on”, two former senior Russian officials close to the Kremlin and US and international officials who have received the message from Putin’s envoys told the Times.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-be-ousted-in-black-swan-palace-coup-ex-cia-chief-makes-bombshell-claims-673041">Putin to be ousted in ‘Black Swan’ palace coup? Ex-CIA chief makes bombshell claims</a></p>

<p>This is not the first time that Russia has sent peace overtures and expressed willingness to stop the war.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brings-rolf-russias-largest-car-dealership-owned-by-cyprus-based-firm-under-state-management-672869">Putin brings Rolf, Russia’s largest car dealership owned by Cyprus-based firm, under state management</a></p>

<p>In 2022, according to US officials, Putin had suggested that he was satisfied with Russia’s performance on the battlefield when Ukraine routed Russia’s army in the country’s northeast, the NYT reported.</p>

<p>But few US officials opine that it could be a familiar attempt by the Kremlin to misdirect from the ground situation, and does not reflect genuine willingness by Putin to compromise.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


President Vladimir Putin has been signalling through his intermediaries that Russia is willing to have a ceasefire negotiation with Ukraine, the New York Times (NYT) reported citing unnamed former Russian officials, along with American officials.

President Vladimir Putin has been signalling through his intermediaries that Russia is willing to have a ceasefire negotiation with Ukraine, the New York Times (NYT) reported citing unnamed former Russian officials, along with American officials. Since last September, Putin has been looking to stop “fighting along the current lines”, and that he may even be willing to accept a deal that seeks to put a stop to the two-year-long war. “They say, ‘We are ready to have negotiations on a ceasefire’,” one senior international official who met with top Russians this fall, told the NYT newspaper. “They want to stay where they are on the battlefield,” the official added. Putin willing to stop But what Putin seeks is the status quo of the current troops' position, rather than a complete cessation of territories occupied during the long-drawn war, the officials said. “He really is willing to stop at the current positions,” one of the former senior Russian officials told The New York Times, relaying a message he said the Kremlin was quietly sending. The former official added, "He’s not willing to retreat one metre.” However, it is unclear if the Ukrainian officials are willing to accept an armistice deal at this point given that they had vowed to take back the territories occupied by Russia, including Crimea. The officials argued that Putin’s change in stance stems from a failed Ukrainian counteroffensive, a stalemate in the battleground and lack of willingness from the West to provide military aid. Russian prez wants Russia to 'move on' Putin wants, the officials added, Russia just declare victory and “move on”, two former senior Russian officials close to the Kremlin and US and international officials who have received the message from Putin’s envoys told the Times. Also read | Putin to be ousted in ‘Black Swan’ palace coup? Ex-CIA chief makes bombshell claims This is not the first time that Russia has sent peace overtures and expressed willingness to stop the war. Also read | Putin brings Rolf, Russia’s largest car dealership owned by Cyprus-based firm, under state management In 2022, according to US officials, Putin had suggested that he was satisfied with Russia’s performance on the battlefield when Ukraine routed Russia’s army in the country’s northeast, the NYT reported. But few US officials opine that it could be a familiar attempt by the Kremlin to misdirect from the ground situation, and does not reflect genuine willingness by Putin to compromise. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Vladimir Putin open to ceasefire negotiations with Ukraine: Report

<p>Members of Hungary’s ruling right-wing Fidesz party and allies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban will hold closed-door meetings with US Republicans over halting US aid to Ukraine, The Guardian reported Sunday (Dec 10).</p>

<p>According to the report, Márton Ugrósdy, the deputy state secretary for the prime minister’s political director’s office, and Attila Demkó, a leading pro-Orbán academic, along with members of the Hungarian embassy in Washington, will be participating in a two-day event hosted by conservative think-tank Heritage Foundation starting Monday (Dec 11).</p>

<p>Kelley Currie, a former ambassador under then-president Donald Trump, and Magor Ernyei, the international director of the Centre for Fundamental Rights, are expected to be on the guest list on the first day.</p>

<p>On the second day, some Republican Congressmen have been reportedly invited to join the closed-door discussions on Ukraine.</p>

<p>A diplomatic source close to the Hungarian embassy was quoted by the Guardian as saying: “Orbán is confident that the Ukraine aid will not pass in Congress. That is why he is trying to block assistance from the EU as well.”</p>

<h2><strong>Ruckus in Washington over Ukraine aid</strong></h2>

<p>The US Congress is heavily polarised over the issue of shoring up Ukraine’s defences using American taxpayers’ money.</p>

<p>The White House warned earlier this week that the fund to help Ukraine fight its war against Russia will run dry by the end of this year if no further congressional action is taken.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;"Indian investors are important for Hungary," says Hungarian FM Peter Szijjarto</strong></p>

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<p>However, the appeal hardly moved the stubborn Republicans.</p>

<p>On Wednesday (Dec 6), Senate Republicans blocked an emergency spending bill to fund the war in Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Hungary’s opposition to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Hungary in late November declared that it would block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union.</p>

<p>The announcement came days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate.</p>

<p>Last month, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-declares-it-will-block-eus-aid-to-ukraine-membership-talks-664890"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hungary declares it will block EU’s aid to Ukraine, membership talks</strong></a></p>

<p>“Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party&nbsp;showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros.</p>

<p>Orbán, who is described as a Putin ally by Western media, is a frequent critic of aid to help Ukraine against the Russian invasion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Members of Hungary’s ruling right-wing Fidesz party and allies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban will hold closed-door meetings with US Republicans over halting US aid to Ukraine, The Guardian reported Sunday (Dec 10).

Members of Hungary’s ruling right-wing Fidesz party and allies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban will hold closed-door meetings with US Republicans over halting US aid to Ukraine, The Guardian reported Sunday (Dec 10). According to the report, Márton Ugrósdy, the deputy state secretary for the prime minister’s political director’s office, and Attila Demkó, a leading pro-Orbán academic, along with members of the Hungarian embassy in Washington, will be participating in a two-day event hosted by conservative think-tank Heritage Foundation starting Monday (Dec 11). Kelley Currie, a former ambassador under then-president Donald Trump, and Magor Ernyei, the international director of the Centre for Fundamental Rights, are expected to be on the guest list on the first day. On the second day, some Republican Congressmen have been reportedly invited to join the closed-door discussions on Ukraine. A diplomatic source close to the Hungarian embassy was quoted by the Guardian as saying: “Orbán is confident that the Ukraine aid will not pass in Congress. That is why he is trying to block assistance from the EU as well.” Ruckus in Washington over Ukraine aid The US Congress is heavily polarised over the issue of shoring up Ukraine’s defences using American taxpayers’ money. The White House warned earlier this week that the fund to help Ukraine fight its war against Russia will run dry by the end of this year if no further congressional action is taken. Watch: "Indian investors are important for Hungary," says Hungarian FM Peter Szijjarto × However, the appeal hardly moved the stubborn Republicans. On Wednesday (Dec 6), Senate Republicans blocked an emergency spending bill to fund the war in Ukraine. Hungary’s opposition to Ukraine Hungary in late November declared that it would block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union. The announcement came days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate. Last month, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Also read: Hungary declares it will block EU’s aid to Ukraine, membership talks “Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros. Orbán, who is described as a Putin ally by Western media, is a frequent critic of aid to help Ukraine against the Russian invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Hungary PM Viktor Orban’s allies to meet with US Republicans on halting Ukraine aid

<p>Kyiv officials accused Moscow of committing a war crime after a grainy video on social media appeared to show several soldiers shooting two surrendering military personnel who emerged from a dugout at gunpoint.</p>

<p>The unverified video shows one soldier coming out of a foxhole on the battlefield with his hands up and then lying on the ground. A second soldier stumbles out and also lies down. The Russian troops then appear to open fire and the video ends.</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-former-president-alleges-was-blocked-from-leaving-nation-665714">Ukraine’s former president claims he was stopped from leaving country</a></b></p>

<p>The Ukrainian General Prosecutor's Office said: "The video shows a group of people in Russian uniforms shooting, at point-blank range, two unarmed servicemen in the uniform of the Armed Forces of Ukraine who were surrendering."</p>

<p>Reuters could not independently verify the authenticity, date or location of the video clip. The Russian defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Kyiv: Fears of accident at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</strong></p>

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<p>Russia denies committing war crimes during its 21-month-old war in Ukraine. Kyiv says Russia regularly violates the rules of war.</p>

<p>"The execution of those who surrender is a war crime!" Ukrainian human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said late on Saturday on the Telegram messaging platform.</p>

<p>"Today, a video of the execution by Russian servicemen of Ukrainian soldiers who surrendered as prisoners appeared online. This is another violation of the Geneva Conventions and disrespect for international humanitarian law."</p>

<p>Deepstate, a popular Ukrainian war blog which posted the video clip, said the footage was filmed near Stepove on the Avdiivka front line in Donetsk region.</p>

<p>The General Prosecutor's Office said the incident took place in Pokrovsk district, a large area of the Donetsk region that runs close to Avdiivka, site of some of the fiercest fighting in recent weeks.</p>

<p>Oleksandr Shtupun, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Tavria military command, told the Ukrainska Pravda news website that the video was "glaring confirmation" that Russia violates the rules of warfare on a daily basis.</p>

<p>In March, a Ukrainian sniper was seen being shot dead in a video after defiantly saying "Glory to Ukraine," or "Slava Ukraini," a phrase that has taken on special significance as a common public greeting since the start of the war.</p>


Kyiv officials accused Moscow of committing a war crime after a grainy video on social media appeared to show several soldiers shooting two surrendering military personnel who emerged from a dugout at gunpoint.

Kyiv officials accused Moscow of committing a war crime after a grainy video on social media appeared to show several soldiers shooting two surrendering military personnel who emerged from a dugout at gunpoint. The unverified video shows one soldier coming out of a foxhole on the battlefield with his hands up and then lying on the ground. A second soldier stumbles out and also lies down. The Russian troops then appear to open fire and the video ends. Also read | Ukraine’s former president claims he was stopped from leaving country The Ukrainian General Prosecutor's Office said: "The video shows a group of people in Russian uniforms shooting, at point-blank range, two unarmed servicemen in the uniform of the Armed Forces of Ukraine who were surrendering." Reuters could not independently verify the authenticity, date or location of the video clip. The Russian defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war | Kyiv: Fears of accident at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant × Russia denies committing war crimes during its 21-month-old war in Ukraine. Kyiv says Russia regularly violates the rules of war. "The execution of those who surrender is a war crime!" Ukrainian human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said late on Saturday on the Telegram messaging platform. "Today, a video of the execution by Russian servicemen of Ukrainian soldiers who surrendered as prisoners appeared online. This is another violation of the Geneva Conventions and disrespect for international humanitarian law." Deepstate, a popular Ukrainian war blog which posted the video clip, said the footage was filmed near Stepove on the Avdiivka front line in Donetsk region. The General Prosecutor's Office said the incident took place in Pokrovsk district, a large area of the Donetsk region that runs close to Avdiivka, site of some of the fiercest fighting in recent weeks. Oleksandr Shtupun, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Tavria military command, told the Ukrainska Pravda news website that the video was "glaring confirmation" that Russia violates the rules of warfare on a daily basis. In March, a Ukrainian sniper was seen being shot dead in a video after defiantly saying "Glory to Ukraine," or "Slava Ukraini," a phrase that has taken on special significance as a common public greeting since the start of the war.

Kyiv claims Russia shot down Ukrainian soldiers who surrendered

<p>Hungary will block any EU&nbsp;proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union, declared a top minister Thursday (Nov 30).</p>

<p>Gergely Gulyas, the chief of staff to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, said in a press brief that the decision to begin talks to formally admit war-ravaged Ukraine into the EU was “premature.”</p>

<p>"We are dealing with a completely premature proposal," Gulyas said, adding that Hungary "cannot contribute to a common decision" on inviting Ukraine to begin the process of joining the bloc.</p>

<p>The announcement comes days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate.</p>

<h2><strong>Hungary threatens to block EU aid</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.</p>

<p>“Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party, showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Will Hungary veto EU aid to Ukraine?</strong></p>

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<p>Both Ursula and Soros are favourite punching bags for the right-wing party.</p>

<p>“We must say no because it is unsustainable, because it has no future. I am convinced that today, in Brussels, Europe is being destroyed and led to its ruins,” Orban told supporters.</p>

<p>In early November, Orban had said that Ukraine was “light years” from joining the EU bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>EU’s response to Ukraine’s membership bid</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, the EU’s executive arm asked Ukraine to fix its governance issues and address concerns regarding corruption, the rights of minorities and lobbying.</p>

<p>However, the biggest hurdle in the EU’s way remains achieving unanimity among the member states.</p>

<p>Hungary has not only threatened to block the EU’s efforts to aid Ukraine but also questioned the bloc’s sanctions against Russia.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-dismisses-museum-director-for-exposing-children-to-lgbt-content-655929"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hungary dismisses museum director for exposing children to LGBT content</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Hungary has also locked its horns with the EU over the ‘withholding’ of its funds.</p>

<p>On Thursday, Gulyas also said Hungary would not support proposed amendments to the EU's budget, part of which would provide 50 billion euros ($54.5 billion) in long-term aid to Kyiv.</p>

<p>He said the EU was "illegally" withholding funds from Hungary, and that the government would consequently decline to support any budget amendment.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hungary will block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union, declared a top minister Thursday (Nov 30). Gergely Gulyas, the chief of staff to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, said in a press brief that the decision to begin talks to formally admit war-ravaged Ukraine into the EU was “premature.

Hungary will block any EU proposal aimed at making Ukraine a part of the European Union, declared a top minister Thursday (Nov 30). Gergely Gulyas, the chief of staff to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, said in a press brief that the decision to begin talks to formally admit war-ravaged Ukraine into the EU was “premature.” "We are dealing with a completely premature proposal," Gulyas said, adding that Hungary "cannot contribute to a common decision" on inviting Ukraine to begin the process of joining the bloc. The announcement comes days ahead of a key EU meeting in mid-December where top leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s fate. Hungary threatens to block EU aid Earlier this week, Budapest also threatened to block $50 billion of European aid for Ukraine, with PM Orban’s party launching scathing attacks on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “Let's not dance to their tunes,” read posters put up by the Fidesz party, showing Ursula alongside Alex Soros, the son of the liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros. Watch: Will Hungary veto EU aid to Ukraine? × Both Ursula and Soros are favourite punching bags for the right-wing party. “We must say no because it is unsustainable, because it has no future. I am convinced that today, in Brussels, Europe is being destroyed and led to its ruins,” Orban told supporters. In early November, Orban had said that Ukraine was “light years” from joining the EU bloc. EU’s response to Ukraine’s membership bid Last month, the EU’s executive arm asked Ukraine to fix its governance issues and address concerns regarding corruption, the rights of minorities and lobbying. However, the biggest hurdle in the EU’s way remains achieving unanimity among the member states. Hungary has not only threatened to block the EU’s efforts to aid Ukraine but also questioned the bloc’s sanctions against Russia. Also read: Hungary dismisses museum director for exposing children to LGBT content Meanwhile, Hungary has also locked its horns with the EU over the ‘withholding’ of its funds. On Thursday, Gulyas also said Hungary would not support proposed amendments to the EU's budget, part of which would provide 50 billion euros ($54.5 billion) in long-term aid to Kyiv. He said the EU was "illegally" withholding funds from Hungary, and that the government would consequently decline to support any budget amendment. (With inputs from agencies)

Hungary declares it will block EU’s aid to Ukraine, membership talks

<p>Hurricane-force winds coupled with heavy rains impacted electricity supply leaving millions of people in Russia, Ukraine and occupied Ukraine without power on Monday (November 27). The rains and the wind caused flooding in many regions.</p>

<h2><strong>More than 2000 towns and villages affected in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine's interior ministry has said that more than 2000 towns and villages in the country lost power due to bad weather. The Ukrainian mainland was lashed by up to 25 centimetres (10 inches) of snow.</p>

<p>"In total, 2,019 settlements in 16 regions are cut off from the grid," Ukraine's interior ministry said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine calls for more weapon supplies from west to counter Moscow</strong></p>

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<p>Authorities in Odesa, a city in southern Ukraine, said that 1624 people people were trapped in snow and had to be helped. The city has often been target of Russian strikes since its invasion of Ukraine in February last year. Temperatures in the region have fallen below zero and there have been reports of winds gusting up to 72 kilometres an hour.</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in Russia and occupied Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Videos on social media showed huge waves crashing on Russian coasts of the Black Sea. Wind speeds reached over 140 kilometres in some places.</p>

<p>Reports in the local media said that there were at least four deaths.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-germany-forcing-ukraine-to-end-war-with-russia-and-ready-to-accept-new-boundary-report-663043">US, Germany forcing Ukraine to end war with Russia and ready to accept new boundary: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Russian state media reported that two bodies were found in Krasnodar region. A sailor was killed in Kerch Strait between Russia and Crimea.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-using-uk-tech-to-wage-electronic-warfare-claims-concerned-ukraine-663249">Russia using UK tech to wage electronic warfare, claims ‘concerned’ Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to Russian-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov said that one man was killed in the Russia-annexed region.</p>

<p>"The man went out to look at the waves and, unfortunately, tragically died," said Kryuchkov.</p>

<p>According to Russian energy minister, "about 1.9 million people" in Russia were affected due to power cuts. This mainly included population in southern Russian regions like Dagestan, Krasnodar and Rostov and also occupied Ukrainian territories like Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea.</p>

<p>The Russia-installed governor of Crimea Aksyonov said that efforts were on to restore electricity in next two days.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hurricane-force winds coupled with heavy rains impacted electricity supply leaving millions of people in Russia, Ukraine and occupied Ukraine without power on Monday (November 27).

Hurricane-force winds coupled with heavy rains impacted electricity supply leaving millions of people in Russia, Ukraine and occupied Ukraine without power on Monday (November 27). The rains and the wind caused flooding in many regions. More than 2000 towns and villages affected in Ukraine Ukraine's interior ministry has said that more than 2000 towns and villages in the country lost power due to bad weather. The Ukrainian mainland was lashed by up to 25 centimetres (10 inches) of snow. "In total, 2,019 settlements in 16 regions are cut off from the grid," Ukraine's interior ministry said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine calls for more weapon supplies from west to counter Moscow × Authorities in Odesa, a city in southern Ukraine, said that 1624 people people were trapped in snow and had to be helped. The city has often been target of Russian strikes since its invasion of Ukraine in February last year. Temperatures in the region have fallen below zero and there have been reports of winds gusting up to 72 kilometres an hour. Situation in Russia and occupied Ukraine Videos on social media showed huge waves crashing on Russian coasts of the Black Sea. Wind speeds reached over 140 kilometres in some places. Reports in the local media said that there were at least four deaths. Also Read | US, Germany forcing Ukraine to end war with Russia and ready to accept new boundary: Report Russian state media reported that two bodies were found in Krasnodar region. A sailor was killed in Kerch Strait between Russia and Crimea. Also Read | Russia using UK tech to wage electronic warfare, claims ‘concerned’ Ukraine Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to Russian-installed Crimea governor Sergei Aksyonov said that one man was killed in the Russia-annexed region. "The man went out to look at the waves and, unfortunately, tragically died," said Kryuchkov. According to Russian energy minister, "about 1.9 million people" in Russia were affected due to power cuts. This mainly included population in southern Russian regions like Dagestan, Krasnodar and Rostov and also occupied Ukrainian territories like Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea. The Russia-installed governor of Crimea Aksyonov said that efforts were on to restore electricity in next two days. (With inputs from agencies)

Millions without power as storm hits Russia, Ukraine

<p>United States and Germany are reportedly nudging Ukraine to end its war with Russia, German media reported quoting sources, indicating that “war fatigue” and economic problems are making difficult for the NATO allies to back Kyiv.</p>

<p>German tabloid BILD reported that during talks between United States President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in March at the Roosevelt Room, both had agreed to deliberately limit arm supplies to Ukraine and put indirect pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to come to the peace talks with Russia’s Vladimir Putin.</p>

<h2><strong>'Appropriate amount' of weapons to Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The tabloid, quoting an unnamed official, reported that both US and Germany, two primary military donors to Ukraine, intend to supply just an “appropriate amount” of weapons so that Ukraine can maintain its lead and have sufficient room for peace negotiation, but just not enough to reclaim its land.</p>

<p>The German federal government has now set itself the main goal of putting Ukraine in a “strategically good negotiating position,” BILD said.</p>

<p>“The country should negotiate with (Russian dictator) Vladimir Putin's regime about its ‘sovereignty and territorial integrity.’ The White House and the Chancellery are coordinating on this,” government sources told BILD.</p>

<p>Berlin and Washington expect that if Kyiv and Moscow refuse to hold formal negotiations, the issue will remain frozen, and there will be no official accord.</p>

<p>“Zelensky&nbsp;should come to the realisation that things cannot go on like this,” a German government insider told BILD.</p>

<h2><strong>If peace talks fail, then Plan B</strong></h2>

<p>However, if limiting weapon supplies fails to enable Ukraine with peace talks, the source told BILD that US and Germany have a “Plan B” in place.</p>

<p>“What Berlin and Washington are striving for as an alternative to negotiations is a frozen conflict, without agreement between the conflicting parties,” the source said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-in-rage-after-girl-killed-by-ex-boyfriend-protests-against-high-femicide-rate-662881">Italy in rage over girl's murder by ex-boyfriend, protests staged against high femicide rate</a></p>

<p>It means that even if the intended peace talks fail to materialise, a new quasi-border will be drawn between Ukraine and Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-holds-training-drills-near-myanmar-border-after-its-convoy-goes-up-in-flame-662787">China holds training drills near Myanmar border after its convoy goes up in flames</a></p>

<p>According to Belfer Center at Harvard’s Kennedy School, Russia controls around 17.5 per cent of Ukrainian land, in addition to Crimea, which it acquired in 2014. Putin maintains that land is now a part of Russia.</p>

<p>Ukraine, however, has been adamant in reclaiming all of its territory despite calls from those inside Ukraine for an alternative approach.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States and Germany are reportedly nudging Ukraine to end its war with Russia, German media reported quoting sources, indicating that “war fatigue” and economic problems are making difficult for the NATO allies to back Kyiv.

United States and Germany are reportedly nudging Ukraine to end its war with Russia, German media reported quoting sources, indicating that “war fatigue” and economic problems are making difficult for the NATO allies to back Kyiv. German tabloid BILD reported that during talks between United States President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in March at the Roosevelt Room, both had agreed to deliberately limit arm supplies to Ukraine and put indirect pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to come to the peace talks with Russia’s Vladimir Putin. 'Appropriate amount' of weapons to Ukraine The tabloid, quoting an unnamed official, reported that both US and Germany, two primary military donors to Ukraine, intend to supply just an “appropriate amount” of weapons so that Ukraine can maintain its lead and have sufficient room for peace negotiation, but just not enough to reclaim its land. The German federal government has now set itself the main goal of putting Ukraine in a “strategically good negotiating position,” BILD said. “The country should negotiate with (Russian dictator) Vladimir Putin's regime about its ‘sovereignty and territorial integrity.’ The White House and the Chancellery are coordinating on this,” government sources told BILD. Berlin and Washington expect that if Kyiv and Moscow refuse to hold formal negotiations, the issue will remain frozen, and there will be no official accord. “Zelensky should come to the realisation that things cannot go on like this,” a German government insider told BILD. If peace talks fail, then Plan B However, if limiting weapon supplies fails to enable Ukraine with peace talks, the source told BILD that US and Germany have a “Plan B” in place. “What Berlin and Washington are striving for as an alternative to negotiations is a frozen conflict, without agreement between the conflicting parties,” the source said. Also read | Italy in rage over girl's murder by ex-boyfriend, protests staged against high femicide rate It means that even if the intended peace talks fail to materialise, a new quasi-border will be drawn between Ukraine and Russia. Also read | China holds training drills near Myanmar border after its convoy goes up in flames According to Belfer Center at Harvard’s Kennedy School, Russia controls around 17.5 per cent of Ukrainian land, in addition to Crimea, which it acquired in 2014. Putin maintains that land is now a part of Russia. Ukraine, however, has been adamant in reclaiming all of its territory despite calls from those inside Ukraine for an alternative approach. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Germany forcing Ukraine to end war with Russia and ready to accept new boundary: Report

<p>A senior Russian diplomat said on Tuesday (Nov 21) that co-existing with Ukraine under its current 'regime' is not possible and that Russia can withstand power of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for as long as it needs till Moscow's goal of demilitarising Ukraine was achieved. Currently Russia controls 17.5 per cent of Ukrainian territory in reference to internationally recognised Ukrainian borders. This includes Crimea which was annexed by Russia in 2014.</p>

<p>Rodion Miroshnik, Russia's Ambassador-at-large was speaking with reporters in Russian capital Moscow when he said this.</p>

<p>"The current regime (in Kyiv) is absolutely toxic, we do not see any options for co-existence with it at the moment," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia's Putin to take part in virtual BRICS summit on Gaza</strong></p>

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<p>The post held by Miroshenik was created by Russia to collect evidence about alleged crimes committed by Ukrainian forces on civilians. As he spoke with reporters, Miroshevik repeated Russian claims that Ukraine had violated human rights of the civilians and had committed crimes against&nbsp;them. He also alleged that NATO has supplied forbidden weapons to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Ukraine on its part has been accusing Russia of war crimes along with several Western nations. Russia denies the charges.</p>

<p>Miroshenik also said that Russia could resist NATO for as long as it takes for the Russian goal of demilitarising Ukraine is achieved. He added that the West will eventually lose interest in the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-adds-the-moscow-times-to-its-list-of-foreign-agents-660181">Russia adds The Moscow Times to its list of 'foreign agents'</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia calls its Ukraine invasion a 'Special Military Operation' (SMO). It invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After sustained gains in initial months, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of land. Meanwhile, the Western countries, led by the United States, poured in billions of dollars in Ukraine in humanitarian and military aid. It has also provided a large number and variety of weapons.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-sharpshooter-breaks-world-record-by-killing-russian-soldier-from-38-km-away-661002">Ukrainian sniper kills Russian enemy from a record distance of 3.8 km</a></strong></p>

<p>However, expectations that Ukrainian forces would be able to decisively push-back the Russians after the help have proven to be far from reality. Ukraine has not been able to push the Russians back and Russian troops are putting up a stiff resistance.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has chosen to project Ukraine war as part of a larger effort of fight against the West. Kremlin claims that there is a ploy to cleave Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A senior Russian diplomat said on Tuesday (Nov 21) that co-existing with Ukraine under its current 'regime' is not possible and that Russia can withstand power of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for as long as it needs till Moscow's goal of demilitarising Ukraine was achieved.

A senior Russian diplomat said on Tuesday (Nov 21) that co-existing with Ukraine under its current 'regime' is not possible and that Russia can withstand power of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for as long as it needs till Moscow's goal of demilitarising Ukraine was achieved. Currently Russia controls 17.5 per cent of Ukrainian territory in reference to internationally recognised Ukrainian borders. This includes Crimea which was annexed by Russia in 2014. Rodion Miroshnik, Russia's Ambassador-at-large was speaking with reporters in Russian capital Moscow when he said this. "The current regime (in Kyiv) is absolutely toxic, we do not see any options for co-existence with it at the moment," he said. Watch | Russia's Putin to take part in virtual BRICS summit on Gaza × The post held by Miroshenik was created by Russia to collect evidence about alleged crimes committed by Ukrainian forces on civilians. As he spoke with reporters, Miroshevik repeated Russian claims that Ukraine had violated human rights of the civilians and had committed crimes against them. He also alleged that NATO has supplied forbidden weapons to Ukraine. Ukraine on its part has been accusing Russia of war crimes along with several Western nations. Russia denies the charges. Miroshenik also said that Russia could resist NATO for as long as it takes for the Russian goal of demilitarising Ukraine is achieved. He added that the West will eventually lose interest in the war. Also Read | Russia adds The Moscow Times to its list of 'foreign agents' Russia calls its Ukraine invasion a 'Special Military Operation' (SMO). It invaded Ukraine in February 2022. After sustained gains in initial months, Russian forces had to retreat from large swathes of land. Meanwhile, the Western countries, led by the United States, poured in billions of dollars in Ukraine in humanitarian and military aid. It has also provided a large number and variety of weapons. Watch | Ukrainian sniper kills Russian enemy from a record distance of 3.8 km However, expectations that Ukrainian forces would be able to decisively push-back the Russians after the help have proven to be far from reality. Ukraine has not been able to push the Russians back and Russian troops are putting up a stiff resistance. Russian President Vladimir Putin has chosen to project Ukraine war as part of a larger effort of fight against the West. Kremlin claims that there is a ploy to cleave Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian diplomat rules out co-existence with 'current regime' in Ukraine

The war in Ukraine faces a second winter. The Ukrainian troops claim they are holding the defensive lines.

Russia-Ukraine war | Russian drone attack hits Ukrainan infrastructure: Zelensky

<p>The Hamas government in Gaza said&nbsp;on Monday (Nov 13) that the death toll from the ongoing conflict has reached 11,240 after over five weeks of hostilities between Israel and Hamas militants. The casualties include 4,630 children, 3,130 women, and an additional 29,000 people have been wounded. We are tracking live updates from the Israel-Gaza war on WION's website.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Russian state news agencies Tass and RIA-Novosti on Monday said Russia was withdrawing its troops from Dnipro River, but the reports were retracted within minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-israel-troops-take-over-gaza-parliament-building-reports-658199"><strong>Israel-Hamas war LIVE | Hamas ready to release 70 hostages in exchange for 5-day truce</strong></a><br />
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/14/392885-untitled-design-73.png?imwidth=1920" />The military wing&nbsp;of the Palestinian terrorist group&nbsp;Hamas informed Qatari mediators that they are prepared to release around 70 women and children currently held in Gaza. This offer is contingent on the condition that a five-day truce is established.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-9-month-old-now-the-youngest-hostage-among-240-held-by-hamas-658233"><strong>Israel-Hamas war: 9-month-old now the youngest hostage among 240 held by Hamas</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/14/392887-untitled-design-74.png?imwidth=1920" />At just nine months old, Kfir Bibas, a cheerful red-haired baby who had recently mastered the art of crawling, lived a peaceful life with his parents and four-year-old brother in a kibbutz in southern Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russiann-media-announces-retreat-of-forces-from-dnipro-river-only-to-retract-within-minutes-658238"><strong>Russian media announces retreat of forces from Dnipro River, only to retract within minutes</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/14/392890-54d2ca55-b6e5-46f3-bff9-dee1686070accx0cy6cw0w1200r1.jpg?imwidth=1920" />Russian media on Monday (Nov 13) reported that the Russian military was withdrawing its troops from the eastern bank of the Dnipro River to “more favourable positions,” only to withdraw the information minutes later.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shifa-hospital-must-be-protected-says-president-biden-658212"><strong>Al-Shifa hospital 'must be protected', says President Biden</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/25/388815-succession-2023-10-25t030934248.png?imwidth=1920" />US President Joe Biden on Monday (November 13) called on Israel to protect Al-Shifa Hospital, which is the biggest hospital in Gaza City. The hospital complex is currently witnessing heavy fighting around it. T</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Is Prigozhin's son running the Wagner group?</strong></p>

<p>Is Prigozhin's son running the Wagner group? Reports say 25-year-old Pavel Prigozhin has taken over the Wagner group. What does he plan to do with the mercenary outfit? Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.</p>

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The Hamas government in Gaza said on Monday (Nov 13) that the death toll from the ongoing conflict has reached 11,240 after over five weeks of hostilities between Israel and Hamas militants.

The Hamas government in Gaza said on Monday (Nov 13) that the death toll from the ongoing conflict has reached 11,240 after over five weeks of hostilities between Israel and Hamas militants. The casualties include 4,630 children, 3,130 women, and an additional 29,000 people have been wounded. We are tracking live updates from the Israel-Gaza war on WION's website. Meanwhile, Russian state news agencies Tass and RIA-Novosti on Monday said Russia was withdrawing its troops from Dnipro River, but the reports were retracted within minutes. Click on the headlines to read more. Israel-Hamas war LIVE | Hamas ready to release 70 hostages in exchange for 5-day truce The military wing of the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas informed Qatari mediators that they are prepared to release around 70 women and children currently held in Gaza. This offer is contingent on the condition that a five-day truce is established. Israel-Hamas war: 9-month-old now the youngest hostage among 240 held by Hamas At just nine months old, Kfir Bibas, a cheerful red-haired baby who had recently mastered the art of crawling, lived a peaceful life with his parents and four-year-old brother in a kibbutz in southern Israel. Russian media announces retreat of forces from Dnipro River, only to retract within minutes Russian media on Monday (Nov 13) reported that the Russian military was withdrawing its troops from the eastern bank of the Dnipro River to “more favourable positions,” only to withdraw the information minutes later. Al-Shifa hospital 'must be protected', says President Biden US President Joe Biden on Monday (November 13) called on Israel to protect Al-Shifa Hospital, which is the biggest hospital in Gaza City. The hospital complex is currently witnessing heavy fighting around it. T Watch: Gravitas | Is Prigozhin's son running the Wagner group? Is Prigozhin's son running the Wagner group? Reports say 25-year-old Pavel Prigozhin has taken over the Wagner group. What does he plan to do with the mercenary outfit? Priyanka Sharma brings you a report. ×

Morning brief: Hamas 'ready' to release hostages for truce, latest from Russia-Ukraine war, and more

<p>In a startling revelation, it has been reported that a senior Ukrainian military officer, deeply entrenched within the country’s intelligence network, played a pivotal role in the bombing of the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a joint investigation by The Washington Post and German publication Der Spiegel, Roman Chervinsky, a decorated 48-year-old colonel with ties to Ukraine’s special operations forces, served as the coordinator for the covert operation, overseeing logistics and support for a six-person team that carried out the attack on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines on September 26, 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Chervinsky's involvement shows a direct connection between Ukraine’s military and security leadership and the act of sabotage that has triggered multiple criminal investigations across Europe and beyond.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-ukrainians-blew-up-nord-stream-pipelines-german-media-595393">At least two Ukrainians blew up Nord Stream pipelines: German media</a></strong></p>

<p>The bombing, deemed a dangerous attack on Europe’s energy infrastructure by &nbsp;the US and Western officials, resulted in massive leaks and disrupted gas supply links as winter approached.</p>

<p>According to Washington Post, contrary to initial assumptions, Chervinsky did not act independently. He reportedly received orders from higher-ranking Ukrainian officials, ultimately reporting to Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, Ukraine’s highest-ranking military officer.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Nord Stream sabotage</strong></h2>

<p>The Nord Stream attack targeted crucial civilian infrastructure designed to provide energy to millions in Europe.</p>

<p>While Gazprom, the Russian state-owned gas conglomerate, holds the majority stake in Nord Stream, Western energy companies, including those from Germany, France, and the Netherlands, are partners with significant investments in the project. Ukraine had long expressed grievances that Nord Stream would allow Russia to bypass its pipes, depriving Kyiv of substantial transit revenue.</p>

<h2><strong>Chervinsky's reaction</strong></h2>

<p>Chervinsky, through his lawyer, has vehemently denied any involvement in the pipeline sabotage, dismissing the accusations as 'baseless'.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report</strong></p>

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<p>"All speculations about my involvement in the attack on Nord Stream are being spread by Russian propaganda without any basis," Chervinsky was quoted as saying by the Washington Post.</p>

<p>He is currently detained on charges of abusing his power in a separate incident. Chervinsky claims his arrest is politically motivated, alleging retribution for criticising President Zelensky and accusing one of his aides of spying for Russia.</p>

<p>Chervinsky’s controversial history includes overseeing a plan in 2020 to lure fighters for Russia’s Wagner mercenary group into Belarus and planning operations to eliminate pro-Russian separatist leaders in Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</em></strong></p>


In a startling revelation, it has been reported that a senior Ukrainian military officer, deeply entrenched within the country’s intelligence network, played a pivotal role in the bombing of the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines last year.

In a startling revelation, it has been reported that a senior Ukrainian military officer, deeply entrenched within the country’s intelligence network, played a pivotal role in the bombing of the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines last year. According to a joint investigation by The Washington Post and German publication Der Spiegel, Roman Chervinsky, a decorated 48-year-old colonel with ties to Ukraine’s special operations forces, served as the coordinator for the covert operation, overseeing logistics and support for a six-person team that carried out the attack on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines on September 26, 2022. What does it mean? Chervinsky's involvement shows a direct connection between Ukraine’s military and security leadership and the act of sabotage that has triggered multiple criminal investigations across Europe and beyond. Also read | At least two Ukrainians blew up Nord Stream pipelines: German media The bombing, deemed a dangerous attack on Europe’s energy infrastructure by the US and Western officials, resulted in massive leaks and disrupted gas supply links as winter approached. According to Washington Post, contrary to initial assumptions, Chervinsky did not act independently. He reportedly received orders from higher-ranking Ukrainian officials, ultimately reporting to Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, Ukraine’s highest-ranking military officer. Nord Stream sabotage The Nord Stream attack targeted crucial civilian infrastructure designed to provide energy to millions in Europe. While Gazprom, the Russian state-owned gas conglomerate, holds the majority stake in Nord Stream, Western energy companies, including those from Germany, France, and the Netherlands, are partners with significant investments in the project. Ukraine had long expressed grievances that Nord Stream would allow Russia to bypass its pipes, depriving Kyiv of substantial transit revenue. Chervinsky's reaction Chervinsky, through his lawyer, has vehemently denied any involvement in the pipeline sabotage, dismissing the accusations as 'baseless'. Also watch | The Nord stream mystery deepens, here's a special report × "All speculations about my involvement in the attack on Nord Stream are being spread by Russian propaganda without any basis," Chervinsky was quoted as saying by the Washington Post. He is currently detained on charges of abusing his power in a separate incident. Chervinsky claims his arrest is politically motivated, alleging retribution for criticising President Zelensky and accusing one of his aides of spying for Russia. Chervinsky’s controversial history includes overseeing a plan in 2020 to lure fighters for Russia’s Wagner mercenary group into Belarus and planning operations to eliminate pro-Russian separatist leaders in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Did Zelensky lie all this while? New report claims Ukrainian military officer coordinated Nord Stream sabotage

In updates from the Russia-Ukraine war, Ukraine says that an explosion in the Russian-occupied town of Melitopol killed at least three Russian servicemen,

3 Russian officers killed in Melitopol: Ukraine

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has seen Russian forces attacking Ukrainian ports, including Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Mykolaiv, with missiles and drones.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia continues to attack Ukrainian ports

<p>A close adviser to the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Army was killed on his birthday after a grenade that was placed amongst his birthday gifts exploded.</p>

<p>Initially, the incident was termed as an assassination until further details revealed that Major Gennadiy Chastiakov, 39, had received a box of grenades as a gift.</p>

<p>Some local reports claimed that a real grenade was placed amongst novelty gifts shaped to look like grenades.</p>

<p>Ukraine’s interior minister Igor Klymenko in a statement on Monday (Nov 6) said that Chastiakov was showing his gift to his son when the explosion took place.</p>

<p>“At first, the son took the munition in his hands and began to turn the ring. Then the serviceman took the grenade away from the child and pulled the ring, causing a tragic explosion,” Klymenko said.</p>

<h2><strong>Real grenade placed among novelty ones&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>His 13-year-old son was also seriously injured, Ukrainska Pravda newspaper reported citing the police, and added that Chastiakov’s wife saw her husband bringing the gift box, which had the real grenade, home.</p>

<p>Army Gen Valery Zaluzhny condoled Chastiakov’s death on Telegram.</p>

<p>“Under tragic circumstances, my assistant and close friend, Major Gennadiy Chastiakov, was killed … on his birthday,” Zaluzhny said, adding that an “unknown explosive device detonated in one of his gifts”.</p>

<p>Zaluzhny said that since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Chastiakov had been “fully devoting his life to the armed forces of Ukraine and the fight against Russian aggression”.</p>

<p>A fellow soldier has been detained by the police who gave the fatal gift to Chastiakov. Two similar grenades were seized from him. An investigation was underway.</p>

<p>Chastiakov is survived by a wife and four children.</p>

<p>According to local media reports, Chastiakov was a graduate of a military academy and fully trained in handling grenades.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky&nbsp;rejects the idea of wartime election</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed the possibility of holding elections during the wartime as debates gain pace over a possible voting.</p>

<p>Zelensky said in a nightly video address that it was critical to concentrate on the military challenges facing Ukraine.</p>

<p>"We all understand that now, in wartime, when there are many challenges, it is utterly irresponsible to engage in topics related to an election in such a frivolous manner," he said Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-ex-israeli-soldier-joined-a-pro-palestinian-rally-but-why-heres-what-he-said-656197">This ex-Israeli soldier joined a pro-Palestinian rally but why? Here's what he said</a></p>

<p>"We need to recognise that this is a time for defence, a time for battle, upon which the fate of the state and its people depend … I believe that elections are not appropriate at this time."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/netanyahu-says-israel-will-take-control-of-overall-security-of-gaza-after-war-655981">Netanyahu says Israel will take control of Gaza’s ‘overall security’ after war</a></p>

<p>Ukraine was placed under martial at the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. It prohibits authorities from holding elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A close adviser to the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Army was killed on his birthday after a grenade that was placed amongst his birthday gifts exploded. Initially, the incident was termed as an assassination until further details revealed that Major Gennadiy Chastiakov, 39, had received a box of grenades as a gift.

A close adviser to the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Army was killed on his birthday after a grenade that was placed amongst his birthday gifts exploded. Initially, the incident was termed as an assassination until further details revealed that Major Gennadiy Chastiakov, 39, had received a box of grenades as a gift. Some local reports claimed that a real grenade was placed amongst novelty gifts shaped to look like grenades. Ukraine’s interior minister Igor Klymenko in a statement on Monday (Nov 6) said that Chastiakov was showing his gift to his son when the explosion took place. “At first, the son took the munition in his hands and began to turn the ring. Then the serviceman took the grenade away from the child and pulled the ring, causing a tragic explosion,” Klymenko said. Real grenade placed among novelty ones His 13-year-old son was also seriously injured, Ukrainska Pravda newspaper reported citing the police, and added that Chastiakov’s wife saw her husband bringing the gift box, which had the real grenade, home. Army Gen Valery Zaluzhny condoled Chastiakov’s death on Telegram. “Under tragic circumstances, my assistant and close friend, Major Gennadiy Chastiakov, was killed … on his birthday,” Zaluzhny said, adding that an “unknown explosive device detonated in one of his gifts”. Zaluzhny said that since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Chastiakov had been “fully devoting his life to the armed forces of Ukraine and the fight against Russian aggression”. A fellow soldier has been detained by the police who gave the fatal gift to Chastiakov. Two similar grenades were seized from him. An investigation was underway. Chastiakov is survived by a wife and four children. According to local media reports, Chastiakov was a graduate of a military academy and fully trained in handling grenades. Zelensky rejects the idea of wartime election Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed the possibility of holding elections during the wartime as debates gain pace over a possible voting. Zelensky said in a nightly video address that it was critical to concentrate on the military challenges facing Ukraine. "We all understand that now, in wartime, when there are many challenges, it is utterly irresponsible to engage in topics related to an election in such a frivolous manner," he said Monday. Also read | This ex-Israeli soldier joined a pro-Palestinian rally but why? Here's what he said "We need to recognise that this is a time for defence, a time for battle, upon which the fate of the state and its people depend … I believe that elections are not appropriate at this time." Also read | Netanyahu says Israel will take control of Gaza’s ‘overall security’ after war Ukraine was placed under martial at the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. It prohibits authorities from holding elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine military chief's adviser killed as grenade among his birthday gifts explodes

<p>A Ukrainian military brigade said on Monday that 19 of its soldiers were killed last week in a Russian air strike that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described as “a tragedy that could have been avoided”.</p>

<p>Ukrainian media reported that the soldiers were killed during an awards ceremony on Friday in the frontline Zaporizhzhia region of southeastern Ukraine.</p>

<p>A statement issued by the 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade on Monday provided the death toll but gave few other details.</p>

<p>Ukraine’s defence minister said on Saturday an investigation had been launched into the attack, and Ukraine’s military said separately that Russia had struck the Zaporizhzhia region with an Iskander ballistic missile.</p>

<p>Reuters has not been able to verify details of the attack independently. Russia’s Defence Ministry said its forces had fired on Ukrainian troops in the region, and that it had killed up to 30 military personnel.</p>

<p>Ukraine’s State Bureau of Investigations said on Monday it was investigating a decision by the military command to organise an event for Rocket and Artillery Day in a village close to the front line in Zaporizhzhia, but did not say what the event was.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-meets-turkish-counterpart-hakan-fidan-discusses-efforts-to-expand-aid-in-gaza-655824">Blinken meets Turkish FM Fidan, discusses efforts to expand aid in Gaza</a></p>

<p>“The main thing is to establish the complete truth about what happened and prevent such incidents happening again,” Zelenskiy said on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-un-says-88-staff-killed-in-conflict-the-highest-ever-figure-in-any-war-655804">Israel-Hamas war: UN says 88 staff killed in conflict</a></p>

<p>“Now the investigation must provide honest answers to the families of the fallen soldiers and society about how this tragedy occurred and whether any improper orders were issued.”</p>

<p>Kyiv launched a counteroffensive in southeastern Ukraine in early June but progress has been slow against entrenched Russian forces who invaded Ukraine in February 2022.</p>


A Ukrainian military brigade said on Monday that 19 of its soldiers were killed last week in a Russian air strike that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described as “a tragedy that could have been avoided”.

A Ukrainian military brigade said on Monday that 19 of its soldiers were killed last week in a Russian air strike that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described as “a tragedy that could have been avoided”. Ukrainian media reported that the soldiers were killed during an awards ceremony on Friday in the frontline Zaporizhzhia region of southeastern Ukraine. A statement issued by the 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade on Monday provided the death toll but gave few other details. Ukraine’s defence minister said on Saturday an investigation had been launched into the attack, and Ukraine’s military said separately that Russia had struck the Zaporizhzhia region with an Iskander ballistic missile. Reuters has not been able to verify details of the attack independently. Russia’s Defence Ministry said its forces had fired on Ukrainian troops in the region, and that it had killed up to 30 military personnel. Ukraine’s State Bureau of Investigations said on Monday it was investigating a decision by the military command to organise an event for Rocket and Artillery Day in a village close to the front line in Zaporizhzhia, but did not say what the event was. Also read | Blinken meets Turkish FM Fidan, discusses efforts to expand aid in Gaza “The main thing is to establish the complete truth about what happened and prevent such incidents happening again,” Zelenskiy said on Sunday. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UN says 88 staff killed in conflict “Now the investigation must provide honest answers to the families of the fallen soldiers and society about how this tragedy occurred and whether any improper orders were issued.” Kyiv launched a counteroffensive in southeastern Ukraine in early June but progress has been slow against entrenched Russian forces who invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Ukrainian brigade says 19 killed in Russian missile strike at awards ceremony

<p>Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Nov 5) categorically denied there was a stalemate in the war with Russia, saying his country can win the war provided the Western allies continue to supply crucial arms.</p>

<p>"They thought they would checkmate us, but this didn’t happen," Zelensky told NBC in an interview.</p>

<p>He also contradicted the remarks made by Ukraine’s commander-in-chief of armed forces that the war had entered an impasse&nbsp;after 20 months of fierce fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don’t think that this is a stalemate," Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, Ukraine’s commander-in-chief of armed forces Valerii Zaluzhnyi told the Economist "there will most likely be no deep and beautiful breakthrough," despite the counteroffensive launched in June.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky Wants more military aid from US</strong></h2>

<p>He also reiterated his pleas to the US to continue to supply more weapons as the Israel-Hamas war continues to divert Washington’s attention.</p>

<p>The US has, so far, provided $75 billion in military, humanitarian and financial aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.</p>

<p>Reuters news agency reported citing two US officials on Thursday that the Biden administration plans to announce a $425 million military aid package for Ukraine, including counter-drone rockets and munitions.</p>

<p>But few hardline Republicans have continuously opposed regular assistance for Kyiv, stoking doubts over America’s more aid in future for Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president also hinted that the country is shifting its strategy and was hopeful of gaining desirable breakthroughs, which Kyiv has been unable to achieve ever since launching&nbsp;counteroperations.</p>

<h2><strong>Military coming up with different plans</strong></h2>

<p>"Our military are coming up with different plans, with different operations in order to move forward faster and to strike Russian Federation unexpectedly," he said in his "Meet the Press" appearance.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-are-us-deployed-mq-9-reaper-drones-helping-locate-hostages-in-gaza-655257">Explained | How are US-deployed MQ-9 Reaper drones helping locate hostages in Gaza?</a></p>

<p>Although he acknowledged that a “fatigue” has impacted Ukraine’s operations, Zelensky insisted that his military is "still more motivated than any Russians who came to Ukraine to kill us."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-300-us-residents-evacuated-from-gaza-says-white-house-655474">More than 300 US residents evacuated from Gaza, says White House</a></p>

<p>He also sought to align his country’s fight against Russia with Israel’s battle against the Hamas militants, and accused Vladimir Putin of playing a role in both wars by sponsoring Hamas, adding that the "whole world should do all they can to stop this war" in the Middle East.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Nov 5) categorically denied there was a stalemate in the war with Russia, saying his country can win the war provided the Western allies continue to supply crucial arms.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Nov 5) categorically denied there was a stalemate in the war with Russia, saying his country can win the war provided the Western allies continue to supply crucial arms. "They thought they would checkmate us, but this didn’t happen," Zelensky told NBC in an interview. He also contradicted the remarks made by Ukraine’s commander-in-chief of armed forces that the war had entered an impasse after 20 months of fierce fighting. "I don’t think that this is a stalemate," Zelensky said. Last week, Ukraine’s commander-in-chief of armed forces Valerii Zaluzhnyi told the Economist "there will most likely be no deep and beautiful breakthrough," despite the counteroffensive launched in June. Zelensky Wants more military aid from US He also reiterated his pleas to the US to continue to supply more weapons as the Israel-Hamas war continues to divert Washington’s attention. The US has, so far, provided $75 billion in military, humanitarian and financial aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Reuters news agency reported citing two US officials on Thursday that the Biden administration plans to announce a $425 million military aid package for Ukraine, including counter-drone rockets and munitions. But few hardline Republicans have continuously opposed regular assistance for Kyiv, stoking doubts over America’s more aid in future for Ukraine. The Ukrainian president also hinted that the country is shifting its strategy and was hopeful of gaining desirable breakthroughs, which Kyiv has been unable to achieve ever since launching counteroperations. Military coming up with different plans "Our military are coming up with different plans, with different operations in order to move forward faster and to strike Russian Federation unexpectedly," he said in his "Meet the Press" appearance. Also read | Explained | How are US-deployed MQ-9 Reaper drones helping locate hostages in Gaza? Although he acknowledged that a “fatigue” has impacted Ukraine’s operations, Zelensky insisted that his military is "still more motivated than any Russians who came to Ukraine to kill us." Also read | More than 300 US residents evacuated from Gaza, says White House He also sought to align his country’s fight against Russia with Israel’s battle against the Hamas militants, and accused Vladimir Putin of playing a role in both wars by sponsoring Hamas, adding that the "whole world should do all they can to stop this war" in the Middle East. (With inputs from agencies)

No stalemate in Russia-Ukraine war, we are changing strategy: Volodymyr Zelensky

President Vladimir Zelensky is inviting Donald Trump to visit Ukraine. This comes after former US president Donald Trump promised that he could end the war between Russia and Ukraine in 24 hours.

Ukrainian President dismisses Trump's claims that he could bring peace to the country

<p>Russia has reportedly boosted efforts to recruit young female fighters as drone operators, snipers, medics and drivers.</p>

<p>The Bors battalion of the Russian Defence Ministry is running an ad campaign on the country’s major social media platforms, with one account specifically targeting women. The account, named “fighting girls”, is urging girls to sign up and serve in the Russian forces. The conditions — contract length and pay — are identical to those offered by the Bors unit.</p>

<p>Volunteers have the option to sign up for six months and receive special benefits. They can also earn up to above $2000 per month for their services.</p>

<h2><strong>Strength of women fighters in Russian forces</strong></h2>

<p>Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu proudly announced earlier this year that above 44,000 women were serving in the Russian army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said 1,100 of them were directly involved in the "special military operation," and that one-third had received special state decorations.</p>

<p>Some 1,300 were studying at military colleges, Shoigu added, before describing the women as an "enchanting army."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US top officials to visit India: Israel war &amp; Russia-Ukraine war on agenda</strong></p>

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<p>As per Ria Novosti, a Russian news agency, women are active in all branches of the Russian armed forces, serving in some 150 different roles.</p>

<h2><strong>Latest from Russia-Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian armed forces on Saturday (Nov 4) said they hit marine and port infrastructure at a shipyard in the port city of Kerch on the eastern coast of Russian-controlled Crimea.</p>

<p>The Russia-installed chief of the Crimean region said that the attack targeted a dry dock and that there were no casualties.</p>

<p>Ukraine had “implemented successful strikes on marine and port infrastructure of the ‘Zalyv’ factory in the temporarily occupied city of Kerch,” the Department for Strategic Communications of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said in a Telegram post.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-clear-zelensky-says-israel-hamas-war-taking-away-focus-from-ukraine-655131"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Zelensky says Israel-Hamas war `taking away focus` from Ukraine</strong></a></p>

<p>Russia also confirmed that Ukraine earlier attacked a shipyard in Kerch, damaging at least one Russian ship. Russian media reported that 15 cruise missiles were launched at the shipyard, out of which 13 were destroyed by air defence systems.</p>

<p>“I hope another ship has followed the Moskva!” Mykola Oleshchuk, commander of Ukraine’s Air Force, said in a Telegram post, referring to the Russian Black Sea Fleet flagship sunk by Ukrainian missiles on April 14, 2022.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia has reportedly boosted efforts to recruit young female fighters as drone operators, snipers, medics and drivers. The Bors battalion of the Russian Defence Ministry is running an ad campaign on the country’s major social media platforms, with one account specifically targeting women.

Russia has reportedly boosted efforts to recruit young female fighters as drone operators, snipers, medics and drivers. The Bors battalion of the Russian Defence Ministry is running an ad campaign on the country’s major social media platforms, with one account specifically targeting women. The account, named “fighting girls”, is urging girls to sign up and serve in the Russian forces. The conditions — contract length and pay — are identical to those offered by the Bors unit. Volunteers have the option to sign up for six months and receive special benefits. They can also earn up to above $2000 per month for their services. Strength of women fighters in Russian forces Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu proudly announced earlier this year that above 44,000 women were serving in the Russian army. He said 1,100 of them were directly involved in the "special military operation," and that one-third had received special state decorations. Some 1,300 were studying at military colleges, Shoigu added, before describing the women as an "enchanting army." Watch: US top officials to visit India: Israel war & Russia-Ukraine war on agenda × As per Ria Novosti, a Russian news agency, women are active in all branches of the Russian armed forces, serving in some 150 different roles. Latest from Russia-Ukraine war Meanwhile, Ukrainian armed forces on Saturday (Nov 4) said they hit marine and port infrastructure at a shipyard in the port city of Kerch on the eastern coast of Russian-controlled Crimea. The Russia-installed chief of the Crimean region said that the attack targeted a dry dock and that there were no casualties. Ukraine had “implemented successful strikes on marine and port infrastructure of the ‘Zalyv’ factory in the temporarily occupied city of Kerch,” the Department for Strategic Communications of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said in a Telegram post. Also read: Zelensky says Israel-Hamas war `taking away focus` from Ukraine Russia also confirmed that Ukraine earlier attacked a shipyard in Kerch, damaging at least one Russian ship. Russian media reported that 15 cruise missiles were launched at the shipyard, out of which 13 were destroyed by air defence systems. “I hope another ship has followed the Moskva!” Mykola Oleshchuk, commander of Ukraine’s Air Force, said in a Telegram post, referring to the Russian Black Sea Fleet flagship sunk by Ukrainian missiles on April 14, 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia looking to recruit female fighters as war intensifies against Ukraine

Vladimir Putin has signed into law Russia withdrawing its ratification of the global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests, a step condemned by the US and the organisation that promotes adherence to the landmark arms control pact.

Russia opts out of nuclear test ban treaty

While much of the world’s attention turned to the Gaza conflict, Russia intensified its offensive in Ukraine. Moscow's troops reportedly use the situation to gain momentum in a war that has devolved into a gruelling battle of attrition. For more than two weeks, Russian forces have zeroed in on Ukraine's eastern industrial city of Avdiivka. Here, the Russian troops are trying to overwhelm Ukrainian forces and encircle them. If they are successful, it would mark a crucial battlefield victory for Russia. Watch this video to understand how.

Gravitas: Russia Intensifies Ukraine Attacks as West Focuses on Gaza | Moscow's Winter Offensive

In a show of power that coincides with Moscow's de-ratification of a historic nuclear test moratorium pact, Russia has successfully demonstrated its capacity to launch a large retaliatory nuclear strike by land, sea, and air, according to a Kremlin statement on Wednesday.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia warns of a clash of nuclear powers

Russia has successfully tested its ability to deliver a massive retaliatory nuclear strike by land, sea and air, a Kremlin statement said on Wednesday, a display of force which coincides with Moscow de-ratifying a landmark nuclear test ban treaty.

Russian defence minister warns against escalation of Russia-Ukraine war

<p>With no end in sight to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, a third set of peace talks began in Malta on Saturday (Oct 29), a gathering which saw the presence of over 60 national security advisers, media reports said. Evidently, Moscow was absent from the talks and even went on to criticise&nbsp;it.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a statement, highlighted the participation of 66 countries as evidence that his Peace Formula which he proposed last year has since gone "global." Notably, these talks come in the wake of previous peace talk gatherings in Jeddah and Copenhagen. The Ukrainian delegation is now aspiring to ultimately convene a summit involving heads of state.</p>

<p>Zelensky also called for the plan's joint implementation to reflect "not a particular national position, but the position of people, of all mankind."</p>

<p>"We shall prepare a joint action plan and then submit it to the Global Peace Summit – at the level of leaders – to approve and implement it for the sake of peace, for the sake of the protection of every nation from wars. And let this result be our common legacy for humanity!" he said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-the-maine-bloodshed-have-been-averted-652537">Could the Maine bloodshed have been averted</a>?</p>

<p>Speaking over his peace plan which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-zelenskys-10-point-peace-plan-which-seeks-world-leaders-support-547475">WION explained earlier</a>, he said that it covers "all aspects of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and are based on the principles of the UN Charter and resolutions of the UN General Assembly. Over time, the Formula has gradually gone global, with more and more countries and international organizations joining efforts to implement it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vast-destruction-39-dead-in-mexico-after-acapulco-hurricane-652526">Vast destruction, 39 dead in Mexico after Acapulco hurricane</a></p>

<p>Malta's Foreign Minister Ian Borg showed his staunch support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war and reaffirmed it saying,&nbsp;"Despite being a neutral country, we cannot not condemn the injustices, atrocities, and abuse of power in the region. We remain at the forefront of condemning this aggression."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-elon-musk-offers-internet-to-international-aid-organisation-652542">Israel-Palestine war: Elon Musk offers internet to international aid organisation</a></strong></p>

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<p>Reuters quoting a European Union official speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that China, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who attended the Jeddah peace talks, did not attend the Saturday (Oct 29) meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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With no end in sight to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, a third set of peace talks began in Malta on Saturday (Oct 29), a gathering which saw the presence of over 60 national security advisers, media reports said.

With no end in sight to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, a third set of peace talks began in Malta on Saturday (Oct 29), a gathering which saw the presence of over 60 national security advisers, media reports said. Evidently, Moscow was absent from the talks and even went on to criticise it. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a statement, highlighted the participation of 66 countries as evidence that his Peace Formula which he proposed last year has since gone "global." Notably, these talks come in the wake of previous peace talk gatherings in Jeddah and Copenhagen. The Ukrainian delegation is now aspiring to ultimately convene a summit involving heads of state. Zelensky also called for the plan's joint implementation to reflect "not a particular national position, but the position of people, of all mankind." "We shall prepare a joint action plan and then submit it to the Global Peace Summit – at the level of leaders – to approve and implement it for the sake of peace, for the sake of the protection of every nation from wars. And let this result be our common legacy for humanity!" he said. Also Read | Could the Maine bloodshed have been averted? Speaking over his peace plan which WION explained earlier, he said that it covers "all aspects of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and are based on the principles of the UN Charter and resolutions of the UN General Assembly. Over time, the Formula has gradually gone global, with more and more countries and international organizations joining efforts to implement it." Also Read | Vast destruction, 39 dead in Mexico after Acapulco hurricane Malta's Foreign Minister Ian Borg showed his staunch support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war and reaffirmed it saying, "Despite being a neutral country, we cannot not condemn the injustices, atrocities, and abuse of power in the region. We remain at the forefront of condemning this aggression." Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Elon Musk offers internet to international aid organisation × Reuters quoting a European Union official speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that China, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who attended the Jeddah peace talks, did not attend the Saturday (Oct 29) meeting. (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. ×

Russia vs Ukraine: Peace talks open in Malta as Zelensky says his 10-point plan has gone 'global'

The Israel-Palestine conflict has grabbed the global headlines for the past two weeks. The worldwide, incessant coverage of the conflict has somewhat pushed the Russia-Ukraine war to the fringes of public consciousness. But the war trudges on, one horrific day at a time. The much-touted Ukrainian spring offensive hasn't quite yielded the desired result for the Ukrainians. And now, Russian troops have launched a major offensive on the strategic, eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. Considered a symbol of Ukrainian resistance since 2014, the Ukrainian soldiers defending Avdiivka are now bracing for a massive Russian attack. Mohammed Saleh brings you the details.

Prestige battle for frontline city of Avdiivka intensifies

<p>Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who embarked on his two-day official visit to North Korea on Wednesday (Oct 18), said that Moscow "highly values" Pyongyang's support for its Ukraine campaign, as the cooperation between both countries deepens.</p>

<p>"We highly value your principled, unambiguous support for Russia's actions in connection with the special military operation in Ukraine," Lavrov was quoted as saying by Russia's RIA news agency.</p>

<p>Lavrov's trip comes after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare visit to Russia last month, to meet President Vladimir Putin. It was Kim's first trip abroad since the inception of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020.</p>

<p>The Russian foreign minister, who arrived in Pyongyang from Beijing on Wednesday, as per Russia's TASS news agency, is expected to brief the North Koreans on the results of Putin's trip to China, as well as discuss Putin's potential visit.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🛬 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lavrov?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lavrov</a> arrived in Pyongyang on an official visit.<br />
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🇷🇺🇰🇵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaDPRK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaDPRK</a> <a href="https://t.co/SK7zcAc5sc">pic.twitter.com/SK7zcAc5sc</a></p>
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1714624332410802550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Putin, during his visit to China, hailed his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping as an "old friend". While briefing the press, he said that the two had met alone "eye-to-eye", further adding that the mounting global conflicts "strengthen" their countries' relations.</p>

<p>Last month, Kim had travelled to Russia on board a specifically designed bullet-proof train for his face-to-face meeting with Putin, claiming that bilateral ties with Moscow were his country's "number one priority".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-praises-dear-friend-xi-in-beijing-summit-invites-world-to-invest-in-northern-sea-route-648185"> Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, discusses Middle East and Ukraine</a></p>

<p>Calling each other "comrade", Putin and Kim toasted their friendship with Russian wine.</p>

<h2><strong>Relations between North Korea,&nbsp;Russia worrying: US</strong></h2>

<p>US Special Representative for North Korea Sung Kim on Tuesday called relations between North Korea and Russia "worrying," after the White House released a statement saying that Pyongyang had recently supplied weapons to Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It claimed that a load of containers was shipped by sea from North Korea to Russia between September 1 and October 1.</p>

<p>They were then delivered by rail to an ammunition depot about 290 kilometres (180 miles) from the Ukrainian border.</p>

<p>However, the Kremlin denied the accusations and said that the United States had no evidence that weapons were being shipped.</p>

<p>"They report this all the time, without providing any proof," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies when asked about the reported arms shipments.</p>

<p>Washington-based analysts Beyond Parallel last week separately released satellite images showing what they termed an "unprecedented" build-up of train traffic along Russia's border with North Korea.</p>

<p>The activity "likely indicates North Korea's supply of arms and munitions to Russia", the group said in its report.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who embarked on his two-day official visit to North Korea on Wednesday (Oct 18), said that Moscow "highly values" Pyongyang's support for its Ukraine campaign, as the cooperation between both countries deepens.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who embarked on his two-day official visit to North Korea on Wednesday (Oct 18), said that Moscow "highly values" Pyongyang's support for its Ukraine campaign, as the cooperation between both countries deepens. "We highly value your principled, unambiguous support for Russia's actions in connection with the special military operation in Ukraine," Lavrov was quoted as saying by Russia's RIA news agency. Lavrov's trip comes after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare visit to Russia last month, to meet President Vladimir Putin. It was Kim's first trip abroad since the inception of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The Russian foreign minister, who arrived in Pyongyang from Beijing on Wednesday, as per Russia's TASS news agency, is expected to brief the North Koreans on the results of Putin's trip to China, as well as discuss Putin's potential visit. 🛬 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey #Lavrov arrived in Pyongyang on an official visit. 🇷🇺🇰🇵 #RussiaDPRK pic.twitter.com/SK7zcAc5sc — MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) October 18, 2023 × Putin, during his visit to China, hailed his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping as an "old friend". While briefing the press, he said that the two had met alone "eye-to-eye", further adding that the mounting global conflicts "strengthen" their countries' relations. Last month, Kim had travelled to Russia on board a specifically designed bullet-proof train for his face-to-face meeting with Putin, claiming that bilateral ties with Moscow were his country's "number one priority". Also read: Putin praises 'dear friend' Xi in Beijing summit, discusses Middle East and Ukraine Calling each other "comrade", Putin and Kim toasted their friendship with Russian wine. Relations between North Korea, Russia worrying: US US Special Representative for North Korea Sung Kim on Tuesday called relations between North Korea and Russia "worrying," after the White House released a statement saying that Pyongyang had recently supplied weapons to Moscow. It claimed that a load of containers was shipped by sea from North Korea to Russia between September 1 and October 1. They were then delivered by rail to an ammunition depot about 290 kilometres (180 miles) from the Ukrainian border. However, the Kremlin denied the accusations and said that the United States had no evidence that weapons were being shipped. "They report this all the time, without providing any proof," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies when asked about the reported arms shipments. Washington-based analysts Beyond Parallel last week separately released satellite images showing what they termed an "unprecedented" build-up of train traffic along Russia's border with North Korea. The activity "likely indicates North Korea's supply of arms and munitions to Russia", the group said in its report. (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.

Russia says it 'highly values' North Korea's support against Ukraine as Lavrov arrives in Pyongyang

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