A drone hit a commercial building in Moscow. This drone struck over the weekend while at least one other drone was downed while other hostile drones have reached the heart of the Russian capital.

Russia-Ukraine war: Amid war, hostile drones reaching the heart of Russian capital

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Russian anti-aircraft units down multiple drones targeting Moscow but one drone struck the same high-rise tower that was hit last week.

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv drones target Moscow

Despite the UK having led the imposition of Western sanctions on Russia new reports now suggest that UK manufacturers continue to supply Russia with key industrial equipment.

Russia: President Putin reviews warships and nuclear submarines on Navy Day

China&nbsp;on Monday announced export controls on some drones and drone-related equipment, saying it wanted to safeguard "national security and interests" amid escalating tension with the United States over access to technology.

The restrictions on equipment including some drone engines, lasers, communication equipment and anti-drone systems would take effect on Sept. 1, the commerce ministry said.

The controls would also affect some consumer drones, and no civilian drones could be exported for military purposes, a ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-detains-singer-for-pulling-down-his-pants-on-stage-at-festival-in-city-of-rock-620760">China detains singer for pulling down his pants on stage at festival in ‘City of Rock’</a>

"China's modest expansion of the scope of its drone control this time is an important measure to demonstrate our stance as a responsible major country, to implement global security initiatives, and maintain world peace," the unidentified spokesperson said.

Authorities had notified relevant countries and regions, the spokesperson said.

China&nbsp;has a big drone manufacturing industry and exports to several markets including the U.S.

U.S. lawmakers have said that more than 50% of drones sold in the U.S. are made by Chinese-based company DJI, and they are the most popular drone used by public safety agencies.

DJI said on Monday it always strictly complied with and enforced laws and regulations of the countries or regions in which it operates, including&nbsp;China's export control regulatory requirements.

"We have never designed and manufactured products and equipment for military use, nor have we ever marketed or sold our products for use in military conflicts or wars in any country," the drone maker added.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-station-struck-in-overnight-strikes-as-ukraine-continues-drone-attacks-on-russia-620958">&nbsp;Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia</a>

A German retailer in March 2022 accused DJI of leaking data on Ukrainian military positions to Russia, which the company rejected as "utterly false".

China's commerce ministry said in April this year that U.S. and Western media were spreading "unfounded accusations" that it was exporting drones to the battlefield in Ukraine, adding the reports were an attempt to "smear" Chinese firms and it would continue to strengthen export controls on drones.

The drone export&nbsp;curbs&nbsp;come after&nbsp;China&nbsp;announced export controls of some metals widely used in chipmaking last month, following moves by the United States to restrict&nbsp;China's access to key technologies, such as chipmaking equipment.

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China on Monday announced export controls on some drones and drone-related equipment, saying it wanted to safeguard "national security and interests" amid escalating tension with the United States over access to technology.

China on Monday announced export controls on some drones and drone-related equipment, saying it wanted to safeguard "national security and interests" amid escalating tension with the United States over access to technology. The restrictions on equipment including some drone engines, lasers, communication equipment and anti-drone systems would take effect on Sept. 1, the commerce ministry said. The controls would also affect some consumer drones, and no civilian drones could be exported for military purposes, a ministry spokesperson said in a statement. Also read | China detains singer for pulling down his pants on stage at festival in ‘City of Rock’ "China's modest expansion of the scope of its drone control this time is an important measure to demonstrate our stance as a responsible major country, to implement global security initiatives, and maintain world peace," the unidentified spokesperson said. Authorities had notified relevant countries and regions, the spokesperson said. China has a big drone manufacturing industry and exports to several markets including the U.S. U.S. lawmakers have said that more than 50% of drones sold in the U.S. are made by Chinese-based company DJI, and they are the most popular drone used by public safety agencies. DJI said on Monday it always strictly complied with and enforced laws and regulations of the countries or regions in which it operates, including China's export control regulatory requirements. "We have never designed and manufactured products and equipment for military use, nor have we ever marketed or sold our products for use in military conflicts or wars in any country," the drone maker added. Also read | Police station struck in overnight strikes as Ukraine continues drone attacks on Russia A German retailer in March 2022 accused DJI of leaking data on Ukrainian military positions to Russia, which the company rejected as "utterly false". China's commerce ministry said in April this year that U.S. and Western media were spreading "unfounded accusations" that it was exporting drones to the battlefield in Ukraine, adding the reports were an attempt to "smear" Chinese firms and it would continue to strengthen export controls on drones. The drone export curbs come after China announced export controls of some metals widely used in chipmaking last month, following moves by the United States to restrict China's access to key technologies, such as chipmaking equipment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China increases national security by imposing controls on drone exports

Russia's capital Moscow has come under a drone attack which Russian authorities are blaming on Ukraine for the same.

Russian capital comes under drone attack allegedly from Ukraine

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: The Russian military said on Friday it had shot down a Ukrainian missile over the southern Russian city of Taganrog and that fragments of the missile had injured civilians and damaged buildings.

Moscow's missile attack on Kyiv leaves at least 5 injured

A Russian court sentenced two alleged Ukrainian intelligence agents to 15 years in prison for espionage, local media reported quoting FSB security service.

The Federal Security Service (FSB) did not, however, provide any details of the accused people or say which court had passed the verdict.

Russia has frequently announced the arrests of alleged spies since launching its war in Ukraine 17 months ago.

The FSB claimed that the Ukrainian agents were detained last year on suspicion of espionage and involvement in the deaths of Russian troops and destruction of equipment in the area of what Russia calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine.

<h2>Ukraine intensifying counteroffensive</h2>

Meanwhile, on the war front, Ukraine continued with its counteroffensive against the Russian troops as it seeks to recapture more territories it lost to Kremlin in the battlefield.

Earlier on Wednesday (July 27), Russian army claimed that it repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south. The region mentioned by Russia is one of the areas where a counteroffensive is being carried out by Kyiv.

In the past few weeks, Ukraine claimed to have had success in its counteroffensive despite consistent Russian attacks.

The highly anticipated counteroffensive began after Ukraine stockpiled Western weapons and built up its offensive forces.

<h2>Ukraine ups operations in southeast</h2>

According to CNN, which cited two US officials, Ukraine has been focusing on the southeast and has deployed more forces in that region.

The news of this development comes after nearly two months of slow progress and the report mentioned that this indicates that Ukraine has identified potential weaknesses in Russian defensive lines.

The Ukrainians’ main efforts are in southern Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk Oblasts.

But its counteroffensive has a presence in the eastern areas, too. Ukrainian units including the 3rd and 5th Assault Brigades and the 22nd and 28th Mechanized Brigades counterattacked across the fields and treelines just south of Bakhmut, according to Forbes.

On Thursday (July 27), Ukraine's military claimed to have had success on one of the front lines in southeast Ukraine.

In the Staromaiorske area, east of Zaporizhzhia city, the armed forces said they were "solidifying positions", reports BBC.

Ukraine has not officially confirmed that it has beefed up its counteroffensive.

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Ukraine's attacks had "significantly" intensified.

But he told reporters in St Petersburg Ukraine had had no success.&nbsp;"All counteroffensive attempts were stopped, and the enemy was pushed back with high casualties."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A Russian court sentenced two alleged Ukrainian intelligence agents to 15 years in prison for espionage, local media reported quoting FSB security service. The Federal Security Service (FSB) did not, however, provide any details of the accused people or say which court had passed the verdict.

A Russian court sentenced two alleged Ukrainian intelligence agents to 15 years in prison for espionage, local media reported quoting FSB security service. The Federal Security Service (FSB) did not, however, provide any details of the accused people or say which court had passed the verdict. Russia has frequently announced the arrests of alleged spies since launching its war in Ukraine 17 months ago. The FSB claimed that the Ukrainian agents were detained last year on suspicion of espionage and involvement in the deaths of Russian troops and destruction of equipment in the area of what Russia calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine. Ukraine intensifying counteroffensive Meanwhile, on the war front, Ukraine continued with its counteroffensive against the Russian troops as it seeks to recapture more territories it lost to Kremlin in the battlefield. Earlier on Wednesday (July 27), Russian army claimed that it repelled a Ukrainian attack involving several hundred soldiers near the town of Orikhiv in the south. The region mentioned by Russia is one of the areas where a counteroffensive is being carried out by Kyiv. In the past few weeks, Ukraine claimed to have had success in its counteroffensive despite consistent Russian attacks. The highly anticipated counteroffensive began after Ukraine stockpiled Western weapons and built up its offensive forces. Ukraine ups operations in southeast According to CNN, which cited two US officials, Ukraine has been focusing on the southeast and has deployed more forces in that region. The news of this development comes after nearly two months of slow progress and the report mentioned that this indicates that Ukraine has identified potential weaknesses in Russian defensive lines. The Ukrainians’ main efforts are in southern Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk Oblasts. But its counteroffensive has a presence in the eastern areas, too. Ukrainian units including the 3rd and 5th Assault Brigades and the 22nd and 28th Mechanized Brigades counterattacked across the fields and treelines just south of Bakhmut, according to Forbes. On Thursday (July 27), Ukraine's military claimed to have had success on one of the front lines in southeast Ukraine. In the Staromaiorske area, east of Zaporizhzhia city, the armed forces said they were "solidifying positions", reports BBC. Ukraine has not officially confirmed that it has beefed up its counteroffensive. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Ukraine's attacks had "significantly" intensified. But he told reporters in St Petersburg Ukraine had had no success. "All counteroffensive attempts were stopped, and the enemy was pushed back with high casualties." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian court sentences two Ukrainian spies to 15 years in prison

Russian President Vladimir Putin is planning to visit China in October the announcement has come as Russia is aiming to shore up ties with one of its closest allies.

Russian troops make incremental gains along the frontline

A day after the Israeli Parliament passed the controversial judicial law, Supreme Court said that it will not block the legislation immediately but will rather debate it in the month of September. In India, National Investigation Agency (NIA) has nabbed gangster Vikram Brar, an aide of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and a key accused in the murder of famed Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala.&nbsp;

Among other news, satellite images have revealed that the construction of a Chinese naval base in Cambodia is almost done. The naval base is capable of accommodating an aircraft carrier.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-sc-to-not-block-controversial-judicial-law-passed-by-knesset-619663">Israel's SC to not block controversial judicial law passed by Knesset</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369571-untitled-design-2023-07-26t193814658.png?imwidth=1920" />

Israel's Supreme Court said Wednesday that it will not block the controversial judicial law passed by the country's Parliament by issuing an injunction, media reports said. This comes a day after the Israeli parliament passed the controversial judicial law which has cut down the powers of the apex court to block the government decisions.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-arrests-vikran-brar-key-accused-of-indian-singer-sidhu-moose-wala-murder-619668">NIA arrests Vikran Brar, accused of executing Sidhu Moose Wala's murder</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369573-moosw.png?imwidth=1920" />

India’s premier investigative agency, the NIA, on Tuesday arrested Vikramjeet Singh, alias Vikram Brar, a key accused in the killing of famous Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-naval-base-in-cambodia-nearly-done-it-has-pier-for-aircraft-carriers-see-satellite-images-619617">Chinese naval base in Cambodia nearly done. It has pier for aircraft carriers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369534-chinese-naval-base-in-cambodia.png?imwidth=1920" />

In Cambodia, a Chinese naval base, which could accommodate an aircraft carrier, is nearly done. Satellite images released by BlackSky show significant infrastructure development.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-be-in-worlds-top-3-economies-pm-modi-vows-milestone-in-third-term-during-iecc-inauguration-619676">'India to be in world's top 3 economies': Modi vows milestone in third term</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369578-untitled-design-2023-07-26t201525891.png?imwidth=1920" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country India will be among the world's top three economies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-coup-attempt-in-nigeria-presidential-palace-sealed-off-military-being-mobilised-619600">Another coup attempt in Niger? President Mohamed Bazou detained by guards</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369528-nigeria.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The Niger presidential palace has been blocked by soldiers of the Presidential Guard, local media reported on Wednesday (July 26).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/conjunctivitis-cases-in-india-experts-reveal-alarming-rise-tell-preventive-measures-619648">Conjunctivitis cases witness surge: Experts share preventive measures, treatment tips</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369546-conjunctivitis.png?imwidth=1920" />

Multiple cases of conjunctivitis, also called the "pink eye" have been reported in New Delhi other some others states in India amid incessant rainfall in the past few weeks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-thai-pm-thaksin-plans-to-return-as-thailand-battles-deadlock-619672">Ex-Thai PM Thaksin plans to return as Thailand battles deadlock</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369576-thaksin-shinwatra.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinwatra is planning to return to the country on August 10, his daughter said on Wednesday (July 26). If he comes to Thailand, it will be his return from self-exile to the country that's struggling to tide over a political deadlock after an election in May which was won by opponents of the military rule.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chaos-in-new-york-as-construction-crane-catches-fire-collapses-partially-6-injured-watch-619679">Chaos in New York as construction crane catches fire, collapses partially; 6 injured. Watch!</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369579-new-wion-22.png?imwidth=1920" />

A construction crane in&nbsp;Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan&nbsp;caught fire and partially collapsed, creating a terrifying scene that sent 16 tonnes of concrete and debris tumbling down into the streets.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dog-troubles-for-joe-biden-pet-commander-accused-of-biting-secret-service-agents-619651">Dog troubles for Joe Biden: Pet Commander accused of biting Secret Service agents</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/26/369563-dog-1.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

US President Joe Biden’s pet dog Commander has bitten several Secret Service agents, and even sent one victim to a hospital, US media reported citing internal emails obtained by a watchdog group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-kevin-spacey-found-not-guilty-of-all-charges-in-uk-sexual-assault-trial-619665">Kevin Spacey found not guilty of all charges in UK sexual assault trial</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/29/314274-kevin-spacey.png?imwidth=1920" />

Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey was declared not guilty by a jury in the UK in a sexual assault trial case. Kevin Spacey was accused of sexual assault by four men who alleged the incidents took place between 2001 and 2013.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A day after the Israeli Parliament passed the controversial judicial law, Supreme Court said that it will not block the legislation immediately but will rather debate it in the month of September.

A day after the Israeli Parliament passed the controversial judicial law, Supreme Court said that it will not block the legislation immediately but will rather debate it in the month of September. In India, National Investigation Agency (NIA) has nabbed gangster Vikram Brar, an aide of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and a key accused in the murder of famed Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala. Among other news, satellite images have revealed that the construction of a Chinese naval base in Cambodia is almost done. The naval base is capable of accommodating an aircraft carrier. Israel's SC to not block controversial judicial law passed by Knesset Israel's Supreme Court said Wednesday that it will not block the controversial judicial law passed by the country's Parliament by issuing an injunction, media reports said. This comes a day after the Israeli parliament passed the controversial judicial law which has cut down the powers of the apex court to block the government decisions. NIA arrests Vikran Brar, accused of executing Sidhu Moose Wala's murder India’s premier investigative agency, the NIA, on Tuesday arrested Vikramjeet Singh, alias Vikram Brar, a key accused in the killing of famous Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala. Chinese naval base in Cambodia nearly done. It has pier for aircraft carriers In Cambodia, a Chinese naval base, which could accommodate an aircraft carrier, is nearly done. Satellite images released by BlackSky show significant infrastructure development. 'India to be in world's top 3 economies': Modi vows milestone in third term Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country India will be among the world's top three economies. Another coup attempt in Niger? President Mohamed Bazou detained by guards The Niger presidential palace has been blocked by soldiers of the Presidential Guard, local media reported on Wednesday (July 26). Conjunctivitis cases witness surge: Experts share preventive measures, treatment tips Multiple cases of conjunctivitis, also called the "pink eye" have been reported in New Delhi other some others states in India amid incessant rainfall in the past few weeks. Ex-Thai PM Thaksin plans to return as Thailand battles deadlock Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinwatra is planning to return to the country on August 10, his daughter said on Wednesday (July 26). If he comes to Thailand, it will be his return from self-exile to the country that's struggling to tide over a political deadlock after an election in May which was won by opponents of the military rule. Chaos in New York as construction crane catches fire, collapses partially; 6 injured. Watch! A construction crane in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan caught fire and partially collapsed, creating a terrifying scene that sent 16 tonnes of concrete and debris tumbling down into the streets. Dog troubles for Joe Biden: Pet Commander accused of biting Secret Service agents US President Joe Biden’s pet dog Commander has bitten several Secret Service agents, and even sent one victim to a hospital, US media reported citing internal emails obtained by a watchdog group. Kevin Spacey found not guilty of all charges in UK sexual assault trial Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey was declared not guilty by a jury in the UK in a sexual assault trial case. Kevin Spacey was accused of sexual assault by four men who alleged the incidents took place between 2001 and 2013.

Top 10 world news: Israel's SC to not block judicial law, NIA arrests Moose Wala's murder accused, & more

German has criticized tactics used by the Ukrainian Army. The German armed forces have accused the Ukrainian Army of ignoring Western training methods.

German forces criticise tactics adopted by Ukrainian army

Russia-Ukraine war: Leaked documents highlight Germany's criticism of Ukraine

As tensions escalate between Russia and Ukraine, Russia’s foreign currency reserve of $300 billion was frozen while Russian banks have been restricted from the Swift international payment system. This however created a strong wave for the 'de-dollarisation' of global trade, with BRICS and other countries already mulling an alternative payment mechanism.

As the name suggests, 'de-dollarisation' refers to an initiative under which countries attempt to limit their dependency on the US dollar the pre-dominant currency for conducting international trade.

Since World War II, the US dollar has exerted its dominance as a reserve currency. According to the International Monetary Fund, the dollar is the most-used currency for trade and that about 60 per cent of international reserves are kept in assets that are dollar-denominated.

As the West attempts to financially restrict Russia in the global market due to its ongoing war with Ukraine, other nations are becoming increasingly aware of the possible repercussions of being overdependent on the US dollar.

It comes as no surprise that countries including Brazil, Argentina, Bangladesh and India are now looking to use Chinese Yuan and bitcoin to backup currencies and assets and use that for international trade and payments.

According to reports, there are three major reasons for countries increasingly looking to de-dollarise.

1. The US monetary policy has significant control over the rest of the world

According to the Wilson Centre think tank, the dollar is often overvalued because of its hold on the world economy which results from the US being the issuer of the world’s reserve currency. This, in turn, makes the dollar governing currency in international trade and payment systems. &nbsp;The late Valéry Giscard d’Estang, the president of France from 1974 to 1981, believed this gave the US “exorbitant privilege” as the US could potentially avoid a crisis despite not being able to pay its debts. This is because Washington could issue more money should there be a fall in the dollar’s value. However, countries like India do not want to be limited by the world's largest economy's monetary policies. Subsequently, Reserve Bank of India has been pushing for the Indian Rupee to be used for trade.

2. The dollar is expensive for emerging nations

As the dollar gains more strength, imports become expensive for emerging nations. In Argentina’s case, inflation was a result of a fall in US-dollar reserves triggered by declining exports and political pressures. A Reuters report later said that Argentina resorted to trading in Yuan instead of the US dollars for Chinese imports.

Economists at an international financial services firm, Allianz, stated that if access to the US dollar becomes expensive, borrowers will look to trade in other currencies. Along those lines, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for alternative trade settlements by requesting Brazil, India, Russia, China and South Africa to move away from the US dollar.

3. Changing demands in global trade and oil

A major reason for why the US dollar became a reserve currency was because Gulf countries in the Middle East used the currency for trading oil. In 1945, Saudi Arabia and the US had a formal agreement wherein oil was to be sold exclusively in dollars. Eventually, with exports of shale oil, US became energy independent.

Apart from the change in demand for oil, foreign relations remain unstable between the US and Saudi Arabia as seen from an instance where former US president Donald Trump criticized Saudi Arabia for not paying the US a reasonable price for its defense. &nbsp;Another such instance was when President Joe Biden confronted Crown Price Mohammed bin Salman over the murder of a journalist.

Due to these tensions and the shale energy revolution, Saudi Arabia may eventually decide to stop pricing its oil in US dollars, according to Sarah Miller from the energy information company, Energy Intelligence.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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As tensions escalate between Russia and Ukraine, Russia’s foreign currency reserve of $300 billion was frozen while Russian banks have been restricted from the Swift international payment system.

As tensions escalate between Russia and Ukraine, Russia’s foreign currency reserve of $300 billion was frozen while Russian banks have been restricted from the Swift international payment system. This however created a strong wave for the 'de-dollarisation' of global trade, with BRICS and other countries already mulling an alternative payment mechanism. As the name suggests, 'de-dollarisation' refers to an initiative under which countries attempt to limit their dependency on the US dollar the pre-dominant currency for conducting international trade. Since World War II, the US dollar has exerted its dominance as a reserve currency. According to the International Monetary Fund, the dollar is the most-used currency for trade and that about 60 per cent of international reserves are kept in assets that are dollar-denominated. As the West attempts to financially restrict Russia in the global market due to its ongoing war with Ukraine, other nations are becoming increasingly aware of the possible repercussions of being overdependent on the US dollar. It comes as no surprise that countries including Brazil, Argentina, Bangladesh and India are now looking to use Chinese Yuan and bitcoin to backup currencies and assets and use that for international trade and payments. According to reports, there are three major reasons for countries increasingly looking to de-dollarise. 1. The US monetary policy has significant control over the rest of the world According to the Wilson Centre think tank, the dollar is often overvalued because of its hold on the world economy which results from the US being the issuer of the world’s reserve currency. This, in turn, makes the dollar governing currency in international trade and payment systems. The late Valéry Giscard d’Estang, the president of France from 1974 to 1981, believed this gave the US “exorbitant privilege” as the US could potentially avoid a crisis despite not being able to pay its debts. This is because Washington could issue more money should there be a fall in the dollar’s value. However, countries like India do not want to be limited by the world's largest economy's monetary policies. Subsequently, Reserve Bank of India has been pushing for the Indian Rupee to be used for trade. 2. The dollar is expensive for emerging nations As the dollar gains more strength, imports become expensive for emerging nations. In Argentina’s case, inflation was a result of a fall in US-dollar reserves triggered by declining exports and political pressures. A Reuters report later said that Argentina resorted to trading in Yuan instead of the US dollars for Chinese imports. Economists at an international financial services firm, Allianz, stated that if access to the US dollar becomes expensive, borrowers will look to trade in other currencies. Along those lines, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for alternative trade settlements by requesting Brazil, India, Russia, China and South Africa to move away from the US dollar. 3. Changing demands in global trade and oil A major reason for why the US dollar became a reserve currency was because Gulf countries in the Middle East used the currency for trading oil. In 1945, Saudi Arabia and the US had a formal agreement wherein oil was to be sold exclusively in dollars. Eventually, with exports of shale oil, US became energy independent. Apart from the change in demand for oil, foreign relations remain unstable between the US and Saudi Arabia as seen from an instance where former US president Donald Trump criticized Saudi Arabia for not paying the US a reasonable price for its defense. Another such instance was when President Joe Biden confronted Crown Price Mohammed bin Salman over the murder of a journalist. Due to these tensions and the shale energy revolution, Saudi Arabia may eventually decide to stop pricing its oil in US dollars, according to Sarah Miller from the energy information company, Energy Intelligence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'De-dollarisation' gathers steam amid Russia-Ukraine war

President Joe Biden’s decision to supply Ukraine with ammunition of a type banned by 111 countries under a binding treaty raised a question rarely raised in debates over American foreign policy: why did the United States fail to join this accord and a string of other key international treaties?&nbsp;

The US is not a signatory of the ban on land mines either, nor on the statute of the International Criminal Court, nor on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Washington signed but never ratified the Arms Trade Treaty which aims to halt the illicit trade of conventional arms.

The Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, a key pact agreed upon by 177 countries, never entered into force because the United States and seven other countries have not ratified it.

Lesser known global pacts from which the US stays away include one on persistent organic pollutants, &nbsp;one on biological diversity and one on the elimination of discrimination of women.

But back to cluster bombs. Dropped from aircraft or fired from artillery, these munitions open up in mid-air and release hundreds of bomblets over an area up to the size of several football fields. Anybody within the area hit by a cluster strike, civilian or military, is likely to be killed or injured. But the problem that rallied more than 100 countries to ban the weapons goes beyond the immediate strike.

Many of the small bombs released in a cluster strike fail to explode but can be set off years or even decades later. Exhibit A for delayed lethality is Laos. There, people – often children – still die or get wounded by handling or stepping on unexploded bomblets 50 years after the United States rained more than two million tons of ordnance on the country between 1964 and 1973 during the Vietnam War.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-are-cluster-bombs-which-us-is-set-to-provide-to-ukraine-why-it-is-facing-opposition-613067">ALSO READ| What are cluster bombs which US is set to provide to Ukraine? Why is it facing opposition?</a> 
 
And in Iraq, where the US used cluster munitions from 2003 to 2006, &nbsp;there are still reports of children being wounded by playing with unexploded bomblets.

The decision to supply Ukraine with cluster ammunition drew criticism from human rights organisations and even close US allies, including Canada, Britain, Spain, Germany and France UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also spoke out against the transfer.

It ran counter to a US law that prohibits the production, use or transfer of cluster munitions with a “dud” rate of more than one per cent. “Dud” refers to bomblets that fail to explode during a strike but remain a hazard for years or decades as is still happening in Laos and Iraq.

The dud rate of the shells shipped to Ukraine, drawn from a huge American arsenal of outdated cluster munitions, considerably exceeds the one-per cent limit, according to Pentagon officials. But President Joe Biden circumvented the export prohibition under a clause in the Foreign Assistance Act that allows exceptions in cases deemed vital to US national security.

Biden holds that a Ukrainian defeat would threaten not only American national security but that of the entire Western alliance. &nbsp;

The military logic of what Biden has described as a “difficult decision” &nbsp;is difficult to fault. Cluster munition is very effective. Ukraine is running out of the standard 155mm artillery it uses against the Russian invaders. Neither the US nor NATO countries can replenish the Ukrainian arsenal fast enough.&nbsp;

But the US has vast stockpiles of old cluster munition with a higher “dud’ rate than one percent and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin described the supplies as a stop-gap until Western arms factories can produce non-cluster rounds in sufficient quantity. That will take time. Ukraine is estimated to use more than 8,000 shells a day. US factories have been producing 14,000 rounds per month.&nbsp;

Let’s return to the question of why the United States has stayed outside so many international treaties, including the convention on cluster bombs. It is not the lone holdout – others are Russia, Ukraine, India, Pakistan, Israel and China. Russia has been using cluster bombs since the beginning of its invasion of Ukraine in February last year.

There is a difference. What makes the absence of the United States from key international treaties remarkable is its leading role after the Second World War in establishing what is often called “the rules-based international order.”

Washington drove the creation of international institutions centred on the United Nations, including the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. A huge commitment, through the Marshal Plan, to European recovery after the devastation of World War II helped Washington knit together a network of alliances.

That helps explain the deeply-held belief of many Americans that their country is a model for others to follow, a country suited for global leadership whose actions are evidence of moral authority.

That self-image came through loud and clear when the US National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, was questioned about criticism of the cluster aid package from a number of Congressional Democrats. “Our moral authority has not derived from being a signatory to the Convention Against Cluster Munitions,” &nbsp;he told a television interviewer. “We are not (a signatory), we have not been, at any point since that convention came into effect…and the idea that providing Ukraine with a weapon in order for them to be able to defend their homeland, protect their civilians, is somehow a challenge to our moral authority — I find questionable.”

Note that while Sullivan stressed that the United States was not a signatory of the treaty he did not explain why it was not.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 

 
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President Joe Biden’s decision to supply Ukraine with ammunition of a type banned by 111 countries under a binding treaty raised a question rarely raised in debates over American foreign policy: why did the United States fail to join this accord and a string of other key international treaties?

President Joe Biden’s decision to supply Ukraine with ammunition of a type banned by 111 countries under a binding treaty raised a question rarely raised in debates over American foreign policy: why did the United States fail to join this accord and a string of other key international treaties? The US is not a signatory of the ban on land mines either, nor on the statute of the International Criminal Court, nor on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Washington signed but never ratified the Arms Trade Treaty which aims to halt the illicit trade of conventional arms. The Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, a key pact agreed upon by 177 countries, never entered into force because the United States and seven other countries have not ratified it. Lesser known global pacts from which the US stays away include one on persistent organic pollutants, one on biological diversity and one on the elimination of discrimination of women. But back to cluster bombs. Dropped from aircraft or fired from artillery, these munitions open up in mid-air and release hundreds of bomblets over an area up to the size of several football fields. Anybody within the area hit by a cluster strike, civilian or military, is likely to be killed or injured. But the problem that rallied more than 100 countries to ban the weapons goes beyond the immediate strike. Many of the small bombs released in a cluster strike fail to explode but can be set off years or even decades later. Exhibit A for delayed lethality is Laos. There, people – often children – still die or get wounded by handling or stepping on unexploded bomblets 50 years after the United States rained more than two million tons of ordnance on the country between 1964 and 1973 during the Vietnam War. ALSO READ| What are cluster bombs which US is set to provide to Ukraine? Why is it facing opposition? And in Iraq, where the US used cluster munitions from 2003 to 2006, there are still reports of children being wounded by playing with unexploded bomblets. The decision to supply Ukraine with cluster ammunition drew criticism from human rights organisations and even close US allies, including Canada, Britain, Spain, Germany and France UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also spoke out against the transfer. It ran counter to a US law that prohibits the production, use or transfer of cluster munitions with a “dud” rate of more than one per cent. “Dud” refers to bomblets that fail to explode during a strike but remain a hazard for years or decades as is still happening in Laos and Iraq. The dud rate of the shells shipped to Ukraine, drawn from a huge American arsenal of outdated cluster munitions, considerably exceeds the one-per cent limit, according to Pentagon officials. But President Joe Biden circumvented the export prohibition under a clause in the Foreign Assistance Act that allows exceptions in cases deemed vital to US national security. Biden holds that a Ukrainian defeat would threaten not only American national security but that of the entire Western alliance. The military logic of what Biden has described as a “difficult decision” is difficult to fault. Cluster munition is very effective. Ukraine is running out of the standard 155mm artillery it uses against the Russian invaders. Neither the US nor NATO countries can replenish the Ukrainian arsenal fast enough. But the US has vast stockpiles of old cluster munition with a higher “dud’ rate than one percent and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin described the supplies as a stop-gap until Western arms factories can produce non-cluster rounds in sufficient quantity. That will take time. Ukraine is estimated to use more than 8,000 shells a day. US factories have been producing 14,000 rounds per month. Let’s return to the question of why the United States has stayed outside so many international treaties, including the convention on cluster bombs. It is not the lone holdout – others are Russia, Ukraine, India, Pakistan, Israel and China. Russia has been using cluster bombs since the beginning of its invasion of Ukraine in February last year. There is a difference. What makes the absence of the United States from key international treaties remarkable is its leading role after the Second World War in establishing what is often called “the rules-based international order.” Washington drove the creation of international institutions centred on the United Nations, including the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. A huge commitment, through the Marshal Plan, to European recovery after the devastation of World War II helped Washington knit together a network of alliances. That helps explain the deeply-held belief of many Americans that their country is a model for others to follow, a country suited for global leadership whose actions are evidence of moral authority. That self-image came through loud and clear when the US National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, was questioned about criticism of the cluster aid package from a number of Congressional Democrats. “Our moral authority has not derived from being a signatory to the Convention Against Cluster Munitions,” he told a television interviewer. “We are not (a signatory), we have not been, at any point since that convention came into effect…and the idea that providing Ukraine with a weapon in order for them to be able to defend their homeland, protect their civilians, is somehow a challenge to our moral authority — I find questionable.” Note that while Sullivan stressed that the United States was not a signatory of the treaty he did not explain why it was not. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE

Cluster bombs for Ukraine highlight US aversion to international treaties

Ukraine on Monday (July 24) claimed that Russia launched an overnight drone attack on port infrastructure in the Odesa region due to which a grain hangar was destroyed.

The Ukrainian military claimed that the drones used in the attack, which lasted for hours, were of Iranian origin, and added that Kyiv’s air defence retaliated and downed the Shahed drones.

“Tonight, an almost four-hour attack by ‘Shahed-136’ drones was directed at the port infrastructure of the Danube” in the Odesa region, Ukraine’s southern military command said on Telegram.

<h2>No casualties&nbsp;</h2>

“As a result of the strikes,&nbsp;a grain hangar&nbsp;was destroyed, tanks for storing other types of cargo were damaged.”

So far, no casualties have been reported, the military added.

“According to initial reports, about four workers of the port were injured, but the information is still being clarified,” it said.

<h2>Attacks on Odesa rises&nbsp;</h2>

Ever since Russia pulled out of the key grain deal with Ukraine last week that allowed safe passage of Ukrainian grain on the Black Sea, there has been a rise in attacks on the Odesa region.

Russia declared that it would consider any ships heading for Ukrainian grain ports on the Black Sea as military targets.

Kyiv has accused Russia of targeting grain supplies and infrastructure vital to any resumption of Ukrainian grain exports.

<h2>Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia blames Ukraine for 'terrorist attack'</h2>

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<h2>Drone attacks on Moscow&nbsp;</h2>

The development comes hours after Russia accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks in which&nbsp;two buildings were damaged early Monday morning in the capital Moscow.

The Russian defence ministry alleged that two drones were "suppressed and crashed", adding that there were no casualties.

Russia's state-owned Tass news agency reported that one drone fell close to the defence ministry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-to-putin-says-moscow-will-replace-ukrainian-grain-shipments-to-africa-618740">'I want to...': Putin says Moscow will replace Ukrainian grain shipments to Africa</a>

Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin alleged that the drone strikes in the Russian capital hit "non-residential" buildings around 4 am local time (01:00 GMT).

Also read &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-re-captured-more-than-16-sq-km-last-week-deputy-defence-minister-618823">Ukraine re-captured more than 16 sq km last week: Deputy defence minister</a>

In a post on social media, he added that the buildings had not sustained any major damage.

"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," the Russian defence ministry said in a statement.

Meanwhile, in another development, Russian-installed officials have reportedly ordered people to evacuate one district of occupied Crimea after an overnight Ukrainian drone attack.

Kremlin-appointed regional head Sergei Aksenov said an ammunition depot was hit in the northern Dzhankoi area, and residents of nearby villages were told to leave their homes. He reported no casualties, as per BBC.

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.

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Ukraine on Monday (July 24) claimed that Russia launched an overnight drone attack on port infrastructure in the Odesa region due to which a grain hangar was destroyed.

Ukraine on Monday (July 24) claimed that Russia launched an overnight drone attack on port infrastructure in the Odesa region due to which a grain hangar was destroyed. The Ukrainian military claimed that the drones used in the attack, which lasted for hours, were of Iranian origin, and added that Kyiv’s air defence retaliated and downed the Shahed drones. “Tonight, an almost four-hour attack by ‘Shahed-136’ drones was directed at the port infrastructure of the Danube” in the Odesa region, Ukraine’s southern military command said on Telegram. No casualties “As a result of the strikes, a grain hangar was destroyed, tanks for storing other types of cargo were damaged.” So far, no casualties have been reported, the military added. “According to initial reports, about four workers of the port were injured, but the information is still being clarified,” it said. Attacks on Odesa rises Ever since Russia pulled out of the key grain deal with Ukraine last week that allowed safe passage of Ukrainian grain on the Black Sea, there has been a rise in attacks on the Odesa region. Russia declared that it would consider any ships heading for Ukrainian grain ports on the Black Sea as military targets. Kyiv has accused Russia of targeting grain supplies and infrastructure vital to any resumption of Ukrainian grain exports. Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia blames Ukraine for 'terrorist attack' Drone attacks on Moscow The development comes hours after Russia accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks in which two buildings were damaged early Monday morning in the capital Moscow. The Russian defence ministry alleged that two drones were "suppressed and crashed", adding that there were no casualties. Russia's state-owned Tass news agency reported that one drone fell close to the defence ministry. Also read | 'I want to...': Putin says Moscow will replace Ukrainian grain shipments to Africa Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin alleged that the drone strikes in the Russian capital hit "non-residential" buildings around 4 am local time (01:00 GMT). Also read Ukraine re-captured more than 16 sq km last week: Deputy defence minister In a post on social media, he added that the buildings had not sustained any major damage. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," the Russian defence ministry said in a statement. Meanwhile, in another development, Russian-installed officials have reportedly ordered people to evacuate one district of occupied Crimea after an overnight Ukrainian drone attack. Kremlin-appointed regional head Sergei Aksenov said an ammunition depot was hit in the northern Dzhankoi area, and residents of nearby villages were told to leave their homes. He reported no casualties, as per BBC. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian drones destroyed Odesa’s grain depot: Ukraine

Belarus recently released a video showing Wagner group mercenaries being trained across the border. It is a few miles away from NATO member, Poland.

Wagner mercenaries train Belarus special forces near Poland

Wagner conducts exercises across Belarus border

Ukrainian forces are using US-supplied cluster munitions on the battlefield as Kyiv seeks momentum in its grinding counter-offensive weapons that disperse up to several hundred small explosive charges. However, Moscow's forces still occupy swathes of Southern and Eastern Ukraine weeks into Kyiv's counter-offensive. Large parts of the front appear to be frozen and now, Ukraine is battling another headache the Russian P-800 Onyx missiles.

Ukraine forces struggle to counter Russia's 'Oink' missile

A critical deal that once allowed Ukraine's grain to be safely exported via the black sea has come to an end as Russia unexpectedly withdrew its support. This move raises alarming concerns over the well-being of millions of people worldwide, as the united nations warn, it could strike a devastating blow to those in need.

Ukraine’s grain export at risk after Russia exits deal

Russia on Tuesday (July 18) took responsibility for the pre-dawn air attacks on Ukrainian port cities overnight, describing it as “a mass revenge strike” in response to the attack on the Crimean bridge that happened on Monday.

Russia's Defence Ministry said that it struck Odesa, where the Ukrainian navy has its headquarters, and Mykolaiv, near Ukraine's Black Sea coast. It is through the Black Sea port that Ukraine exports essential grains to the rest of the world until the deal with Russia fell off on Monday.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s attack comes a day after Russia refused to extend the Black Sea grain deal with Ukraine.

"The armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a mass retaliatory strike overnight using precision sea-based weapons against facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation were being prepared using uncrewed boats," the ministry said in a statement.

It further said that air attacks also targeted a ship repair plant near Odesa where such boats —believed to be naval drones of the kind Russia claims were used to attack the Crimean Bridge —were being built.

"In addition, storage facilities holding around 70,000 tonnes of fuel used to supply the Ukrainian military's equipment were destroyed" near the cities of Mykolaiv and Odesa, it said.

It said all the targets had been struck and destroyed, citing fires and detonations as evidence.

<h2>Russia targets key Ukraine Black Sea Port of Odessa</h2>

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<h2>Ukraine downed 6 missiles and 25 drones</h2>

Earlier in the day, Ukrainian forces said they shot down scores of exploding drones and six cruise missiles.

The Russians first sought to wear down Ukraine’s air defences with the drones and then targeted Odesa with six Kalibr cruise missiles, the Ukrainian military’s Southern Command said.

Officials said that all six missiles and 25 drones were shot down by air defences in the Odesa region and other areas in the south.

“Caliber-winged missiles and the vast majority of kamikaze drones were destroyed in the south – in Odesa and Mykolaiv regions. The rest of the impact BPLA was affected in Donetsk, Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions,” Ukraine’s air force said in a statement.

<h2>Putin sought apt response&nbsp;</h2>

In Monday’s attack on the Kerch Bridge—the bridge that connects occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland—a Russian couple was killed and their 14-year-old daughter wounded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-attacks-on-ukraine-russia-possibly-using-ballistic-missiles-says-kyiv-616906">Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv</a>

Vladimir Putin condemned the attack and deemed Ukraine’s actions as a “terror attack”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-heres-why-crimean-bridge-was-targeted-twice-during-russia-ukraine-war-616742">Here’s why Crimean Bridge was targeted twice during Russia-Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;

Though Kyiv has officially not claimed responsibility for the attack, Ukrainian media quoting Ukrainian security services reported that they used naval drones to attack the bridge, which had only recently returned to full operation after suffering severe damage in a similar attack last October.

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.

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Russia on Tuesday (July 18) took responsibility for the pre-dawn air attacks on Ukrainian port cities overnight, describing it as “a mass revenge strike” in response to the attack on the Crimean bridge that happened on Monday.

Russia on Tuesday (July 18) took responsibility for the pre-dawn air attacks on Ukrainian port cities overnight, describing it as “a mass revenge strike” in response to the attack on the Crimean bridge that happened on Monday. Russia's Defence Ministry said that it struck Odesa, where the Ukrainian navy has its headquarters, and Mykolaiv, near Ukraine's Black Sea coast. It is through the Black Sea port that Ukraine exports essential grains to the rest of the world until the deal with Russia fell off on Monday. Tuesday’s attack comes a day after Russia refused to extend the Black Sea grain deal with Ukraine. "The armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a mass retaliatory strike overnight using precision sea-based weapons against facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation were being prepared using uncrewed boats," the ministry said in a statement. It further said that air attacks also targeted a ship repair plant near Odesa where such boats —believed to be naval drones of the kind Russia claims were used to attack the Crimean Bridge —were being built. "In addition, storage facilities holding around 70,000 tonnes of fuel used to supply the Ukrainian military's equipment were destroyed" near the cities of Mykolaiv and Odesa, it said. It said all the targets had been struck and destroyed, citing fires and detonations as evidence. Russia targets key Ukraine Black Sea Port of Odessa Ukraine downed 6 missiles and 25 drones Earlier in the day, Ukrainian forces said they shot down scores of exploding drones and six cruise missiles. The Russians first sought to wear down Ukraine’s air defences with the drones and then targeted Odesa with six Kalibr cruise missiles, the Ukrainian military’s Southern Command said. Officials said that all six missiles and 25 drones were shot down by air defences in the Odesa region and other areas in the south. “Caliber-winged missiles and the vast majority of kamikaze drones were destroyed in the south – in Odesa and Mykolaiv regions. The rest of the impact BPLA was affected in Donetsk, Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions,” Ukraine’s air force said in a statement. Putin sought apt response In Monday’s attack on the Kerch Bridge—the bridge that connects occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland—a Russian couple was killed and their 14-year-old daughter wounded. Also read | Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv Vladimir Putin condemned the attack and deemed Ukraine’s actions as a “terror attack”. Also read | Here’s why Crimean Bridge was targeted twice during Russia-Ukraine war Though Kyiv has officially not claimed responsibility for the attack, Ukrainian media quoting Ukrainian security services reported that they used naval drones to attack the bridge, which had only recently returned to full operation after suffering severe damage in a similar attack last October. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia says air strikes on Ukrainian ports were retaliation for Crimean Bridge attack

Russia-Ukraine war as much as it has been about the battlefield gains. It has also been about the antiques and rhetorics in this battle of claims and counters, claims Russia has decided to show its gains to the world.

NATO members unveil more security guarantee for Ukraine

Lithuania is preparing to host the NATO Summit and has significantly enhanced security measures, including reinforcing borders with Belarus. 16 NATO allies have deployed around 1,000 troops to ensure the safety of the two-day summit.

Lithuania bolsters security as NATO Summit approaches

Russia's Wagner group moving to Belarus has prompted Poland to deploy over a thousand troops to its eastern border, raising concerns about increased tensions at the border.

Poland deploys troops amid rising tensions as Russia's Wagner group moves to Belarus

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky returned from Turkey bringing back five former commanders of Ukraine's Garrison in Mariupol, who were living in Turkey under a prisoner exchange deal.

Zelenskyy returns from Turkey with former commanders | Russia criticizes Turkey's actions

The United States is struggling to know what is going on in the corridors of power in Moscow and Kyiv as the vast intelligence network faces its most significant test in recent history, according to a cover story by Newsweek magazine, titled 'CIA's blind spot about Ukraine war'.

While the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been described as 'successful in discreetly playing its part... in moving mountains of information and material in dealing with a diverse set of other countries', the Newsweek report added that all the experts and officials that the publication spoke with&nbsp;'did not dispute' that the CIA 'has had to struggle' in its main task of knowing 'what's going on in the minds of the leaders of Russia and Ukraine'.

<h2>CIA has boots on ground in Ukraine: Report</h2>

A senior intelligence official has been cited as replying to the question of the publication's journalist: "Is the CIA on the ground inside Ukraine?" by saying,&nbsp;"Yes, but it's also not nefarious."

<h2>US is not at war with Russia, but there is a catch</h2>

Intelligence experts cited by Newsweek say that the war in Ukraine is unique since Ukraine is not a US ally but is still being helped by Washington in its war efforts against Russia. Thereby, the publication added, that much of what Washington does to aid Ukraine is kept secret.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-secret-diplomatic-thaw-cia-chief-makes-trip-to-bejing-last-month-599833">A secret diplomatic thaw? CIA chief makes trip to Beijing</a>

'And much of what is normally in the realm of the US military is being carried out by the Agency [CIA],' the publication added.&nbsp;

"It's a tricky balancing act: the CIA being very active in the war, while not contradicting the Biden administration's central pledge, which is that there are no American boots on the ground," a second senior intelligence official was anonymously quoted as saying by Newsweek.

<h2>What is the CIA's blind spot?</h2>

The agency has an ample presence in Kyiv and Moscow. Yet it has been unable to prevent an attack on the Nord Stream pipeline and a recent drone <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-moment-when-alleged-ukrainian-drone-was-shot-down-over-putins-kremlin-residence-588572">attack on the Kremlin</a>.

Also watch |&nbsp;US intelligence CIA was aware months before Nord Stream blasts, says report

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These moments of reckoning during the ongoing war have raised questions on CIA's intelligence responsibilities: 'knowing enough of what the Ukrainians are planning to both influence them and to adhere to their secret agreement with Moscow.'

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The United States is struggling to know what is going on in the corridors of power in Moscow and Kyiv as the vast intelligence network faces its most significant test in recent history, according to a cover story by Newsweek magazine, titled 'CIA's blind spot about Ukraine war'.

The United States is struggling to know what is going on in the corridors of power in Moscow and Kyiv as the vast intelligence network faces its most significant test in recent history, according to a cover story by Newsweek magazine, titled 'CIA's blind spot about Ukraine war'. While the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been described as 'successful in discreetly playing its part... in moving mountains of information and material in dealing with a diverse set of other countries', the Newsweek report added that all the experts and officials that the publication spoke with 'did not dispute' that the CIA 'has had to struggle' in its main task of knowing 'what's going on in the minds of the leaders of Russia and Ukraine'. CIA has boots on ground in Ukraine: Report A senior intelligence official has been cited as replying to the question of the publication's journalist: "Is the CIA on the ground inside Ukraine?" by saying, "Yes, but it's also not nefarious." US is not at war with Russia, but there is a catch Intelligence experts cited by Newsweek say that the war in Ukraine is unique since Ukraine is not a US ally but is still being helped by Washington in its war efforts against Russia. Thereby, the publication added, that much of what Washington does to aid Ukraine is kept secret. Also read | A secret diplomatic thaw? CIA chief makes trip to Beijing 'And much of what is normally in the realm of the US military is being carried out by the Agency [CIA],' the publication added. "It's a tricky balancing act: the CIA being very active in the war, while not contradicting the Biden administration's central pledge, which is that there are no American boots on the ground," a second senior intelligence official was anonymously quoted as saying by Newsweek. What is the CIA's blind spot? The agency has an ample presence in Kyiv and Moscow. Yet it has been unable to prevent an attack on the Nord Stream pipeline and a recent drone attack on the Kremlin. Also watch | US intelligence CIA was aware months before Nord Stream blasts, says report × These moments of reckoning during the ongoing war have raised questions on CIA's intelligence responsibilities: 'knowing enough of what the Ukrainians are planning to both influence them and to adhere to their secret agreement with Moscow.' 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.

US is aiding Kyiv's war effort through CIA's presence in Ukraine: Report

The Ukraine-Russia war has reached 500 days, and there are concerns about the threat to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Threats surround Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant amidst Russia-Ukraine wa

Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday accused each other of planning to attack the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in the southern Ukraine as concerns were raised over the plant being the target of fresh artillery and rocket attacks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that he has credible intelligence reports to suggest that Russian troops placed “objects resembling explosives” on top of several power units to “simulate” an attack as part of a false flag operation.

The “foreign objects” have been placed on the roof of the plant’s third and fourth power units, a statement from the General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces said.

“Their detonation should not damage power units but may create a picture of shelling from Ukraine,” the statement added.

The accusation invited a sharp retort from the Kremlin claiming that Kyiv is planning a “catastrophic” provocation.

&nbsp;“The situation is quite tense because the threat of sabotage from the Kyiv regime is really high – sabotage that could have catastrophic consequences,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

<h2>IAEA appeals for calm</h2>

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, however, said that during the most recent inspection, they found no mining activities, “but we remain extremely alert.”

He said he was aware of both Kyiv’s and Moscow’s claims and reiterated that “nuclear power plants should never, under any circumstances, be attacked.”

“A nuclear power plant should not be used as a military base,” he added.

<h2>War clouds on safety of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</h2>

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The IAEA officials have been stationed at the Russian-held plant, which is still run by the Ukrainian staff.

The nuclear reactor, one of the largest in Europe, has its six reactors shut down. It still needs power and qualified staff to operate crucial cooling systems and other safety features.

Since last year, the plant has been the target of artillery, drone and rocket attacks, with Ukrainian and Russian officials blaming each other for the strikes. In September, UN monitors were installed at Zaporizhzhia to assess risks, reports AP news agency.

On Tuesday, the Russian media reported citing Renat Karchaa, an advisor to Russian state nuclear company Rosenergoatom, that Ukraine’s military was planning to strike the plant by early Wednesday with ammunition laced with nuclear waste.

Though little evidence has so far been presented to support Ukraine and Russia’s claims, the possibility of attacking the nuclear plant has not been ruled out, especially since the last month’s destruction of the Kakhovka dam that triggered catastrophic flooding and draining water from a reservoir used for the plant’s cooling system.

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Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday accused each other of planning to attack the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in the southern Ukraine as concerns were raised over the plant being the target of fresh artillery and rocket attacks.

Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday accused each other of planning to attack the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in the southern Ukraine as concerns were raised over the plant being the target of fresh artillery and rocket attacks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday claimed that he has credible intelligence reports to suggest that Russian troops placed “objects resembling explosives” on top of several power units to “simulate” an attack as part of a false flag operation. The “foreign objects” have been placed on the roof of the plant’s third and fourth power units, a statement from the General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces said. “Their detonation should not damage power units but may create a picture of shelling from Ukraine,” the statement added. The accusation invited a sharp retort from the Kremlin claiming that Kyiv is planning a “catastrophic” provocation. “The situation is quite tense because the threat of sabotage from the Kyiv regime is really high – sabotage that could have catastrophic consequences,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. IAEA appeals for calm International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, however, said that during the most recent inspection, they found no mining activities, “but we remain extremely alert.” He said he was aware of both Kyiv’s and Moscow’s claims and reiterated that “nuclear power plants should never, under any circumstances, be attacked.” “A nuclear power plant should not be used as a military base,” he added. War clouds on safety of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant The IAEA officials have been stationed at the Russian-held plant, which is still run by the Ukrainian staff. The nuclear reactor, one of the largest in Europe, has its six reactors shut down. It still needs power and qualified staff to operate crucial cooling systems and other safety features. Since last year, the plant has been the target of artillery, drone and rocket attacks, with Ukrainian and Russian officials blaming each other for the strikes. In September, UN monitors were installed at Zaporizhzhia to assess risks, reports AP news agency. On Tuesday, the Russian media reported citing Renat Karchaa, an advisor to Russian state nuclear company Rosenergoatom, that Ukraine’s military was planning to strike the plant by early Wednesday with ammunition laced with nuclear waste. Though little evidence has so far been presented to support Ukraine and Russia’s claims, the possibility of attacking the nuclear plant has not been ruled out, especially since the last month’s destruction of the Kakhovka dam that triggered catastrophic flooding and draining water from a reservoir used for the plant’s cooling system. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nuclear tensions rise after Russia, Ukraine trade barbs over probable attacks on Zaporizhzhia plant

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Ukraine on Friday claimed to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russian forces overnight targeting an airfield in the west of the country.

"Thirteen of the occupiers' cruise missiles were destroyed on June 23.... This time, the attack was aimed at a military airfield in the Khmelnytskyi region," the Ukrainian air force said on social media.

The country’s air force said that four TU-95 bombers fired 13 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea against a military airfield in Khmelnytskyi Oblast.

"The launches were carried out around midnight from the Caspian Sea from four Tu-95MS bombers," the air force statement said.

Air raid alerts rang across&nbsp; Ukraine early on Friday, with warnings of Russian missile and drone attacks issued over wide areas.

The military also alleged that it has eliminated one reconnaissance drone of an unspecified type.

Mayor of Khmelnytskyi, Oleksandr Symchyshyn reported explosions in the town with a pre-war population of around 275,000 and praised Ukrainian air defence systems.

<h2>Russia considering nuclear plant terror attack: Zelensky</h2>

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Meanwhile, Ukraine’s armed forces said they have halted a Russian offensive towards the cities of Kupiansk and Lyman in the east of the country, and are advancing in the south.

“We had very fierce battles in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, but our soldiers stopped the enemy there,” Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar told Ukrainian television.

Attacks on Russia-held regions have intensified over the past month, after Ukraine received military aid to start its counter-offensive.

So far, it has retaken eight villages during its counteroperation, its first substantial gains on the battlefield for seven months, but Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky admitted that it has not been smooth sailing as he&nbsp;would have expected.

<h2>‘Russian Navy likely training dolphins’</h2>

The British Ministry of Defence (MoD) in its report has claimed that Russia has been training combat dolphins in the Crimean peninsula.

In its daily intelligence update, the report said that the Russian Navy has invested heavily in security at the Black Sea Fleet’s main base at Sevastopol.

“In recent weeks, these defences have highly likely also been augmented by an increased number of trained marine mammals. Imagery shows a near doubling of floating mammal pens in the harbour which highly likely contain bottle-nosed dolphins,” the report said.

“In Arctic waters, the navy also uses Beluga whales and seals. Russia has trained animals for a range of missions, but the ones housed in Sevastopol harbour are highly likely intended to counter enemy divers.”

(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.

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Ukraine on Friday claimed to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russian forces overnight targeting an airfield in the west of the country. "Thirteen of the occupiers' cruise missiles were destroyed on June 23.

Ukraine on Friday claimed to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russian forces overnight targeting an airfield in the west of the country. "Thirteen of the occupiers' cruise missiles were destroyed on June 23.... This time, the attack was aimed at a military airfield in the Khmelnytskyi region," the Ukrainian air force said on social media. The country’s air force said that four TU-95 bombers fired 13 Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea against a military airfield in Khmelnytskyi Oblast. "The launches were carried out around midnight from the Caspian Sea from four Tu-95MS bombers," the air force statement said. Air raid alerts rang across Ukraine early on Friday, with warnings of Russian missile and drone attacks issued over wide areas. The military also alleged that it has eliminated one reconnaissance drone of an unspecified type. Mayor of Khmelnytskyi, Oleksandr Symchyshyn reported explosions in the town with a pre-war population of around 275,000 and praised Ukrainian air defence systems. Russia considering nuclear plant terror attack: Zelensky Meanwhile, Ukraine’s armed forces said they have halted a Russian offensive towards the cities of Kupiansk and Lyman in the east of the country, and are advancing in the south. “We had very fierce battles in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, but our soldiers stopped the enemy there,” Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar told Ukrainian television. Attacks on Russia-held regions have intensified over the past month, after Ukraine received military aid to start its counter-offensive. So far, it has retaken eight villages during its counteroperation, its first substantial gains on the battlefield for seven months, but Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky admitted that it has not been smooth sailing as he would have expected. ‘Russian Navy likely training dolphins’ The British Ministry of Defence (MoD) in its report has claimed that Russia has been training combat dolphins in the Crimean peninsula. In its daily intelligence update, the report said that the Russian Navy has invested heavily in security at the Black Sea Fleet’s main base at Sevastopol. “In recent weeks, these defences have highly likely also been augmented by an increased number of trained marine mammals. Imagery shows a near doubling of floating mammal pens in the harbour which highly likely contain bottle-nosed dolphins,” the report said. “In Arctic waters, the navy also uses Beluga whales and seals. Russia has trained animals for a range of missions, but the ones housed in Sevastopol harbour are highly likely intended to counter enemy divers.” (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia

A bridge linking the annexed Crimean peninsula to a region of southern Ukraine partially occupied by Russia got damaged after it was struck by Ukrainian missiles, a Russian official claimed on Thursday.

The bridge connects Crimea to the Ukrainian region of Kherson.

Russia-installed governor of Kherson Vladimir Saldo alleged that Ukrainian strikes had hit "bridges" near Chongar. Photos shared by him purportedly showed gaping holes on the surface of the bridge.

"During the night a strike hit the Chongar bridge. There are no victims," Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, said on Telegram.

He claimed the attack was carried out by British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles on the “orders of London”.

Notably, the bridge is also an important link to the occupied city of Melitopol, which lies on the coastal route from the Russian border across southern Ukraine to Crimea.

The Crimean peninsula was usurped by Russian forces in 2014, who have also captured Ukraine's southern coastal region when they launched invasion in February last year.

The attack comes as Ukraine is in the midst of its counter-offensive operations in a bid to recapture territories occupied by the Russian forces.

<h3>Putin says Russia sees 'lull' in Ukrainian counteroffensive</h3>

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However, the effort has been slow than desired, as admitted by President Volodymyr Zelensky, claiming that they have managed to recapture only eight villages so far in the southern region of Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk to the east.

"Some people believe this is a Hollywood movie and expect results now. It's not," he told the BBC.

"What's at stake is people's lives."

<h2>West extends aid for rebuilding Ukraine</h2>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US would provide $1.3 billion in additional funds for Ukraine’s economy, led by energy and infrastructure investments. It was one of several pledges from a number of countries.

“Recovery is about laying the foundation for Ukraine to thrive as a secure, independent country, fully integrated with Europe, connected to markets around the world," Blinken told the Ukraine Recovery Conference in London.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/31-killed-after-major-explosion-rips-apart-restaurant-in-northwestern-china-607145">31 killed, 7 injured as explosion rips apart restaurant in northwestern China, nine arrested</a>

"With the support of the US&nbsp;Congress, we will provide more than $1.3 billion in additional aid to help Ukraine toward that goal."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced $54.58 billion in aid for 2024-27, while Britain pledged $3 billion package to unlock World Bank lending and provide financial support to critical public services such as schools and hospitals, while Germany announced $3 billion military aid.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A bridge linking the annexed Crimean peninsula to a region of southern Ukraine partially occupied by Russia got damaged after it was struck by Ukrainian missiles, a Russian official claimed on Thursday.

A bridge linking the annexed Crimean peninsula to a region of southern Ukraine partially occupied by Russia got damaged after it was struck by Ukrainian missiles, a Russian official claimed on Thursday. The bridge connects Crimea to the Ukrainian region of Kherson. Russia-installed governor of Kherson Vladimir Saldo alleged that Ukrainian strikes had hit "bridges" near Chongar. Photos shared by him purportedly showed gaping holes on the surface of the bridge. "During the night a strike hit the Chongar bridge. There are no victims," Sergei Aksyonov, the Russia-installed governor of Crimea, said on Telegram. He claimed the attack was carried out by British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles on the “orders of London”. Notably, the bridge is also an important link to the occupied city of Melitopol, which lies on the coastal route from the Russian border across southern Ukraine to Crimea. The Crimean peninsula was usurped by Russian forces in 2014, who have also captured Ukraine's southern coastal region when they launched invasion in February last year. The attack comes as Ukraine is in the midst of its counter-offensive operations in a bid to recapture territories occupied by the Russian forces. Putin says Russia sees 'lull' in Ukrainian counteroffensive However, the effort has been slow than desired, as admitted by President Volodymyr Zelensky, claiming that they have managed to recapture only eight villages so far in the southern region of Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk to the east. "Some people believe this is a Hollywood movie and expect results now. It's not," he told the BBC. "What's at stake is people's lives." West extends aid for rebuilding Ukraine US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US would provide $1.3 billion in additional funds for Ukraine’s economy, led by energy and infrastructure investments. It was one of several pledges from a number of countries. “Recovery is about laying the foundation for Ukraine to thrive as a secure, independent country, fully integrated with Europe, connected to markets around the world," Blinken told the Ukraine Recovery Conference in London. Also read | 31 killed, 7 injured as explosion rips apart restaurant in northwestern China, nine arrested "With the support of the US Congress, we will provide more than $1.3 billion in additional aid to help Ukraine toward that goal." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced $54.58 billion in aid for 2024-27, while Britain pledged $3 billion package to unlock World Bank lending and provide financial support to critical public services such as schools and hospitals, while Germany announced $3 billion military aid. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Crimean bridge struck by missile attacks, Russia blames Ukraine

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